Insufficient straight pipe: most flowmeters need a specified length of straight pipe upstream and downstream of the meter to develop a stable velocity profile. Ignoring this is the number one cause of accuracy deviation.

Poor grounding: electromagnetic flowmeters require proper grounding of the meter body and fluid to reject electrical noise. Missing grounding straps often cause unstable readings that are blamed on the meter.

Wrong orientation: meters with sensors that must stay full of fluid, such as electromagnetic and ultrasonic types, should be installed in a rising pipe so the pipe always remains full.

Ignoring the flow direction arrow and installation of control valves downstream instead of upstream can also disturb the flow profile near the meter.

Finally, always check the meter’s maximum fluid temperature and pressure against actual operating conditions before commissioning.

Refer to our Technical Support section for a detailed installation checklist for each product series.