Operating and Maintenance Manual LPG: M-285 Rev. G P.D. Oscillating Piston Flowmeter 1 4D-MD LP Gas
Operating and Maintenance Manual LPG: M-285 Rev. G P.D. Oscillating Piston Flowmeter 1 4D-MD LP Gas
Operating and Maintenance Manual LPG: M-285 Rev. G P.D. Oscillating Piston Flowmeter 1 4D-MD LP Gas
Rev. G
P.D. Oscillating Piston Flowmeter
1″ 4D-MD LP Gas
Aluminum itself is relatively impervious to corrosion, much more so than cast iron or non-stainless Recommended
steel alloys. To prevent possible seizing of the bolts, Loctite® Anti-Seize Thread Compound No. 767 Anti-Seize
is applied to bolts during the factory assembly of the meter. Compound
Make sure that this or equivalent anti-seize compound is used when the meter parts are reas-
sembled after service to prevent bolt seizing.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
General Information................................................................................................................... 1
Installation................................................................................................................................. 1
Operation................................................................................................................................... 3
Calibration................................................................................................................................. 4
Registration............................................................................................................................... 7
Storage...................................................................................................................................... 7
Register Maintenance............................................................................................................... 7
Strainer Maintenance...............................................................................................................11
Troubleshooting....................................................................................................................... 13
4D-MD LP-GAS COMPACT FLOWMETERS
GENERAL INFORMATION GENERAL INFORMATION
This manual covers the installation and maintenance of the Type 4D-MD LP-Gas Compact
Flowmeter (Figure 1) which includes a Strainer, Vapor Release, Differential Valve and Automatic
Temperature Compensator.
The housing and pressure components of the 4D-MD are constructed of A356 aluminum with
T6 heat treatment. Nominal line connections of 3/4″ and 1″ (ductile iron connections) are available.
The meter is fully rated to 350 psi and has been approved by UL.
The strainer, housed in the Vapor Release at the intake of the flowmeter, is of a fine (either
an 80-84 mesh or special 30 micron) mesh double sleeve construction with O-rings for positive
sealing. It is accessible by removing the strainer cover.
The Vapor Release, which prevents entrapped vapor from passing through the flowmeter, has
a float-operated valve. When vapor collects in the Vapor Release, the valve opens venting vapor
to the supply tank establishing pump pressure to close the Differential Valve. The vapor release
employs a sleeve-type valve that permits a constant “leak” flow of approximately 0.2 gpm from the
vapor vent back to the supply tank.
The Differential Valve is piston, plug type construction and opens when at least 15-psi pump
pressure is established. This valve serves three functions to assure system measurement accuracy
by requiring: (1) pump operation for delivery, (2) adequate back pressure to prevent product va-
porization during measurement, and (3) blockage of flow when the Vapor Release valve opens.
The type 4D-MD is available with outlet/inlet flanges of 3/4″ and 1″ diameters to permit con-
nection to varying pipe dimensions. Please refer to the current price list or your RSM distributor
for additional information.
The optional temperature compensator, by sensing product temperature, controls the readout
drive ratio to provide a registration compensated by 15°C (60°F).
The Type 4D-MD is available with a choice of 600 or 800 Series mechanical resettable total-
izing registers. Pulse output is also optionally available.
The recommended temperature range for operation of the 4D-MD is -23° to 60°C (-10° to 140°F)
or -23°C to 52°C (-10° to 125°F) for automatic temperature compensator equipped meter.
INSTALLATION INSTALLATION
1. Plan the installation for maximum rate of delivery, sizing the supply tank outlet, piping and Before Installing the
valve for free gravity flow to the pump suction. To accomplish this, locate the pump as Flowmeter
close as possible to the supply tank and use short inlet connections with few restrictions.
Keep the number of elbows to a minimum, and use large radius elbows, wherever possible.
To further reduce the likelihood of causing vapor in the pump suction line, install a pump
bypass valve in a return line to the supply tank as shown in the installation drawing. (See
Figure 2).
