Fixed area-velocity flowmeter - 4:20 mA outputs : Premier Fixed AV-Flowmeter | MAINSTREAM INSTRUMENTS

The Premier Fixed AV-Flowmeter is a high-performance fixed installation area-velocity flowmeter developed for complex open channel and part-filled pipe applications. It combines an immersed ultrasonic velocity sensor with level measurement to calculate flow rate continuously or by time sample. Designed for demanding environmental and industrial deployments, it integrates data logging, local communications, switch outputs, and three configurable 4:20 mA outputs.

Presentation

The Premier Fixed AV-Flowmeter uses the area-velocity method to determine flow in open channels and partially filled pipes. Its submerged ultrasonic probe measures flow velocity by analysing reflected ultrasonic signals from particles and bubbles carried in the liquid, while the level input determines the wetted cross-section. The system then calculates flow rate and flow quantity. The fixed system architecture is intended for permanent monitoring points where robust enclosure design, long-term data retention, and easy integration into site infrastructure are important.

Advantages

• Fixed-installation design suitable for permanent monitoring locations
• Area-velocity flow measurement for open channels and part-filled pipes
• No need for weirs or flumes, reducing installation constraints
• High sensitivity ultrasonic measurement for low-flow and relatively clean water applications
• Integrated 4 MB flash data logger with up to 20 years data retention without power
• Smart power saving mode that adapts acquisition time to flow and signal quality
• Three configurable 4:20 mA outputs for industrial system integration
• Two opto-isolated switch outputs for alarms, controls, and pulse functions
• Signal quality monitoring with automatic recording of velocity signals and histograms
• Up to 500 m sensor distance for flexible installation layouts

Main Features

• Measurement principle: area-velocity flow measurement
• Velocity method: phase coherence time delay measurement
• Velocity sensor: submerged ultrasonic sensor with integrated electronics
• Velocity range: from -5 m/s to -10 mm/s and from 10 mm/s to 5 m/s
• Velocity resolution: better than 1 mm/s
• Level input: compatible with any 4:20 mA current loop level sensor
• Derived measurements: area, flow rate, and forward, reverse, and total flow quantities
• Data logger: 4 MB flash memory, configurable recording from 15 seconds to 1 hour
• Data export: spreadsheet-compatible CSV files
• Local communications: RS232 and USB compatible interface with automatic baud rate detection
• Remote communications: optional external SDI or GPRS device
• Analog outputs: three 4:20 mA outputs configurable to selected measurands
• Switch outputs: two opto-isolated outputs rated at 60 V ac/dc and 200 mA maximum current
• Power supply: external 12 V and 24 V supplies with built-in battery charger
• Velocity sensor protection: IP68
• System enclosure: IP67 with encapsulated electronics to IP68
• System unit dimensions: 260 x 160 x 90 mm
• System unit weight: 2.95 kg

Typical Applications

• Effluent monitoring
• Wastewater treatment systems
• Industrial flow measurement
• Irrigation channels and canals
• River and stream flow monitoring
• Water distribution networks
• Sewer flow measurement including inflow and infiltration and CSO monitoring
• Fixed-site flow measurement with weirs and flumes

Why choose Premier Fixed AV-Flowmeter

The Premier Fixed AV-Flowmeter is a strong solution for users who need reliable permanent flow monitoring in demanding hydraulic environments. Its combination of ultrasonic velocity sensing, level-based area calculation, industrial analog and switch outputs, and long-term onboard data logging makes it particularly well suited for continuous monitoring sites where data integrity, remote diagnostics, and durable field operation are essential.