Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

Operating Manual

Document Ref: 001813a

Date: February 2019

This document was prepared by the staff of Valeport Limited, the Company, and is the property of the
Company, which also owns the copyright therein. All rights conferred by the law of the copyright and by
virtue of international copyright conventions are reserved to the Company. This document must not be
copied, reprinted or reproduced in any material form, either wholly or in part, and the contents of this
document, and any method or technique available therefrom, must not be disclosed to any other person
whatsoever without the prior written consent of the Company.

Valeport Limited
Tel: +44 1803 869292
St Peters Quay
e mail: [email protected] | [email protected]
Totnes
Web: www.valeport.co.uk
Devon, TQ9 5EW

United Kingdom
As part of our policy of continuous development, we reserve the right to alter, without prior notice, all
specifications, designs, prices and conditions of supply for all our equipment.
Table of Contents

Table of Contents
1. EU Declaration
.....................................................................................................................................
of Conformity - CE Marking 4
2. Design
.....................................................................................................................................
& Configuration 6
2.1. Basic Design .................................................................................................................................... 6
2.2. Operational Use
.................................................................................................................................... 6
3. Assembly
.....................................................................................................................................
Instructions 7
3.1. Wading Set .................................................................................................................................... 7
3.2. Suspension Set.................................................................................................................................... 7
4. Maintenance
.....................................................................................................................................
Instructions 8
4.1. To replace an Impeller
.................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1.1 To remove Impeller
.................................................................................................................................... 8
4.1.2 To replace Impeller
.................................................................................................................................... 8
4.2. To Replace an ....................................................................................................................................
Impeller Shaft 9
4.3. To Replace a Reed
....................................................................................................................................
Switch Assembly 9
4.4. To Test the Free
....................................................................................................................................
Running of the Impeller Assembly 9
5. Operation
.....................................................................................................................................
with 0012B Control Display Unit 10
5.1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.1 Physical Specification
.................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.2 Connectors.................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1.3 Measurement Methods
.................................................................................................................................... 11
6. Operation
..................................................................................................................................... 13
6.1. Switch On .................................................................................................................................... 13
6.2. Running the Model
....................................................................................................................................
0012B 13
6.3. Setting Up Running
....................................................................................................................................
Mode 15
6.4. Changing Sampling
....................................................................................................................................
Period 16
6.5. Options Menu.................................................................................................................................... 17
6.6. Logging Menu.................................................................................................................................... 18
6.6.1 Change Date\Time
.................................................................................................................................... 19
6.6.2 Viewing Stored Data
.................................................................................................................................... 19
6.6.3 Extracting ....................................................................................................................................
Data 20
6.7. User Calibration
....................................................................................................................................
Coefficients 21
6.8. Reading Calibration
....................................................................................................................................
Coefficients 21
6.9. Setting Calibration
....................................................................................................................................
Coefficients 22

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 Table of Contents

6.9.1 General Control Codes #000 - #014

.................................................................................................................................... 23
6.9.2 Table 1: Calibration Function Numbers and Meaning
.................................................................................................................................... 23
6.9.3 How to Program Calibration Coefficients.
.................................................................................................................................... 24
7. Current
.....................................................................................................................................
Flow Meter Spares 26
7.1. Gauging Accessories
.................................................................................................................................... 27
8. Figures
..................................................................................................................................... 28
8.1. Figure 1 - Sectional
....................................................................................................................................
Diagram BFM001 28
8.2. Figure 2 - BFM001
....................................................................................................................................
Impeller Shaft Setting 29
8.3. Figure 3 - Sectional
....................................................................................................................................
Dagram of BFM002 30
8.4. Figure 4 - BFM002
....................................................................................................................................
Impeller Shaft Setting 31
8.5. Figure 5 - Reed
....................................................................................................................................
Switch Assembly 32
9. Appendices
..................................................................................................................................... 33
9.1. APPENDIX 1 - ....................................................................................................................................
GROUP CALIBRATION OF THE 8011 SERIES IMPELLER 33
9.1.1 A1.1 - Definition
.................................................................................................................................... 33
9.1.2 A1.2 - Application
.................................................................................................................................... 33
9.1.3 A1.3 - Recognition
.................................................................................................................................... 33
9.1.4 A1.4 - Rating Equations and Table
.................................................................................................................................... 33
9.1.5 A1.5 - Reliability
.................................................................................................................................... 34
9.1.6 A1.6 - Individual Calibration
.................................................................................................................................... 34
9.1.7 A1.7 - Further Details
.................................................................................................................................... 34
9.2. APPENDIX 2 -....................................................................................................................................
GROUP CALIBRATION OF THE 1178 SERIES IMPELLER 35
9.2.1 A2.1Summary
.................................................................................................................................... 35
9.2.2 A2.2Method and Result of Group Calibration
.................................................................................................................................... 36

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

1. EU Declaration of Conformity - CE Marking

© 2019 Valeport Ltd Page 4

 EU Declaration of Conformity - CE Marking

Please note: Any changes or modifications to the product or accessories supplied, that are not authorised by
Valeport Ltd, could void the CE compliance of the product and negate your authority to operate it. This
product has demonstrated CE compliance under conditions that include the use of shielded cables. It is
important that you use shielded cables compliant with the product’s conformance, to protect from potential
damage and reduce the possibility of interference to other electronic devices.

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

2. Design & Configuration

The Valeport "Braystoke" BFM001 and BFM002 Current Flow Meters have been designed to withstand long
periods of operation underwater and to need little maintenance with as few moving parts as possible. They
are designed to accurately measure water velocity in open channels with flows varying from 0.03 m/s to 10
m/s (BFM001), or 0.05m/s to 5m/s (BFM002). The calibration of the meters is based upon Group Calibrations
carried out by HR Wallingford to standards established by the British Standards Institution.