2. Locate the flowmeter at any convenient place in the pump discharge line. If the flowmeter
is to be operated under extremes of environment (dirt, water, physical damage, etc.), an
enclosure or other protection should be provided. Allow sufficient clearances for removal of
the register, strainer and vapor release as shown in Figure 14. Do not install any bypass
around the flowmeter; the valve in such a line might eventually leak, work open, or be left
open causing improper measurement.
To conform with Weights and Measures requirements, install flowmeter so that the flowmeter
nameplate is visible.
NOTE
All piping on the inlet side of the flowmeter should be very thoroughly cleaned out. Flush
out all lines thoroughly before installing the flowmeter.
While the installation is still new, the strainer should be cleaned once per month mini-
mally for the first three (3) months. After the system has been thoroughly flushed of foreign
material, only periodic (minimum annually) cleaning is recommended.
The majority of service calls on new installations would be eliminated if these directions were
followed.
Page 1
In order to comply with the European Pressure Directive 97/23/EC the following information is
required to be included in the flowmeter manual as part of the Installation instructions.
CAUTION!!
Always install the flowmeter according to local Safety Codes for LP Gas equipment.
The flowmeter shall be installed outdoors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
External examination is recommended every 2 years and a pressure test
at the maximum working pressure (24 bar) every 10 years.
FIGURE 1.
4D-MD COMPACT FLOWMETER
Secure the connecting piping to prevent strain on the flowmeter. Use UL approved pipe com- When Installing
pound sparingly or suitable pipe tapes on male threads only.
Provide the installation with means for pressure relief as outlined in the National Fire Protection
Association Pamphlet 58. Although the differential valve is technically not a completely positive
seat, it is positive enough that we recommend the use of a hydrostatic relief valve downstream of
the meter to protect the delivery hose.
The vent line from the flowmeter’s vapor vent to the vapor space of the supply tank should Vent Line
be 1/4-inch inside diameter tubing or equivalent pipe size. A shut-off valve must be installed in the
vapor vent line to permit removal of the strainer for cleaning or when other service is performed on
the flowmeter. The Vapor Release vent line must be returned to the vapor space of the supply tank
and normally should not be made a common connection with other vapor lines or pump bypass
lines. When properly installed, this line must permit free flow in either direction. To assure free flow
in either direction, do not install a check valve in the vent line and use a full port ball valve for the
shut-off valve. If valve in vent line is closed, flowmeter will not function. These instructions must
be followed in order to maintain proper function of the differential valve.
NOTE: A vapor equalizing line should not be used from supply tank to tank being filled, as
such connection would cause confusion as to the amount delivered due to possible passage of
vapor in either direction.
FIGURE 2.
INSTALLATION ARRANGEMENT
Page 2
OPERATION OPERATION
Pressurize the system slowly by allowing vapor flow through the vent line. Check for system
leaks. Then pass sufficient liquid through the system to clear the lines of air and vapor.
After starting pump, slowly open outlet valve downstream of the flowmeter. Check the rate of
flow after the system is filled; it should not exceed rated maximum flow of flowmeter.
Adjust the external pump bypass to deliver the maximum practical rate of flow for the least
amount of pump pressure.
NOTE: The pump relief valve (normally built into the pump assembly) should relieve at a
pressure above which the external bypass has been set.
Maximum working pressure on the system must not exceed 350 psi. Avoid the use of small
diameter hose or pipe and resultant need for excessive pressures to achieve the desired flow rates;
these may result in leakage, undue wear on pump and unsafe operation.
All flowmeters are carefully calibrated and tested after assembly and no changes should be
necessary.
While the installation is still new, clean the strainer frequently. After the system has been in
service, only periodic cleaning is necessary.
To Operate the Flowmeter To Operate
1. Start pump. The Flowmeter
2. To prevent register creep, reset register to zero by turning operating knob to the rear stop.
On Printer models (800 Series Register), first insert ticket. (See Figure 3.)
