Coltraco Ultrasonics was recently invited by our exclusive fire protection equipment distributor based in the United Arab Emirates to test the accuracy of the Portasonic® 2.FL0 in measuring flow rates in fire sprinkler systems.
Case Study: Portasonic® 2.FL0 & Fire Sprinkler Systems
Our exclusive distributor provides fire protection services to various buildings, including the Emirates Towers, Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel, and Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel. The objective of this project was to compare the Portasonic® 2.FL0 readings to the annually calibrated mechanical inline flow meters currently in use in the fire sprinkler systems. The testing was conducted in two phases.
In the first phase, the Portasonic® 2.FL0 was tested in the fire sprinkler system of the Emirates Towers. This testing involved training the technicians on the use of the Portasonic® 2.FL0. The training was conducted by our Technical & Sales Engineer, Leah Joyce Lucmayon. Thereafter, the technicians proceeded a live test on the sprinkler system using the Portasonic® 2.FL0. The results of which showed that the Portasonic® 2.FL0 readings were accurate.
In the second phase, the Portasonic® 2.FL0 was tested in the fire sprinkler systems of the Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel and Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel. We tested two different pumps with the Portasonic® 2.FL0 and then compared these readings with the annually calibrated mechanical inline flow meters. The results showed that the Portasonic® 2.FL0 readings were accurate, with 99% accuracy at flow rates of 500 GPM, 1,000 GPM, and 1,500 GPM.
Overall, the Portasonic® 2.FL0 proved to be a simple and accurate means of measuring and recording flow rates in fire sprinkler systems.
Why Measure Flow Rates in Fire Sprinkler Systems?
Monitoring flow rates in any pipe system is important. This is because it ensures that the pipes are kept within safe tolerances and enables you to have greater control over the flow rates within your pipes. In so doing, this reduces the risk of pipe failure, damage to property, and ensure the fire suppression system remains operational.
The non-invasive and portable nature of the Portasonic® 2.FL0 makes it possible to conduct spot checks across the sprinkler system. This gives you confidence that whole pipe system remains functional and allows you to identify and locate problems before they escalate into significant and costly issues. Thereby, reducing maintenance time and costs.
Ultrasonic Flow Meters
An ultrasonic flow meter is a non-invasive flow-measuring device that uses sound waves to determine the flow rate of liquids. Offering high accuracy, low maintenance requirements, and versatility, these flow meters can be used for various applications, including industrial processes, water treatment, and energy management.
Ultrasonic flow meters can be used for various commercial applications, including liquid measurement flow in full pipes, the measurement of clean liquids, including water, wastewater, oils, solvents, acids, and other conductive liquids, and the control of HVAC systems. The ultrasonic flow meter is ideal for applications where disrupting the flow is not an option as the technology is non-invasive and introduces zero downtime to the system.
Our flow measurement devices provide accuracy and reliability. We are committed to providing the highest quality instruments while remaining competitive on price. These ultrasonic meters are built with a special composite material to optimise ultrasound transmission, and all units come with a built-in oscilloscope for signal diagnostics that assists you in performing reliable measurements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Portasonic® 2.FL0 is a reliable and accurate ultrasonic flow meter that can be used to measure flow rates in fire sprinkler systems. The device provides accurate measurements from outside of the sprinkler pipe, ensuring the full integrity of a sprinkler system. The device has a wide range of applications, including water treatment, HVAC, and industrial processes, making it a valuable addition to any flow measurement and recording system.
