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Regal RH40 User Manual

Portable flow meter
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The RH40 Handheld Ultrasonic Flow & BTU Meter is a revolutionary portable meter with multiple
functions. It is the most compact portable meter on the market. It is designed to accommodate the
challenge of onsite flow and energy measurements. The applications range from field servicing,
maintenance, or even temporary flow and energy surveys.
The RH40 compact design offers a single-handed hold and extreme ease of use. Using the latest signal
processing technology, which has demonstrated its robustness and data measurement repeatability, the
portable meter offers highly accurate and reliable measurements. The meter is self-explanatory and simple
to follow. The RH40 is also a handheld energy meter when it is equipped with a BTU measurement
module.
The unique clamp-on fixture design, for both the flow transducers and temperature sensors, makes the
installation hassle-free. No special skills or tools are required. The Li-Ion battery allows the user to
measure flow and energy for an extended period of time- up to 8 hours. A built-in data logger memory of
up to 2GB gives the user the flexibility of using the meter for data-logging and data-analysis.
The RH40 is the best choice for flow survey, meter verification, pump checking, HVAC and energy
balancing, facility management, and other demanding flow and energy monitoring applications.
Features
Accurately measures energy and flow using non-intrusive technology
Capability of measuring bi-directional flow/Energy
Ease of use and fast installation
Able to measure on a very wide pipe size range, from 0.5" up to 120"
Ergonomic design, allowing the main unit to be held and operated with one
hand
Signal quality tracking and self-adaptation for robust performance
Suitable for pure liquids and liquids with some particles. No dependency on
conductivity
Suitable for all commonly used pipes
RH40 Portable Flow Meter
1

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Summary of Contents for Regal RH40

  • Page 1 The meter is self-explanatory and simple to follow. The RH40 is also a handheld energy meter when it is equipped with a BTU measurement module.
  • Page 2 ±0.5% of linearity  Accuracy: ±1% of reading in velocity plus ±0.03ft/s (10mm/s) Typical Applications The RH40 handheld flow and BTU meter is a perfect fit for the following applications:  Energy consumption supervision and water conservation management  Cooling system and air conditioning/glycol solutions ...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Introduction ........................... 6 §1.1 Principle of Measurement ......................6 §1.2 Parts Identification ........................8 §1.3 Product Identification ........................ 10 §1.4 Data Integrity and Built-in Time-Keeper ..................10 §1.5 Technical Specifications ......................10 Flow Rate Measurement ......................13 §2.1 Built-in Battery ...........................
  • Page 4 §4.11 How to change the flow rate scale factor ................. 36 §4.12 How to use the password lock ....................36 §4.13 How to use the built-in data logger ..................37 §4.14 How to use the Frequency Output.................... 37 §4.15 How to use the Totalizer Pulse Output ..................38 §4.16 How to set up the alarm signal ....................
  • Page 5 §9.1 RH40 Meter and Battery Maintenance ..................57 §9.2 Transducer Installation Guide ....................57 §9.2.A Find the mounting site ......................57 §9.2.B Prepare the Pipe Surface ..................... 58 §9.2.C Prepare the Transducer ....................... 59 §9.2.D Install the Transducers ......................59...

  • Page 6: Introduction

    1. Introduction §1.1 Principle of Measurement The Regal Series flow and energy meters are based on the transit-time measurement principle, where the system utilizes a pair of sensors which function as both ultrasonic transmitter and receiver. The sensors are installed on the pipe wall, either clamped on the outside of the pipe or inserted into the pipe at a specific distance from each other.
  • Page 7 D is the pipe diameter is the time for the beam traveling from upstream the transducer to the downstream transducer is the time for the beam traveling from the downstream transducer to the upstream down transducer ΔT = T – T down Both flow and thermal measurements are necessary to calculate energy usage.

  • Page 8: Parts Identification

    §1.2 Parts Identification RS2 Transducer RM Transducer LF Transducer (optional) Temperature Sensors Charger with Adapter Clamping Strap...
  • Page 9 HM-type (2”-28”) HS-type L1-type (Optional) Transducer Cable 5m x 2 Extension Cable 5m x 2 (Optional) USB Cable Complete RH40 Kit, including carrying case, measuring tape, nylon clamping straps, and software CD...

