MA ALTOSONIC-V12 en 240213 4002643506 R06
MA ALTOSONIC-V12 en 240213 4002643506 R06
MA ALTOSONIC-V12 en 240213 4002643506 R06
All rights reserved. It is prohibited to reproduce this documentation, or any part thereof, without
the prior written authorisation of KROHNE Messtechnik GmbH.
Copyright 2024 by
KROHNE Messtechnik GmbH - Ludwig-Krohne-Str. 5 - 47058 Duisburg (Germany)
1 Safety instructions 7
2 Device description 12
3 Installation 23
4 Electrical connections 31
5 Start-up 47
6 Operation 48
9 Service 106
INFORMATION!
The manufacturer is not liable for any damage resulting from improper use or use for other than
the intended purpose.
The ALTOSONIC V12 is an ultrasonic gas flowmeter for high accurate and custody transfer
applications.
1.2 Certifications
Product marking
The manufacturer certifies successful testing of the product by applying the conformity mark on
the device.
LEGAL NOTICE!
The ALTOSONIC V12 custody transfer gas flowmeter meets the technical requirements and
standards applicable to equipment designed for use in different countries world wide.
International (IECEx):
• Certified for use in Division 1 and Zone 1 (USA only) hazardous areas according to NEC
500/505 and CEC:
Canada:
• Certified for use in Division 2 hazardous areas according to NEC 500 and CEC:
CSA C22.2 No. 213
CSA C22.2 No. 94.2
CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1
UL121201
UL 50E
UL 61010-1
UL 60079-0
UL 60079-1
INFORMATION!
Not all country specific approvals are listed here. Please consult KROHNE in case of a specific
approval that is not listed here.
The contents and works in this document are subject to copyright. Contributions from third
parties are identified as such. Reproduction, processing, dissemination and any type of use
beyond what is permitted under copyright requires written authorisation from the respective
author and/or the manufacturer.
The manufacturer tries always to observe the copyrights of others, and to draw on works created
in-house or works in the public domain.
The collection of personal data (such as names, street addresses or e-mail addresses) in the
manufacturer's documents is always on a voluntary basis whenever possible. Whenever
feasible, it is always possible to make use of the offerings and services without providing any
personal data.
We draw your attention to the fact that data transmission over the Internet (e.g. when
communicating by e-mail) may involve gaps in security. It is not possible to protect such data
completely against access by third parties.
We hereby expressly prohibit the use of the contact data published as part of our duty to publish
an imprint for the purpose of sending us any advertising or informational materials that we have
not expressly requested.
1.3.2 Disclaimer
The manufacturer will not be liable for any damage of any kind by using its product, including,
but not limited to direct, indirect or incidental and consequential damages.
This disclaimer does not apply in case the manufacturer has acted on purpose or with gross
negligence. In the event any applicable law does not allow such limitations on implied warranties
or the exclusion of limitation of certain damages, you may, if such law applies to you, not be
subject to some or all of the above disclaimer, exclusions or limitations.
Any product purchased from the manufacturer is warranted in accordance with the relevant
product documentation and our Terms and Conditions of Sale.
The manufacturer reserves the right to alter the content of its documents, including this
disclaimer in any way, at any time, for any reason, without prior notification, and will not be liable
in any way for possible consequences of such changes.
If this document is not in your native language and if you have any problems understanding the
text, we advise you to contact your local office for assistance. The manufacturer cannot accept
responsibility for any damage or injury caused by misunderstanding of the information in this
document.
This document is provided to help you establish operating conditions, which will permit safe and
efficient use of this device. Special considerations and precautions are also described in the
document, which appear in the form of icons as shown below.
DANGER!
This warning refers to the immediate danger when working with electricity.
DANGER!
This warning refers to the immediate danger of burns caused by heat or hot surfaces.
DANGER!
This warning refers to the immediate danger when using this device in a hazardous atmosphere.
DANGER!
These warnings must be observed without fail. Even partial disregard of this warning can lead to
serious health problems and even death. There is also the risk of seriously damaging the device
or parts of the operator's plant.
WARNING!
Disregarding this safety warning, even if only in part, poses the risk of serious health problems.
There is also the risk of damaging the device or parts of the operator's plant.
CAUTION!
Disregarding these instructions can result in damage to the device or to parts of the operator's
plant.
INFORMATION!
These instructions contain important information for the handling of the device.
LEGAL NOTICE!
This note contains information on statutory directives and standards.
• HANDLING
This symbol designates all instructions for actions to be carried out by the operator in the
specified sequence.
i RESULT
This symbol refers to all important consequences of the previous actions.
INFORMATION!
The instrument is delivered in a seaworthy, reinforced wooden crate. Inspect the packing
carefully for damages or signs of improper handling. Report damage to the carrier and to the
local office of the manufacturer.
INFORMATION!
Calibration reports and project specific documents are in the meter's databook that is sent
separately.
The flowmeter consists of a meter body with one or two (twin or check meter) electronic units
installed on top of it.
For smaller diameters the meter body is fully machined hence no welding is done.
For larger diameters, normally the meter body is a welded construction. However, it can also be
a fully machined construction.
A number of transducers are installed inside the meter body. Each pair of ultrasonic transducers
forms an acoustic measurement path. The acoustic measurement path consists of one (direct)
chord or two (reflective) chords.
The chords in the horizontal plane are used for flow measurement, the chords in the vertical
plane are used for diagnostics or for the measurement of the check meter. The reflective chords
that are offset from the meter’s centre line use acoustic mirrors to reflect the ultrasonic signal.
The reflective chords that are in the centre line of the meter reflect directly on the pipe wall.
Direct chords do not reflect and therefore do not require acoustic mirrors.
The transducers are electrically connected to the electronic unit inside the converter housing
that is screwed on top of the pipe (i.e. support) on top of the meter by means of coaxial cables.
The cabling is protected against mechanical damage and moisture by the surrounding sensor
housing that are sealed by two side covers and the top cover. The coaxial cables enter the
electronics enclosure via the neck at the bottom of the electronics housing. An explosion-proof
(Ex db) approved cable feed-through is installed inside the neck of the housing and the support
on which the housing is screwed, that forms an explosion-proof seal of this entry to the
electronics enclosure.
The other ends of the coax cables are connected to the transducers. This connection is either
established via an explosion-proof connector (transducer type G6.nn) or via a SMB-plug (inside
explosion-proof transducer types G7.nn or G11.nn).
2.2.1 Transducers
Acoustic signals are transmitted and received by means of ultrasonic transducers. The active
part of an ultrasonic transducer is a piëzo electric ceramic at the front of the transducer. The
front of the transducer is exposed to the gas to be measured. There is a variety of different
transducers to optimise the measurement performance to the application. Two of them are
shown as examples below.
Figure 2-3: Sensor assembly type G6.nn (epoxy front with stainless steel housing)
1 O-rings
2 Slot in the transducer housing
3 Stainless steel transducer housing
4 Explosion-proof (Ex db) connector
5 Alignment pin
6 Screw cap
7 Securing screw M2
8 Coaxial cable
9 Transducer nut
DANGER!
Transducer type G6.nn has an explosion-proof (Ex db) housing in which there is an explosion-
proof (Ex db) connector of the connecting coaxial cable ⑧ .
An alignment pin ⑤ on the connector slides into a slot in the transducer housing ②, this ensures
that the transducer is connected with the correct polarity. The cap ⑥ , screwed on the housing,
fixates the connector, a small securing screw (M2) ⑦ secures this cap. The transducer type
G6.nn is fixated in the meter body using a transducer nut with a hole in the centre ⑨ . Two O-
rings ① seal the pressure inside the piping effectively to the inside of the sensor housing and
the outside world.
INFORMATION!
If needed, ask your supplier for the optional KROHNE Care manual.
DANGER!
Unused holes must be closed with approved explosion-proof (Ex db) blind plugs.
Electronics compartment
The front has a cover with a glass window. It contains a frame with a number of printed circuit
boards. The boards have the following functions:
INFORMATION!
The KROHNE Care Expert system is an advanced diagnostic system embedded in an additional
electronic board with flow computer functionality. On this electronic board a diagnostic model
runs that checks the health status of the ALTOSONIC V12, 24/7.
LEGAL NOTICE!
The parameters are stored in a configuration file. Configuration parameters are password
protected in order to prevent unauthorized modification. Access in order to read, view and
inspect parameter values is unrestricted.
Individual parameters are classified according to “roles” in order to define differentiated access
rights. Each “role” is associated with a “typical” user or operator having specific responsibilities
or duties. Users have to be registered with a user name and a password, when registered the
role of the user is also defined, and by consequence also the access rights of that user.
The following roles have been defined, listed in according to the rank in the hierarchy.
Only a higher rank user can register a lower rank user. Users can have the same rank.
In addition to restrictions depending of the defined role of a user, a physical “overwrite disable”
contact / jumper protects the configuration parameters. This disables any user from making
modifications to parameters that would influence the measured flow or volume value. This
prevents unintentional or unauthorized changes to the parameters and possibly invalidation of
the calibration.
Normally the meter is delivered with a set of parameters suitable for the application. In case a
modification of the configuration file is made, this is stored in the data logging memory. This
information can be retrieved afterwards for auditing and verification purposes.
Approval Markings
ATEX II 2G Ex db eb IIB+H2 T6...T3 Gb (with transducer type G7.nn or G11.nn)
II 2G Ex db eb ma IIB+H2 T6…T4 Gb (with transducer type G6.nn)
IECEx & UKCA Ex db eb IIB+H2 T6...T3 Gb (with transducer type G7.nn or G11.nn)
Ex db eb ma IIB+H2 T6…T4 Gb (with transducer type G6.nn)
Division 1 Class I, Division 1, Groups CD T5 or T4
(Canada & USA)
Class II, Division 1, Groups EFG
Class III, Division 1 and 2
Class I, zone 1 Class I, Zone 1, IIB T5/T4
(USA only)
Division 2 Class I, Division 2, Groups BCD T5 or T4
(Canada & USA)
Class II, Division 2, Groups EFG
Class III, Division 1 and 2
Table 2-1: Explosion safety markings
2.4.3 Temperatures
Ambient temperature
The ALTOSONIC V12 is rated for an ambient temperature in the range of -40°C…+60°C.
Process temperature
The process temperatures depend on the type of explosion safety approval and the type of gas
transducers (G6.nn, G7.nn or G11.nn) installed inside the ALTOSONIC V12 sensor. An overview is
given by the tables below.
Temperature class Tamb ≤ 45ºC Tamb ≤ 50ºC Tamb ≤ 55ºC Tamb ≤ 60ºC
T6 50 50 50 50
T5 65 65 65 65
T4 100 100 100 -
T3 175 140 - -
Table 2-2: Temperature classification with transducer type G7.nn or G11.nn
2.4.4 Pressure
The maximum process pressure is determined by the type of transducers (G6.nn, G7.nn or
G11.nn) installed inside the sensor. For ATEX, IECEx and UKCA the limitations are listed in the
table below.