The Flow Meters are available with both Wading and Suspension Sets to allow the equipment to be employed
in a wide variety of applications.

2.1. Basic Design

Refer to Figure 1 (BFM001) 28 and Figure 3 (BFM002) 30 .

The basic principle of the Meter is to open and close a reed switch by rotating magnets around it, to open
and close a circuit producing a pulse. The pulse count is displayed on one of the liquid crystal displays in the
Control Unit. A bias magnet fitted into the meter hub produces a strong magnetic field and allows only one
pulse per impeller revolution. The only moving part of the Meter is the neutrally buoyant impeller, which
houses the magnets. The bearings fitted to this impeller are made from PTFE plastic and are water lubricated.
Since the impeller has very little weight in water, the load on the bearings is negligible. The impeller and hub
incorporate an anti-weed system that prevents weed entangling around the impeller shaft. Once the chamber
around the impeller shaft and bore have filled with water, very little or no silt will enter the bearings.

2.2. Operational Use

The Meter may be used in two different ways according to operational requirements, and equipment
supplied:

A. Wading - where the water depth permits, the operator may use the Meter clamped to the wading rods,
wading across the river or stream and making velocity measurements at the required intervals and depths.
The centimetre markings on the wading rods permit the Meter to be accurately positioned at the required
height in the water column, and also to establish the total water depth to enable profile depths to be
calculated.

B. Suspension - in deeper water the Meter may be suspended from a cable over a bridge or parapet to make
the required velocity measurements.

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 Assembly Instructions

3. Assembly Instructions
3.1. Wading Set
To assemble:

i. Remove wading rods from case and screw together.

ii. Screw rods into base.
iii.Remove suspension pin from Meter, and slide Meter on to rods, setting at required position.
iv. Screw on direction knob, adjusting Meter so that the impeller points in the direction indicated by the
arrow/dot on the direction knob. This makes operation of the unit easier when the Meter cannot be seen
in murky water.
v. Clip the wading signal cable into the Meter (see Figure 1) and plug the jack connector into the Control
Unit.
vi. Ensure that the battery is connected inside the Control Unit and the Meter is now ready for use.

Refer to Section Operational Use 6 to learn how to operate the meter and control unit.

3.2. Suspension Set

To assemble:

i. Remove wading rod locking screw from the Meter body and screw in tailfin.
ii. Remove suspension pin, slide suspension bar through the Meter and set the bar at the
required height using the suspension pin.
iii. Clip the suspension cable to the top end of the suspension bar using the stainless steel
shackle provided, and clip the reed switch assembly into the Meter.
iv. If a Columbus Sinker Weight is being used, attach this to the bottom of the suspension
bar.
v. Plug the jack connector into the Control Unit, ensure the battery is connected inside the
Control Unit and the Meter is ready for use.

Note: The Balance Weight on the tailfin is pre-set for use in fresh water. The Meter should be suspended in
the water to be gauged and a check made that the Meter lies horizontally. The balance of the unit may be
adjusted by moving the balance weight on the tailfin, using the Allen key provided.

Refer to Section Operational Use 6 to learn how to operate the meter and control unit.

Non-Valeport Control Units

It is advised that if the revolution counter being used is not of Valeport origin, no more than 5 milliamps
are passed through the reed switch, to avoid damage. Valeport cannot accept responsibility for damage
incurred when using non-Valeport Control Units.

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 001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

4. Maintenance Instructions
The BFM001 and 002 Flow Meters have been designed to require minimum maintenance under normal
operating conditions. The Control Unit and wading/suspension cables should require no maintenance other
than routine inspection and cleaning. It is recommended that the Flow Meter itself is thoroughly washed and
cleaned in fresh water after each deployment. If the unit has been used in silt-laden water, the impeller should
be removed and the impeller bearings and shaft also washed in clean water. This will significantly extend the
life of the impeller and shaft.
On no account should a sharp instrument be used in the cleaning process. For extreme conditions,
particularly where there are metallic particles in suspension, impellers with extended skirts are available.
Before repacking into the carrying cases, all items should be completely dried to prevent any tarnishing of the
equipment whilst in transit or storage. Instructions are detailed below for routine maintenance procedures:

4.1. To replace an Impeller

Refer to Figure 1 (BFM001) 28 and Figure 3 (BFM002) 30 .

4.1.1. To remove Impeller

i. Unscrew the nose cone of the impeller anticlockwise to remove.
ii. With a 3mm spanner, hold the nut nearest to the washer, and with another spanner release the other nut.
iii. Remove both nuts, washer and impeller.
iv. Clean the hub face and the impeller shaft to remove any silt or dirt.
v. Check the wear condition of the shaft to ensure the bearing areas are clean and smooth.

Note: If there is significant wear on the shaft, it should be replaced.

4.1.2. To replace Impeller
i. Stand the meter down on its end face with the shaft pointing upwards, and replace impeller with the nose
cone fitted.
ii. Unscrew the nose cone to allow the impeller to rest against the main body hub face.
iii. Hold the impeller down against the hub face and slowly screw down the nose cone until it begins to lift
the impeller away from the hub face.
iv. Check that the clearance between the nose cone and the impeller end face is within tolerance (0.5 to 0.75
mm, 0.02 to 0.03 in). If the distance is outside this range, then the shaft will need to be adjusted.
v. Remove the nose cone and fit the washer and nuts supplied, setting the gap between the washer and
front hub of the impeller to 1.5 mm (0.062 in).
vi. Replace nose cone, checking gap as in item iv. Finger tight only is sufficient; undue force may cause
damage.

At no time should any lubricant be applied to the shaft or bearings. The only lubrication needed is given
by the water the unit is used in.

