Best Practices:

Field research and testing conducted by Southwest Research in San Antonio, Texas and the Pipeline Gas Compressor Research Council (PCRC)

confirmed that pulsation created by compressors, flow control valves, regulators and some piping configurations may create undesirable levels of Square Root Error (SRE) and/or resulting Gauge Line Error (GLE). Pulsation at the orifice meter is a major source of lost and unaccounted for natural gas. These errors create large economic gains or losses for the buyer and seller along a natural gas pipeline system.

Conclusions determined that Transmitters or Electronic Flow Measurement (EFM) devices should be:

• Close coupled to the orifice taps (within 18 inches [460 mm] – "Rule of Thumb")

• Use equal length, large orifice (0.375 inch [9.5 mm] I.D. or greater), constant diameter gauge lines

• Use Multi-Turn Valves to protect electronics from pressure spikes

Minimize or eliminate Gauge Line Error (GLE): Schneider DirectMount Systems (SDMS) are designed for a safe, efficient method of close coupling EFM’s and transmitters to the orifice fitting, eliminating or reducing the effects of Gauge Line Error.

SDMS are easy to install and available in both Vertical and Horizontal to Vertical Installations.

• SDMS reduces installation cost - No need to manufacture and install tube runs, fittings, and expensive pipe stands

• Reduces potential leak points associated with NPT connections

• Provides a safe compact leak free measurement installation

• Internal porting promotes self draining of condensates and liquids to reduce freezing issues