Aga 7

This manual is the property of AGA and is part of its process for revising the previous manual.
This document or any of its parts shall not be

copied, disseminated, cited in literature, presentations or discussions without prior approval from AGA.
DRAFT 6 – August 2002
Measurement of Natural Gas

by Turbine Meters
TRANSMISSION MEASUREMENT COMMITTEE

REPORT NO. 7
L FRASER DRAFT JANUARY 2001
A FLOYD 2 DRAFT JULY 2001
A FLOYD 3rd DRAFT January 2002
A FLOYD 4th DRAFT February, 2002
A FLOYD and DAN PEACE 5th DRAFT March 20, 2002
This manual is the property of AGA and is part of its process for revising the previous manual. This document or any of its parts shall not be
A FLOYD 6th DRAFT AUGUST 2002
2
1 Introduction
1.1 SCOPE
1.2 PRINCIPLE OF MEASUREMENT
2 TERMINOLOGY
3 OPERATING CONDITIONS
4 METER REQUIREMENTS
5 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
5.1 TURNDOWN RATIO
5.2 TOLERANCES
5.3 INFLUENCE AND DISTURBANCE FACTORS
5.4 CALCULATION OF ERROR
5.5 METER FACTOR
5.5.1 K-FACTOR
5.5.2 LINEARITY
5.5.3 FWME
5.6 METER BODY INTERCHANGEABILITY
6. INDIVIDUAL METER TESTING REQUIREMENTS
7. INSTALLATION REQUIREMENT
8. VOLUME AND MASS FLOW MEASUREMENT
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9. FIELD VERIFICATION CHECKS
10. MAINTENANCE
11. COMPUTING FLOW
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SPECIFICATIONS FOR TURBINE METERS
1.0 SCOPE
These specifications apply to axial-flow gas turbine meters in which the entire gas stream
flows through the meter body.
2.0 DEFINITIONS
Deviation: The mean of the errors observed under a single set of
operating conditions at a given flow rate.
Error: The difference between the volume measured by the meter under test
and the volume measured by a reference meter. Corrections
must be made for the differences of gas pressure, temperature,
and compressibility between the two meters. The error shall
be calculated according to Section 4.1.4.
Final meter factor : A factor which may be applied to a meter’s output(s) which
changes the output(s) by a constant percentage at all flow
rates. The final meter factor shall be calculated according to
Section 5.5.
FWME: The flow rate weighted mean error of a meter, calculated
according to Section 5.6
Meter Accuracy: 100% plus the measurement error (+ve or –ve). Generally
does not include prover uncertainty.
Linearity: The maximum difference between any two error values.
MAOP Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure
Maximum permissible error: The largest allowable deviation within the specified
operating range of the meter.
Measurement cartridge: A removable portion of the meter, which includes
the measurement components, but excludes the
meter body.
Meter tubes:: The first ten diameters of pipe upstream of the meter and the
first five diameters of pipe downstream of the meter. .
Operating range: The range of gas Temperatures, pressures and flow rates over
which a meter is designed to operate.
Qmin: The minimum flow rate of a meter. At an accepted accuracy
Qmax: The maximum flow rate of a meter. At an accepted accuracy
Reference meter: A meter (or test facility) of known accuracy.
Repeatability: The largest spread of errors of a given meter when several

successive measurements are performed at the same flow rate
under the same operating conditions.
Resolution (of a meter test): The smallest error that can be determined from a meter test.
Increasing the test duration will improve (decrease) resolution.
Turbine gas meter: A meter consisting of a meter body, one or more velocity-
sensing rotors and a register, mechanical or electrical output.
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3.0 OPERATING CONDITIONS
3.1GAS QUALITY
The meter shall, as a minimum requirement, operate with any of the “Normal Range” natural gas composition
mixtures specified in A.G.A. Report No. 8.
Manufacturer should be consulted if any of the following are expected:
1) operation near the critical density of the natural gas mixture,
2) total sulfur levels exceed 20 grains per hundred cubic feet including, mercaptans, H2S, and elemental
sulfur compounds.
Deposits due to normal gas pipeline conditions; e.g., condensates or traces of oil mixed with mill-scale, dirt or sand,
may affect the meter’s accuracy. Refer to installation recommendations regarding strainer etc.
3.2 PRESSURES
The operating pressure of the meter shall be within the range specified by the meter manufacturer.
3.3 TEMPERATURES, GAS AND AMBIENT

The meter should be used within the manufacturers flowing gas and ambient air temperature specifications.
Gas density can have three principal effects on the performance of the gas turbine meter:
Rangeability - The net effect of gas density increase is to increase the rangeability of the turbine meter.
Pressure Drop- The pressure drop across a turbine meter increases as the density increases.
Meter Accuracy - Density variations can change the turbine meter accuracy. The amount of the change depends
upon the design of the meter.
3.4 GAS FLOW CONSIDERATIONS

The accuracy requirements for operation are stated in the Performance Requirements Section of this document. The
Designer is cautioned to examine carefully maximum velocity for noise piping safety and meter integrity concerns.
Refer to section 5 for pulsating flow considerations.
3.5 UPSTREAM PIPING AND FLOW PROFILES