For Division 1 (Canada & USA) and Class I, Zone 1 (USA only) the maximum process pressure is
listed in the following table. See also the notes for the restrictions due to the used type of O-
rings (FKM 70, FPM 75 or FKM 90) and if the flowmeter is marked as a single seal.
INFORMATION!
The same table above applies to the for Division 2 approved ALTOSONIC V12-DIV2 meter, but
without the limitations described by the Note.
N'ouvrez pas l'enveloppe antideflagrante quand l'atmosphere explosive est presente! Ne pas
ouvrir sous tension. Un scellement demande moins de 18 inch du boîtier.
INFORMATION!
No warning messages for Division 2 approved ALTOSONIC V12-DIV2 flowmeters.
2.5 Nameplates
INFORMATION!
Look at the device nameplate to ensure that the device is delivered according to your order.
Check for the correct supply voltage printed on the nameplate.
INFORMATION!
Do a check of the packing list to make sure that you have all the elements given in the order.
INFORMATION!
Look at the device nameplate to ensure that the device is delivered according to your order.
Check for the correct supply voltage printed on the nameplate.
3.2 Storage
Correct storage position
WARNING!
Make sure that the extensions on the bottom of the flanges are in good order to prevent the
meter from rolling over. Otherwise take appropriate measures to prevent the meter from rolling
over.
Storage conditions
Maintain the following storage conditions to prevent the equipment from corrosion or early
failure:
However for storage and/or transportation additional protective measures are recommended.
Depending on how long the protection should last one of several methods can be considered:
1. For a storage period of less than one year, the inner pipewall should be protected by a corrosion
inhibitor such as Shell Ensys.
Do not apply the corrosion inhibitor on the acoustic transducers.
2. For a period of a year or longer, the pipewall should be protected by Tectyl or a similar product.
Do not apply Tectyl on the acoustic transducers.
3. Independend of the storage period, the inner pipewall can be protected by an oxygen free envi-
ronment. This can be created by mounting blind flanges, using a vacuum pump to remove the
air and subsequently filling the meter with nitrogen. It is recommended to place some bags of
silica gel inside the flowmeter. To protect against corrosion, the humidity should be less than
38% and/or oxygen should not be present. Special regulations may be applicable for transpor-
tation and storage of a pressurised flowmeter.
3.3 Transport
WARNING!
• Even smaller size flowmeters have a considerable weight. Check the weight of your
flowmeter in order to select suitable means for transportation and lifting.
• Use appropriate materials such as chains or hoisting straps that are in good condition.
• Use the eye bolts on the meter body to attach chains or straps to lift the meter (if not present:
check condition of the threaded holes on the flanges and if okay screw eye bolts in the
threaded holes).
• The supplied lifting lugs are for one time use only.
• Never lift the meter using the converter housing to attach straps.
• In case a fork lift will be used make sure that the flowmeter is secured against rolling off the
forks, or against straps sliding off the forks.
• Verify local safety regulations, directives and company procedures with respect to hoisting,
rigging and transportation of (heavy) equipment.
CAUTION!
The flowmeter should be protected from corrosive chemicals or gases and dust or particles
accumulation.
CAUTION!
Do not perform a hydrostatic test of the installed flowmeter.
The flowmeter has been hydrostatically tested during manufacturing (see reports) and must not
be retested with the ultrasonic sensors installed. Water will protude in the sensor pockets and
remain. This will create acoustic shortcuts and possibly cause the flowmeter to start operating
in failure.
DANGER!
To avoid the risk of ignition as a result of electrostatic charging, the equipment cannot be used in
locations where:
• high charge generating processes occur
• mechanical friction and/or separation can occur
• electron emission (e.g. near electrostatic equipment) can occur
3.5 Installation
3.5.1 Mounting position
Install the ultrasonic gas flowmeter in horizontal position with the flow arrow indicator on the
nameplate or on the meter body in the direction of the positive (forward) gas flow.
Make sure that the converter is on top of the flowmeter after the installation.
Check the weight of the meter. Typically the weight of the meter will be considerably more than
the same length of pipe line.
Make sure that there is enough free room for maintenance around the flowmeter. If you ever
have to exchange transducers under pression, keep the advised free distance, measured from
the centerline of the flowmeter:
To support the meter, additional supports might be needed, preferably two, one on either side of
the meter.
Always support the meter at its flanges, the weight of the meter shall never rest on the case
around the transducers and the cabling.
If supports can not be placed under the meter flanges, supports may be placed under the mating
flanges of the pipeline. If supports can only be placed under the pipeline sections upstream or
downstream of the meter, these supports shall be as close as possible to the meter. In this case
a calculation must be made to verify that the load on the pipeline will not exceed acceptable
values.
The meter should be installed in the pipe line with gaskets, nuts and bolts according to the type
and size of the flanges of the gas flowmeter. The flanges of the meter should match with the
flanges of the pipeline where the meter should be installed. Make sure that the gaskets do not
protude into the flow as this can reduce the accuracy of the flowmeter.
In order to install the gas flowmeter, the pipeline must have a slot of such length that the meter
including the gaskets fits nicely in the slot. It should not be necessary to use excessive force to
tighten the bolts in order to close the gaps on either side of the meter. Nor should the slot be too
small, implying the slot has to be widened by applying brute force to fit the meter and gaskets in
the slot.
For tightening the bolts of the flanges, apply a lubricant as required, in accordance with the
materials as used and applicable standards.
Tighten the bolts of the flanges with a torque according to the standards applicable to the
flanges and materials used.
INFORMATION!
• Preferred model is the “perforated plate” type.
• When a flow conditioner is included in the metering run, it is strongly advised to use the same
flow conditioner and inlet pipe configuration during a flow (wet) calibration (see e.g. ISO
17089 or AGA-9 for detailed requirements).
INFORMATION!
The following table is valid for the ALTOSONIC V12, ALTOSONIC V12 Check and ALTOSONIC V12
Twin versions and for mild and severe flow disturbances.
INFORMATION!
The following tables show an inlet section before and after the flow conditioner. The information
is valid for mild and severe flow disturbances.
For ALTOSONIC V12, ALTOSONIC V12 Check and ALTOSONIC V12 Twin versions
INFORMATION!
• Use a Pt100 element with thermowell and transmitter as temperature sensor. Preferably use
tapered thermowells to avoid vibrations.
• Connect the pressure sensor to the Pr-point in the meter body using an intermediate
isolation valve and/or valve manifold.
CAUTION!
Either use a suitable blind plug or blind flange (and sealing as required) to blind the pressure
port, or a pressure sensing line should be connected in an appropriate way.
A pressure sensing line should be properly supported to avoid vibrations and to prevent the
weight of the sensing line from applying a strain on the pressure port connection.
3.6 Temperatures
The device must not be heated by radiated heat (e.g. exposure to the sun) to a converter surface
temperature above the maximum permissible ambient temperature.
CAUTION!
SUNSHADE
Direct solar radiation introduces temperature gradients in the metering section and must be
avoided as much as possible. Use a sunshade or canopy over the flow, pressure and temperature
sensors to protect against direct exposure to sunshine. Another option is to thermally insulate
the complete metering section including the sensors.
As an option, KROHNE has also developed a sun shade specifically for the electronics. This can
be ordered separately and can easily be installed as presented in the figure below.
For more detailed information about temperatures, refer to Technical data table on page 140.
DANGER!
Observe the national regulations for electrical installations!
WARNING!
Observe without fail the local occupational health and safety regulations.
Any work done on the electrical components of the measuring device may only be carried out by
properly trained specialists.
INFORMATION!
Look at the device nameplate to ensure that the device is delivered according to your order.
Check for the correct supply voltage printed on the nameplate.
DANGER!
For all applications, cable must be used that are resistant to high temperatures if the process
temperature is 65°C / 149°F or higher.
Closing the covers is done in the reverse order. Turn the cover until the little knob on the cover is
located under the interlocking device, then fasten the interlocking device.
4.3 Outputs
WARNING!
1. In order to prevent unauthorized or inadvertent opening and removal of the covers, an inter-
locking device is provided for each cover. Before a cover can be rotated (counter clockwise) for
opening, release this interlocking device with a 2.5 mm Allen key.
2. The foot of the converter housing provide an earthing point, this must be connected to the near-
est safety earth conductor.
3. Only open the converter housing one minute after the power has been switched off and after it
has been verified that there is no risk due to the presence of potentially explosive gas.
Figure 4-2: Terminal compartment for inputs and outputs, versions with KROHNE Care
Figure 4-3: Terminal compartment for inputs and outputs, versions without KROHNE Care
INFORMATION!
The Program and Reset buttons are only available for versions with KROHNE Care.
CONNECTIONS FUNCTION
A, A- Digital pulse output, max. 20 mA
B, B- Digital pulse output, max. 20 mA
C, C- Digital output, max. 10 mA
D, D- Digital output, max. 10 mA
E, E- Current output
Table 4-1: Overview of outputs
INFORMATION!
Each time a housing cover is opened, the thread should be cleaned and greased.
Use only resin-free and acid-free grease.
Ensure that the housing gasket is properly fitted, clean and undamaged.
- I ≤ 20 mA
Example: for Uext = 24 VDC and Imax = 20 mA: RL,min = 1.15 kΩ (use ≥ 1.2 kΩ)
• By default the digital I/O connections are set as a pulse/frequency output (B 90° shifted to A),
having a frequency proportional to the volume flow rate (actual volume: under process
conditions). It is possible to assign another variable to control this output (defined by means
of parameter settings).
• Use shielded cables in order to reduce radiation from electrical interferences (EMC).
INFORMATION!
Each time a housing cover is opened, the thread should be cleaned and greased.
Use only resin-free and acid-free grease.
Ensure that the housing gasket is properly fitted, clean and undamaged.
- I ≤ 10 mA
Example: for Uext = 24 VDC and Imax = 10 mA: RL,min = 2.15 kΩ (use ≥ 2.2 kΩ)
• By default the next two digital I/O connections are defined as status outputs (Alarm / Error
and Reverse flow). However the function of these outputs can be programmed to various
alarms or status signals. One of the status outputs may be programmed to a second pulse
output, having the same frequency as the first pulse output, however the phase difference
can be set to either 0, 90, 180 or 270 degrees.
• Use shielded cables in order to reduce radiation from electrical interferences (EMC).
INFORMATION!
Each time a housing cover is opened, the thread should be cleaned and greased.
Use only resin-free and acid-free grease.
Ensure that the housing gasket is properly fitted, clean and undamaged.
• The analog output are passive outputs, galvanically isolated from each other and from the
main circuit. To use these outputs an external voltage source and current limiting resistors
must be used (NEC class 2 power supply (max. 100 VA, 24 VDC, IEC 61010-1, clause 6.3.1 and
6.3.2).
Criteria:
- Uext ≤ 32 VDC at I = 22 mA (Uext is external power supply)
Place the frequency output B/B- in series with status bit C/C- as presented in the figure shown
below.
INFORMATION!
For more information about Modbus, refer to Modbus protocol description and set-up on page
147.