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 Maintenance Instructions

4.2. To Replace an Impeller Shaft

Refer to Figures 2 (BFM001) 29 and Figure 4 (BFM002) 31 .

i. Remove the impeller as described above.

ii. With a ring spanner, unscrew anti-clockwise the shaft lock nut and remove the shaft.
iii. Clean main body hub face to remove any silt or dirt.
iv. With a little Loctite applied to the shaft thread, replace the shaft and tighten the lock nut to give the initial
setting of the point of the shaft to the main body hub face.
v. Refit the impeller as described above, and check that the tolerances are correct.
vi. If shaft length requires adjusting, remove impeller, slacken lock nut, adjust shaft accordingly and re-
tighten.
vii. Finally, check that pulses are being received by the Control Unit.

4.3. To Replace a Reed Switch Assembly

Refer to Figure 5 - Reed Switch Assembly 32 .

i. Hold reed switch adapter (cable end), unscrew the housing in an anticlockwise direction. If it is tight, a pair
of pliers may be used, but great care should be taken.
ii. When fitting the replacement reed switch assembly, ensure that the 'O' ring is clean and in position.

4.4. To Test the Free Running of the Impeller

Assembly
i. Stand the Meter on a flat surface with the impeller pointing vertically.
ii. Spin the impeller by hand and observe it slowing down. The time to stop is unimportant, but is normally
about 20 seconds.
iii. The impeller should stop spinning smoothly with no jerking being observed.
iv. When it stops, a slight tap on the flat surface will allow the impeller to rotate slightly until the magnets
come into line.

Note: The above condition applies when the unit is dry and in perfect condition. If the impeller stops
spinning suddenly or fails to spin smoothly, the impeller shaft may be bent or the clearances may require
adjustment (see Figures 2 29 /Figure 4 31 ).

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

5. Operation with 0012B Control Display Unit

5.1. Introduction
The Valeport Model 0012B Impeller Current Display Unit is a Real Time Speed display unit, offering user
selectable measurement of pulse against time averaging (moving, fixed or free running) for all contact closure
current meters, including those of other manufacturers. The 0012B contains calibration details for the
Valeport meters BFM001, 002, 004, 007 and 050, and allows calibration coefficients for 4 other meters to be
programmed in. User specific names for other meter calibrations can also be entered for ease of user
identification.

The 0012B also calculates standard deviation of the measured average data, battery low indicator and
optional . A logging facility is also optional, with a solid state memory providing 100 records.

5.1.1. Physical Specification

Size: 244mm (L) x 163mm (H) x 94mm (W)

Weight: 2kg

Material: Moulded ABS Plastic

Sealed: IP67 (10 seconds at 0.3 metres)

Strap: Adjustable Shoulder Strap

Power: 8 'C' cells, providing life of approximately 400 hours (100 hours with backlight)

Temperature: Operating range, -5 to +50°C.

5.1.2. Connectors
Jack Plug: For connection to existing Valeport current meters

4-Way Mil Spec: RS 232 connection for PC. Input for loading of calibration data and output of real
time averages or stored data (if logging option is fitted).

Pressure Valve: Passive waterproof pressure equalising valve, to compensate for changes in
temperature.

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 Operation with 0012B Control Display Unit

5.1.3. Measurement Methods

5.1.3.1. Average Data
The average rates and speeds are computed as follows:

In TIME mode:
The number of whole pulses measured / average time set in seconds

In PULSE mode:
The number of pulses set / measured elapsed time for the pulses

If an average period is terminated early, then the calculation is carried out as follows:

In TIME and PULSE mode:

The number of whole pulses completed / elapsed time for the pulses [measured to 0.001 secs]

5.1.3.2. Real Time Data

The REAL TIME rate and speed are calculated from the time for one pulse, resolved to 0.0001 secs.

In TIME mode, the real time is calculated and displayed every second.

In PULSE mode, the real time is calculated every pulse but the display is only updated every 0.5 seconds
[approx.].

5.1.3.3. Standard Deviation

The STANDARD DEVIATION [SD] is calculated from real time samples taken during the averaging period
(once per second in TIME mode or once per pulse in PULSE mode).

5.1.3.4. Averaging Modes

5.1.3.4.1 Fixed Average
The unit performs one average, on a time or pulse basis. At the end of the average period the unit stops and
displays the average and SD, and will commence another averaging period when requested by pressing
START.

5.1.3.4.2 Free Running Average

This is fixed average with automatic restart of average at the end of each period. The average and SD from
the previous period are displayed and held during the subsequent period, until updated.

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

5.1.3.4.3 Moving Average

The average and SD are calculated over the last period [pulses or time as set], and is updated every second or
pulse as appropriate. In TIME mode the display update is every second, but in PULSE mode the fastest display
update is about every 0.5 secs, although the calculation may be done more quickly. When STOP is selected,
the display is frozen at the last average that has been computed.

5.1.3.4.4 Stop Average

If the measurement period is terminated prematurely (by pressing the STOP key), the average values and
standard deviation will be calculated from the last measurement parameter (pulses in PULSE mode, seconds in
TIME mode).

5.1.3.5. Data Output

In fixed average a data string of average data is outputted at the end of averaging period.

In moving average the last saved average is outputted when the user presses the STOP key.

In free running mode the data is outputted at the end of each fixed average period and when the user
presses the STOP key.

The data string includes meter type, rev/sec, speed, standard deviation, pulses, time.