  • Page 10: Product Identification

    §1.3 Product Identification Each set of the RH40 series flow meter has a unique product identification number, or ESN. This number is written into the software and can only be modified by the manufacturer with a special tool. In the case of any hardware failure, please provide this number when contacting the manufacturer.
  • Page 11 Flow Velocity ± 10 m/s (± 32 ft/s), bi-directional. 1% of reading 0.01m/s (0.03ft/s) in velocity* Flow Accuracy Within 0.1°C Temperature Accuracy 0.5% Repeatability Response Time 0.5s. Configurable between 0.5s and 99s. LCD with backlight. 4 x 16 letters. 5 x 4 tactile-feedback membrane Display/Keypad keypad plus 4 utility keys.
  • Page 12 (501mmx380mmx152mm) Handset: Carrying case: Weight 1.2 lbs (538g) with 15 lbs (7.5kg) approximate batteries Power source 3 AAA Ni-H built-in batteries. When fully recharged, it will last over 8 hours of operation. AC power supply to charge batteries. *Note: This accuracy rate is only applicable under the reference conditions and with a velocity above 0.5 ft/s.

  • Page 13: Flow Rate Measurement

    2. Flow Rate Measurement §2.1 Built-in Battery The RH40 flow meter can operate either from the built-in Ni-H rechargeable battery or from an external AC power supply. The battery will last over 8 hours of continuous operation when fully charged. In addition, the AC power supply allows the device to run while charging.

  • Page 14: Power On

    in this window as well. The remaining working time is estimated based on the battery voltage at the time. Some errors may occur, especially when the terminal voltage is in the range between 3.70 to -3.90 volts. For battery maintenance and replacement, please refer to Appendix §9.1.A §2.2 Power On Press the ON key to turn on the power, and OFF to turn off the power.
  • Page 15  The CAL key is used to set up calibrations.  The M key is used to access all the other menu functions.  The ENT key is the enter key to confirm or acknowledge any input or selections.  (“Ex”) key is the exit or backspace key.

  • Page 16: Display Windows

    §2.4 Display Windows S1. Set Mounting Site 1. Quick Start S2. Pipe Parameters S3. Fluid Parameters S4. Transducer Parameters S5. Install Transducer S6. Verify S,Q,R S7. Diagnose Triplet S21. Enter OD 2. Set Pipe S22. Set Wall TH S23. Set ID S24.
  • Page 17 1. Basic 4 items 1. Log Items 2. All 16 items 3. Exit L11. Log Interval 2. Schedule L12. Start Time L13. Stop Time Exit 3. Save To L20. Save Log to File L30. Choose saved file 4. View Log L40.
  • Page 18 1. Zero Cal C10. Zero Cal instructions C21. Man totalizer 2. Linear Cal C22. Linear Table Exit 3. 0/4 – 20 mA C31. Verify C32. Calibrate Exit C41. T1/T2 4. Temperature C42. Calibrate Exit Exit...
  • Page 19 1. Site M11. Save Site M12. Recall Site M13. Delete Site 4. Exit M21. Triplet 2. Diagnosis M22. Sound Speed M23. Transit Time M24 Reynolds No. 5. Exit M31. Display 3. Input/Output M32. O/4 – 20A CL M33.OCT Output M34. Relay Output M35.
  • Page 20 6. Heat Energy M61. Location M62. Temperature 3. Exit 7. Calculator 8. Misc M81. Max flow rate M82. Last pwr off M83. Pwr on time 4. Exit 9. Exit...
  • Page 21 §2.5 Display Window List SET  Quick Start Windows solely to help the user get the flow meter up and running as quickly as possible. They include instructions on preparing mounting site, setting pipe parameters, setting fluid parameters, and setting transducer parameters, followed by instructions on transducer installation, verification, and diagnosis.