• 1x USB
• 2x ethernet
• 1x analog output
• 1x digital output
• 2x Modbus/RS485 (master and/or slave)
• 1x multidrop (dual) HART
Figure 4-11: How to use the Ethernet and General I/O connectors
1 Insert a flat-headed screwdriver into the square opening
2 Insert the stripped cable into the round opening
3 Remove the screwdriver
4.5.1 USB
The standard USB connection is an USB type B connector and is used for local configuration of
the diagnostic board with the ALTOSONIC V12 Configuration tool, please refer to Installation
configuration tool on page 91.
4.5.2 Ethernet
Two ethernet connectors are available for direct access to the ethernet. They can be used to
access the build-in WebServer, Modbus over TCP IP and to configure KROHNE Care. If you use a
standard LAN cable, then only 4 out of the 8 wires have to be connected, because the speed is
lower than 100 MB/s. The cable should be shielded twisted pair with a thickness between 0.3 and
0.5 mm2 (0.000465...0.000775 square inch) with a maximum length of 100 m (330 feet).
The standard network cables T568A and T568B have a different color coding:
Ethernet 2 Receive - 4
Ethernet 2 Receive + 5
Ethernet 2 Transmit - 6
Ethernet 2 Transmit + 7
INFORMATION!
Pins 2, 3, 9 and 10 of the ethernet connector are internally connected to ground.
INFORMATION!
For more details on how to set the IP addresses of the ethernet connection, please refer to Setup
default IP Address on page 97.
• Analog output
• Digital output
• 2x MODBUS/RS485
• HART
PIN FUNCTION
1 Analog output Ia+
2 Analog output Ia-
3 Digital output Sa+
4 Digital output Sa-
5 MODBUS/RS485 B (port3)
6 MODBUS/RS485 A (port3)
7 Ground
8 HART +
9 HART -
10 do not connect
11 do not connect
12 MODBUS/RS485 B (port2)
13 MODBUS/RS485 A (port2)
14 Ground
Analog output
The analog output is an active current output, that can be used to make various measured items
available.
Figure 4-12: Use Ia+ (pin 1) and Ia- (pin 2) for the analog output
• Uint,nom = 24 VDC
• I ≤ 22 mA
• RL ≤ 1 kΩ
Digital output
The digital output is a passive open collector output, galvanically isolated from the mains circuit.
You need an external DC voltage source and a current limiting resistor to use the digital output.
Figure 4-14: Use Sa+ (pin 3) and Sa- (pin 4) for the digital output
• The external power supply must be in accordance with NEC class 2 (max. 100 VA, 24 V DC, IEC
61010-1, clause 6.3.1 and 6.3.2)
• Uext ≤ 32 VDC
• I ≤ 100 mA
• RL,max = 47 kΩ
• RL,min = (Uext - Uo) / Imax
• Open:
I ≤ 0.5 mA at Uext = 32 VDC
• Closed:
Uo,max = 0.2 V at I ≤ 10 mA
Uo,max = 2 V at I ≤ 100 mA
• The output is open when the device is not energized.
MODBUS/RS485
The diagnostic board has two RS485 connections for serial connection. The RS485 port 2 and
port 3 are galvanically isolated from each other. These ports can be used for serial
communication via MODBUS/RS485 to read or write (non-custody transfer) flow and/or
diagnostic data. The ports can be set as master and/or slave.
INFORMATION!
For more information about the Modbus mapping, please refer to Default MODBUS setup on
page 98.
INFORMATION!
An optional terminating chain can be used if the cables are longer than 10 m and if high speed
communication (baud rate above 38K4) is used. Please consult you local KROHNE representative
for assistence with the dipswitch settings.
HART
The Hart transmitters are connected in parallel as a multi drop system. Each transmitter must
have a different address. This port can be used to read the actual pressure and temperature
values from other Hart transmitters. Make sure that the transmitters have their addresses
programmed and the burst mode operation switched off before they are connected to the
diagnostic board.
All transmitters on the same Hart Loop must be assigned different short addresses. It is
recommended to give the pressure transmitter a short address of 01 and the temperature
transmitter a short address of 02. If necessary, refer to the transmitter operating manuals for
the programming procedures. A typical method of connecting transmitters is shown in the next
figure.
INFORMATION!
• The protective conductor clamp or GND of the connector can be used for the shielding of the
cable.
• The electronics is protected against connecting a power supply with the wrong polarity.
4.7 Cabling
Use the standard stainless steel cable glands, refer to the figure below.
WARNING!
• Replace any unused cable gland by an Ex-d blind plug!
• The temperature rating of all cables must have a temperature rating of at least 65°C / 149°F.
In case the process design temperature exceeds 65°C, the cables must have a temperature
rating as high as the maximum process design temperature.
DANGER!
Only use Ex-d approved cable glands. The enclosure entries that are not used must be closed
with Ex-d approved blind plugs.
We recommend to use screened cable with twisted pairs for connecting power, serial outputs
and the status signals. The screen can be used to connect the ground terminal.
4.8 Grounding
There are two screw connection points (one M5 thread and one M4 thread) to attach a ground
conductor. They can be used to connect the upstream and downstream piping to the flowmeter
(Equipotential).
CAUTION!
The used power supply must be able to supply at least 3 A during the start-up of the converter.
When the power is switched on, a self test is carried out (KROHNE logo is visible during the test).
After that the device immediately begins measuring, and the current values are displayed.
It is possible to change between the two measured value windows, the trend display and the list
with the status messages by pressing the keys ↑ and ↓ .
INFORMATION!
• The four keys are both optical and mechanical keys. If you press any of these keys, the optical
mode is disabled for five minutes.
• The switching point for the 4 optical keys is located directly in front of the glass. It is
recommended to approach the keys at right angles to the front. Touching them from the side
can cause incorrect operation.
• THe RGB backlight of the display goes on if you touch a key. Timing can be set in the menu.
• After 5 minutes of inactivity, there is an automatic return to measuring mode. Previously
changed data is not saved.
Key Measuring mode Menu mode Submenu or function Parameter and data
mode mode
> Switch from measuring Access to displayed Access to displayed For numerical values,
mode to menu mode; menu, then 1st submenu or function move cursor
press key for 2.5 s submenu is displayed (highlighted in blue) one
position to the right
↲ Reset of display Return to measuring Press 1 to 3 times, Return to submenu or
mode but prompt return to menu mode, function, data saved
whether the data should data saved
be saved
▼ or ▲ Switch between the five Select menu Select submenu or Use cursor highlighted
screens: M1, M2, G1, S0, function in blue to change
Version and modbus number, unit, setting
settings. and to move the decimal
point
Esc (> + ↑ ) - - Return to menu mode Return to submenu or
without acceptance of function without
data acceptance of data
Table 6-1: Description of key functionality
Status light MS
The MS LED is toggled each cycle of the background job process, typically at a one second interval.
The color of the MS LED shows the result of the System Deployment Check (SDC):
GREEN result: OK
ORANGE SDC not done
RED result: ERROR
Status light NS
The NS LED is controlled by the measurement process. Typically it is toggled at a 0.2 second interval.
The NS LED shows the status:
GREEN, toggled Measurement process active
BLUE, Measurement process (temporarily) stopped
permanently on
ORANGE, toggled Measurement process has time-out (warning)
RED, permanently Measurement process halted (error)
on
Figure 6-2: Example for display in measuring mode with 1 or 3 measured values
1 Indicates a possible status message in the status list
2 Lock, indicating that programming is not possible
3 Actual screen
4 First measured variable in large depiction
5 Description with 3 measured values
Menu Description
number
4.1.2 Settings
4.1.2.1 Language
4.1.2.2 Default Page
4.1.2.3 Bargraph Label
Figure 6-3: Location of DIP switch for custody transfer locking and sealing
1 Turn cover counter clockwise and remove the cover.
2 Pull the metal grips to remove the display.
3 Remove the plastic cover with a screwdriver.
4 Locate the DIP switch number 4:
ON = open for editing
OFF = locked.
CAUTION!
The CT approval is no longer valid if the dipswitch number 4 is switched to ON!
The nameplate must be sealed to the flowmeter, as shown in the figure below. Alternatively the
nameplate can be welded on the flowmeter or be mounted with rivets, so that removal without
destroying the name plate is not possible.
7.1 Introduction
The KROHNE Flow Meter Monitoring, Configuration and Diagnostics Tool (MCD) is a software
package to support the application of the ALTOSONIC V12 flowmeters. It is designed for a PC
with a Windows operating system and can be downloaded from www.krohne.com.
It can:
The software can be operated using different communication methods such as:
• TCP/IP
• Modbus
• USB
INFORMATION!
A session is the activity starting with establishing communication (connecting) with a meter. A
session ends when the communication process with a meter is terminated (disconnecting).
During a session data can be collected from a meter in order to monitor and evaluate the
performance, the collected data may be stored as a log file and parameters can be adjusted.
After the program is launched a blank screen will appear with only a number of menu pull down
buttons on the menu bar on the upper left side of the computer screen.
The lower left corner of the screen shows a status bar with some information fields and status
fields or status indicators.
The first field is an information field, reserved to show the communication method in operation.
Without an active communication the first and the second fields will show a dash.
When communication with a flowmeter has been established, the second field will show the
address of this flowmeter, valid for the communication method in operation.
KROHNE Flowmeter Configuration and Monitoring Tool will now send a message, asking for a
response from any meter that is able to communicate using the selected communication
method.
When using TCP/IP (network environment) a dialog box will appear listing the responding
meters. If multiple instruments are present in the same network a list will be presented.
The other communication option are peer-to-peer and will request for setting up the
communication link.
An arrow in the most left column in the dialog box marks the meter selected to start a
communication session.
1. To confirm the selection, click on the arrow in the most left field of the row with the meter se-
lected by default.
2. To select another meter: move the arrow to the row with the meter you want to communicatie
with, click in the most left field of the row showing the meter.
3. Confirm your choice by clicking OK.
In case that you do not get a response from any meter or you don’t get a response from the
meter you want to communicate with. Reasons can be:
If this happens you can press the button “Rescan” after the problem is solved. MCST will now
resend the message, asking for a response from any meter that is able to communicate using
the selected communication method. If the problem has been solved properly, the meter that
you are looking for will be listed in the dialog box.
Type your name and password in the dialog box and click OK.
The selected communication method and flowmeter address will appear in the respective
information fields in the status bar at the bottom of the screen.
INFORMATION!
You can create and save one or more monitoring configurations of your own, according to your
own preferences. Later it will be explained how you can do this.
The monitoring status field updates from “Mon.OFF” to “Mon.ON”, and turns from yellow into
green.
Alternatively you can configure the software to automatically find a monitoring configuration file
and start monitoring immediately after the program is launched.
Step 6: Click “Settings”. A window “Settings” with tabbed sheets will open.
Step 7: On the sheet ”Auto start” select the box “Start monitoring after connecting”.
The next time you launch the program the steps 1...4 will be skipped.
In order to modify the selection of data available for monitoring, change the monitoring
configuration.
In case a monitoring session is active the message box as below will appear.
INFORMATION!