3. Open hose valve and make delivery.
4. After completion of delivery on Printer models, stamp final reading on ticket by turning reset
knob to the front stop and remove ticket.
5. The cumulative totalizer is visible through the mask at the upper right-hand corner of
register.
STOP PINS
TRIP ADJUSTING
SCREW COVER
FIGURE 3
PRINTER REGISTER FIGURE 4
(800 Series) PRINT UNIT ADJUSTMENTS
PRINTER MODELS (800 Series Register) Totalizer
To insert a ticket be sure that the reset knob is turned forward to a stop. Then depress the dust PRINTER MODELS
bar above the ticket slot (see Figure 3), and insert ticket either “face down, bottom end first” or “face To Insert and
up, top end first” as noted on instruction plate. Turn reset knob backward to stop. This resets the Remove Tickets
visible wheels to zero, locks the ticket in place, and prints the initial reading on the ticket. (Ticket
now cannot be removed without tearing it.)
Page 3
Upon completion of delivery, turn the reset knob forward to stop. This operation prints the final
reading and releases the ticket.
Printer registers are shipped from factory with the ticket guides properly adjusted. If it is neces- To Adjust
sary to reposition ticket, proceed as follows: Ticket Guides
1. Remove top cover.
2. Insert ticket into printer. Loosen screws on rear of ticket guides. Move guides to right or
left as required. Tighten screws. The ticket must slide freely between the guides. If ticket
bends at forward end of guide, remove guide and rebend tail.
3. To raise or lower printing, push the two stop pins to the front or rear with end of a screw-
driver.
4. Replace top cover and reseal.
To Change “Letter Wheel” Setting: To Change
1. With top cover removed the “letter” wheels are visible. (See Figure 4) “Letter Wheel” Setting
2. Using screwdriver or similar tool, turn wheels until desired letters are in position to print.
The letters appearing at top are in position to print.
CALIBRATION CALIBRATION
Test the flowmeter using a volumetric prover large enough to permit the flowmeter to operate for
at least one minute at maximum flow rate. Slip tube and rotary gauge readings are not sufficiently
accurate for proving flowmeters. A detailed description of LP-Gas test procedure may be found in
the NIST/Weights and Measures Training Module, “Liquefied Petroleum Gas Liquid – Measuring
Devices” Inspector’s Manual. Specifications and Tolerances are contained in NBS Handbook H-44.
For meters used outside the USA, please consult your local weights and measures authority for
the correct procedures and tolerances.
A thermometer well is provided for taking temperature readings while calibrating. It is located in
the vapor release. It is covered by a snap plug to keep dirt from entering the well. The well should
be filled with permanent type anti-freeze, if available, or with a light oil when temperature readings
are to be obtained.
If a gravimetric test is used, the conversion to gallons must be on the basis of: (1) specific
gravity determined at the time of test (not an assumed value), (2) the temperature of the product
as it passed through the flowmeter.
Slip tube and rotary gauge readings are not sufficiently accurate for use as flowmeter checks
and will produce erratic results.
Erratic registration may be an indication of vapor or dirt in the measuring chamber. It cannot Erratic Registration
be corrected by recalibration. Clean the strainer and if necessary the flowmeter as directed in the
section “Preventative Maintenance Schedule.” For proper operation the installation must be as
shown in Figure 2.
When the flowmeter registers consistently either more or less than is delivered, the calibration Consistent Over- or
may be corrected in the following manner: Under-Registration
ON UNCOMPENSATED FLOWMETERS WITH 800 SERIES PRINTER REGISTER ON UNCOMPENSATED
Test the flowmeter to determine any error in registration. If there is an error less than 0.30%, FLOWMETERS WITH
proceed as follows: 800 SERIES
1. Remove the register top cover. PRINTER REGISTER
2. Lift and turn change gear shifter (see Figure 5) in the direction indicated on the top of the
shifter.
