Mapua University

School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

ME139L-3

Mechanical Engineering Laboratory 1

Experiment #9

CALIBRATION OF WATER TANK, WATER METER AND ORIFICE

MAGTAJAS, Carlo Jose R. July 17, 2024

2018130207 July 24, 2024

ME139L-3/B5

Group # 4

Redentor R. Payumo
Instructor
 ABSTRACT
Volume tanks and water meters come in various sizes and use devices like floats and gage-glasses

to measure liquid levels. Large tanks include components such as gage glass scales and

inflow/outflow pipes and are often calibrated using water due to its stable density. Accurate

calibration involves measuring the water’s volume, weight, and height to ensure precision, detect

errors, and maintain consistency. Water meters, used for billing and resource management,

measure water volume with mechanisms that can be mechanical or electronic. Types include

positive displacement, velocity, and advanced meters like electromagnetic or ultrasonic.

Calibrating water meters ensures accurate billing, precise measurements, error prevention,

extended lifespan, and effective water resource management. Proper calibration also helps detect

leaks and prevent losses, ensuring reliable and dependable measurements.

Keywords: density, volume, water meter, specific weight

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Objectives 1

Theories and Principles 1

List of Apparatus 3

Procedure 5

Set-up of Apparatus 6

Final Data Sheet 7

Sample Solutions 8

Test Data Analysis 8

Literature Review 9

Questions with Answers 11

Conclusion 12

Recommendation 12

References 13

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OBJECTIVES
1. To determine the volume tank in reference to theoretical procedures.

2. To determine the weight of water in tank based on its temperature.

THEORIES AND PRINCIPLES

Volume tanks vary in size from large storage tanks to small, graduated cylinders. They use

various devices, like floats and gage-glasses, to measure liquid levels. Large tanks typically have

components such as a gage glass scale, weight scale, outflow pipe, and an inflow pipe. For

calibration, liquid water is commonly used due to its fixed density under consistent temperature

and low pressure. The weight of water in the tank can be determined by calculating its volume and

density, then comparing this theoretical weight with actual measurements. Alternatively, the

weight of water can be measured directly and compared with the expected theoretical weight based

on its volume.

A water meter measures the volume of water passing through a system for purposes such

as billing and resource management. It includes a measuring mechanism, display, housing, and

connection ports. Types of water meters include positive displacement meters, velocity meters,

and advanced electromagnetic or ultrasonic meters, each using different methods to track water

flow accurately.

Water meter calibration is essential for ensuring accurate billing, maintaining measurement

precision, preventing errors, extending the meter’s lifespan, and supporting effective water

resource management. Accurate calibration ensures reliable data and optimal meter performance.

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The following equations will be used in this experiment:

1. Density of water
𝑃𝑤 = 𝑀𝑤 /𝑉𝑤
𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒: 𝑀𝑤 = 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑘
𝑉𝑤 = 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑘

2. Specific weight of water. = 𝑤𝑤 /𝑉𝑤

𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒: 𝑊𝑤 = 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑘

3. Also,
𝑃𝑤 = 𝑡𝑤 /𝑈𝑤
𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒: 𝑈𝑤 = 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟
𝑡𝑤 = 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒

Note:
A. For English and Metric Units
𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑠 "𝑀𝑤 " = 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 "𝑀𝑤 "
𝑙𝑏 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 = 𝑙𝑏 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 = 𝑙𝑏
𝑘𝑔 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 = 𝑘𝑔 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 = 𝑘𝑔
Therefore,
𝐷𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦 = 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡

𝑙𝑏 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑙𝑏 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 𝑙𝑏
= =
𝑓𝑡 3 𝑓𝑡 3 𝑓𝑡 3

𝑘𝑔 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑘𝑔 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒 𝑘𝑔
3
= = 3
𝑚 𝑚3 𝑚

For Water Density

62.4 𝑙𝑏 𝑘𝑔
= = 1000
𝑓𝑡 3 𝑚3
B. For SI Units

𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑠 "Mw " = kg ; weight "Mw " = 𝑁

Density = kg/𝑚3

For Water: Density = 1000 kg/𝑚3 = 9.81 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3

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LIST OF APPARATUS
1. Steel Drum – used for storing the water during the experiment

Figure 1) Steel Drum

2. Platform Balance – used to weight the water tank

Figure 2. Platform Balance

3. Set of counterweights - an object that is used to balance both sides to get the mass of an

object if the object exceeded the range of the analog platform balance.