Note that the instrument itself will not stop measuring! Only the presentation of measuring
results will be interrupted.
Step 4: Click “Edit List” . The Monitoring List editor dialog appears:
Variables can be added to the list of values to be collected from the meter and become available
for presentation:
Step 5: Open the tree structure in the left panel, and select the variable name to be added to the
list.
Step 6: Click the button pointing to the right in the center panel. The item will now appear in the
list in the right panel.
Similarly variables can be deleted from the list of values to be collected from the meter, these
values will no longer be available for monitoring / logging.
Step 7: In the right panel, click in the box to the left of the name/description of the variable to be
deleted, the pointer will not move to this line. This will also enable the button in the center panel
with the arrow pointing to the left.
Step 8: Click on this button to remove the selected item from the list.
Step 9: Click the button in the centre panel with the double arrow to the left to clear the list
completely.
Step 10: Click the button “Close” in the centre panel to finish this part: Monitoring List editor
screen will disappear, Returning to the “Monitoring Configuration Window”.
You can adjust the rate at which the selected data will be sent and updated:
Step 13: Click the “Close” button in the lower right corner of this window to finish this part. A
dialog box will ask if you want to (re)start the monitoring process.
• If you want to save both the modified monitoring configuration as well as the monitoring
configuration you used as a starting point, you will need to save now the modified
configuration (with a new unique name).
• If you do not save the modified configuration now, the program will prompt you at the time
you close the program, however at that time you have only two options: you can save the
configuration used as a starting point (losing your modifications) or you can save the modified
configuration, this will overwrite the starting configuration (and the starting configuration will
be lost).
Your new monitoring configuration is now saved with its new name.
The monitoring configuration file used as starting point will now be replaced by the modified
monitoring configuration.
Use the option “New Monitoring Configuration…” in the File menu to create a monitoring
configuration file.
You can use this even if you already have a monitoring configuration opened and running. In that
case you are asked to stop the running monitoring session.
Click “Yes”.
Step 4: Open the tree in the panel to the left of the window, select the data items you want to
monitor and add these to the list in the panel to the right of the window, by pressing the ">"
button.
Step 5: When finished, click “Close” in the “Monitoring List Editor” window.
Store the new monitoring configuration using the “Save…” option in the File menu as described
before. Assign a name to the new monitoring configuration: the “Save Monitoring Configuration”
screen will appear.
If you create a new monitoring configuration while an existing monitoring configuration is open:
at the time you exit the program, you are asked to replace the starting configuration, or you may
decide not (if you want to keep both you have to use the “Save as…” option before you exit the
program).
1. Click the button View on the menu bar to open the View menu.
2. Click the option User Views to open the User Views window.
This window may contain multiple sheets or tabs. Each tab represents a sheet displaying a se-
lection of data, in numerical or graphical format (or both).
More sheets may be present allowing to present different sets of data or to present data in dif-
ferent formats. A sheet is identified by the name shown on the tab.
3. In the window User Views, any sheet may be selected by clicking on its associated tab.
4. Other windows may be selected using the View menu.
The shown data is the data as currently being collected from the meter: only the values of the
variables as defined in the monitoring configuration file.
INFORMATION!
Only data that is gathered from the flowmeter (as set up in the Monitoring Configuration), is
available to be displayed. A data item not included in the “Fetch list” will not be available to be
displayed. You have to use the option “Configure” in the “Monitoring” menu to add to the “Fetch
list” any data item you want to see in order to make it available for presentation.
Removing a tab
Use the button “Remove Tab” to remove an existing sheet in the window “User Views”. In case
the “User Views” window has multiple sheets, the currently opened sheet will be deleted.
If you want to keep both the set up you started with and the modified version, save the new
version with a new name before closing the program. Use the command “Save Monitoring
Configuration As..” (in File Menu). This command stores the setup of the information sheets
contained in “User Views” as well.
INFORMATION!
In case you made a change, you will be reminded that you changed the monitoring configuration
file when you close MCD. If you accept the modified configuration file to be saved, you will not be
able to recover the deleted sheet the next time you start MCD.
Using the button “Add Tab” you can add a new (empty) sheet in the window “User Views” and
create a sheet to your own preferences.
A sheet can be set up as one single panel, or split in two sections, arranged as an upper panel
and a lower panel. Each panel can be used to display data either as a graph or as numerical
values displayed in cells arranged in a grid.
INFORMATION!
The format of the way data is presented in a panel is stored in a file with an extension:
• “.grdx” (for presenting data as numerical values)
• “.trdx” (for presenting data as a graph, showing values as a trend on a time axis)
• “.xygx” (for presenting data as a graph of one variable as a function of another variable)
The name of the file defining the format of the presentation in a specific panel can be read in its
upper left corner.
CAUTION!
The files used for the preset “User Views” tabs can be reused. This is the easiest way to create
your own “sheets” or “tabs” : making combinations of the predefined grids and/or graphs
according to your preference.
In case you use an existing – predefined- format (even if it appeared before as a format filling
only a half sized upper or lower panel) to fill a sheet or tab with only one panel, it will
automatically expand to fill the whole of the panel.
Step 2: The “Add Tab” dialogue appears prompting you to enter a name for the sheet and to
define the data format (graph or numerical) to be used in the upper panel and the lower panel (in
case only one panel is defined the sheet will have just one panel).
Step 3: Type a name for the new sheet in the box “Tab Name”.
Step 4: Open the selection list for the type of panel you want to use: click the down arrow to the
right of the box “Type” in the section “Upper Panel”.
Step 5: Click “Grid”, “Trend” or “X-Y Graph” according to your choice and then click “OK”.
Step 6: Click the “down” arrow to the right of the box configuration file.
Step 7: A list of available presentation formats will become visible. Click the file of your choice.
Step 8: If desired, select a format and a definition file for the second panel.
INFORMATION!
As you have added a new tab, you will be reminded you have changed the monitoring
configuration file when MCD is closed (shut down). If you accept the modified configuration file to
be saved, you will not be able to recover the monitoring configuration you started with.
If you want to keep both the set up you started with and the modified version, you must save the
new version with a new name before closing the program. Use the command “Save Monitoring
Configuration As..” (in the File Menu) . This command stores the setup of the information sheets
contained in “User Views” as well.
Step 5: In order to have a visible grid displayed, the size of the grid (number of cells) must be
defined. With a right mouse click a menu will open, click the option “Add Column(s)”:
Step 6: Enter the number of columns in the dialogue box that appears and click OK.
Step 7: Click again in the gray area with the right mouse button to open the context menu, and
click the option “Add Row(s)”.
Step 8: Type the number of rows in the dialogue box that appears and click OK.
The size of the grid is now defined, however it can be adjusted at any time adding columns or
rows.
INFORMATION!
Do not forget the next step! If you skip the cell selection and continue with the following steps
you might edit the content or format a cell you don't want to change.
Step 2: Select the desired cell with a click of the left mouse button.
Step 5: Click “down” to open the value list to display the options:
“Empty” / “User Text” / “Process Value Property”.
INFORMATION!
Steps 6...8 can be done in two ways. After "Step 13" you find an alternative way.
Step 7: For the field “Process Variable” open the variable list .
Step 11: For the box referenced as “Property”, open the list to show the properties that can be
selected:
Label / Fieldname / Name / Full path / Parent name / Full parent path / Actual value / Average
value / Minimum value / Maximum value / Unit / Status.
Step 7: Type the text "String" to be displayed in the cell in the field “User text”.
Step 2: Click this cell with a click of the left mouse button.
• Right click with your mouse in the area of the panel with the new grid to open the menu.
• Click “Save…” or “Save as…” to open a dialog box to enter a name for the grid definition you
just created.
• Click the “Save” button to finish.
INFORMATION!
As you have added a tab with a new grid definition, you will be reminded you have changed the
monitoring configuration file when MCST is being closed (shut down). If you accept the modified
configuration file to be saved, you will not be able to recover the monitoring configuration you
started with.
If you want to keep both the set up you started with and the modified version, you have to save the
new version with a new name before closing the program. Use the command “Save Monitoring
Configuration As..” (in File Menu) . This command stores the setup of the information sheets
contained in “User Views” as well.
INFORMATION!
It is beyond the scope of this manual to give detailed instructions about how to define the
graphical presentation. However you will be able to find your own way using the brief description
of the next steps:
Step 1: Set the number of variables you want to be displayed (each variable selected for being
displayed is called a “profile”).
Step 2: Set the number of Y-axis’s you will need to represent the values of the variables (profiles)
you want to be displayed. This number cannot be larger than the number of profiles.
Step 3: Set how many stacks you need. A stack is a chart area with its own X and Y axis’s. The
height of area in the graphical window will be spit in sections, each section will accommodate
one “Stack”. The number of stacks cannot be larger than the number of Y-Axis’.
Step 4: Set the number of Y-scales you will need on the first (upper) stack.
Step 6: In the tab “Profile – Process Value Mapping” specify the process value to be represented
by each profile.
Step 7: In the tab “Profiles” set the axis to be used for displaying the value of each profile.
• the actual parameter values as present in the meter, governing the performance and
functionality of the meter.
• process values as observed at a specific instant.
• the Modbus address mapping regarding the parameters and process values that can be
retrieved from the meter using Modbus register addressing.
• rights and/or restrictions regarding access to the ultrasonic meter and the functionality of
this service tool, as is available for a user of a specific category (such as operator, supervisor,
calibrator, service technician or factory authorized support engineer).
To obtain a report:
Use the scroll bar at the right side of the window to scroll through the list and the scroll bar at
the bottom to display the columns you are interested in.
As this report will occupy several pages you can use the buttons on top of the screen to select a
page.
The small panel at the left side lists – as a tree structure - all the items included in the report.
You can use the scroll bar in the right of the small panel to position immediately the report page
where this parameter is printed in front in the right panel. You can click the highlighted “tree”
icon to remove this “tree” panel, click again to let it reappear.
Click the button with the printer icon in the upper left of the window to get a printed copy of the
report.
Select the application format of the exported report: Adobe Acrobat (.pdf), Microsoft Excel (.xls),
or Microsoft Word (.doc). use the file selector dialogue to select the location and the filename for
the export.
A window opens that allows you to select the attributes to be listed for each parameter.
Select the items you want to include in the exported file.
For the reporting functions related to calibration parameters the same features and procedures
are applicable as valid for the parameters.
In the same field the name of the disk file where the data is stored is displayed between square
brackets.
When you open the “Monitoring” menu you will observe also a check mark to the left of the
option “Logging” when data is being logged.
Some of the actions above or the way the service tool performs depend on specific settings.
A first selection is already made when defining the set of data selected for the monitoring
process. The set of data to be saved in a log file on disk must be the same as selected for
monitoring or a subset thereof.
Another way to reduce the amount is implemented by means of a setting “Log Rate”. This is
either the same as the “Fetch Rate” (parameter value equal to 1) or it is a fraction of the “Fetch
rate” (integer parameter value 2..10).
Click the down arrow to the right of the box log rate.
Select a value.