Upstream piping configurations may adversely affect the gas velocity profile entering a turbine meter to such an
extent that measurement error occurs. The Designer is cautioned to avoid extreme reductions in diameter upstream
of the meter that would produce jetting to the inlet of the meter, or piping configurations that would produce
swirling flow characteristics at the meter inlet.
4.0 METER REQUIREMENTS
4.1 - General
4.1.1 -The turbine meter consists of three basic components:
4.1.1.1 - The body
4.1.1.2 - The measuring mechanism
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4.1.1.3 - The output device
4.2 - Single Rotor Turbine Meters
4.2.1 - Schematics of axial-flow single rotor gas turbine meters are shown in Figures 1, 1-A, and
1-B. Gas entering the meter increases in velocity through the annular passage formed by
the nose cone and the interior wall of the body. The movement of gas over the angled
rotor blades imparts a force to the rotor, causing it to revolve. The ideal rotational speed
is directly proportional to the flow rate. The actual rotational speed is a function of the
passageway size and shape, and the rotor design. It is also dependent upon the load that
is imposed due to internal mechanical friction, fluid drag, external loading, and the gas
density.
4.2.2 – The basic designs of axial-flow gas turbine meters differ significantly from liquid turbine
meters due to density, viscosity and compressibility differences of the fluids. The need
to extract sufficient kinetic energy from the flow to provide the torque to overcome
internal and external frictional losses results in the proportions of the nosecone and
annular passages typical of those shown in Figures 1 and 1-A. However, gas turbine
meter designs similar in proportions to liquid turbine meters, as shown in Figure 1-B,
have been successfully used for particular sizes and applications, (i.e., sizes smaller than
4 inch and require higher operating flow rates or pressures). Typically these designs
provide low torque at similar flow rates and pressure and do not drive mechanical
readout devices or instruments.
Figure 1: Single Rotor Turbine Meter
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Figure 1-A: Single Rotor Electronic Turbine Meter
Figure 1-B. Low Torque Turbine Meter
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4.3 Dual-Rotor Turbine Meters
4.3.1 - Schematics of various dual-rotor turbine meters are shown in Figures 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1F.
The primary rotor or main metering rotor of each of these is basically the same as that of
a single rotor turbine meter as shown in Figures 1 and 1A. The blades of the primary
rotor will typically have pitch angles in the range of 30 to 60 degrees. This rotor may
have an output drive for a mechanical register or for a secondary device.
4.3.2 - The second rotor (downstream rotor in the figures) may be separated from the primary
rotor and isolated from it by a flow conditioner that is in the space between the two
rotors. Some designs provide for fluid coupling of the second rotor to the primary rotor
by positioning the rotors in close proximity to each other. Rotation of the second rotor
may be in the same or opposite direction as that of the primary rotor. Typically the
second rotor operates at a lesser speed than the primary rotor in order to extend its
service life and to differentiate the measurements of the two rotors for checking
purposes.
4.3.3 -The second rotor is provided for checking the accuracy and/or improving the measurement
integrity of the primary rotor under various flow and metering conditions. In some dual-
rotor turbine meters, the second rotor can provide for measurement adjustments to
improve the output accuracy of the primary rotor and provide diagnostics under certain
operating conditions. Such improvements may not yet be possible with a single rotor
turbine meter.
4.3..4 - Electronic pulse outputs corresponding to the speed of the rotors in dual-rotor turbine
meters are provided by sensors that usually detect the passage of individual turbine
blades, spaces in chopper disks, or the teeth of gears that are driven by the rotors. These
signals are fed to an electronic device that calculates volumes from both rotors, checks
accuracy, and performs diagnostics.
4.4 Design, Composition, and Construction
4.4.1 The case of a meter shall be designed and constructed to operate without leakage or
deformation over the expected range of operating pressures, flowing gas temperatures
and environmental conditions.
4.4.2 The case of a meter intended for outdoor use shall be waterproof, dust- proof and
dimensionally stable over the range of environmental conditions expected during the
service life of the device.
4.4.3 The construction shall be mechanically and electrically sound, and the materials, finish,
etc., shall be such as to provide assurance of long life and sustained accuracy.
4.4.4 The body end connections shall be designed in accordance with appropriate flange or threaded
connection standards.
4.4.5 A pressure tap shall be located on the meter body.
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4.4.6 The meter may provide one or more outputs proportional to the volume of gas which has passed
through it, expressed at line conditions of pressure and temperature.
4.4.7 The meter may be provided with sealing arrangements to prevent access to its internal working
parts, adjustments and reprogramming. The sealing arrangements shall be such that they do not
prevent access to routine maintenance features of the meter, such as lubrication points. Where
measuring cartridges are interchangeable, the sealing means shall be designed to prevent access to
means of adjustment and reprogramming with the cartridge removed from the meter body. Any
means provided to seal the cartridge to the meter body should be capable of being sealed
independently 1 of the other sealing means provided.
Note 1. Independently means in a manner that allows the body-to-cartridge seal to be removed without permitting
access to the cartridge’s internal working parts or adjustments.
4.5 Meter Accuracy
4.5.1 Meters, including the body and measurement module or the measurement module in a test body,
shall be tested for accuracy at an acceptable test facility before being placed into service.
4.5.2 Meters intended for use at pressures of 400 kPa (absolute) or less may be tested using atmospheric
pressure air. Meters intended for use at pressures exceeding 400 kPa shall be tested on natural gas
at a pressure within 25 per cent of the intended operating pressure, or on air at a pressure within
25 per cent of 60 per cent of the intended operating pressure.
4.5.3 To establish repeatability, each test point shall consist of at least three measurements. The
duration of the measurements shall be 100 seconds, or long enough to obtain test results with a
resolution of at least ±0.1 %, whichever is greater. Ideally, the meter shall be tested at a
minimum of five flow rates across the intended flow range of the user. Where Qmax cannot be
achieved because of limitations of the test facility, the upper test flow rate should be at least 0.5
Qmax and the meter shall be tested at at least five flow rates approximately equally spaced
between Qmin and the maximum flow rate attainable by the test facility.
4.5.4 The test configuration shall be the same as the intended installation configuration for ten pipe
diameters upstream and five pipe diameters downstream of the meter, and shall include any flow
conditioner intended for use with the meter.
For best results, the test configuration shall be the same as the intended installation configuration.
However, most manufacturers employ a test setup that conforms to the recommended
configuration of straight pipe 10 diameters upstream and 5 diameters downstream of the test meter
and shall include any flow conditioner intended to be used by the customer.
For the most accurate measurement, the service installation should follow the recommended
installation as closely as possible.
4.5.5 The errors of the meter shall not exceed the tolerance limits stated in 5.2.1 and 5.2.2:
4.6 The final meter factor calculated pursuant to Section 5.5 shall be incorporated into the meter prior to
placing the meter in service.
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Figure 1-C: Independent Tandem Turbine Rotors separated by Flow Guides
Figure 1-D: Dual-Rotor Turbine with Fluid Coupled Sensing Rotor
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Figure 1-E: Fluid-Coupled Counter-Rotating Second Turbine Rotor
Figure 1-F: Dual-Rotor Turbine with Friction Reducing Slave Rotor
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5.0 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Tolerances
The errors of the meter shall not exceed the following specifications at any test point
throughout the operating range of the meter at test conditions.
5.1.1 For High Pressure Applications > (TBD) Psig
Rangeability: 10% to Qmax

Accuracy 1: ±0.7% above 10% Qmax
Linearity 2: +/- 0.2%
Repeatability: ±0.1%
5.1.2 For Low Pressure Application < (TBD) Psig to MAOP
Rangeability: 20% to Qmax

Accuracy 1: ±1.0% above 20% Qmax
Linearity 2: ± 1.0 %
Repeatability: ±0.2%
Accuracy statements are inclusive of pressure effects but exclude the effects of change gear resolution errors. These
errors can be eliminated with the use of electronic devices.
Note 1. The tolerance for maximum permissible error applies after the application of the final
meter factor.
Note 2. The tolerance for linearity applies after any corrections performed within the meter itself
but prior to the application of any linearization algorithms by equipment auxiliary to the
meter.
Turbine Meter Performance Specification MPE

1.50 13
1.25
1.00 Expanded Error Limit:
Repeatability +/-0.1% (qi > qt)
Figure 2-A
Turbine Meter Performance Specification
for operating pressures > (TBD) psig
Turbine Meter Performance Specification MPE

1.75
1.50
Repeatability +/-0.2% (qi < qt) Expanded Error Limit:
1.25
1.00 +/-1.5% (qi < qt)
0.75 Repeatability +/-0.2% (qi > qt)
Percent error
0.50
0.25 Max P-P spread 1.0% (qi > qt) Normal Error Limit:
0.00 +/-1.0% (qi > qt)
-0.25
-0.50 Note:
-0.75
-1.00 Max Error +/-0.7% (qi > qt)
-1.25 for test systems where Max
-1.50 flow rate possible is less than
-1.75 0.75 qmax.
Flow rate (qi)
qmin qt= 0.2 qmax qmax
Figure 2-B
Turbine Meter Performance Specification
for low operating pressures < (TBD) psig
5.3 Influence and disturbance factors
The errors of the meter shall not exceed the errors set out in Sections 5.2.1 and 5.2.2 when the
meter is exposed to the following influence and disturbance factors1:
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Influence factors: As set out for Class F meters in sections 9 and 11.5.3 of International
Organization of Legal Metrology R-6 "General Provisions for Gas Volume Meters - 1989”.
Note: Turbine meters which do not incorporate electrical components are not subject to the
electrical tests.
Swirl susceptibility: The inlet to the installation configuration(s) recommended by the
manufacturer shall be preceded in turn by a clockwise and a counter clockwise swirl generator,
constructed of two long-radius ninety-degree elbows connected together orthogonally. The
installation configuration shall include the manufacturer’s recommended flow conditioner, if any.
This performance requirement shall be met under all combinations of installation configurations
and flow conditioners recommended by the manufacturer.
Note 1. The meter will be exposed to the influence and disturbance factors one at a time.
.
5.4 Calculation of error
Error (%) = (volume at test meter - volume at reference meter) x 100

volume at reference meter
5.5 Meter factor is the ratio of the reference measurement and test measurements and applied as a
correction factor to the mean K-factor.
The meter factor B 1 = Total true volume or K-factor