Figure 3. Counterweights

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4. Water meter – used to read the volume of water.

Figure 4. Water Meter

5. Meter Stick - used to determine the height of water inside the tank, the height and radius

of the water tank.

Figure 5. Meter Stick

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PROCEDURES

A.

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SETUP OF APPARATUS

A.) Setup for Calibration of Water Tank, Water Meter

Figure 6. Setup for Figure 7. Setup for

getting the weight of filling the steel drum
the water inside the with water using hose.
drum

Figure 8. Setup for

measuring the height
of the water inside the
drum

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FINAL DATA SHEET

Table 1.By Measurement

By Measurement(cm)
trial Initial Rdg. Final Rdg Actual Height Volume(L)
1 0 1.5 2.03 5
2 1.5 5.5 6.09 15

3 5.5 10 10.15 25
4 10 18 18.27 45
5 18 29.5 30.45 75
6 29.5 48.6 50.75 125

Table 2. By Water meter

By Water Meter
trial Initial Rdg.(L) Final Rdg(L) Reading(L)
1 3087 3092 5
2 3092 3102 10
3 3102 3112 10
4 3112 3132 20
5 3132 312 30
6 3162 3212 50

Table 3. By Weight
By Weight
Initial Final Actual
trial Volume(L)
Rdg.(kg) Rdg(kg) Height(cm)
1 21.4 25.6 1.71 4.2
2 25.6 35.6 5.77 14.2
3 35.6 44.4 9.34 23
4 44.4 63.8 17.21 42.4
5 63.8 93 29.07 71.6
6 93 145.2 50.26 123.8

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SAMPLE COMPUTATIONS

1000𝑐𝑚3
𝐿 5𝐿×
1𝐿
By measurement: 𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 = 𝜋𝑟 2 = ( ) = 2.03𝑐𝑚
𝜋×28𝑐𝑚2

𝐿
By Weight: 𝑚𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 = 25.6𝑘𝑔 − 21.4𝑘𝑔 = 4.2𝑘𝑔 × 1 𝑘𝑔 = 4.2𝐿

1000𝑐𝑚3
𝐿 4.2𝐿×
1𝐿
𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 = 𝜋𝑟 2 = ( ) = 1.71𝑐𝑚
𝜋×28𝑐𝑚2

TEST DATA ANALYSIS

Table 1 represents the data gathered from measuring the height of water by using meter

stick. As shown in table 1 there is a discrepancy between the final height reading and the actual

height reading. The unevenness of the ground where the platform balance is placed is one of the

factors since the surface is not flat and the other is the measurement of the metric ruler itself since

there are instances that the ruler isn’t in 90 degrees. Table 2 is direct reading through the water

meter. The data gathered shows that the desired volume to be added per trial is the same when

subtracting the initial and final reading of the water meeting which in turn shows that the water

meter used is calibrated. Table 3 represents the data gathered from measuring the weight of the

water since mass obtained from the platform balance can be used to get the volume of water which

in turn can be used to get the actual height of the water. Overall, finding the weight during the

calibration of water tanks and meters is crucial for verifying accuracy, adjusting calibration

settings, detecting errors, and ensuring consistency. It helps ensure that the devices provided are

precise and reliable measurements.

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LITERATURE REVIEW

In Situ Calibration of Large Water Meters (Johnson E.H,1999)

The article discusses the importance of calibrating large water meters directly at their

installation sites to ensure accurate water measurements, which are crucial for effective water

resource management and billing. In situ calibration, which involves testing and adjusting meters

in their actual locations, accounts for specific installation conditions that can affect meter accuracy.

The article outlines techniques such as using portable calibration devices and reference meters,

and stresses the need for proper procedures and regular calibration intervals. It also discusses

challenges like accessibility and minimizing operational disruptions, offering solutions through

advanced equipment and strategies. Case studies in the article demonstrate how in situ calibration

improves measurement accuracy and operational efficiency, ultimately enhancing the reliability

of water management systems.

Key Factors Affecting Water Meter Accuracy (Aregui F. et.al,2005)

The study examines the various elements that influence the precision of water meter

readings, which are essential for efficient water management and accurate billing. Key factors

include proper installation, which ensures meters are correctly aligned and positioned to avoid

errors; water quality, where sediments and impurities can impair performance; and flow rate, with

meters needing to operate within specific ranges for accuracy. Additionally, meter age and wear

can degrade performance over time, necessitating regular calibration and maintenance.