Example (as displayed above): When the “Fetch Rate” equals 2, the set of data collected from the
flowmeter is refreshed every 2 seconds. When the “Log Rate” is set to 5, the fifth of each set of
data collected from the flowmeter will be stored in the log file. Effectively this means a set of
data is stored in the log file every 10 seconds.
INFORMATION!
It is recommended not to decide lightly to make changes to the set of data being stored in a log
file. The result might be in the .CSV file, and consequently in a related Excel file, specific data
items will appear in another sequence or in other columns as before. Tools developed for
processing and analyzing the data in the .CSV file or in the Excel file may no longer work properly
and as expected.
In case you want to make changes to the data stored in the log file:
The variables listed in the window are the variables selected for being collected for monitoring
purposes.
INFORMATION!
• It is possible to store different representations of any variable: the actual value, the average
value, the minimum value or the maximum value.
• Here the average, the minimum and the maximum relate to the number of “Fetches”
represented by the set of data that is being stored. (A “Fetch” can be regarded as a sample
including the actual values of all the selected variables at a specific instant.)
• As an example, this means: in case one set of data is logged every time 5 “Fetches” are
completed, the “Actual” is one value of that particular variable (the most recent value from
the values as present in the 5 most recent “Fetches” or samples).
• “Average” is the average of the values of a particular variable as present in the most recent 5
samples or “Fetches”. The same applies to “Minimum” and “Maximum”.
Use the horizontal scroll bar to make the logging-specific columns visible in the window. The
headers of these columns read:
• Log Act.
• Log Avg.
• Log Min.
• Log Max.
Select a check mark in any of these columns to indicate which representations of a specific
variable are included in the logged data.
Missing items in the list of monitored variables can be added here as well:
Step 1: Open the tree structure in the small panel in the left side of the window.
Step 2: Open the folders to the level where individual variable names become visible.
Step 3: (Variables already included in the monitoring list will have a green background colour).
Step 4: Find the variable you want to add in order to be included in the logging.
Step 6: Click on the button pointing to the right in the panel in the middle.
Step 7: Put check marks in the columns for the representations you want to be logged.
Step 9: Click the Monitoring Configuration dialogue’s “Close” button to accept the configuration.
A confirmation dialogue appears:
Step 10: Click “Yes” to confirm that you want to resume monitoring the flowmeter.
Time stamp
The time stamp associated with each data record can be the date and time from the meter itself
or from your computer system. Select what you want from the value list associated with the box
“Timestamp with”.
Start Records
When starting or restarting your logging you can include a record with the names of the fields
and/or the units used. In the Excel file these will appear as column headers (one row with field
names and one row with the units used).
The size of a log file can be limited either to a maximum number of records or to a maximum
time span.
In the value list of the box “Switch file based on;” click either
• Duration, or
• Number of records
• 1 hour
• 4 hours
• 12 hours
• 1 day
• 1 week
Click on your choice in the value list associated with the box “ Timespan”. New intervals start at
multiples of the selected “Timespan”. In case of week the start of a new interval (and the end of
the previous interval) occurs on the day specified by “Week starts at”.
When using “Number of records”, specify any number of records in the box “Max.Records”.
However it is not recommended to choose a value over 32767 (which is the maximum number of
rows that older versions of Microsoft Excel can handle).
Date and time are automatically included in the log file name.
Add a prefix of your own choice: for example the name of your company, the name of a site/plant
or the name of a person.
You can also include the meter model number in the log file name and or include the meter
serial number. Select or disable the associated boxes.
It is not recommended to change the extension of the log file name, however if you have good
reasons to do so it is possible. Just fill three characters according to your choice in the box
“Extension”.
Storage location
By default the location for storing log files on the hard disk of your computer is:
"C:\KrohneData\Logging".
Depending on the meter model and serial number, subfolders will automatically be created for
well-organized archiving of log files.
You can store your files in another location. For example this can be a drive for centralized
storage of meter data in a network.
Step 1: Click the menu button “Tools” to open the Tools menu.
Step 3:Type in the box “Logging Home Folder” the name (and path) of the directory where you
want your data to be stored.
Step 2: Click the menu item “Save Flow Meter Configuration as XML file...”.
Step 1: If applicable, make sure that any old version is uninstalled before you continue.
Step 2: Start the executable file Altosonic V12 configuration installer vn.n.n.n.exe to start the
wizard.
Step 3: Choose the installation location and a start menu folder and click Next.
Step 5: Finish the wizard. Eventually you can choose to start the configuration tool immediately.
Step 6: If the configuration tool is started the first time, you will be asked to configure a
username and a password.
After activation of the username and password, the main menu shows:
INFORMATION!
Connection can be made with USB or TCP/IP. Both can be used for changing configurations and
settings. If you want to do a firmware upgrade, you must use USB.
Step 4: Change the IP Adress, Netmask and/or Gateway fields to the new value(s).
Step 5: If needed, repeat this for the values of Ethernet port 2.
Step 6: In het upper menu bar, click the Upload button to upload the new configuration file to the
diagnostic board.
Step 7: Click the Save button to save the new configuration file locally.
INFORMATION!
For a complete description of the ALTOSONIC V12 configuration tool, see its own manual.
Item Value
Modbus ID 1
Protocol Modbus RTU
Baud rate 38400 bps
Parity Even
Stop bits 1
Word size 8 data bits
It is however good practice to make a log file on regular basis, refer to Remote logging on page
82. It is not to be expected that wear or tear takes place but external influences such as an
overflow in a separator or a process failure in a gas treatment plant, may cause a fouling of the
meter which may result in deviations. By making a log file on regular basis such a failure can be
pinpointed in time, and as such the financial consequences can be correctly adjusted. If the
ALTOSONIC V12 is equipped with KROHNE Care, the integrated software functions will provide
health status of the flowmeter and advise about maintenance needed. The above described
manual logging is not needed in that case.
DANGER!
In case of malfunction, it is recommended to call for support of the manufacturer or assistance
of a trained and qualified service technician, in order to address the problem and to identify the
parts that may need to be replaced, in case the meter itself causes the problem.
As a general rule, in order to maintain the explosion safety, removing the covers from the
electronics enclosure or from the meter body shall only be performed after the power supply
has been switched off or disconnected. In addition to that it shall be verified that no explosive gas
is present at the time the covers are opened or removed.
Before the meter is powered up again it shall be verified that the covers (and gaskets if
applicable) are reinstalled properly. The nuts that fasten the covers on the meter body shall be
tightened well enough to make sure that the gaskets provide a protection degree of at least IP
54, keeping moisture out of the space behind the covers. (The rubber gasket shall be slightly but
noticeable compressed, the torque applied on the nuts will then be approximately 5 Nm.)
The screw thread of the reinstalled covers of the electronics enclosure shall be completely
engaged. The cover shall be closed by clockwise rotation until resistance will be sensed, to a
level that the cover effects a gentle pressure on the o-ring sealing, in order to prevent
penetration of moisture (according to a protection degree of IP66/67). Finally the interlocking
device shall be reinstalled. For more information about the interlocking device, refer to Opening
and closing covers on page 31.
9.2 Cleaning
In case of exceptional growth of contamination inside the meter body, the ultrasonic gas
flowmeter may need dismantling and cleaning.
CAUTION!
Make sure that you have the following tools available before you start.
Switch off the power supply to the meter and wait at least 1 minute before opening the Ex-d
enclosure. It is advised to use a gas detector to detect possible hazardous environmental
conditions. Also, make sure no water/rain/dust can penetrate in the electronic housing.
It is preferred to disconnect the power supply from the equipment. Loosen the cover on the
right-hand side of the electronic housing. Disconnect the power connector and close the cover
fully. Attach labels to the switching gear to prevent unwanted switching on.
The transducers are installed and fixed mechanically at a very precise manufactured position
inside the meter body. To access the transducer position that needs to be replaced, use the
following instructions.
WARNING!
The ALTOSONIC V12 is a pressurised Ultrasonic Flow Meter. Do not remove transducer, bolts or
other pressurised parts without the guarantee that the meter is fully depressurised.
INFORMATION!
Different types of transducers can be used!
Figure 9-3: Sensor assembly type G6.nn (epoxy front with stainless steel housing)
1 O-rings
2 Slot in the transducer housing
3 Stainless steel transducer housing
4 Explosion-proof (Ex db) connector
5 Alignment pin
6 Screw cap
7 Securing screw M2
8 Coaxial cable
9 Transducer nut
INFORMATION!
To remove the cap, a different tool is used for each type of transducer.
Epoxy transducer
• Install the special tool ① with the two pins ② in the cap ③ .
• Carefully turn the special tool counter clockwise ④ in steps to loosen the cap from the
transducer. Make sure that the cable is not twisted.
Titanium transducer
• Move the special tool ① with the slotted hexagonal head ② over the cap ③ .
• Carefully turn the special tool counterclockwise ④ in steps to loosen the cap from the
transducer. Make sure that the cable is not twisted.
• Pull the coax cable with the Ex-d plug out of the transducer.
CAUTION!
Make sure that the transducer does not come loose when you remove the wrench.
INFORMATION!
Grease the screw thread of the transducer nut to make it easier to install.
INFORMATION!
For a titanium transducer, you need the tool with the slotted hexagonal head.
CAUTION!
Make sure the hole for the screw is aligned with the hole in the body.
• Put back the Delrin protection ring (only for welded meter bodies).
• Put back all covers of the flowmeter.
CAUTION!
After the maintenance work, make sure that no error messages are displayed on the display
and/or check the correct operation with the; Flow Meter Configuration and Monitoring Tool.
CAUTION!
• Make sure it has been properly diagnosed and identified which transducer(s) is (are) suspect
and may need to be replaced.
• Make sure an electronic instrument for measuring resistance and capacitance is available,
check that it is recently calibrated and fitted with fresh batteries (or spare batteries are
available.
INFORMATION!
• Whenever it is possible to isolate and depressurize an ultrasonic gas flowmeter in case it
would be necessary to replace one or more transducers, that should be the preferred way to
proceed instead of using the retraction tool.
• Decide which persons need to be involved in the operation, especially the ones that have to
perform the job at the location of the meter, empower procedures to limit access to the area
where the operation takes place only to them.
Number in Description
picture
1 Handwheel at the upper end of the main shaft
2 Adjusting disk to position the shaft
3 Locking device
4 Main shaft
5 Tube
6 Pressure relief valve
7 Clamping device
8 Handle to operate the ball valve
9 Ball valve
10 Intermediate flange
Only to be used for flowmeters with welded transducers
11 Wedge shape adapter
Only to be used for flowmeters machined out of one piece
12 Spring-loaded hexagon at the lower end of the main shaft
13 Nut to fasten the transducer adapter
14 Transducer adapter
15 Nut to fasten the transducer in the transducer port
16 Transducer
In case of a warning, a problem or a failure, a technician using the diagnostic tool that is
available for the ultrasonic gas flowmeter, will be able to identify the number of the acoustic
path that most likely causes the problem.