Total Measured volume or K-factor
The final meter factor shall be calculated as follows:
As an option the final meter factor = 100 ÷ (100 + FWME)
5.5.1 ”K” Factor - K-Factor is the number of pulses per unit volume and is calculated for each flowrate
calibrated. The mean value is typically applied to the range of flowrates the particular meter covers.
5.5.2 Linearity
Linearity of a meter can be calculated using the K-factor:

Linearity% = Maximum deviation – Minimum deviation X 100
Maximum deviation
5.6 FWME is an optional method of applying correction factors to a measurement.
The FWME shall be calculated as follows:
n n
FWME (%) = Qi x Di x Wi „" Qi x Wi
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i=1 Qmax i=1 Qmax
Where: Qi is the test flow rate, and Di is the deviation at the tested flow rate, Qi. When Qi 0.95
Qmax, Wi = 0.4. Otherwise, Wi = 1.0.
5.7 Meter body interchangeability
Meters designed with interchangeable Measurement Cartridges are designed such that the
measurement cartridge can be removed from the meter body for calibration without removing the
meter body from the installation.
The construction of a meter with an interchangeable Measurement Cartridge shall be such that the
performance characteristics as specified in section 5.2.1 and 5.2.2 are maintained after installation
in other meter bodies of the same manufacturer, size and model or after repeated removal and
installation of the Measurement Cartridge in the same meter body.
This design enables the user to pretest Measurement Cartridges at a central location under
controlled conditions. The pre-tested cartridge can then replace a cartridge that is due for a field
change-out on a scheduled basis, or one that has been damaged or is in need of repair. The user
must also consider that significant accumulation of dirt on the nose cone, integral straightening
vanes and the area inside the meter body may affect the performance characteristics.
The user should consult with the turbine meter manufacturer to determine if sufficient test data
has been developed to assure that performance characteristics as specified above are maintained
when cartridges are interchanged.
6.0 Individual Meter Testing Requirements
Prior to the shipment of each Turbine meter (or cartridge) to the customer, the manufacturer shall
perform the following tests and checks on each meter. The results of all tests and checks
performed on each meter shall be documented in a report (see Section 6.2.3) prepared by the
manufacturer and submitted to the customer.
Due to the large volumes of gas measured by Turbine meters, and the cost of that gas, it is in
everyone’s best interest that the meter be as accurate as possible. Because the accuracy of a
turbine meter may be affected by pressure, it is recommended that the meter be tested as close to
the actual operating pressure as possible, and at the flow rates it will be operating at. Also, it is
best if the meter can be tested with the type of gas it is to be used with. But, since this is not
always possible, it is left to the manufacturer and customer to determine the details of the meter
test protocol.
6.1 Leakage Tests
Every complete Turbine meter shall be integrity and leak-tested by the manufacturer after final
assembly and prior to shipment to the customer or flow-calibration facility. The test medium
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should be an inert gas, such as nitrogen or air. The meter is pressurized for integrity testing and
then the pressure reduced to zero before re-pressurizing to conduct the leak test. The integrity test
pressure is 1.5 x the MAOP, minimum (2 x the MAOP for cast iron materials), with the pressure
held for 1 minute. The leak test pressure shall be 1.25 x the MAOP and held for 1 minute. To
pass these tests the meter must have no leaks detectable with a non-corrosive liquid solution or an
ultrasonic leak detector as described in ASTM E 1002 - 93. This leak test does not preclude the
requirements to perform a hydrostatic qualification test.
6.2 Meter Calibration

Turbine meters are calibrated for 2 reasons:
1) To correct the mechanical output of the meter, so the accuracy is within the acceptance
band.
2) For meters with electronic pulse outputs, the value of the pulse output needs to be
defined. This pulse value is called the K-factor (pulses/ft³.)
The basic turbine design uses a specific ratio of gearing for the mechanical output, and due to the
meter specifics, the test results may vary slightly from the design parameters. “Change gears” are
employed to vary the gear ratio slightly to adjust the curve to correct for these manufacturing
variances.
Meter manufacturers generally provide discrete K-factors for any electronic outputs at all flow
rates. At the customer’s discretion, these may be averaged to obtain a single value and will include
linearity details.
The meter shall be tested to ensure that the output is accurate to the established contractual
requirements. Typically these are 100.0 +/- 1.0% over the complete flow range (Qmin < Q <
Qmax). The meter is generally tested at Qmax, Qmin and several flow rates in between. Typical
turndown ratios for turbine meter are 10:1. For a meter with a 20:1 turndown ratio, the meter is
typically tested at 100, 60, 25, 15, 10 and 5% of flow rate. The typical shape of the turbine meter
accuracy curve has a fast drop off of accuracy at the lower flow rates. Therefore, additional test
points in this transition zone are often employed..
Each test point shall consist of 3 repeated measurements. The duration of each test shall be 100
seconds, or long enough to obtain a test result with a minimum resolution of at least +/-0.1%,
whichever is greater. Meter linearity shall be +/-0.5%. Meter Repeatability shall be +/-0.1% For
meter linearity and repeatability, refer to Section 5.2 for allowable performance tolerances.
If the test facility cannot achieve Qmax, the upper flow rate should be at least 0.5 Qmax. The
meter shall then be tested at several flow rate points times between Qmin and the max Q possible.
Refer to Section 5.2 for allowable performance tolerances.
The customer may require additional testing. A characterization curve may be requested at an
elevated pressure, and it is recommended that for best metering results test the meter as close to
the actual operating pressure, flow rates and gas density as possible. This will ensure the meter is
as accurate as possible while in service. Historically, there is a shift in the accuracy curve above
75 ?? psig (400 kPa). It is recommended that for meters being used at pressures above 75 ?? psig,
a high pressure curve be generated. The atmospheric curve is generally acceptable for use at
pressures below 75 ?? psig. The high pressure test should be conducted at a pressure within 25%
of the operating pressure with the appropriate corrections for the test media and service media
densities.
6.2.1 Test Result/Reports
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The results of each test required in Section 6.4.1, shall be documented in a written report supplied
to the designer or the operator by the manufacturer. For each meter, the report shall include, at a
minimum:
a. The name and address of the manufacturer
b. The name and address of the test facility
c. The model and serial number
d. The date(s) of the test
e. The name and title of the person(s) who conducted the tests
f. The minimum field spin test time
g. The meter accuracy curve (plot of meter accuracy vs flow rate or Reynold’s number)
h. The meter K-factor, pulses per unit volume, may also be supplied where applicable.
At least one copy of the complete report shall be sent to the customer and one copy retained in the
manufacturer’s files. The manufacturer shall ensure that the complete report is available to the
operator on request, for a period of 5 years after shipment of any meter.
6.2.2 Retesting Requirements

Meters, or their measuring modules, should be retested on a periodic basis to ensure good
accuracy. The period between tests is left to the customer, but should follow sound practice.
Some states have regulatory agencies that decree the test intervals.
Often the meter can be spin tested to obtain a rough idea as to the condition of the bearings, the
most common wear point. A more accurate, complete flow test can be generated if required or
justified based on the spin test results.
Often, when a cartridge is returned to the manufacturer for repair, the customer requests an “in-
test’ so they have a record of the meter accuracy at the time it was removed from service.
7 INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS
Configurations not described below have not been assessed for measurement accuracy and are
therefore not recommended.
7.1 Installation and Use