  • Page 22: Steps To Configure The Parameters

    M41 – M49  Totalizer Windows to set up totalizer. Includes totalizer unit, multiplier, NET on/off, POS on/off, NEG on/off, totalizer reset, daily, monthly, and yearly totalizer, respectively. M51 – M58  System Windows to change and/or view the system settings. Includes language, system units, COMM, date/time, ESN, battery life, set up system lock, and working timer, respectively.
  • Page 23 Sound Speed in Pipe Wall: If your pipe material is on the list in the previous step, the flow meter will automatically skip this step and go to the next step. You do not have to enter in the Sound Speed unless you have selected Other as your pipe material.
  • Page 24 STOP! It is extremely important to enter the parameters properly before installing the transducers. Incorrect parameters result in operation errors and inaccurate measurements. Common parameter errors are incorrect wall thickness, usually due to corrosion on the pipe. See Section §3.4 for more details on issues caused by wall thickness problems.
  • Page 25 Press the down button to access the transducer mounting method. You should see the “S4b: Transducer Mount” window. Press ENT to edit the mount method. Use the up and down arrows to select your appropriate method. Press ENT again to save. Use the down arrow button to edit the scale factor.

  • Page 26: Installation

    3. Installation §3.1 Mounting Allocation for Transducers The first step in the installation process is to select an optimal location for installing the transducers in order to make the measurements reliable and accurate. A basic knowledge about the piping and its plumbing system is advised.

  • Page 27: Transducer Installation

    L dn §3.2 Transducer Installation The transducers used by the RH40 Series Ultrasonic Flow Meter are made out of piezoelectric crystals for both transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals through the wall of liquid-piping system. These excellent quality materials deliver high accuracy. The measurement is obtained by calculating the travel- time difference of the ultrasonic signals.
  • Page 28 2) Make sure the chosen location is safe for and compatible with the operation of the flow meter. The RH40 is not designed for contact with hazardous materials. 3) Clean any dust and/or rust off the spot where the transducers are to be installed. For better results, polishing the pipe’s outer surface with a sander is strongly recommended.
  • Page 29 6) Consider the appropriate method for mounting the transducers on the pipe. There are 2 methods of mounting: Magnetic fixture: If the pipe material is metal, the magnetic force will keep the transducers on the pipe. Clamp-on fixture: We provide 2 types of clamp-on fixtures. The transducers may be pressed tightly against the pipe with the nylon straps provided.

  • Page 30: Transducer Spacing

    STOP! Before mounting, please read Section §3.3! Transducer spacing is critical to the accuracy of the meter readings. §3.3 Transducer Spacing V-Method Installation The V-method installation is the most widely used method for daily measurements. The inner diameter of the pipe ranges from 20mm to 300mm. It is also known as the reflective method. The small sound path of pipes in this range can interfere with accuracy.

  • Page 31: Installation Checkup

    W-Method Installation The W-method is usually used on plastic pipes with diameters between 10mm and 100mm. Ultrasonic signal Ultrasonic signal Liquid flow N-Method Installation The N-method is rarely used. STOP! The meter readings WILL NOT be accurate unless the transducers are installed properly. A critical value in determining proper placement of transducers is the Transit Time Ratio.

  • Page 32: B Signal Quality

    The flow meter will operate well when the signal strength ranges from 500 to 999. Regardless of the functioning range, higher signal strength is always desirable—the higher the number, the more reliable and accurate the results will be. The following methods are recommended to obtain strong signals: 1) Make sure the pipe is in excellent condition.

  • Page 33: C Total Transit Time And Delta Time

    §3.4.C Total Transit Time and Delta Time The total transit time (or traveling time) and the delta time are both displayed on menu window M23. This window can be accessed by pressing the following series of keys: 2 (Diagnosis) M23 (Transit Time) See section §3.4.D for more details.

  • Page 34: How To

     The transducers are installed properly and are facing the right direction  The mounting location is stable  The pipe-run upstream and downstream of the transducers is straight  The pipe is in adequate condition (the most common pipe quality issues are too much corrosion or too much deposition inside the pipe) ...

  • Page 35: How To Select A Flow Rate Unit

    M  System  Unit (M52)  Metric/English §4.4 How to select a flow rate unit Press keys M52, followed by the second sub-menu option “Flow Rate Unit” to select the flow rate unit as well as the corresponding time unit. This can be accessed as follows: M ...