The transducers are identified with codes as: 1U, 1D, 2U ... 6D. The number refers to the acoustic
path number. A "U" refers to the upstream transducer and a "D" refers to the downstream
transducer of an acoustic path.
For an ALTOSONIC V12 six transducers (belonging to three acoustic paths) are located on one
side (front) of the flowmeter. The codes and locations of these transducers are indicated in the
figure below.
1 Conduit
2 Nut of conduit
3 Nut of cap transducer fitting
4 Cap transducer fitting
Four transducers (belonging to two acoustic paths) are located on the back side of the
flowmeter. The codes and locations of these transducers are indicated in the figure below.
Two transducers are located on the top of the ultrasonic flowmeter. The codes and locations of
these transducers are indicated in the figure below.
• Untighten and release the small M2 screw (number 7 in picture below) on top of the cap
fastened to the extension with M10 screw thread on top of the transducer.
Figure 9-22: Sensor assembly type G6.nn (epoxy front with stainless steel housing)
1 O-rings
2 Slot in the transducer housing
3 Stainless steel transducer housing
4 Explosion-proof (Ex db) connector
5 Alignment pin
6 Screw cap
7 Securing screw M2
8 Coaxial cable
9 Transducer nut
• Install the special tool ① with the two pins ② in the cap ③ .
• Turn the special tool counter clockwise ④ to loosen the cap from the transducer. Make sure
that the cable is not twisted.
Epoxy transducer
• Pull the coax cable with the connector out of the transducer.
The electronic measuring instrument is not supplied as part of the kit. It can be any instrument
suitable to measure a capacitance in the range of 0.1 ...1.0 nF and an electric resistance in the
range of 1 MΩ ... 20GΩ. This is a fairly common device and supposed to be available.
• Position the connector of the coax adapter cable in the connector in the transducer.
• Measure the electrical capacitance of the transducer. The value must be 0.32...0.34 nF.
• Measure the electrical resistance of the transducer. The value must be > 10 MΩ (typical value
= 1 GΩ).
• Release the adapter cable.
• Position the transducer adapter in such a way that it will (partly) engage with the transducer
fastening nut.
• Turn the transducer adapter - together with the transducer fastening nut - counter clockwise
(not more than one turn) to allow the pin inside the transducer adapter to slide into the slot in
the extension with M10 screw thread on top of the transducer.
• Fasten the transducer adapter by means of the bronze nut using a 5mm hexagon key.
INFORMATION!
The square wedge model is used for flowmeters that are machined out of one piece of metal. The
round model is used for flowmeters with welded transducer ports.
WARNING!
Make sure that the pressure sealing (O-ring) between the adapter plate and the meter body is in
good shape and fitted properly, if damaged replace (size 43.0 x 3.5 mm).
CAUTION!
The square wedge adapter plate is available with two offset angles. For flowmeters with a
nominal size of 6", the adapter must have an offset angle of 18 degrees. For flowmeters with a
nominal size of 8" and larger, the adapter must have an offset angle of 20 degrees.
• Fasten the square wedge shaped adapter by means of 4 bolts M8 x 25 (grade 12.9) with a 6 mm
hexagon key. Mind the proper angle of the adapter.
• Proceed with Step 6: Mount the retraction tool.
Round model
• Turn the Delrin protection cap counter clockwise and remove it from the transducer port.
CAUTION!
Check the front face of the transducer port is free of damages or scratches. It should be smooth
and clean, otherwise there might be a risk of gas leakage when continuing with the procedure.
• Prepare the round adapter unit: untighten the bolts (8 pieces) with the 5 mm hexagon key
(each 2 turns counter clockwise).
• Position the adapter to allow the screw thread to engage with the screw thread on the
transducer port. It may be benificial to use some lubricant (should be suitable for stainless
steel). Turn the adapter clockwise as much as possible.
INFORMATION!
This should force the clearance between both plates to open to about 1 mm.
INFORMATION!
When properly tightened there should still be some clearance between both plates of the
adapter.
Figure 9-28: Mount the ball valve of the retraction tool to the flowmeter
1 Transducer, fastening nut and transducer adapter inside the flowmeter
2 Wedge shaped adapter plate
3 Ball valve of the retraction tool
4 Use a 6 mm hexagon key to tighten the four M8 x 130 bolts.
INFORMATION!
In the figure above the square wedge shaped adapter plate is shown. This can also be the round
adapter plate, dependent from the type of flowmeter.
• Measure the position of the transducer adapter inside the transducer port (depth in the center,
touching the bronze nut) with the ruler.
• Memorize and note this value as "Depth".
• Measure the position of the end of the hexagon on the main shaft relative to the flange of the
tube.
• Memorize and note this value as "Length".
• Make sure that the knob of the locking device is lowered to disable rotation of the adjusting
disk.
• Turn the handwheel to adjust this "Length" to a value of "Depth" minus 35 mm.
• Position the tube on top of the ball valve, the extension of the tube (40 mm diameter) has to
slide into the ball valve. Check the O-ring sealing in the flange of the ball valve, if damaged:
replace (size 55.56 x 3.53 mm).
Figure 9-31: Put the tube in position into the ball valve
• Fasten the tube to the ball valve using the clamping device. This device consists of two halves,
bolted together with 4 bolts M8 x 20 mm (only use grade 12.9). When properly positioned and
tightened: on opposite sides, where the ends of two halves meet, the clearance should be
equal, on each side approximately 3 mm.
INFORMATION!
The adjusting disk is now free to rotate.
• Turn the adjusting disk counterclockwise to move the axis further into the retraction tool.
• Continue turning until increasing resistance is sensed, preventing it to move any further.
INFORMATION!
This should happen after approximately 18 turns. The hexagon at the end of the main shaft is
completely inserted in the transducer adapter and pushed back against the end of the shaft
(against the spring load).
INFORMATION!
This should take one turn or less and at the same time, it should allow some play for the hexagon
at the end of the main shaft.
• Turn the handwheel counterclockwise to untighten and release the transducer fastening nut.
At the same time, the transducer with the nut will travel outward from the meter body or
transducer port.
• Continue turning until the main shaft has moved to its end: as far as possible out from the
tube.
• Measure the position of the shaft relative to the tube, the distance as read on the ruler should
be approximately 300 mm (actually 300 plus 9 mm: 9 mm is the length of the piece of the ruler
before the beginning of the scale, that is not accounted for in the numbers engraved along the
scale at the ruler).
INFORMATION!
Due to friction, this may require some force. Use a large size screwdriver: insert the blade into
the slot between both halves; use it as a lever to separate both halves. This way at least one of
the halves will be released. If necessary use a light hammer (preferable with a plastic head) for
gently applying a light impact to release the second half.
• Remove the tube with the main shaft from the ball valve. The front (green colour) of the
removed transducer should be visible in the part of the tube that was inserted into the ball
valve before.
• Turn the handwheel clockwise to move the end of the main shaft with the transducer outward.
The assembly of the transducer and the adapter is now accessible to be removed from the
shaft.
The removed transducer can now be detached from the transducer adapter. The adapter, the
transducer fastening nut and the bronze adapter fastening nut are available to be used to
continue the operation to re-install a new transducer.
DANGER!
All work on the electrical connections may only be carried out with the power disconnected.
Take note of the voltage data on the nameplate!
WARNING!
Observe without fail the local occupational health and safety regulations.
Any work done on the electrical components of the measuring device may only be carried out by
properly trained specialists.
INFORMATION!
Make notes of important specific data, before exchanging the electronics.
DANGER!
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage electronic parts. Make sure that you wear a wrist
strap to discharge yourself. If no wrist strap is available, then touch a grounded metal to
discharge yourself.
• Release the fasteners that prevent opening of the Ex d enclosure with a 2.5 mm Allen key.
• Turn the display cover of the electronics compartment counter clockwise ① .
• Use a screwdriver to pull the pullers a bit out ② .
Figure 9-40: Use the puller tool to loosen the electronic unit from the connector
• Insert the pin ③ of the puller tool into the hole of the upper printed circuit board (PCB) while
you hold the puller tool ① against the converter housing ② .
• Turn the knob clockwise ④ until the PCB comes out of the connector.
Figure 9-41: Use pullers to partially pull the electronic unit out of the housing
• Pull the two metal pullers at the left and right of the display and partially pull out the
electronics unit.
• Loosen all coax cables on the bottom of the electronic unit (the number of cables depend on
the version of the flowmeter).
• Slide the new electronics unit partially back into the housing.
• Push the metal pullers back to their original position. Do not use excessive force, otherwise
the connector at the backside can be damaged!
• Screw the electronics unit back to the housing.
• Re-install the display and make sure not to kink the display's flat ribbon cable.
• Replace cover and tighten by hand.
• Connect power.
CAUTION!
Only use type CR2032 batteries for replacement.
In case of problems with the battery the metrological performance aspects of the flowmeter is
not at risk as critical data is stored in flash memory. However, in this case the internal clock will
be reset with each power up. A reset of the internal clock indicates that the battery is out of order
and replacement of the battery is required.
INFORMATION!
For more precise information, please contact your local sales office.
WARNING!
Should you nevertheless need to return a device for inspection or repair, please pay strict
attention to the following points:
• Due to statutory regulations on environmental protection and safeguarding the health and
safety of the personnel, the manufacturer may only handle, test and repair returned devices
that have been in contact with products without risk to personnel and environment.
• This means that the manufacturer can only service this device if it is accompanied by the
following certificate (see next section) confirming that the device is safe to handle.
WARNING!
If the device has been operated with toxic, caustic, radioactive, flammable or water-endangering
products, you are kindly requested:
• to check and ensure, if necessary by rinsing or neutralising, that all cavities are free from
such dangerous substances,
• to enclose a certificate with the device confirming that it is safe to handle and stating the
product used.
Company: Address:
Department: Name:
Fax number:
Manufacturer order number or serial number:
We hereby confirm that there is no risk to persons or the environment caused by any residual media contained in this
device when it is returned.
Date: Signature:
Stamp:
9.10 Disposal
LEGAL NOTICE!
Disposal must be carried out in accordance with legislation applicable in your country.
Commitment to WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment), the Battery directive and RoHS
demands in the European Union:
According to the directive 2012/19/EU, the product is marked with the WEEE symbol. This means
that when the product is used within the EU and it reaches its end-of-life, the product must not
be disposed of with other waste.
When you do not use the product anymore, please bring the product to a WEEE designated
collection point for the recycling to ensure that no harmful substances come into the
environment.
KROHNE declares that the product that is sold after July 1st, 2006 contains less than the
maximum amount of lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium 6, polybrominated biphenyl (PBBs) and
polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in accordance with the RoHS directive 2011/65/EU.
The trajectory of the sound wave is called the acoustic path. A chord is the direct path crossing
the pipe from one side to the opposite side. Using reflection, an acoustic path can consist of two
or more chords. The name ALTOSONIC V12 is related to its design where 12 chords build 6
acoustic paths.
In a pipe section two transducers A and B create an acoustic path, which in the above figure, is a
single chord. This chord is the distance between transducer A and B and has a length L. The
chord intersects with the centre line of the pipe at an angle φ.
