Storage; Flow Meter Do's And Don'ts - Omega FPD-4000 Series User Manual

Storage

When the flow meter is idle or stored for any extended period, perform the
following:
1. Clean the internals thoroughly with the appropriate fluid
2. Lubricate with a light oil or other non-corrosive fluid
3. Cap or plug the ports to prevent drying

Flow Meter Do's and Don'ts

DO: Leave flushing fluid in the lines overnight or during extended off-times. This
keeps internals wet, prevents residual fluids from drying, and facilitates startups.
DO: Follow the Maintenance Guide instructions when opening and cleaning a flow
meter. During cleaning, separate the gears from the shafts. On carbide bearings,
clean inside the center of the gear bearing and on the outer surface of the shafts
at the point where the gear rotates on the shaft. Apply a suitable lubricating fluid
before closing the flow meter. After tightening the bolts, a short squirt of shop
air will briefly spin the gears, which should be easily audible.
DO: Install and maintain filters. Install the recommended filter to eliminate
potential plugging. Should plugging occur, the flow meter will still pass fluid but
with no signal output.
DO: Check electrical compatibility between the flow meter's output signal and the
input of the PLC. If signals are not being detected at startup, first check wiring
and electrical compatibility.
DO: Verify reliable grounding of electrical parts, as per installation guidelines. A
dedicated power supply is recommended. Voltage spikes on shared power lines,
negligent grounding and sloppy wiring will likely produce erratic readings and
chronic maintenance.
DO: Install the flow meter immediately upstream of the regulator or control valve.
The control valve provides backpressure, which stabilizes the flow.
DON'T: Allow air into the flow meter. Always keep the flow meter internally wet.
DON'T: Dry lines using pressurized air. Flow meters are designed to flow liquids.
Close meters to air except when air is part of an automated purge cycle. Do not
dry lines after purging.
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