  • Page 36: How To Use The Zero-Cutoff Function (Noise Filter)

    which can be accessed through the following series of keys: SET Set Filter  ENT. If a “0” is entered, there is no damping. A bigger number generally brings a more stable effect. However, a balance is required; bigger damping numbers will slow down the instrument’s response time. §4.9 How to use the zero-cutoff function (Noise Filter) This function can be accessed by pressing the following series of keys: SET 5 ...

  • Page 37: How To Use The Built-In Data Logger

    §4.14 How to use the Frequency Output All RH40 Series Flow Meters have a Frequency Output functionality. The signal for each device represents its flow rate for the purpose of communicating with other devices. The emitted frequency output signal is designed to connect with other instruments.

  • Page 38: How To Use The Totalizer Pulse Output

    3) Enter the higher limit of flow rate in the “Freq Max” window as follows: M  Input/Output  Frequency Output  Freq Max Example: Assume that the flow rate varies in a range from 0m3/h to 3000m3/h and the required output signal frequency should be in the range 200Hz to 1000Hz.

  • Page 39: How To Use The Built-In Buzzer

    §4.17 How to use the built-in Buzzer The built-in buzzer is user-configurable. It can be used as an alarm. Use menu window M36, which may be accessed as follows: M  Input/Output  Buzzer (M36) §4.18 How to use the OCT output The OCT output is on/off type.

  • Page 40: How To Check The Esn

    Press any key to start and press the key again to stop the totalizer. §4.25 How to check the ESN Every set of the RH40 Series Flow Meters utilizes a unique ESN to identify the meter—the ESN in an eight-digit number that provides the product version and manufacturing date.

  • Page 41: Menu Window Details

    5. Menu Window Details Sub-Key Window Number Function Step 1: Window which provides instructions on selecting a mounting site: Quick - Pipe is full Mounting Start - Straight pipe: 10D upstream, 5D downstream Site - Vertical pipe: flow must go up. - Horizontal pipe: transducer must be on the side of pipe.
  • Page 42 (0) carbon steel (1) stainless steel (2) cast iron (3) ductile iron (4) copper (5) PVC (6) aluminum (7) asbestos (8) fiberglass Window for selecting the liner material. Select none for pipes without any liner. S25: Set Standard liner materials (no need to enter liner sound speed) include: Liner (1) Tar Epoxy (2) Rubber (3) Mortar (4) Polypropylene (5) Polystryol (6)Polystyrene (7) Polyester (8) Polyethylene...
  • Page 43 Window to view linear table. (1) Add data point. (2) View table. C22: Linear Table Verify 0/4-20 mA loop. 0/4 – 20 C31: Verify Currently unavailable for the RH40 C32: mA Cal Calibrate Window to display temperature for supply line and return line. Temp cal...
  • Page 44 #1 Low Alarm #1 lower threshold setup. Below this threshold the #1 Alarm will be M37: Alarm Limit triggered. There are two alarming methods. User must select the alarming output items from window M33 or M36 #1 High Alarm #1 upper threshold setup. Limit #2 High Alarm #2 upper threshold setup.
  • Page 45 Window for setting the date and time. M54: Date/Time M55: Window to display version information and Electronic Serial Number (ESN) that are unique for each RH40 series flowmeter. The user can use the ESN for instrumentation Version/ management. M56: Window that displays the current battery voltage.

  • Page 46: Troubleshooting

    §6.2 Working Status Errors The RH40 series ultrasonic flow meter will show an Error Code (i.e. a single letter, e.g. I, R, etc.) in the lower right corner of the main menu window. When any abnormal error code shows, counter-measures...
  • Page 47 Error Code Message Displayed Causes Solutions on main menu window System Normal No Error  No Signal Unable to receive signal 1. Polish the pipe surface and  clean the spot. Remove paint. Transducers installed 2. Make sure there is adequate improperly ...

  • Page 48: Other Problems And Solutions

    2. If the pipe is full, enter 0 in M**FIND THIS** §6.3 Other Problems and Solutions Q: Why does the instrument display 0.0000 flow rate while the liquid in the pipe is actually flowing? The signal strength, R, is in good range and the signal quality, Q, is a satisfactory value. A: The problem is likely to be caused by an incorrect zero calibration.
  • Page 49 Q: Can the flow meter work normally for a few years without stop under harsh environment where power supply voltage varies widely? A: Yes, the RH40 flow meter employs intelligent signal processing algorithms to handle strong interference coming from either power lines or radiation. It also automatically adjusts itself to the optimal operation status when sound wave strength varies due to changing environment.