7.1.1 - The turbine meter is a fluid velocity-measuring device. The piping configuration immediately
upstream of the meter should be such that the flow profile entering the meter has a uniform
distribution and is without jetting or swirl. Since the turbine meter construction is designed to
direct the flow to the annular passage upstream of the rotor, it effectively tends to average the
velocity profile of most normal flow conditions, thus minimizing the influence of minor flow
distortions on meter performance.
7.1.2 A flow conditioner, located properly, (See section 7.3 and 7.4), in the upstream meter piping, is
recommended as it will eliminate most normal flow swirl conditions. Flowing swirl conditions
may be caused by pipe fittings, valves and/or regulators preceding the meter inlet piping. An
integral flow conditioner installed in the entrance to a meter and a part of the meter design will
further eliminate any remaining minor swirl conditions and reduce the necessary upstream pipe
length in the case of strong jetting. However, regardless of location some flow conditioners will
not eliminate the effect of strong jetting.
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Section 11.3, Straightening Vanes, provides construction specifications for the traditional tube
bundle type flow conditioner. This design has demonstrated its effectiveness in the reduction of
swirl flow conditions. Flow conditioners of other designs may be used provided the turbine
meter’s performance is acceptable and when mutually agreed upon by the parties involved.
7.1.3 The installation of a throttling device such as a regulator or partially closed valve is not
recommended in close proximity to the meter. Where such installations are necessary, the
throttling device should be placed an additional eight nominal pipe diameters upstream or an
additional two nominal pipe diameters downstream in the in-line recommended installation in
Figure 2. In the installation. configurations illustrated in Figures 3, 4, and 5, the throttling device
should be placed eight additional nominal pipe diameters ahead of the inlet vertical riser or an
additional two nominal pipe diameters downstream of the outlet vertical riser. Placement of such a
device in closer proximity to the meter may result in a higher uncertainty and/or reduced bearing
life.
7.1.4 - Thermometer Well Location

Upstream disturbances should be kept to a minimum, therefore the recommended location for a
thermometer well is downstream of the meter. Generally it is installed within one or two pipe
diameters from the meter outlet but located no further than five pipe diameters from the meter
outlet but, upstream from any valve or flow restrictor. It is important that the thermometer well be
correctly installed to insure that heat transfer from the piping and thermometer well attachment
and radiation effects of the sun does not influence the temperature.
7.1.5 - Pressure Tap Location

The pressure tap is provided by the manufacturer on the meter and is the basis of the meter’s
performance claims. It should be used as the point of pressure sensing for recording or integrating
instruments and during calibration. Use of a pressure tap location other than that provided by the
manufacturer for that purpose could change a meter's characteristic calibration curve.
7.1.6 - Meter Piping Alignment.

The meter and piping should be installed so as to reduce strain due to pipeline stresses. Severe
strain on the meter body could bind a measuring module or mechanism in the meter body,
consequently making it very difficult to remove the meter module (if so equipped), and adversely
affect accuracy.
Meter inlet and outlet connections and companion pipe flanges should be aligned concentrically.
Gaskets must not protrude into the bore or flow pattern of the meter connection. Gasket
protrusion into the flow pattern and/or flange misalignment can affect meter accuracy.
Pipe interior should be of commercial roughness, and the flange I.D. should be the same as that of
the pipe. Welds on piping at the meter inlet and outlet should be ground to the I.D. and
smoothness of the pipe.
7.1.7 - Hydrate Formation and Liquid Slugs.

Turbine meter rotors may be damaged by slugs of liquid or hydrates entering the measuring
module. The formation of hydrates in the meter installation may also cause inaccurate
measurement. Consideration should be given to the installation of drips or separators to collect
liquid ahead of the meter and the injection of alcohol to prevent hydrate formation. When these
conditions exist, more frequent inspection and servicing of the meter is indicated.
7.1.8 - Pulsation Effect & Dampening.
Pulsations, as encountered in gas measurement, may occur in several forms depending on the
design of the system and the operating conditions. Turbine meters are frequently installed near
compressors and fast cycling regulators which can cause measurement errors. Flow pulsations
generated by this type equipment will generally cause a turbine meter to read fast because the
meter responds more readily to an increase in flow than to a decrease in flow. Slowly repeated
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flow surges from pipeline liquid movement or regulators do not affect turbine meter accuracy to a
great degree because turbine meters in general have the ability to follow slow changes in flow
rate. Pulsation dampeners installed between the source of pulsation and the turbine meter are an
effective way of eliminating pulsation-induced measurement errors. Full discussion of the
quantification of pulsation is available in Paragraph 7.2.1
7.1.9 - Other Precautionary Measures.
In installations where liquids are anticipated, especially in wet production gas measurement, the
meter piping should be designed to prevent liquid accumulation in the meter body and meter run.
The measuring module should always be removed if welding, hydrostatic testing, etc., is involved
in the immediate area of the meter in order to prevent possible damage to the module components.
The inside of the meter body and piping should be thoroughly cleaned and inspected for
construction debris prior to replacement of the module.
It is good practice to provide a meter bypass so that the meter can be maintained and calibrated
without service interruptions.
7.2 - Installation Configurations (Minimum Lengths)
7.2.1 - Recommended Installation for In-Line Meters
7.2.1.1-The recommended installation requires a length of 10 nominal pipe diameters upstream

with the straightening vane outlet located a 5 nominal pipe diameters from the meter inlet
as shown in Figure 4.1.2. A length of 5 nominal pipe diameters is recommended
downstream of the meter. A vertical in-line installation may be used, however, the
manufacturer’s recommendations for piping configuration and maintenance are required.
Both inlet and outlet pipe should be of the same nominal pipe size as the meter. There
shall be no pipe connections within the upstream or downstream piping other than
pressure taps, temperature wells and/or flow conditioners, either flanged or in line.
7.2.2 - Optional Installation Configurations for In-Line Meters

The use of optional installation configurations may result in a higher measurement uncertainty.
7.2.2.1- Short-Coupled Installation

In those instances where the required space for the recommended installation of Figure 2
is not available, a short-coupled installation may be employed as shown in Figure 3. This
configuration utilizes a minimum of four nominal pipe diameters upstream with
straightening vanes located at the inlet of the piping. The distance between the
straightening vane outlet and the meter inlet should be a minimum of two nominal pipe
diameters. The meter is connected to the vertical risers using a standard tee or elbow. The
maximum pipe reduction to the risers is one nominal pipe size. Valving, filters, or
strainers may be installed on the risers.
7.2.2.2- Close-Coupled Installation