© 2019 Valeport Ltd Page 12

 Operation

6. Operation
6.1. Switch On
ON Switch unit On using ON button. This is acknowledged by a beep from the unit.
This key is also used to toggle the unit Off at any point during operation.
Switching the unit On causes the following display to appear:

I M P E L L E R C U R R E N T M E T E R D IS P L A Y M E T E R

V A L E P O R T MO D E L 0 0 1 2 B

V E R S I O N 3 . 0 0

< < < O P T I O N S S E T U P C O N T I N U E > > >

OPTIONS SET-UP This key selects the OPTIONS SETUP menu, which allows the user to set up
various hardware configurations (Logging On/Off [optional], Beeper On/Off and
Backlight On/Off [optional]). This menu also allows access to the USER
CALIBRATION menu, and to the LOGGING SETUP menu. For further information
refer to Section: Options Menu 17

CONTINUE Places the unit in Run Mode. See Section: Running the Model 0012B 13

6.2. Running the Model 0012B

Pressing CONTINUE at the title screen, or pressing EXIT at any of the OPTION SET-UP screens (see Section:
Options Menu 17 ) reveals one of the six possible displays shown below, depending on what mode the unit
was in when last used.

DISPLAY 1: FIXED AVERAGE, USER SET TIME DISPLAY:

DISPLAY 2: FIXED AVERAGE, USER SET PULSE COUNT DISPLAY:

DISPLAY 3: MOVING AVERAGE, USER SET TIME DISPLAY:

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

DISPLAY 4: MOVING AVERAGE, USER SET PULSE COUNT DISPLAY:

DISPLAY 5: FREE RUNNING, TIME DISPLAY:

DISPLAY 6: FREE RUNNING, PULSE COUNT DISPLAY:

An explanation of the different averaging modes can be found in section: Measurement Methods 11

SETUP Press this key to alter current sampling regime. See Section: Setting Up Running Mode 15 .

START Unit will begin sampling in mode currently set. The real time data will be displayed at the
bottom of the screen, and a count of either pulses or seconds displayed at the top. If the
unit is in logging mode, the current record number will be displayed at the top right hand
side of the screen. If the data interface lead is connected, the end of average values will
also be sent to the PC.

STOP Press to cease sampling. This will force an early end to an averaging period

LOW BATT When there is 10 hours of battery life remaining (with backlight), this message will be
displayed at the bottom right hand corner of the screen (see DISPLAY 1 for an example).
The message will remain until batteries are replaced

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 Operation

6.3. Setting Up Running Mode

Selecting SET-UP in the Run Menu reveals the following display.

A further example screen is shown below.

M/SEC FT/SEC Toggles between measuring the Speed in metres and feet per second.

FIXED MOVING Toggles the averaging mode between the three states. Refer to Section:
FREE Measurement Methods 11 for further details.

PULSES TIME Toggles the averaging period counting mode between pulses and seconds.

CHANGE Allows access to the CHANGE SAMPLING menu, which enables the user to alter the
number of seconds or pulses in the averaging period. See Section: Changing
Sampling Period 16 .

METER The type of meter currently selected is displayed here. Toggle between the available
meters by pressing the key. Pre-programmed meters available are the BFM001, 002,
004 (19mm), 004 (28mm), 007 & 050. For details of how to program the calibration
details of another meter, refer to Section: Options Menu 17 .

ACCEPT When the sampling regime is correctly set up, press this key to return to the RUN
menu (Section: Running the Model 0012B 13 ).

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

6.4. Changing Sampling Period

Selecting CHANGE in the Sampling Set-up screen reveals one of the following displays, depending on
whether pulses or seconds have been selected for the sampling regime.

INCR DECR Toggles between increasing and decreasing the number of seconds/pulses when the
relevant key is pressed.

100'S Changes the number of 100's of pulses/seconds in the averaging period.

10'S Changes the number of 10's of pulses/seconds in the averaging period.

1's Changes the number of 1's of pulses/seconds in the averaging period.

EXIT Returns to the RUN MENU SETUP screen.

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 Operation

6.5. Options Menu

Pressing OPTIONS SET-UP at the Title Screen reveals the following display.
O P T I O N S M E N U
< < < L O G G I N G Y E S / N O L O G G I N G M E N U > > >

< < < B E E P E R O N / O F F U S E R C A L > > >

< < < B A C K L I G H T O N / O F F E X I T > > >

LOGGING YES/NO Optional. If fitted, this key switches the logging facility On and Off. Up to 100 records
may be stored.
BEEPER ON/OFF Toggles audible acknowledgment of pulses On and Off.
BACKLIGHT ON/OFF Optional. If backlight is fitted, this key toggles it On and Off. Refer to Section:
Physical Specification 10 for details of battery life with and without backlight.
LOGGING MENU Allows access to LOGGING MENU (if option fitted). This enables the user to view or
erase stored data, to extract it to a PC (via data interface lead), and to set the unit date
and time. Proceed to Section: Logging Menu 18
USER CAL Allows access to USER CALIBRATION MENU. This enables the user to read or input
their own calibration coefficients or impeller name. Proceed to Section: User
Calibration Coefficients 21
EXIT Puts the unit into Run Mode, using the hardware configurations selected (see Section:
Running the Model 0012B 13 ).

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

6.6. Logging Menu

Selecting LOGGING MENU at the OPTIONS MENU reveals the following display.
L O G G I N G M E N U
< < < S E T D A T E / T I M E E X T R A C T D A T A > > >

< < < R E S E T # I D E N T E R A S E M E M O R Y > > >

< < < V I E W D A T A E X I T > > >

SET DATE/TIME Allows access to the CHANGE DATE/TIME screen. This allows the user to alter the
unit's internal clock, for the purpose of correctly time stamping the recorded data.
See Section: Change Date\Time 19

RESET #IDENT Sets the memory pointer to record #1. The next record that is logged will be #1,
replacing what was stored there before.

VIEW DATA Allows user to see logged data. See Section: Viewing Stored Data 19

EXTRACT DATA Allows user to upload stored data to a PC. See Section: Extracting Data 20

ERASE MEMORY Clears all stored data from the unit. A screen will appear, requesting confirmation that
the user wishes to erase memory. Press YES to continue, or EXIT to return to
LOGGING MENU. If YES is pressed, a message will confirm that memory has been
erased. Press EXIT to return to LOGGING MENU.