Both transducers are capable to transmit and receive an ultrasonic signal. First, one transducer
acts as a transmitter and the other as receiver, then the other way around. The transit time of an
ultrasonic signal along a measuring chord is influenced by the velocity of the gas flow (v). If the
gas flow is zero the transit time from transducer A to B is exactly the same as the transit time
from transducer B to A (determinded by the speed of sound in the gas).
When the gas flows with a velocity v and with c being the speed of sound in the gas:
v.cos(φ) is the component of velocity in the direction of the measurement chord.
This component increases or decreases the travel time (time of flight of an acoustic waveform)
as it moves from one transducer to the other transducer. The transit time from transducer A to B
(tAB) is:
The velocity of the gas is derived from formula (1) and (2) as:
An important feature of this method is that the calculated gas velocity does not depend on the
speed of sound in the gas or gas properties in general. The gas velocity as calculated is only a
function of the measured transit times tAB and tBA; the length of the chord and the angle of
intersection of the measuring chord are supposed to be known from the design of the flowmeter.
As a “bonus” the speed of sound in the gas can be derived from formula (1) and (2) as :
This gives a measured speed of sound value, a valuable tool for diagnostic purposes, as it can be
compared with data from other sources.
Another velocity pattern that frequently occurs, especially downstream of a single elbow or bend
in the pipeline, is shown in the picture below. There, just after the bend, the gas mass splits in
two contra rotating vortices.
Swirl can disturb the gas velocity measurement as the tangential velocity component adds up
with the gas velocity measured along one chord. However chords can be arranged in a way to
compensate for swirl effects. Two chords arranged in the same plane intersect the flow at
opposite angles (cross configuration). These chords respond to the tangential velocity
component with the same magnitude but with the opposite sign.
This allows cancellation of the swirl effect by adding or averaging the measured velocity value of
both chords. An acoustic path with two chords in a V-shape, with a reflecting signal, has the
same effect. The measured flow velocity is increased by the tangential component on one chord
and decreased by the same value on the other chord.
The total volume flow is calculated by means of an integration algorithm using the results from
the individual paths.
As swirl components are already compensated for in each individual measuring plane, the
integration method using data from multiple paths makes the flowmeter highly insensitive for
any kind of distortion of the flow profile.
The average speed of sound is the average of the speed of sound values measured on each of
the chords. Normally these values are very close to each other.
Measuring system
Measuring principle Ultrasonic transit time
Application range Flow measurement of natural gases with a minimum of 75% methane.
Other applications on request.
Measured value
Primary measured value Transit time
Secondary measured Actual volume flow and totalised flow rate
values
Design
Construction The ALTOSONIC V12 measurement system consists of a meter body with
ultrasonic transducers and a signal converter for signal processing and
metrological relevant counter display on top of the meter body.
Nominal diameter DN100...600 / 4"...24"l
Other diameters on request.
Flow range For more detailed information, refer to Flow tables on page 146.
Signal converter
Inputs / outputs Digital output: 4x
Serial: 2x Modbus over RS 485 (individually configurable)
Ethernet: 1x (non-Custody transfer)
Current output: 1x 4...20 mA (non-Custody transfer)
Inputs / outputs with Signals from the KROHNE Care board are categorised non-Custody transfer.
KROHNE Care board Only signals coming directly from the base electronic unit are certified for
Custody transfer purpose.
Digital output: 5x
Serial: 4x Modbus over RS 485 (individually configurable)
Ethernet: 3x
Current output: 2x 4...20 mA
Current input: 1x Multidrop (dual) HART®
Measuring accuracy
Accuracy for Qt...Qmax ≤ ±0.1% of measured flow rate, for high pressure flow calibrated after
applying linearization.
≤ ±0.2% of measured flow rate, for high pressure flow calibrated after
applying curve shift.
≤ ±0.5% of measured flow rate before justering.
Repeatability < ± 0.05%
Operating conditions
Temperature
Process temperature Standard transducer, class T4:
-40...+100°C / -40...+212°F
Titanium transducer, class T3:
-40...+175°C / -40...+347°F
Ambient temperature -40…+60°C / -40…+140°F
Storage temperature -40…+70°C / -40…+158°F
Pressure
Pressure range 1...450 bar / 0.1...45MPa / 15...6525 psi (ASME 150...2500)
All sensor designs at full rating acc. to below flange standards for standard
materials.
Properties of medium
Wet gas content Typically ≤ 1% Liquid Volume Fraction (LVF).
CO2 content Depends on diameter and pressure.
Minimum pressure Depends on diameter and CO2 concentration.
requirement
Contact manufacturer for detailed sizing.
Materials
Flanges Standard: low temperature carbon steel A350 LF2
Option: stainless steel, Duplex
Measuring tube ≤ 24": low temperature carbon steel A350 LF2
> 24": low temperature carbon steel A333 GR6
Option: stainless steel, Duplex
Coating Inside: corrosion preservative oil film
Outside: 1 layer PSX 700 160 μm
Other outside coatings available on request.
Converter housing Stainless steel 316 (1.4408)
Electrical connections
Power supply 24 VDC (± 10%) / 3 A
Power consumption Without integrated KROHNE Care: ≤ 10 W
With integrated KROHNE Care: ≤ 17 W
Cable entries Standard: M20 x 1.5
Option: ½" NPT, PF ½
ASME 150 lb
Nominal size Metric Imperial
H [mm] L [mm] Weight [kg] H [inch] L [inch] Weight [lbs]
4" / DN100 520 400 151 20.47 15.75 333
6"/ DN150 570 450 238 22.44 17.72 525
8"/ DN200 620 600 351 24.41 23.62 774
10" / DN250 660 750 498 25.98 29.53 1098
12" / DN300 740 900 719 29.13 35.43 1585
14" / DN350 780 1050 911 30.71 41.34 2009
16" / DN400 840 1200 1027 33.07 47.24 2265
18" / DN450 890 1350 1185 35.04 53.15 2613
20"/ DN500 940 1500 1628 37.01 59.06 3590
24" / DN600 1050 1800 2185 41.34 70.87 4818
ASME 300 lb
Nominal size Metric Imperial
H [mm] L [mm] Weight [kg] H [inch] L [inch] Weight [lbs]
4" / DN100 520 400 158 20.47 15.75 348
6"/ DN150 570 450 248 22.44 17.72 547
8"/ DN200 620 600 371 24.41 23.62 818
10" / DN250 680 750 533 26.77 29.53 1175
12" / DN300 760 900 755 29.92 35.43 1665
14" / DN350 810 1050 1008 31.89 41.34 2223
16" / DN400 870 1200 1239 34.25 47.24 2732
18" / DN450 920 1350 1324 36.22 53.15 2919
20"/ DN500 980 1500 1826 38.58 59.06 4026
24" / DN600 1100 1800 2465 43.31 70.87 5435
ASME 600 lb
Nominal size Metric Imperial
H [mm] L [mm] Weight [kg] H [inch] L [inch] Weight [lbs]
4" / DN100 520 400 168 20.47 15.75 370
6"/ DN150 575 450 271 22.64 17.72 598
8"/ DN200 630 600 411 24.80 23.62 906
10" / DN250 710 750 618 27.95 29.53 1363
12" / DN300 780 900 850 30.71 35.43 1874
14" / DN350 815 1050 1070 32.09 41.34 2359
16" / DN400 880 1200 1213 34.65 47.24 2675
18" / DN450 930 1350 1535 36.61 53.15 3385
20"/ DN500 1000 1500 1738 39.37 59.06 3832
24" / DN600 1100 1800 2369 43.31 70.87 5223
ASME 900 lb
Nominal size Metric Imperial
H [mm] L [mm] Weight [kg] H [inch] L [inch] Weight [lbs]
4" / DN100 1 520 400 176 20.47 15.75 388
6"/ DN150 590 600 324 23.23 23.62 714
8"/ DN200 660 600 464 25.98 23.62 1023
10" / DN250 730 750 684 28.74 29.53 1508
12" / DN300 810 900 957 31.89 35.43 2110
14" / DN350 840 1050 1190 33.07 41.34 2624
16" / DN400 890 1200 1306 35.04 47.24 2880
18" / DN450 960 1350 1738 37.80 53.15 3832
20"/ DN500 1020 1500 2069 40.16 59.06 4562
24" / DN600 1160 1800 3537 45.67 70.87 7798
1 Minimum Inner diameter: 80 mm / 3.15" (= sch 80).
INFORMATION!
Sizes of other pressure classes are available on request.
11.1 Introduction
Modbus communication is based on the master-slave principle. Only the master can initiate
transactions (requests), and only the addressed device (slave) responds. The master can also
send a broadcast message (“message to all”); none of the slaves will respond to such a
message.
The flowmeter always acts as a Modbus compatible slave when communicating with host
systems. Slaves are identified by means of a “device address”. Check the documentation to find
the preset device address of the flowmeter. In case necessary, the address can be
reprogrammed.
Contact the manufacturer for information about the procedures and tools that are needed for
reprogramming the device address.
The Modbus protocol defines a message structure that Modbus enabled controllers will
recognise and use, regardless of the type of network over which they communicate.
It describes:
• an address
• a function code defining the requested action.
• data (if necessary for the requested function).
• an error check for testing the integrity of the message.
Multiple flowmeters may be connected to the same RS 485 line. In this case only the terminating
resistor in the flowmeter at the end of the line should be connected. The terminating resistors in
the other flowmeters on the line should be disconnected by means of the switch on the RS 485
driver printed circuit board. Default this switch is set to connect the line terminating resistor.
Because of the half-duplex operation, the RS 485 communication circuit in the flowmeter is
normally always in data receiving mode. Only in case it is requested to send, it will automatically
switch to data transmit mode for the time needed.
• Modbus ASCII
• Modbus RTU
Both transmission modes are supported, the user can select the desired mode along with the
serial communication parameters (baud rate, parity).
The default configuration of the flowmeter is Modbus RTU communication mode with “standard”
Modbus settings.
For a list of programmable parameters and the default settings of these parameters, refer to
Default settings on page 163. Except for the device addresses all these parameters must be the
same for all controllers in the network.
An advantage of ASCII mode is that it allows for a time interval up to 1 second between
characters without causing a timeout.
A disadvantage of ASCII mode is the larger message length.
RTU mode
In RTU mode a message starts with a silent time interval equivalent to at least 3.5 characters.
The entire message frame must be transmitted as a continuous stream. If a silent interval of
more than 3.5 character times occurs before completion of the frame, the receiving device
flushes the incoming message and assumes that the next byte will be the address field for the
new message.
A slave response always contains the function code of the request. If a function is not applicable,
the slave sends an exception response. An exception is indicated by a returned function code
with bit 8 (most significant bit) set.
The data field of messages contains information which both master and slave use to perform an
action. This includes the register address, quantity of registers, and the necessary data.
• Optional: an additional bit (parity bit) is appended to each character (or byte) for detecting
errors during the transmission of individual characters (or bytes).
• Obligatory: two bytes (or characters) are appended to the message for detecting errors
during the transmission of the message.