Close-coupled installation of a gas turbine meter is shown in Figure 4. The meter design
must incorporate integral flow conditioners upstream of the rotor. This installation would
be used where the available space for a meter installation is critical and design
considerations have eliminated jetting and abnormal swirl conditions. The meter is
connected to the vertical risers using a tee or elbow. The maximum pipe reduction to the
risers is one nominal pipe size. Valving, filters, or strainers may be installed on the risers.
20
It is recommended that the use of this installation be avoided since it could cause
abnormal loading on the rotor and bearings, resulting in reduced service life.
21
7.2.3- Recommended Installation for Angle Body Meters
7.2.3.1- The recommended installation for an angle body meter is shown in Figure 5. It is
recommended that the meter inlet piping be connected to the riser using a 90° elbow or
tee. Valving, filter, or a strainer may be installed on the riser. When straightening vanes
are not used, the upstream meter inlet piping length should be a minimum of ten nominal
pipe diameters. When straightening vanes are used, the length of upstream pipe may be
reduced to five nominal pipe diameters. The straightening vane inlet should be a
minimum of five nominal pipe diameters from the meter inlet. There are no restrictions
on the downstream piping except that the companion flange attached to the meter outlet
must be full-size.
7.2.3.2- A vertical installation may be used and the same basic piping configuration applied as
used in the horizontal installation.
7.3 - Swirl Effect and Velocity Profile Effect
7.3.1 The turbine meter is designed for, and calibrated under, a condition that approaches axial
flow at the rotor inlet. If the fluid at the rotor inlet has significant swirl (mainly tangential
components), the rotor speed at a given flow rate will be different from that for axial
flow. A swirl in the direction of rotor rotation will usually increase the rotor speed
whereas a swirl in the opposite direction will usually decrease the rotor speed. Such a
swirl effect must be reduced to an insignificant level through proper installation practices
as described previously. Dual rotor turbine meters with appropriate electronics and
algorithms can provide an indication of a swirl effect on the main or metering rotor.
Also there can be full or partial accuracy compensation for swirl effect depending upon
the design of the second rotor and the algorithm.
7.3.2 Meter designs and piping installation configurations included in this report attempt to
condition the flow to achieve a symmetric, uniform velocity distribution at the rotor inlet.
In those cases where there is a distortion of the velocity profile at the rotor inlet, the rotor
speed at a given flow rate will be affected. For a given average flow rate, generally a
non-uniform velocity profile results in a higher rotor speed than a uniform velocity
profile. Dual rotor turbine meters with appropriate electronics and algorithms can provide
an indication of a non-uniform velocity profile effect on the main or metering rotor.
Also, there can be partial accuracy compensation for these flow effects by the operation
of the second rotor.
7.4 - Straightening Vanes
7.4.1- The purpose of straightening vanes is to eliminate swirls and cross currents set up by the
pipe fittings, valves, or regulators in the meter inlet piping. While the specifications
which follow apply particularly to the type of vanes shown in Figure 4.1.6, vanes of
other designs can be used if they meet the following construction specifications.
7.4.2- In construction of vanes the maximum transverse dimension, “a,” of any passage through
the vanes should not exceed one-fourth the inside diameter, “D,” of the pipe. Also, the
cross-sectional area, “A,” of any passage within the assembled vanes should not exceed
22
one-sixteenth of the cross-sectional area of the containing pipe. The length, “L,” of the
vanes should be at least ten times the maximum inside dimension, “a.”
23
24
7.4.3- The vanes may be built of standard weight pipe or thin-walled tubing, either welded together and
securely attached into the meter inlet piping, or mounted into two end-rings small enough to slip
into the pipe. The amount of passage blockage caused by the end-rings should be kept as small as
practical. All tubes should be reamed as thin as practical at both ends.
7.4.4- Square, hexagonal, or other shaped tubing may be used in making the vanes. It is not necessary
that all the vane passages be of the same size, but their arrangement should be symmetrical.
Figure 6 - Straightening Vanes
7.5 Flow Conditioners

An alternative method of conditioning flow is isolating flow conditioners. Several of these devices have
been evaluated for performance, and are recommended to be used if the contracting parties agree and there
are referenced tests available to support the choice. It has been demonstrated that these devices are
effective in providing a consistent proper flow profile, downstream of common piping configurations.
7.6 - Strainers or Filters
7.6.1- One of the most significant and frequent causes of bearing wear and measuring module
damage and/or, failure is foreign material in the flowing stream. Normal pipeline gas
quality may deteriorate during peak demands, plant upsets, new tie-ins, or from normal
internal pipeline corrosion resulting in dust, dirt, and/or scale. For this reason, it is
important that strainers with baskets of 3/32 maximum hole size and 100 mesh wire
liners be installed upstream of the meter to catch the major part of this foreign material.
In some instances, it may be preferable to install 10 micron maximum filters for the
removal of fine dust, thus increasing bearing life and minimizing deposits on the meters
internal parts. A differential pressure gauge should be installed across the filter or
strainer to indicate an increase in pressure drop resulting from a build-up of foreign
matter in the filter or strainer. Normal pressure drop should be observed at various flow
rates when the strainer or filter is clean. Inspection of the devices should be performed
whenever high pressure drops are indicated on the differential pressure gauge.
7.6.2 - A greater degree of meter protection can be accomplished through the use of a dry-type
or separator-type filter installed upstream of the meter inlet piping. It is recommended
that the differential pressure across a filter be monitored to maintain it in good condition
so as to prevent flow distortion and possible customer outage.
25
7.7 - Over-Range Protection
7.7.1 - Overspeed Protection and Shock Load Effects.

Shock loads or surges of high velocity gas applied to a turbine meter can severely
damage a turbine rotor. Special precaution should be taken, especially when pressuring
up a meter run from atmospheric pressure to operating pressure to avoid overspeeding
the rotor. Permanent damage may result from opening the inlet valve to the meter run
too rapidly. It is recommended that a turbine meter run be pressured up with a small
bypass line around the main flow inlet valve to eliminate accidental l damage to the rotor.
While turbine meters can be operated for short periods of time up to 150% of rated
capacity with no damaging effects, oversized blowdown valves can cause rotational
speeds greatly in excess of this amount. Therefore, the blowdown valve should be
located downstream of the meter and sized as follows:
BLOWDOWN VALVE SIZING

Meter Run Valve Size
2" 1/4"
3" 1/2"
4" 1/2"
6" 1"
8" 1"
12" 1"
Sudden rotor overspeeding caused by extreme gas velocities may cause severe damage to
the measuring mechanism. Extreme gas velocities can occur when pressuring, blowing
down or purging the meter run. The operation of flow or pressure control devices and the
downstream piping system can also create extreme gas velocities.
7.7.2 Some meters and secondary devices may be damaged when they are operated in a reverse
direction. Therefore, the blow-down valve should be located downstream of the meter.
7.7.3 - In those installations where excessive flow can occur as a result of the operation of the
downstream piping system or as a result of the operation of flow or pressure control
equipment, a restrictive device may be installed in the piping downstream of the meter
run. The location of the restrictive device should be based upon the installation
configurations of Section 3.2. The inline configuration should have the device located
downstream of the recommended five nominal pipe diameters. For optional in-line
configurations or the angle body meter installation, the restrictive device should not be
installed closer than the flange of the first valve downstream of the meter. A critical flow
orifice or sonic venturi nozzle may be sized to limit the flow through the meter to
approximately 120% of the maximum rated meter capacity. Refer to the Sonic Venturi
Nozzle and Critical Orifice Sizes Table. A permanent pressure loss will occur even at
sub-critical flow rates when one of these devices is installed, therefore, adequate pressure
must be available at the location. A critical flow device may result in up to a 50%
permanent pressure loss at critical conditions as well as create objectionable noise levels.
In installations where high pressure loss is acceptable, either a critical flow orifice or
sonic venturi nozzle may be installed in the pipeline downstream of the meter, sized to
26
limit the meter to approximately 120% of its maximum rated capacity. At critical flow
condition a critical flow orifice will result in a 500% permanent pressure loss whereas a
sonic venturi nozzle will result in only a 10-20% permanent pressure loss.
SONIC VENTURI NOZZLE AND CRITICAL ORIFICE SIZES

BASED ON TURBINE METER CAPACITY, 0.6 RELATIVE DENSITY
SONIC CRITICAL
RATING 1.2X VENTURI ORIFICE
MACFH RATING DIA.-IN. DIA.-IN.
4 4.8 0.55 0.64

4.5 5.4 0.58 0.68
9 10.8 0.82 0.96
10 12 0.86 1.01
16 19.2 1.09 1.27
18 21.6 1.16 1.35
30 36 1.49 1.74
36 43.2 1.63 1.91
60 72 2.11 2.47
140 168 3.22 3.77
150 180 3.33 3.90
Above based on empirical formula:

2
Ç DIA. – IN .
Venturi Air Rate (ACFH) ? È Ù
É 0.00893 Ú
Gas Rate (ACFH) ? 1 / 0.6 · air rate ? 1.291 · air rate
2
Ç DIA. – IN .
Gas Rate (ACFH) ? 1.291 È Ù
É 0.00893 Ú
(0.00893) 2 · gas rate