EXIT Returns user to OPTIONS MENU. Refer to Section: Options Menu 17

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 Operation

6.6.1. Change Date\Time

Selecting SET DATE/TIME at the LOGGING MENU reveals the following display.
C H A N G E D A T E / T I M E
< < < N E X T I N C R E A S E > > >

T I M E : H H : M M D E C R E A S E > > >

D A T E : D D / M M / Y Y Y Y

E X I T > > >

INCREASE Increases the currently selected number by 1.

DECREASE Decreases the currently selected number by 1.

NEXT Selects the next number in the time/date sequence.

EXIT Returns user to LOGGING MENU. Refer to Section: Logging Menu 18

6.6.2. Viewing Stored Data

Selecting VIEW DATA at the LOGGING MENU reveals a display similar to that shown below. If no data has
been stored, the message NO DATA STORED will be displayed.
# I D E N T 1 2
I M P E L L E R T Y P E 0 0 2 U P > > >
U N I T S M E T R E S
R U N M O D E F I X E D A V E R A G E T I M E D O WN > > >
3 1 / 1 2/ 1 9 9 9 2 3: 5 9: 5 9

< < < V I E W E X I T > > >

The display shows the record number, impeller type, units in which velocity is measured (metres or feet per
second), run mode, and time at which the record was stored.

UP Toggles the record to be viewed up by one.

DOWN Toggles the record to be viewed down by one

EXIT Returns to the LOGGING MENU. Refer to Section: Logging Menu 18

VIEW Allows user to view the record currently selected. A display of the format shown
below will be seen. Press EXIT on this screen to return to the VIEW DATA screen,
allowing another record to be seen.

# I D E N T X X
r e v / s e c X X . X X
s p e e d X . X X X
s t d d e v X . X X X
p u l s e s X X X X
t i m e X X X . X
E X I T > > >

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

6.6.3. Extracting Data

Selecting EXTRACT DATA at the LOGGING MENU reveals the following display.
E X T R A C T D A T A
U P L O A D > > >

P L E A S E C O N N E C T P C

E X I T > > >

Connect the unit to a PC via the data interface lead supplied. Run a terminal emulation program on the PC,
ensuring that communications are correctly set to 4800 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity bits. If the data
should be saved, make sure that the data is directed to a file name. It is uploaded as a text file, so can be
read into a word processor or spreadsheet application.

UPLOAD Begins to upload data to PC. Screens similar to those shown below will appear

EXIT Returns to LOGGING MENU. Refer to Section: Logging Menu 18

U P L O A D I N G D A T A

# I D E N T X X

When data uploading is finished, the following screen appears, showing the #IDENT of the last record to be
uploaded.
F I N I S H E D U P L O A D I N G D A T A

# I D E N T X X

E X I T > > >

EXIT Returns to LOGGING MENU. Refer to Section: Logging Menu 18

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 Operation

6.7. User Calibration Coefficients

Selecting USER CAL at the OPTIONS MENU reveals the following display.

S E T U S E R C A L > > >

R E A D U S E R C A L > > >

E X I T > > >

READ USER CAL Allows the user to read the name and calibration coefficients of the currently selected
impeller. Proceed to Section: Reading Calibration Coefficients 21

SET USER CAL Allows the user to install the name and calibration coefficients of a new meter. See
Section: Setting Calibration Coefficients 22

EXIT Puts the unit into Run Mode. Refer to Section: Running the Model 0012B 13

6.8. Reading Calibration Coefficients

Selecting READ USER CAL reveals the calibration data of the meter currently selected in the sample mode.
The format of the screen depends on the type of calibration used. Below are examples of LINE FIT and
POLYNOMIAL FIT displays.
L I N E F I T I M P E L L E R T Y P E
S L O P E 1 O F F S E T 1
E N D 1 S L O P E 2
O F F S E T 2 E N D 2
S L O P E 3 O F F S E T 3
E N D 3 S L O P E 4
O F F S E T 4 E N D 4 E X I T > > >

P O L Y N O M I A L F I T I M P E L L E R T Y P E
C O E F F 7 C O E F F 6
C O E F F 5 C O E F F 4
C O E F F 3 C O E F F 2
C O E F F 1 C O E F F 0

E X I T > > >

EXIT Puts the unit into Run Mode. Refer to Section: Running the Model 0012B 13

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6.9. Setting Calibration Coefficients

Selecting SET USER CAL reveals the following display.
P L E A S E C O N N E C T E X T E R N A L P C

Connect a PC to the Model 0012B using the data interface lead.

Using a terminal emulation program, program in the required calibration coefficients using the control codes
and format detailed below:

NOTE The Model 0012B will not be able to display speed data if the pulse output from the impeller exceeds
50Hz. The operating ranges of all Valeport impellers fall well within this, but if inputting calibration data for a
different meter, check that the expected pulse frequency is below 50Hz. If a larger frequency is anticipated,
contact Valeport Limited.

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 Operation

6.9.1. General Control Codes #000 - #014

Code Followed By space Operation Access

and
#000 Exit calibration set-up mode All

#001 New calibration OTHER 1 IMPELLER All

string<cr> Changes calibration to New_calibration string sent must be to
the required format using spaces as separators

#002 New calibration OTHER 2 IMPELLER All

string<cr> Changes calibration to New_calibration string sent must be to
the required format using spaces as separators
#003 New calibration OTHER 3 IMPELLER All
string<cr> Changes calibration to New_calibration string sent must be to
the required format using spaces as separators
#004 New calibration OTHER 4 IMPELLER All
string<cr> Changes calibration to New_calibration string sent must be to
the required format using spaces as separators

#011 New name OTHER 1 IMPELLER All

string<cr> Changes the name of other 1 impeller from other 1 to new
name string - for ease of user identification.
#012 New name OTHER 2 IMPELLER All
string<cr> Changes the name of other 2 impeller from other 2 to new
name string - for ease of user identification.
#013 New name OTHER 3 IMPELLER All
string<cr> Changes the name of other 3 impeller from other 3 to new
name string - for ease of user identification.