As an even number of bit errors in one character (or byte) will not be detected using a parity bit,
the second method is used to check the contents of the entire message.
Both character check and message check are generated in the transmitting device and
appended to the message before transmission. The slave checks each character and the entire
message frame during receipt.
The contents of the error checking field for the entire message depend on the transmission
mode.
ASCII mode
In ASCII mode the maximum time between 2 characters is one second. If a longer interval
occurs, the message will be ignored and the search for a starting character (colon) is resumed.
RTU mode
In RTU mode the entire message frame must be transmitted as a continuous stream. If a silent
interval of more than 3.5 character times occurs before completion of the frame, the receiving
device ignores the message and assumes the next byte will be the device-address field of a new
message.
An operation can be a “read” operation to obtain the value of a variable or a “write” operation to
assign a value to a variable. Variables are identified by means of their register number (address).
Typically in a Modbus slave, data can be stored in multiple areas that can be seen as different
memories:
• Discrete Inputs: data from logical (also called binary, Boolean, or ON/OFF) inputs. By nature
the data in this area is "read-only": the master has only access to read this data.
• Coils: logical (also called binary, Boolean, or ON/OFF) outputs. The master device may read
the current state of an output, but may also set or change the state of an output.
• Input Registers: data, for example originating from electrical inputs of the slave or results
from calculations in the slave, can be stored in "input registers". By nature the data in this
area is "readonly": the master has only access to read this data.
• Holding Registers: the master has access to this area to read the data but as well to set or
change the value of data (write).
As these register groups are located in apparently different memories, the addresses may
overlap: for example, an input register having address 100 can exist and at the same time a
holding register having address 100. These are not the same: which one will be selected for an
operation is implied from the function code, referring to an input register or to a holding
register, for example.
The device does not use Discrete Inputs or Coils, but only Input Registers and Holding Registers.
Variables are grouped according to data type and dependant of being input registers (read-only
data) or being holding registers (read/write data). An address range is assigned to each variable
type, subdivided in input registers (read-only) and holding registers (read/write).
The device’s address ranges of Input Registers and Holding Registers do not overlap. Accessing
a specific register address is therefore unambiguous. The functions “read register” and “read
input” could both be used to effectively access the same register/address. However, in this
application, functions shall still be used consistent with the type of memory they are intended to
be used for.
In the master and the slave register addresses are referenced (counted) starting from 1.
However, the address range used in the message during in the transmission starts from 0. As an
example, when referencing address 4001, the address actually present in the message will be
4000.
On an application level the user will not notice this, as during the coding and decoding of the
message this offset of 1 will be taken into account. However, when the message – as it is
transmitted – is analyzed and checked one has to be aware of this offset.
When functions which do not support broadcast requests, are accessed with a broadcast
address, the request will be ignored.
This function is not used, as in this application Boolean (or logical) variables are not used as
individual entities. Boolean variables are represented by means of specific bits packed in 32 bit
data word (type “Long”).
This function is not used, as in this application Boolean (or logical) variables are not used as
individual entities. Boolean or logical variables are represented by means of specific bits packed
in 32 bit data word (type “Long”).
Request
The request message specifies the starting register and the quantity of registers to be read.
Registers are addressed starting from zero. Registers 1...16 are addressed as 0...15.
Example
A request to read from slave device 17, registers 40108...40110 (decimal), or starting from 9CAC
(hex):
Header Slave Function Starting address Number of data items Error Trailer
address check
-- 11(h) 03(h) Hi Low Hi Low -- --
00(h) 03(h)
Response
For each register the first byte contains the high order byte, the second the low order byte.
The contents of register 40108 are shown as the two byte values of 02 2B hex (555 decimal).
The contents of register 40109 is 00 00 hex (0 decimal) and of register 40110 is 00 64 hex (100
decimal).
This function is not used, as in this application Boolean variables are not used as individual
entities. Boolean variables are represented by means of specific bits packed in 32 bit data word
(type “Long”).
When the address is a broadcast, all slaves will process the request.
Request
The request specifies the register reference to be written. Registers are addressed starting from
zero. Registers 1-16 are addressed as 0-15. The value to be written is specified in the data field,
which is a 16-bit value.
Example
Request for slave 17 to preset register 40002 (decimal), 9C42 (hex) to 00 03 (hex).
Response
The response message is an echo of the request, returned after the register contents has been
written.
Request
The function uses a two-byte sub-function field in the request to define the test to be performed:
Header Slave address Function Sub-function Data Hi+Lo Error check Trailer
-- 11(h) 08(h) 00 00(h) A1B8(h) -- --
This function is not used, as in this application Boolean variables are not used as individual
entities. Boolean variables are represented by means of specific bits packed in 32 bit data word
(type “Long”).
When the address is a broadcast, the function pre-sets the same register references in all
attached slaves.
Request
The request message specifies the register references to be pre-set. Registers are addressed
starting at zero (register 1 is addressed as 0).
Example
An example of a request for slave device 17 to pre-set two registers starting at 40002 (decimal),
9C42 (hexadecimal) to 00 0A and 01 02 hex:
Response
The normal response returns the slave address, the function code, starting address, and
quantity of registers pre-set:
• If the slave device receives the request without a communication error and can handle the
request normally, it returns a normal response.
• If the slave does not receive the request due to a communication error, no response is
returned. The master program will eventually process a timeout condition for the request.
• If the slave receives the request, but detects a communication error (parity, CRC, LRC), no
response is returned. The master program will eventually process a timeout condition for the
request.
• If the slave receives the request without a communication error, but cannot handle it, the
slave will return an exception response informing the master of the nature of the error.
The exception response message has two fields that differentiate it from a normal response.
The master recognises the exception response by means of this bit and can examine the data
field for the exception code.
Data Field
In an exception response the slave returns an exception code in the data field. By means of this
exception code the slave reports a reason for not being able to respond normally.
To be compatible with older systems, parameter 8.1.1.6 COMPATIBILITY MODE controls how the
registers are counted.
• In "Modicon compatible mode", each address refers to a 16 bit register. Large data types will
occupy multiple addresses.
• In "not-Modicon compatible mode", each address refers to one data item, independent of its
type (length). Note that function 6 in not-Modicon compatible mode will also write one type of
the accompanying data type.
• Boolean
• Integer 16 bit
• Integer (32 bit)
• Integer (64 bit)
• Float (32 bit)
• Float (64 bit)
• ASCII characters
Note that in Modicon compatible mode each data type larger than 16 bits should be addressed as
16-bit registers. For example, the first float (32 bit) is located at address 7000/7001; the next
float (32 bit) is located at address 7002/7003.
A float (64 bit) would be accessed by four 16-bit registers, so the first float (64 bit)
6000/6001/6002/6003 and the next float (64 bit) 6004/6005/6006/6007.
The data in the chapter 8.4 MODBUS MAPPING ASSIGNMENTS is printed as it should be
addressed in not-Modicon compatible mode.
Example
Integer value 1790 decimal (6FE hexadecimal) is transmitted as:
Long integers could be transmitted in two possible ways. The transmit order in both modes:
The true significant (mantissa) includes an implicit leading bit with value 1 unless the exponent
is stored with all zeros. Thus only 23 bits of the significand (mantissa) appear in the memory
format but the total precision is 24 bits (equivalent to log10(224) ≈ 7.225 decimal digits). The bits
are laid out as follow:
The single precision binary floating-point exponent is encoded using an offset binary
representation, with the zero offset being 127; also known as exponent bias in the IEEE 754
standard.
Example
The float number 4.125977 will give the IEEE 754 representation.
A positive sign.
Mantissa = 4 + 1/8 + 1/1024. Note that the first bit is not stored!
Floats could be transmitted in two ways. The transmit order in both modes:
The true significant (mantissa) includes an implicit leading bit with value 1 unless the exponent
is stored with all zeros. Thus only 52 bits of the significand (mantissa) appear in the memory
format but the total precision is 53 bits (equivalent to log10(253) ≈ 16 decimal digits). The bits
are laid out as follows:
Example
The double number 4.125000001862645 will give the IEEE representation:
A positive sign
IEEE 754 (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
40h 10h 80h 00h 00h 20h 00h 00h
Normal (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
mode 40h 10h 80h 00h 00h 20h 00h 00h
Reversed (3) (4) (1) (2) (7) (8) (5) (6)
mode 80h 00h 40h 10h 00h 00h 00h 20h
Port 1
Baud rate: 38400
Data bits: 8
Stop bits: 1
Parity: Even
Modbus Mode: RTU
Modbus End Code: 2
Addressing Mode: Modicon compatible
Representation Normal
Mode:
Modbus Address: 237
Modbus Start Gap: 40 (bits)
Modbus End Gap: 20 (bits)
Modbus Start ":" (colon character)
Code:
Modbus End ASCII 13 (carriage return, CR)
Code1:
Modbus End ASCII 10 (line feed, LF)
Code2:
Modbus Time Out: 1 second
Port 2
Baud rate: 115200
Data bits: 8
Stop bits: 1
Parity: Even
Modbus Mode: RTU
Modbus End Code: 2
Addressing Mode: Modicon compatible
Representation Normal
Mode:
Modbus Address: 237
Modbus Start Gap: 40 (bits)
Modbus End Gap: 20 (bits)
Modbus Start ":" (colon character)
Code:
Modbus End ASCII 13 (carriage return, CR)
Code1:
Modbus End ASCII 10 (line feed, LF)
Code2:
Modbus Time Out: 1 second
INFORMATION!
The relative addresses listed in the tables below are addresses relative to the starting address of
the designated register group.
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
11.8.3 Input Registers (read-only): Long integer (32-bit); address range 5000-5499
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
11.8.4 Holding Registers (read/write): Long integer (32-bit), addres range 5500-5999
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
INFORMATION!
Built-in real time clock: date and time according to ANSI standard: number of seconds elapsed
since January 1st, 1970, 00:00:00 hours.
Although this is a Holding Register, this register is readonly.
Use the KROHNE Flowmeter Configuration and Monitoring software to set or adjust the real-
time clock.
11.8.5 Input Registers (read-only): Double (64-bit floating point), address range 6000-
6499
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
11.8.6 Holding Registers (read/write): Double (64-bit floating-point), address range 6500-
6999
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
11.8.7 Input Registers (read-only): Float (32-bit floating-point), address range 7000-7499
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
As an exception to the rule above, for the flow standard deviation tau, the preset number of
measurement values is evaluated every time a new measurement value becomes available. The
series of measurements values then contains the most recent values and shifts with each
acquired sample (measurement data), like a running average.
11.8.8 Holding Registers (read/write): Float (32-bit) floating-point, address range 7500-
7999
Flowmeter configuration
Alarm configuration
Viscosity configuration
Override control
11.8.9 Input Registers (read-only): Long long (64-bit integer), address range 8000-8499
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.
Totalisers
11.8.10 Holding Registers (read/write): Long long (64-bit integer), address range 8500-
8999
INFORMATION!
Register reserved for testing communications and protocol handling with this type of register,
without affecting the operation of the flowmeter.