DIA. – IN. (VENTURI) ?
1.291
DIA. – IN. (VENTURI) ? (0.00786 gas rate
Orifice DIA. – IN. ? 1.17 · VENTURI DIA.
7.8 - Bypass
27
7.8.1- It is good practice to provide a bypass so the meter and meter run can be inspected,
maintained and calibrated without service interruption. This should include proper
valving and pipe connections relative to the type of calibration equipment to be used.
Consideration should be given to prevent inadvertent bypassing of the meter.
7.9 - Additional Installation Requirements
7.9.1 - The meter and meter piping should be adequately supported and installed so as to
minimize strain on the meter body due to pipeline stresses.
7.9.2 - A concentric alignment of the companion pipe flanges with the meter inlet and outlet
connections should be obtained. This concentric alignment will eliminate any appreciable
effect on meter uncertainty that might be caused by an offset in the internal diameters
that may occur in some installations.
7.9.3 - A gasket protrusion into the bore or flow pattern at the meter connections is not
permitted.
7.9.4 - The roughness of the interior pipe surface should not be greater than the roughness of
commercial quality pipe. The surface shall be free of rust or scale. The flange I.D. should
correspond with the nominal meter body I.D.. Welds on piping at the meter inlet and
outlet should be ground to the I.D. of the pipe.
7.9.5 - Installations where liquid can be encountered should be designed to prevent liquid
accumulation in the meter and meter run.
7.9.6 - No welding should be done in the immediate area of the meter to prevent
possible internal meter damage.
7.9.7 Liquid Error
Free liquid entrained in the gas stream can cause error in measurement. This liquid will
pass through the metering module, causing a temporary slowdown of the rotor blade.
Liquid collecting either upstream and/or downstream of a turbine meter may cause
metering errors. If liquid collection devices are installed, location of such device relative
to the turbine meter should meet the guideline provided in the “Installation
Specifications. In addition, the presents of liquid creates problems in determining the
relative density (specific gravity) of the gas, which is needed to accurately determine the
compressibility factor.
7.9.8 Flow Rate Control

A turbine meter is a velocity meter, and its mechanical or electronic output renders a
totalized volume for a given time period. If the meter is used to control flow rate, it is
necessary to install equipment that has the capability of determining the flow rate and
transmitting a corresponding signal to a controller/control valve loop.
7.9.9 Reverse Flow

Where reverse flow conditions are to be encountered, special valving is necessary to allow the gas
to flow in the same direction through the turbine meter, unless the turbine meter is recommended
for bi-directional flow.
28
7.10 - Accessory Installation - Accessory devices used to either convert uncorrected (actual) volume to base.
conditions or for recording operating parameters must be properly installed and their connections made as
specified herein.
7.10.1 - Density Measurement In the use of densitometers, while it is desirable to sample the gas
as close as possible to the rotor conditions, care must be exercised not to disturb the
meter inlet flow or to create an unmetered bypass. Densitometers should be installed
downstream of the turbine meter. References should be made to manuals on the various
densitometers for further information.
7.10.2 - Accessory Devices Accessory devices and instrumentation such as meter driven chart
recorders or devices to convert uncorrected (actual) volume to base conditions must be
properly installed and maintained. Such devices must not create excess torque loads on
the turbine meter which could increase measurement uncertainty at low flow rates.
Accessory devices should not significantly affect the spin time of the turbine meter.
(Refer to Section 9.3.4)
SECTION 8 – VOLUMETRIC and MASS FLOW MEASUREMENT
8.1 - Equations for Calculating Volumetric Flow
8.1.1 - The turbine meter is a velocity measuring device. It depends upon the flow of gas to
cause the meter rotor to turn at a speed proportional to the flow rate. Rotor revolutions
are counted mechanically or electrically, and can be converted to a continuously totalized
volumetric registration. Since the registered volume is at flowing pressure and
temperature conditions, it must be corrected to the specified base conditions for billing
purposes. The index of the turbine meter indicates volume at flowing conditions so this
value must be corrected to the base conditions.
The basic gas law relationship is expressed as follows:
(P f) (Vf) = (Z f) (N) (R) (T f) For Flowing Conditions Eq (12)
and
(Pb) (Vb) -(Zb) (N) (R) (Tb) For Base Conditions Eq (13)
Where P = Absolute pressure

V = Volume
Z = Compressibility
N = Number of moles of gas
T = Absolute Temperature
R = Universal gas constant
Subscripts f = Flowing conditions

29
b = Base Conditions
Since R is a constant for the gas regardless of pressure and temperature, and for the same number
of moles of gas N, the two equations can be combined to yield:
Ã Pf Ô Ã Tb Ô Ã Zb Ô
Vb ? V f Ä ÕÄ ÕÄ Õ Eq (14)
ÄP ÕÄT ÕÄ Z f Õ
Å b ÖÅ f ÖÅ Ö
8.1.2 - Flow Rate at Flowing Conditions
Vf
Qf ? Eq (15)
t
Where Q f = Flow rate at flowing conditions

Vf = Volume timed at flowing conditions
= Counter difference on mechanical drive output
1
= Total pulses · · METER FACTOR on electrical pulse output
K
t = Time
K = K-Factor, pulses per cubic foot
A meter factor is a dimensionless term obtained by dividing the actual volume of gas passed
through the meter (as measured by a prover during proving) by the corresponding meter indicated
volume. For subsequent metering operations, the throughput or actual measured volume is
determined by multiplying the indicated volume registered by the meter times the meter factor.
8.1.3 - Flow Rate at Base Conditions
Ã Pf Ô Ã Tb Ô Ã Zb Ô
Qb ? Q f Ä ÕÄ ÕÄ Õ Eq (16)
ÄP ÕÄT ÕÄ Z f Õ
Å b ÖÅ f ÖÅ Ö
8.1.4 - Pressure Multiplier

Pf
Pressure Multiplier ? Eq (17)
Pb
Where P f = pf + Pa
p f = Static gauge pressure, psig
Pa = Atmospheric pressure, psia
Pb = Base pressure, psia
30
8.1.5 -Temperature Multiplier
Tb
Temperature Multiplier ? Eq (18)
Tf
Where Tb = Base Temperature °R

Tf = Flowing Temperature °R
Absolute temperature, °R = °F + 459.67°
8.1.6 - Compressibility Multiplier

Zb
Compressibility Multiplier ? Eq (19)
Zf
Where Zb = Compressibility at base conditions

Z f = Compressibility at flowing conditions
The compressibility multiplier can be evaluated from the supercompressibility factor F pv, as
follows:
Zb
? (F pv ) 2 Eq (20)
Zf
Where natural gas mixtures are being measured, compressibility values may be determined from
the latest edition of A.G.A. Transmission Measurement Committee Report No. 8 “Compressibility
Factors of Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon Gases” or as specified in contracts or
tariffs or as mutually agreed to by both parties.
8.2 - Equation for Calculating Mass Flow
8.2.1 - Mass flow measurement can be employed to arrive at base volume (Vb) or base volume
flow rate (Qb) through the use of a turbine meter and densitometer. Gas density at
flowing conditions may be determined by an on-line densitometer. The density
measurement should be corrected for the estimated difference between the density at the
turbine rotor and the conditions at the densitometer. Refer to the manufacturer’s manuals.
The mass or mass rate of flow is simply defined as:
W = (Vf) (tf) Eq (21)
Where w = Total mass through meter

V f = Total volume through meter
" t f = Density of flowing gas
and
31
w = (Qf) (tf)) Eq (22)
Where w = Mass rate of flow through meter

Q f = Volume rate of flow (actual or index)
t f = Density of flowing gas
Since the mass or mass rate of flow at flowing conditions equals the mass at base conditions it can
be stated that:
(Vb ) ( b ) ? (V f ) ( f ) Eq (23)
f
(Vb ) ? (V f ) Eq (24)
b
or
f
(Qb ) ? (Q f ) Eq (25)
b
The above equations show that the base volume (Vb) or base volume flow rate (Qb) can be
calculated by knowing the density of the fluid at both flowing and base conditions without the
need to measure the flowing pressure (pf ) or the flowing temperature (T f ) and calculating the
compressibility multiplier. As an alternate to using a densitometer to determine the base density
b Gr
( b) ? 2.69881 Eq (26)
Tb Z b (AIR)
(tb) , a gravitometer can be used. The equation is as follows:
Where: Pb = Base or contract absolute pressure

