A bulk water meter measures water flowing through larger pipelines and is commonly used where residential-sized meters are not appropriate.
Typical applications include municipal networks, commercial buildings, factories, pumping stations, irrigation and master metering.
Common Technologies
Bulk meters can use Woltmann or turbine principles, electromagnetic measurement, or ultrasonic measurement. Each technology has different installation and operating requirements.
Meter Size
Sizing should be based on actual flow. An oversized meter can operate too often at low flow, while an undersized meter can create excessive pressure loss.
Pressure
Confirm both operating pressure and required pressure class.
Flange Standard
Large meters are frequently flange-connected. The flange dimensions must match the project specification.
Accuracy
The required accuracy depends on whether the meter is used for billing, monitoring, network balancing or process control.
Installation
Large meters may require straight upstream and downstream pipe, correct orientation, supports, air removal and suitable valve arrangement.
Packaging and Shipping
Bulk meters are heavier than residential meters. Procurement should consider palletization, flange protection, body protection, moisture protection and crate requirements.
Supplier Evaluation
Ask whether the factory has large-diameter production capability, suitable flow-test equipment, calibration capacity, pressure-test equipment and repeat-order support.
Procurement Support
WMConstr can compare factories specializing in bulk meters and consolidate related valves, fittings and accessories from separate suppliers where practical.