#014 New name OTHER 4 IMPELLER All

string<cr> Changes the name of other 4 impeller from other 4 to new
name string - for ease of user identification.

6.9.2. Table 1: Calibration Function Numbers and Meaning

Calibration Function No. OPERATION DEFINED
0 Not defined NO
1 Straight line fit YES

2 Polynomial fit YES

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6.9.3. How to Program Calibration Coefficients.

First, decide if your calibration is a polynomial equation or a series of straight line fits. For line fits, proceed to
Section: Straight Line Fits 24 . For polynomial fits, proceed to Section: Polynomial Fits 25 .

6.9.3.1. Straight Line Fits.

In a terminal emulation program (for example TERMINAL in Windows), set the communications to 4800 baud,
8 data bits, 1 stop bit, 0 parity bits. Also, check that the correct comms port on the PC is being used. If
necessary, check that the Local Echo is On, or you will not be able to see what you are typing appear on the
screen.

With the 0012B CDU connected to the PC via the interface lead provided, select USER CAL from the OPTIONS
MENU and then SET USER CAL. Check the PC connection.

In the terminal emulation program, the message 'Enter Calibration Data' appears.

The calibration data should then be entered as follows:-

#CODE Ident_number Coefficient1 Offset1 Max_lt1 Coefficient2 Offset2 Max_lt2 Coefficient3 Offset3 Max_lt3
Coefficient4 Offset4 Max_lt4<cr>

where
#CODE = the set calibration function code (from Section: General Control Codes 23

Ident_number = Calibration Function No. For a line fit, this will be 1. (See Table 1 above).

Coefficient = slope of the line.

Offset = the line constant
Max_lt = the end point beyond which the present straight line parameters no longer
operate
All straight line fits are considered to be four line fits, and therefore sufficient coefficients must always be
entered to ensure correct calculation of the calibration factor. For line fits less than four line fits the unused
parameters should be filled in with zeros.
For example, the calibration for the BFM001 is a two straight line fit, with equations:

V = 0.013 + 0.2512n (up to 0.32 revs/sec)

V = 0.008 + 0.2667n (from 0.32 up to 11.28 revs/sec)

where V is velocity in m/s and n is revolutions per second.

To enter this calibration in OTHER3, the following would be typed. Note the space after each number:

#003 1 0.2512 0.013 0.32 0.2667 0.008 11.28 0 0 0 0 0 0

To change the name of the meter, type the correct #CODE followed by the new name (upper and lower cases
are recognised). For example, to change the name from OTHER3 to BFM001, enter:

#013 BFM001

When all required data has been input, enter #000, and the 0012B will automatically return to the Options
Menu.

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 Operation

6.9.3.2. Polynomial Fits.

In a terminal emulation program (for example TERMINAL in Windows), set the communications to 4800 baud,
8 data bits, 1 stop bit, 0 parity bits. Also, check that the correct comms port on the PC is being used. If
necessary, check that the Local Echo is On, or you will not be able to see what you are typing appear on the
screen.

With the 0012B CDU connected to the PC via the interface lead provided, select USER CAL from the OPTIONS
MENU and then SET USER CAL. Check the PC connection.

In the terminal emulation program, the message 'Enter Calibration Data' appears.
The calibration data should then be entered as follows:-

#CODE Ident_number C7 C6 C5 C4 C3 C2 C1 C0<cr>

where

#CODE = the set calibration function code see Section: General Control Codes 23

Ident_number = Calibration Function No. For a polynomial fits, this will be 2. (See Table 1
above).
C<number> = X Coefficient factor

(X7 * C7) +( X6*C6) + (X5 * C5) + (X4 * C4) + (X3 * C3) + (X2 * C2) + (X1 * C1) + C0

All polynomial fits are considered to be seventh order fits (i.e. of the format above), and therefore sufficient
coefficients must always be entered to ensure correct calculation of the calibration factor. For polynomial fits
less than seventh order, the unused parameters should be filled in with zeros.

For example, your calibration equation may be:

V = 0.001n5 + 0.003n4 + 0.6n3 + 7.03n2 + 0.6n +4.1

where V is velocity in m/s and n is revolutions per second.

To enter this calibration in OTHER3, the following would be typed. Note the space after each number:

#003 2 0 0 0.001 0.003 0.6 7.03 0.6 4.1

To change the name of the meter, type the correct #CODE followed by the new name (upper and lower cases
are recognised). For example, to change the name from OTHER3 to BFM001, enter:

#013 BFM001

When all required data has been input, enter #000, and the 0012B will automatically return to the Options
Menu.

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

7. Current Flow Meter Spares

Valeport maintains full spares, service and repair facilities for all its instruments. In the event of spares or
additional items being required, the main sub-assemblies and spare parts are detailed below.
BFM0011 Current meter fitted with 127 mm dia. x 0.27m pitch impeller

BFM0021 Current meter fitted with 50 mm dia. x 0.1m pitch impeller

BFM0012B Real time velocity and revolution counting control unit

BFM0013 Set of 3 stainless steel wading rods, each 0.5m long, graduated in cms with base plate and
direction knob

BFM0014 2m long wading cable fitted with reed switch for BFM001 and jack plug

BFM0024 2m long wading cable fitted with reed switch for BFM002 and jack plug

BFM0016 Current meter tail-fin 0.75m long with balance weight

BFM0017 35m conductor/suspension cable (breaking strain 100 Kg) fitted with reed switch for
BFM001 and jack plug assemblies