Tb = Base or contract absolute temperature
Gr = Real gas relative density (specific gravity) at base or contract pressure and
temperature
Zb (AIR) = Compressibility of dry air at base or contract pressure and temperature—
0.999590 at 14.73 psia and 60°F.
SECTION 9. FIELD CHECKS
9.1 – General
9..1.1.1 In addition to sound design and installation procedures, turbine meter performance is
dependent on good maintenance and regular inspections. Since turbine meters have
moving parts, an inspection, testing, and maintenance program should be established.
The frequency of maintenance is dependent on the flowing gas conditions, station
operation and/or contract requirements. Meters that operate under dirty flowing gas
conditions will require more frequent inspections. Some dual rotor turbine meters have
output readings that can be used for periodic or continuous checking. These readings can
32
be used to determine the need for maintenance or inspection thus avoiding unnecessary
labor investment and downtime. Additionally, the flowing gas condition will influence
the oiling frequency for lubricated turbines. The operation of a turbine meter is such that
changes in the performance can be detected by visual inspection of the internal
mechanism, by spin time test and by checking the meter’s accuracy near the minimum
recommended flow rates. A full range accuracy check assures the meter’s performance
throughout its range.
9..1.1.2 A turbine meter can also be field checked by either another meter in series or a check
rotor in tandem with the metering rotor in a two-rotor turbine meter. In the case of two
meters in series, the check meter (a turbine meter or other suitable meter) must be
installed relative to the field meter so that there is no effect on either meter’s performance
by the presence of the check meter. The effects of flowing pressure and temperature on
both meters must be considered along with the accuracy of the check meter at operating
conditions. In the case of the two-rotor turbine meter, the check rotor is placed
immediately downstream of the metering rotor, and both rotors are calibrated as an
integral meter. Field checking can then be achieved by comparing the ratio of these two
rotor outputs at field conditions with that at calibration conditions.
9.3 - Visual Inspection
9.3.1.1 A visual inspection of flow conditioners, upstream and downstream piping and the internal
meter mechanism or module should be performed to insure there is no accumulation of
debris, particularly in flow passage area, drains, breather holes, and lubrication systems. An
internal mechanism inspection normally can be accomplished by removing the measuring
module from the meter body. If the mechanism is not removable, the entire meter may be
removed from the meter run, or a boroscope may be used. The closures on the ends of the
run may be removed or opened for internal inspection of the piping.
9.3.1.2 The internal inspection of the measuring module consists of examining the rotor for damaged
or missing blades, accumulation of solids, erosion or other damage that would affect rotor
balance and blade configuration. Dirt or foreign material must not be permitted to
accumulate on or around the rotor blades. When a meter is disassembled for any purpose, the
mechanism should be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt or foreign material. Meters in
operation can often yield information by the noise they generate or by vibrations felt through
the body. If the meter has severe vibration, it usually indicates damage, which has
unbalanced the rotor. This condition will lead to complete rotor failure. Rotor rubbing and
deteriorated bearings can often be heard at relatively low flow rates where such noises are not
masked by normal flow noise. Also inspection should be made to insure that gaskets are
properly aligned, and that flow conditioners are free of obstructions.
9.4 Cleaning and Oiling
9.4.1 The manufacturer's recommendations should be followed concerning oiling of new meters prior to
service start-up and then periodically during service. Frequency of oiling is dependent upon the
quality of the gas and operating conditions. The severity of the service will determine the
frequency of oiling. Meters operating at high flow rates, high flowing temperatures or metering
gas containing solids, liquids or other contaminants may require more frequent oiling or bearing
replacement than those metering relatively clean gas at low flow rates. Monthly oiling is the
generally recommended starting frequency. Excessive oil can cause additional drag resulting in a
temporary decrease in spin time. Inadequate oil can cause friction and wear in the bearing and
result in bearing failure. The two main rotor bearings operate at a high rpm. Because of this,
many turbine meters have provisions for externally oiling the rotor shaft bearings. Various
methods may be available to accomplish the lubrication. A pressurized system provides a positive
pressure in excess of the operating line pressure (i.e. manual pump gun). This insures positive
oiling and flushing of the rotor shaft bearings. A gravity method should be used in the absence of
a pressure system. Points other than the rotor shaft bearings may require periodic oil as
recommended by the manufacturer.
33
When a meter is disassembled, the mechanism should be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt or
foreign material. Additionally, oil should be added through the outside oil fitting and a visual
check made to be certain that oil is flowing freely to both main bearings.
Turbine meters intended for use as transfer master meters or for laboratory controlled comparison
testing may not require oiling prior to service. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be
followed in these cases.
9.5- Spin Time Test – General
9.5.1 The spin time test indicates the relative level of mechanical friction in the meter. A spin time test
should not be construed as equivalent to a calibration check. Increased mechanical friction, as
indicated by a reduction in spin time, can result in degradation of meter performance and lower
accuracy, especially at low flow rates. As mechanical friction increases, the potential for bearing
or other component failure increases thus resulting in a loss of measurement data. Spin time is not
indicative of overall meter performance or meter accuracy. Conditions such as damage or wear to
the rotor and internal components, debris or foreign material build up in the flow passage area and
on the housing surfaces, damage to the internal housing, etc. can impact the meter’s accuracy with
minimal impact to the spin time. Therefore, spin time tests are not intended to take the place of
periodic verification of the meter’s accuracy.
9.5.2 The usual cause for a decrease in spin time is increased friction in the rotor shaft bearings, gear
train assemblies and accessory or readout devices. It is recommended that the first spin time test
be conducted with the internal mechanism completely assembled except for index or recording
gauges. This will not only check the main rotor bearings, but will also check the other bearings
and gearing for friction in mechanical drive meters. If spin times are less than those
recommended by the manufacturer, the tests should be repeated at various levels of disassembly
until the source of the abnormal friction is determined. Cleaning or oiling the bearings or
replacing the bearings may bring the spin time back to an acceptable value. Minor repairs,
cleaning or replacement of component(s) may be required. Bearings, shafts, magnetic coupling
assemblies or gearing may be replaced on some meters without affecting the turbine meter's
accuracy. Consult the manufacturer for specific recommendations. Qualified personnel must
make any repairs. A spin time test must be performed after repairs or component replacement and
an acceptable spin time obtained before placing the meter back in service. The manufacturer
provides spin times for individual meters and the meter at various stages of disassembly.
9.5.3 When accessory devices (index, integrating gauge, pulse generators, etc.) are installed, care
should be taken to assure that no excess friction has been introduced. The preferred method of
determining the torque load present would be to perform the spin time test with accessory devices
in place. If the resulting spin time is not within the manufacturer's specified range the accessory
devices should be removed, the spin test repeated and the problem area identified and corrected.
Initially and periodically, a spin time test should be performed with spin times noted to ascertain
the mechanical freeness of the module complete with accessory devices.
9.5.4 Spin tests should be repeated at least three times and the average time taken. Conditions that
affect the spin time are: heavily oiled bearings, bearing deterioration, low ambient temperature,
drafts, and attached accessories.
9.5.5 After oiling, the meter should be operated for several minutes to throw off excess oil from the
bearings before performing a spin time test.
9.5.6 When a meter that has been idle for a long period of time fails to meet the manufacturer's
specified minimum spin time; it should be oiled and then operated for several minutes before
repeating the spin test. A subsequent spin time test failure may require a systematic disassembly
with spin tests at various stages to identify the problem.
9.6 - Standard Spin Time Test
34
9.6.1 The typical procedure for performing a spin time test is to remove the mechanism/module from
the meter body. The mechanism must be placed in a draft-free environment with the mechanism
supported in its normal operating position. The rotor is set in rotation manually or by a jet of air.
The rotation is to be in the same direction as under flowing conditions. The rotor is timed from
the initial rotation until it stops rotating. When the rotor is set in motion by a jet of air, care
should be taken to avoid rotating the rotor to a very high speed. The initial decay of the rotation is
rapid, Fig. XXX however significant time may be added if the rotor is turned at exceptionally high
speeds. Manual spinning of the blade should be compared to manual spinning and jetting should
be compared to jetting.
Figure XXX - Typical Decay Curve for Turbine Meter Spin Time
9.7 - Inline Spin Time Test
9.7.1 The spin test may also be performed with the internal mechanism in the meter body. This method
requires observing the rotor from either the upstream or downstream meter run end closure. Care
must be exercised to assure that the meter run shutoff valves do not leak. Leakage of the valves
and/or drafts in the meter run will affect the spin time. Care must also be exercised when rotating
the turbine rotor. Low-pressure gas from a hose or tubing (not the meter run shutoff valves)
should be used to rotate the turbine rotor in the same direction as under flowing conditions. A
bypass can be installed around the meter run shutoff valves for this purpose. Since gas is vented,
this method shall not be used on turbine meters installed in an enclosed area or building.
9.7.2 When using the inline method, the spin time may be longer that the minimum time as
recommended by the manufacturer. Therefore a baseline spin time should be established when
the meter is installed in its meter run. Subsequent spin time tests should be compared to the
baseline value under comparable conditions.
9.7.3 A spin time that is significantly less than the baseline spin down time indicates that the condition
of the meter may have deteriorated and that the meter should be removed from the meter run,
inspected, and necessary repairs made to assure the meter is performing acceptably or replaced.
35
SECTION 10. COMPUTING FLOW
10.1 Meter Index Reading