3. There is a series of holes in the plate into which the guide pin enters at different settings.
Altering the setting by one hole changes the calibration approximately 34 cubic inches in
100 gallons.
Example: Suppose that the flowmeter consistently gives 68 cubic inches too much when it
registers 100 gallons. After removing the cover plate move the gear shifter 2 spaces to the right
(from position E to position C) to decrease the delivery about 68 cubic inches in 100 gallons.
After changing the calibration always replace the top cover, making sure that the sheet steel
housing on the sides and back fits into the groove in the bottom edge of cover. Run a small amount
of liquid through the flowmeter before testing. In order to prevent tampering, always reseal after
calibration is completed.
Page 4
If there is an error greater than 0.30% (approx. 68 cu. in. in 100 gals.), proceed as follows:
1. Remove the register. (Refer to REGISTER MAINTENANCE.)
2. Looking into the bottom of the register, determine the number of teeth on the “R” and “S”
change gears. (See Figures 6 & 8.)
3. Refer to CHANGE GEAR CHART (Figure 7) and select the proper gears.
4. Install new gears being sure to put change gear “R” on the “R” spindle and change gear
“S” on the “S” spindle.
5. Replace register and tighten two screws.
6. Run a few gallons through the flowmeter, and retest.
GEAR SHIFTER
FIGURE 5 FIGURE 6
GEAR SHIFTER ADJUSTMENTS CHANGE GEAR ARRANGEMENT
Page 5
FIGURE 7 FIGURE 8
REGISTER CHANGE GEARS REMOVING REGISTER CHANGE GEARS
FIGURE 9
REMOVING ANCHOR PIN
FOR CALIBRATION
OF TEMPERATURE
COMPENSATED
FLOWMETER
COMPENSATED ANCHOR
ANCHOR
PIN
Page 6
The liquid passing through the measuring chamber must be free of grit and other forms of Sediment
sediment to prevent unnecessary friction and to eliminate scoring of the piston and chamber
walls. Evidence of trouble from this source will be found in under-registration of the flowmeter.
Periodic cleaning and inspection of the flowmeter strainer will help to ensure maximum flow rate
and to prevent possible damage of the flowmeter if clogged strainer ruptures.
Being an instrument that measures by volume, a flowmeter will record the passage of va- Vapor
pors as well as the liquid being measured, resulting in over-registration. This will not occur with
proper Vapor Release and Differential Valve function and installation.
Incidental water will cause no damage to the flowmeter. Trouble from this source may be Water
expected only when water is allowed to remain in the flowmeter.
REGISTRATION REGISTRATION
Erratic registration is usually caused by vaporization of the product, faulty differential valve Erratic Registration
or vapor release valve function or installation (over-registration), or by dirt or pipe scale in
the measuring chamber (under-registration). Clean the flowmeter, if necessary, as directed in
MEASURING CHAMBER MAINTENANCE. If flowmeter continues to creep when outlet valve is
closed, check differential valve seals.
When the flowmeter has a consistent error either more or less than is delivered, and no Consistent Over- or
other cause in system function can be determined, calibration of the metering system is recom- Under-Registration
mended.
STORAGE STORAGE
Before placing in storage the flowmeter assembly must be flushed with a light lubricating oil
of good quality to prevent corrosion from condensation.
Page 7
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter out-
doors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
FIGURE 10
CHECKING PISTON FREEDOM
Page 8
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter out-
doors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
1. Assemble the diaphragm and seal pin in the chamber, if replacement of these parts
was necessary.
2. Place the control roller on its pin, and see that it will rotate freely.
3. Reinstall the piston, and oscillate it carefully by hand; it should move easily without
binding. (See Figure 10.) If it sticks, do not force it, but remove it and locate the cause. Do not
file down the roller as this will destroy the accuracy of the flowmeter.
4. Reinstall the upper cylinder head, and again oscillate the piston to make sure that it is
free.