  • Page 50: Communication

    §7.2 Connect the Flowmeter to a PC A standard USB cable and serial cable are provided with your RH40 unit. Plug the serial cable into the port at the bottom of the meter. Plug the other end of the serial cable into the terminal box. Plug one end of the USB cable into the computer and the other end into the port on the terminal box.

  • Page 51: Set Up Pc Software

    Any PC software can be used to communicate with the flow meter if the user follows the subsequent protocol. To facilitate the use of and to fully explore the potential of the RH40 flow meter, Spire Metering has developed proprietary PC software, StufManager software.
  • Page 52 M@(CR)*** Send a key value as if a key is pressed LCD(CR) Return the current display contents FOdddd(CR) Force the FO output to output a frequency of dddd ESN(CR) Return the ESN of the Dddddddd (CR)(LF) flowmeter RING(CR) Handshaking Request from a MODEM OK(CR) Acknowledgement from a...

  • Page 53: The Following Is A Wiring Diagram For The 4-20Ma Output. The Password For 4-20Ma Configuration Is 4213068

    The following is a wiring diagram for the 4-20mA output. The password for 4-20mA configuration is 4213068. §7.6 Protocol Prefix Usage 1) Prefix P The prefix P can be added before any command in the above table to have the returning data followed with two bytes of CRC check sum, which is the adding sum of the original character string.
  • Page 54 W + IDN address string + basic command. The IDN address should have a value between 0 and 65534, except 13(0DH), 10 (0AH), 42(2AH,*), 38(26H, &). For example, if we want to visit the instantaneous flow velocity of device IDN=12345, the following command should be sent to this device: W12345DV(CR).

  • Page 55: Warranty And Service

    8. Warranty and Service §8.1 Warranty The products manufactured by Spire Metering are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of shipment while under use of the original purchaser.

  • Page 56: Software Upgrade Service

    For any hardware failures with the device, we recommend that our customers send the unit back to Spire for servicing. Please contact the technical support department with the model number and the serial number before returning the unit. Both numbers can be found on the product label. For any service or calibration request, we will issue a Return Materials Authorization (RMA).

  • Page 57: Appendix

    §9.1 RH40 Meter and Battery Maintenance §9.1.A Battery Maintenance and Replacement The RH40 features a Ni-H rechargeable battery. Therefore, it is recommended to discharge the battery by leaving the instrument on (it will automatically turn off after a few minutes) every 3 months.

  • Page 58: B Prepare The Pipe Surface

        Inflow Tee Out of Plane Multiple Bends Valve Pump §9.2.B Prepare the Pipe Surface Clean the pipe surface where the transducers will be mounted. Remove rust and paint. Sand the surface if not smooth. Use a wet cloth to wipe off the powder after sanding. Dry up the surface. A dry, clean surface will ensure a good acoustic bond between the transducer and the pipe.

  • Page 59: C Prepare The Transducer

    §9.2.C Prepare the Transducer Clean the transducer surface. Keep the surface dry. Put couplant on transducer surface as shown in the figure on the right. Do not put more couplant than needed, especially for small pipes. §9.2.D Install the Transducers For horizontal pipe lines, it is recommended to install the transducers on the side instead of on the top or bottom of the pipe.

  • Page 60: Pipe Size Tables

    For pipe size 1”~1.5” metal pipe, we recommend a damping material to be used around the pipe surface, such as GraceIce. If wrapping acoustic damping material is not an option, try to put some acoustic couplant around the pipe to absorb the acoustic noise. HM-type transducer: Connect the transducer cables to the main unit.
  • Page 61 Nominal Size Actual Outside Tolerance on Outside Wall Thickness (Inches) (Inches) Diameter (Inches) Diameter (Inches) Annealed Drawn Nominal Tolerance Type K 0.875 0.003 0.001 0.065 0.006 ¾ 1.125 0.0035 0.0015 0.065 0.006 1 ¼ 1.375 0.004 0.0015 0.065 0.006 1 ½ 1.625 0.0045 0.002...
  • Page 74 §8.4 Sound Speed Tables...

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