When computing total volume from the turbine meter index, two index readings are taken over a period of
time as defined by the contract; e.g., one reading at the first of the month and the second reading at the end
of the month. The first reading is subtracted from the last reading to obtain the uncorrected volume
measuring during the month.
Example:
999999 Reading end of month
-111111 Reading first of month
888888 Volume measured (Uncorrected) during month
If the smallest unit of volume that can be read from the index is greater than one cubic foot, e.g., 10, 100, 1000, etc.,
then the difference of the two readings must be multiplied by the smallest volume unit shown on the index.
Example:
Last digit shown on the index is in hundreds of cubic feet.
55555 Reading end of month
-22222 Reading first of month
33333 Difference
x 100 Index multiplier
3333300 Total volume measured (Uncorrected)
10.2 Meter Calibration Factor

The calibration factor for the electrical output of a turbine meter, generally referred to as a "K" factor, is a
number representing the quantity of pulses per unit volume of flow at line conditions, i.e., pulses/ACF of
gas that flows through the meter as determined during calibration. Measurement accuracy can be improved
by programming a flow computer to curve fit or linearize the turbine meter’s K-factor calibration curve.
For mechanical output meters, a calibration factor is set by choosing "change gears" that make each meter
output shaft revolution represent a definite volume, e.g., 100 or 1000 cubic feet at flowing conditions. For
electronic output meters, the calibration factor is set as an electronic multiplier.
10.3 General Flow Formula

The turbine meter is a velocity sensing device. It depends upon the flow of gas to cause the meter rotor to
turn at a speed directly proportional to the flow rate. Rotor revolutions are counted mechanically or
electrically and converted to a continuously totalized volumetric registration. Since the registered volume
is at flowing pressure and temperature conditions (actual volume (ACF) or actual cubic feet), it must be
corrected to specified base conditions (standard volume (SCF) or standard cubic feet) for billing purposes.
Specific gravity enters into the volume calculation only as a variable for determining the compressibility
factor.
36
10.4 Volume Readout Devices
A turbine meter measures gas quantities in volume units at the conditions of pressure and temperature
under line conditions at the meter. These volume units must be converted to equivalent volumes at some
base or contract condition of pressure and temperature. This can be done in one of several available
methods.
10.5 Electronic Computation

Turbine meters utilizing electronic output measure volumes that may be converted to base conditions by
using electronic temperature and pressure transducers in conjunction with electronic computers, thus
giving corrected volumes for billing and/or telemetering.
10.6 Mechanical Integrating Devices

Through the use of specially designed mechanisms, these instruments apply a pressure or combined
pressure and compressibility factor to the metered gas volume correcting it to base pressure. With an
additional mechanism, the instrument applies the temperature factor to that gas volume, correcting it to the
base temperature.
10.7 Pressure Volume and Temperature Recording Devices

Various types of recording devices are available to record pressure, temperature, and uncorrected volume
units as they exist at the meter so that calculations can be made to correct to base conditions.
37

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This manual is the property of AGA and is part of its process for revising the previous manual.

This document or any of its parts shall not be

DRAFT 6 – August 2002

Measurement of Natural Gas

TRANSMISSION MEASUREMENT COMMITTEE

A FLOYD 6th DRAFT AUGUST 2002

1.2 PRINCIPLE OF MEASUREMENT

5.1 TURNDOWN RATIO

5.3 INFLUENCE AND DISTURBANCE FACTORS

5.4 CALCULATION OF ERROR

5.5 METER FACTOR

5.6 METER BODY INTERCHANGEABILITY

6. INDIVIDUAL METER TESTING REQUIREMENTS

8. VOLUME AND MASS FLOW MEASUREMENT

11. COMPUTING FLOW

SPECIFICATIONS FOR TURBINE METERS

Reference meter: A meter (or test facility) of known accuracy.

Repeatability: The largest spread of errors of a given meter when several

3.0 OPERATING CONDITIONS

3.3 TEMPERATURES, GAS AND AMBIENT

3.4 GAS FLOW CONSIDERATIONS

3.5 UPSTREAM PIPING AND FLOW PROFILES

4.0 METER REQUIREMENTS

4.1.1 -The turbine meter consists of three basic components:

4.1.1.1 - The body

4.1.1.2 - The measuring mechanism

4.2 - Single Rotor Turbine Meters

Figure 1: Single Rotor Turbine Meter

Figure 1-A: Single Rotor Electronic Turbine Meter

Figure 1-B. Low Torque Turbine Meter

4.3 Dual-Rotor Turbine Meters

4.4 Design, Composition, and Construction

4.4.5 A pressure tap shall be located on the meter body.

4.5 Meter Accuracy

Figure 1-C: Independent Tandem Turbine Rotors separated by Flow Guides

Figure 1-D: Dual-Rotor Turbine with Fluid Coupled Sensing Rotor

Figure 1-E: Fluid-Coupled Counter-Rotating Second Turbine Rotor

Figure 1-F: Dual-Rotor Turbine with Friction Reducing Slave Rotor

5.1.1 For High Pressure Applications > (TBD) Psig

Rangeability: 10% to Qmax

5.1.2 For Low Pressure Application < (TBD) Psig to MAOP

Rangeability: 20% to Qmax

Turbine Meter Performance Specification MPE

Turbine Meter Performance Specification MPE

5.3 Influence and disturbance factors

Error (%) = (volume at test meter - volume at reference meter) x 100

The meter factor B 1 = Total true volume or K-factor

The final meter factor shall be calculated as follows:

As an option the final meter factor = 100 ÷ (100 + FWME)

Linearity of a meter can be calculated using the K-factor:

5.6 FWME is an optional method of applying correction factors to a measurement.

The FWME shall be calculated as follows:

5.7 Meter body interchangeability

6.0 Individual Meter Testing Requirements

6.1 Leakage Tests

6.2 Meter Calibration

6.2.1 Test Result/Reports

6.2.2 Retesting Requirements

7.1 Installation and Use

7.1.4 - Thermometer Well Location

7.1.5 - Pressure Tap Location

7.1.6 - Meter Piping Alignment.

7.1.7 - Hydrate Formation and Liquid Slugs.