BFM0027 35m conductor/suspension cable (breaking strain 100 Kg) fitted with reed switch for
BFM002 and jack plug assemblies

BFM0018 Suspension bar

BFM0010/1 BFM001 impeller

BFM0020/1 BFM002 impeller

BFM0010/2 Impeller shaft for BFM001 c/w nuts and washer

BFM0020/2 Impeller shaft for BFM002 c/w nuts and washer

BFM0010/4 Reed switch assembly for BFM001

BFM0020/4 Reed switch assembly for BFM002

BFM0010/5 Additional wading rod

BFM0015 Carrying case for wading set

BFM0019S2 Carrying case for suspension set

BFM0019S1 Carrying case for wading and suspension set

BFM001/M Operating and instruction manual incl. calibration chart

For spare parts not listed above, please consult the factory. Valeport recommend that all equipment is
returned to the factory for all service or repairs. Please refer to the Guarantee Certificate for our terms
regarding the return of equipment.

© 2019 Valeport Ltd Page 26

 Current Flow Meter Spares

7.1. Gauging Accessories

In addition to the standard "Braystoke" BFM001 and BFM002 Current Flow Meter equipment, Valeport
manufacture a range of accessories to assist with Gauging operations. These accessories include:

SK7 to SK90 Columbus Sinker Weights, 7 to 90 kgs

SK100 Suspension Derrick

SK178S Gauging Winch Fitted with 35m cable and connections for the BFM001/2

SK178L Large Gauging Winch with 100m cable and connections

For full details on these products and Valeport's complete range of hydrological and oceanographic
equipment, please consult the factory.

Page 27 © 2019 Valeport Ltd

© 2019 Valeport Ltd
8. Figures
001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

Reed switch holder assembly Impellor

Main body Bias magnets Fr ont washer

Washer

Jewel

Nose cap

'A' Tip o f sh a ft
8.1. Figure 1 - Sectional Diagram BFM001

Figure 1 - Sectional Diagram BFM001

To r elese r eed switch holder push Hub face Back bush 6 B.A shaft nuts
button 'A' in dir ection of ar r ow
Impellor shaft

Page 28
 Figures

8.2. Figure 2 - BFM001 Impeller Shaft Setting

Dimension fr om tip of shaft to hub face

5.787 ( 147mm)

Impellor shaft
Hub face

Figure 2 - BFM001 Impeller Shaft Setting

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© 2019 Valeport Ltd
001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

REED SWITCH HOLDER ASSEMBLY

IMPELLER
MAIN BODY BIAS MAGNETS HUB FACES FRONT WASHER

3mm SHAFT NUTS

NOSE CAP
A
RELEASE TIP OF SHAFT
IMPELLER
MAGNETS BACK BUSH SHAFT
To release reed switch holder push
button 'A' in direction of arrow

Figure 3 - Sectional Dagram of BFM002

8.3. Figure 3 - Sectional Dagram of BFM002

Page 30
 Figures

8.4. Figure 4 - BFM002 Impeller Shaft Setting

Dime n sio n fr o m tip o f sh a ft to h u b fa ce

Imp e llo r sh a ft
4.00" ( 101.50mm)

Hub face

Figure 4 - BFM002 Impeller Shaft Setting

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

8.5. Figure 5 - Reed Switch Assembly

Signal Cable

Reed switch holder assembly

Figure 5 - Reed Switch Assembly

© 2019 Valeport Ltd Page 32

 Appendices

9. Appendices
9.1. APPENDIX 1 - GROUP CALIBRATION OF THE 8011
SERIES IMPELLER
As fitted to the Valeport "Braystoke" BFM001 Current Flow Meter

9.1.1. A1.1 - Definition

The calibration given here is not that of any individual meter, but one synthesised from tests carried out at
the Hydraulics Research Station, Wallingford, UK in March 1981 on a sample batch of 19 instruments with rod
suspension. The calibration is based upon standards set by the British Standards Institution, BS3680, Part 8A,
1973.

9.1.2. A1.2 - Application

It applies to the BFM001 Meter fitted with the 125 mm (5 inch) diameter impeller, but only those fitted with
the 8011 series impeller, introduced from June 1981. A systematic error would result if the calibration were
applied, incorrectly, to any other type of Valeport meter.

9.1.3. A1.3 - Recognition

The prefix number 8011 is marked on the trailing edge of the impeller blades, together with the individual
serial number of the impeller. The 8011 series may also be recognised by:

i. the blades taper in thickness from root to tip (some earlier meters had blades of uniform thickness).
ii. a 'land' or 'step' about 3mm wide on the impeller hub, forward to the leading edge of the blades (on the
preceding 475 series, the root of the impeller blade leading edge is flush with the forward end of the hub).

9.1.4. A1.4 - Rating Equations and Table

Speed of Rotation, n Speed of Flow, V

(rev/s) (m/s)

Min Max
0.07 0.32 0.013 + 0.2512 n Equation 1
0.32 11.28 0.008 + 0.2667 n Equation 2

Equation 1 extends from 0.031 to 0.093 m/s.

Equation 2 extends from 0.093 to 3.016 m/s.

These equations are evaluated in the attached ready-reference Calibration Chart, which covers the full range
of the general calibration.

Limited tests have shown that the calibration may be extended to about 18 rev/sec (5 m/s) without significant
loss of precision. The Calibration Chart is extended to include flow speeds up to 5 m/s.

The BFM001 may also be used successfully at flow speeds in excess of 5 m/s. The flow speed should be
calculated from the Rating Equation. There may however be a significant variation from the computed flow

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001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

speed and it is recommended that, if the Meter is to be used regularly at flow speeds in excess of 5 m/s, an
individual calibration of the Meter is undertaken.