5. Before installing the measuring chamber in the casing, make sure that the seat is clean
and free of nicks. Install the chamber, making sure that the dowel pin in the main casing enters
the slot in the bottom cylinder head properly and allows the chamber to rest squarely on the
seat. The top of the chamber should be flush with the gasket seal. (Refer to page 11, item 9.)
NOTE: Do not overtorque the bolts! Tighten in accordance with torque specifications
inside the front cover of this manual.
Page 9
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter out-
doors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
3. Remove the flowmeter top casing, with gear train assembly attached. Be careful to keep
dirt out of the flowmeter, and avoid damage to the cover gasket. (A replacement gasket
may be necessary.)
5. Take off the clamp nut and remove the gear train assembly from the underside of the flow-
meter top casing.
6. Install replacement gear train, making sure that the replacement has the same gear reduc-
tion.
7. Before reinstalling the top casing, inspect the gasket and replace it, if necessary. Next,
position the driving arm of the gear train so that it will not rest on the piston spindle. Then
reassemble the top casing on the main casing and secure it with the four cap screws.
2. Remove the cap screws on the vapor release cover, and lift off cover and float assembly.
4. Carefully inspect the valve sleeve for any resistance to smooth movement of the sleeve
on the stem. Inspect all holes in the sleeve and the stem for foreign material which could
cause sticking of the valve and obstruct the flow through the valve. If defective, replace
sleeve and stem assembly.
6. Install the float and cover assembly and tighten cover bolts.
NOTE: Do not overtorque the bolts! Tighten in accordance with torque specifications inside
the front cover of this manual.
Page 10
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter
outdoors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
NOTES:
1
General Maintenance Parts (minimum)
2
Major Service (minimum)
FIGURE 12
FLOWMETER PARTS EXPLODED
Page 11
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter out-
doors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
5. Replace U-cups on valve plug and insert into sleeve. Assemble spring. Push valve and
sleeve into casing and press against spring. Valve plug should move to its closed position
by spring force only. If valve remains partly open, locate cause and correct.
6. Replace cover and tubing and reconnect vapor vent line.
TEMPERATURE
COMPENSATOR
TEMPERATURE COMPENSATOR MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE
The Compensator (Figures 9 & 13) is designed to give long and dependable service when To Repair Compensator
properly installed. The unit has been thoroughly performance-tested prior to shipment, and in
normal service requires no further lubrication.
Maintenance of the compensator should be limited to those operations outlined below. If it
becomes apparent that the unit is in need of repair, the compensator should be returned to the
nearest authorized RSM distributor.
To Remove Compensator To Remove Compensator
1. Remove the register.
2. Remove vapor line and connecting tube.
3. Remove bolts at the base of the compensator and lift the unit off.
To Replace Thermostat (Figure 13) To Replace Thermostat
1. Remove two seal screws and take off “Neptune” cover.
2. Withdraw anchor pin after removing cotter pin.
FIGURE 13
ATC COMPONENTS WITH
600 SERIES REGISTER
Page 12
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter
outdoors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
TROUBLESHOOTING TROUBLESHOOTING
1. Register Not Working When Liquid is Flowing
a. Bypass around flowmeter not shut off.
b. Ice inside register.
c. Loose register or worn gear train.
d. Register in need of repair.
e. Sheared key on Change Gear — caused by ice in register or mechanically tight mecha-
nism.
f. Connector on top of gear train (and/or ATC) not properly installed — set screw may not
be tightened on flat of 0.125″ steel spindle.
2. Leakage at the Stuffing Box
a. Worn shaft seal or spindle.
3. Chronic Leakage at the Main Case Gaskets
a. Excessive line or shock pressure.
b. Defective gasket or loose bolts.