9.1.5. A1.5 - Reliability

Over most of the flow speed range, above about 0.15 m/s, any particular BFM001 meter with 8011 type
Impeller is expected (at 95 per cent confidence level) to perform within ±1.5 per cent of the indication of the
group calibration. At very low flow speeds, although the uncertainty remains small in absolute terms, it
increases rapidly if considered as a percentage of the flow speed being measured. The following table
illustrates this.

Flow Speed
3.00 2.00 1.00 0.50 0.25 0.15 0.10 0.07 0.03
(m/s)

Uncertainty
0.045 0.023 0.011 0.005 0.004 0.002 0.002 0.003 0.004
(m/s)

% 1.5 1.2 1.1 1.1 1.5 1.4 2.3 4.4 14.0

It is particularly important therefore, not to extrapolate the first equation of the group calibration below the
stated lower limit.

9.1.6. A1.6 - Individual Calibration

If the uncertainty levels shown above are higher than desirable for a particular application of the meter, then
it should be calibrated individually. However, there will still be the unavoidable tolerance which exists with any
calibration process. If the meter is to be used mainly with cable suspension, individual calibration may also be
justified.

9.1.7. A1.7 - Further Details

The method of deriving the group calibration, together with detailed results, is given in Report No. DE53
Calibration B1/2 'Group Calibration for the Braystoke Type BFM001 Current Meter with 8011 Series Impeller
June 1981' of the Hydraulics Research Station, Wallingford, Oxon OX10 8BA, UK.

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 Appendices

9.2. APPENDIX 2 - GROUP CALIBRATION OF THE 1178

SERIES IMPELLER
As fitted to the Valeport "Braystoke" BFM002 Current Flow Meter
9.2.1. A2.1Summary
It is customary to calibrate current meters individually, which is expensive and time consuming. For a family of
physically identical meters a less costly and generally satisfactory alternative is a group calibration. This is
synthesised from the performance of a sample batch or group of meters and indicates the average
performance of the entire family.

The following Group Calibration B2/2 has been derived for the Braystoke type BFM002 current meter with 50
mm impeller, which became available from early 1978. Subsequently, the impellers carried the reference
number 1178. The calibration is based on tests of 20 meters, all on 20 mm diameter rod suspension, in the
meter rating tank at the Hydraulics Research Station over the period June 1976 to February 1982.

Speed of Rotation, n Speed of Flow, V

(rev/s) (m/s)

Min Max
0.26 0.97 0.034 + 0.0991 n Equation 1

0.97 4.71 0.023 + 0.1105 n Equation 2

4.71 27.86 0.039 + 0.1071 n Equation 3

The limiting values of rotation speed correspond to flow speeds of 0.060, 0.130, 0.543 and 3.023 m/s
respectively. The equations are evaluated as a ready reference rating table, see following pages.

The tolerance, or uncertainty, of computed flow speed using the above group calibration compared with the
measured flow speed at the same rotation speed is approximately constant in percentage terms above 0.5
m/s. The value then does not exceed 2.2% at the 95% confidence level. However, at lower speeds the
percentage uncertainty is much greater. In this range it is more realistic to consider the uncertainty in terms of
absolute speed; the value is near constant around 0.01 m/s at speeds between 0.06 and 0.50 m/s.

The current meter should not be used at speeds below about 0.15 m/s if avoidable, due to the wide
uncertainty at low speed.

A Preliminary Group Calibration for the Braystoke BFM002 Current Meter was printed by the former Water
Data Unit of the Department of the Environment as an un-numbered research paper in October 1980. It was
derived from tests of 11 meters. The present report includes 10 of these results supplemented by others from
a further 10 meters; the rating equations given above replace the preliminary group calibration which should
not be used.

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 001813a - Model 001 & 002 Current Meter

9.2.2. A2.2Method and Result of Group Calibration

9.2.2.1. A2.2.1 - Extract From Full Report.
2.11 The minimum and maximum values of rotation speed, within which the equation should be restricted,
had now to be determined. The minimum value represents the minimum response speed of the group
of current meters, which is by definition the limit of predictable low-speed performance. Extrapolation
beyond this point would be unreliable, so it was necessary to choose a conservatively high value of
minimum response speed to allow for the individual meter which may have a particularly high
minimum response speed. For the group of 20 meters tested, the mean value of minimum response
speed was 0.046 m/s, with standard deviation of 0.0046 m/s. The highest value measured was 0.054
m/s. Since the value of (Mean +3 x Standard Deviation), which may be expected to include 99.8% of
all meters, was 0.060 m/s and exceeds the highest measured value, a minimum response speed of
0.060 m/s was accepted. From the relevant equation this flow speed corresponds to a rotation speed
of 0.26 m/s.

2.13 All the meters except three were run to a maximum speed of about 3m/s, the exact value varying from
test to test. However, the choice of an upper limit for the group calibration is less critical than the
lower limit, as a well-designed meter has an extended near-linear performance at higher speeds.
Earlier work with a Braystoke meter showed that if a flow speed at 4.9 m/s was computed from a
rating equation whose upper limit was 2.8 m/s, the result was only 1.1% in error. Hence, the upper
limit of flow speed adopted was chosen, by inspection, to include 95% of the measured values below
it. This limiting value was 3.023 m/s, corresponding to a rotation speed of 27.86 m/s.

In view of the above comments the HRS calibration tables have been extended to include all values of
rotation speeds, from 0.12 to 46.32 corresponding to a range of flow speeds from 0.046 to 5.000 m/s.

9.2.2.2. A2.2.2 - Acknowledgements

The above summary, report extract and following calibration tables are reproduced from HRS Report No.
DE57 (Calibration B2/2), June 1982 with the kind permission of Hydraulics Research Station, Wallingford,
England. For a full detailed description of the group calibration, please refer to this report.

© 2019 Valeport Ltd Page 36