4. Unsatisfactory Flow Rate or Complete Stoppage of Flow
a. Obstruction in vapor vent line between differential pressure valve and vapor space in
tank.
b. Pump too small or inefficient. (The pump must have sufficient capacity and pressure to
pump against higher heads than are normally found in gasoline or fuel oil installations.
This is especially true when the delivery nears completion.)
c. Pump vapor bound due to improper installation by bypass relief valve or a restriction in
suction line. (Refer to “INSTALLATION.”)
d. Pump bypass stuck open or spring weak.
e. High loss of head. (This is caused by too many valves and elbows and the length, di-
ameter and condition of the delivery hose.)
f. Pressure buildup in tank being filled. Condition becomes worse as delivery nears comple-
tion unless vapor return line (not recommended) is used or vapor space type filling is
used.
g. Blocked strainer, or piston in flowmeter stuck. Clean strainer and measuring chamber.
h. Open valve in piping allowing liquid to circulate around pump.
i. Worn pump.
j. Vapor release valve fails to close, causing differential to remain closed or open slight-
ly.
k. Vent line connection to supply tank must be minimum 1/4″ diameter. Any orifice or par-
tially closed valve will result in malfunction of differential valve.
5. Under-Registration — Erratic
a. Dirt in the measuring chamber.
b. Badly worn control roller or diaphragm.
c. Main casing distorted or damaged.
d. Dirt under seat of measuring chamber (after cleaning).
Page 13
CAUTION!!
Perform all operations that involve opening any part of the flowmeter out-
doors, away from buildings and sources of ignition.
!! Before opening any part of the flowmeter, close all valves between supply
tank and flowmeter and loosen coupling at vapor release cover to relieve pres-
sure on the flowmeter. All necessary replacement parts should be on hand.
6. Over-Registration — Erratic
a. Leaking O-ring on differential valve.
b. Vapor release valve jamming, allowing vapor to pass through the flowmeter.
c. Vent line from the vapor release valve plugged causing vapor to pass through the flow-
meter.
7. Consistent Over- or Under-Registration
a. Flowmeter in need of calibration.
135
800 Series 33
(1 5/16)
406
(16)
406
(16)
251
(9 7/8)
3
/4 NPT OR 1”
INLET AND
OUTLET
38
(1 1/2)
93
308 (3 21/32)
(12 1/8) 110 60
(4 5/16) (2 3/8)
/16 - 18 UNC 2B
5
(3 HOLES)
44.5 (1 3/4)
89 (3 1/2)
13
(1/2)
184
(7 1/4)
Page 14
DIMENSIONS mm (Inches)
600 Series
149
(5 7/8)
87 87
(3 13/32) (3 13/32)
41
(1 5/8)
359
(14 1/8)
359
(14 1/8)
251
(9 7/8)
/ NPT OR 1”
3 4
INLET AND
OUTLET
38
(1 1/2)
93
(3 21/32)
308
(12 1/8)
110 60
(4 5/16) (2 3/8)
/16 - 18 UNC 2B
5
(3 HOLES)
44.5 (1 3/4)
89 (3 1/2)
13
(1/2)
184
(7 1/4)
Page 15
DIMENSIONS mm (Inches)
600 Series with ATC
47/8 4
149
(5 7/8)
87
(3 13/32)
87
(3 13/32)
41
(1 5/8)
422
(16 19/32)
422
(16 19/32)
3
/8 - FLARED
TUBE FITTING
251
(9 7/8)
3
/4 NPT OR 1”
INLET AND
OUTLET
38
(1 1/2)
93
308 (3 21/32) 110 60
(12 1/8) (4 5/16) (2 3/8)
/16 - 18 UNC 2B
5
(3 HOLES)
44.5 (1 3/4)
89 (3 1/2)
13
(1/2)
184
(7 1/4)
Page 16
U.S.A./International
1310 Emerald Road
Greenwood, SC 29646-9558
Tel.: Toll-Free (800) 833-3357
(864) 223-1212
Fax: (864) 223-0341
© 2012 Red Seal Measurement 500 10/12