Environmental conditions such as temperature and pressure also affect readings, emphasizing the

need for meters designed to withstand these factors. Technological advancements, particularly

electronic and ultrasonic meters, offer improved accuracy and reliability. By addressing these

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factors, water utilities can enhance meter accuracy, leading to better resource management and

customer satisfaction.

Addressing Water Meter Inaccuracies Caused by Intermittent Water Supply: A Laboratory

Investigation of Remedial Measures (Ferrante M. et.al, 2023)

The article focuses on the challenges of water meter accuracy in intermittent water supply

systems, which are common in developing countries. The study highlights that air flow through

water meters during supply interruptions causes over-reading, impacting their reliability. Through

laboratory tests using a realistic setup, the authors assess the effectiveness of unmeasured-flow

reducer (UFR) and air release (AR) valves in mitigating these inaccuracies. The findings show that

these devices, particularly when combined, can significantly reduce over-reading by controlling

air flow and pressure during pipe filling. The study's practical implications suggest that

implementing UFR and AR valves can improve water meter accuracy and reliability in intermittent

supply systems, thus enhancing overall water distribution management.

Water density formulations and their effect on gravimetric water meter calibration and

measurement uncertainties (Koech R., 2015)

The study investigates how variations in water density impact the calibration and accuracy

of gravimetric water meters. The author highlights those discrepancies in water density—due to

factors such as temperature, pressure, and dissolved substances—pose significant challenges for

accurate meter calibration. These variations can lead to measurement uncertainties, affecting the

reliability of water meter readings. The study emphasizes the importance of using standardized

and precise water density formulations to improve calibration accuracy and minimize errors.

Overall, the article underscores the critical role of accurate density data in enhancing the precision

of water meter measurements.

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Calibration Method of Current Meters (Camnasio E. et.al,2010)

The article discusses about calibrating current meters, which are essential for measuring

fluid flow in various applications. The article also describe a detailed calibration method that

involves both theoretical and experimental components to ensure the accuracy and reliability of

current meters. It emphasize the importance of using precise calibration techniques to account for

factors such as flow rate variations, meter sensitivity, and environmental conditions. The study

outlines a systematic procedure that includes setting up calibration rigs, conducting controlled flow

experiments, and analyzing the data to adjust meter reading. It also discusses the challenges and

potential sources of error in the calibration process, offering solutions to mitigate these issues. The

method aims to enhance the accuracy of current meters and improve measurement consistency

across different conditions and applications.

QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

1. Why is it important to calibrate water meter?

- Calibrating water meters is important for ensuring accurate measurements, fair billing,

effective resource management, and reliable data collection. It helps prevent errors,

extends the meter’s lifespan, and supports efficient water usage.

2. What are the factors that can cause inaccuracy during water meter reading?

- Inaccuracies in water meter readings can arise from temperature and pressure

variations, flow rate changes, meter wear and tear, improper installation, water quality

issues, calibration errors, and electrical or software malfunctions. Addressing these

factors through maintenance and proper calibration is essential for accurate

measurements.

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 3. What is the importance of measuring water level?

- Measuring water levels is essential for effective water resource management, flood

prediction and control, infrastructure maintenance, environmental protection, and

hydrological research. Accurate measurements help manage water supplies, predict and

mitigate floods, ensure safe operation of infrastructure, protect aquatic ecosystems, and

provide valuable data for scientific studies.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, getting the volume, weight and height of the water is important in calibration

of water tanks and water meter. Measuring the height of the water is crucial for calibrating water

tanks and meters because it helps calculate the accurate water volume, ensures precise calibration,

maintains measurement consistency, and helps detect errors. Determining the weight during the

calibration of water tanks and meters is essential for confirming accuracy, fine-tuning calibration

settings, identifying errors, and maintaining consistency. This process ensures that the devices

deliver accurate and dependable measurements. Lastly calibration of water tank and water meter

is important to see if there are any leaks present to avoid further losses.

RECOMMENDATION

In conducting the experiment, make sure that the placement of the platform balance is

placed on leveled ground. Also, for measuring the height of the water find a spot where you think

the water is leveled. Lastly, make sure to regularly check the water meter reading per trial.

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REFERENCE

Koech, R. (2015). Water density formulations and their effect on gravimetric water meter

calibration and measurement uncertainties. Flow Measurement and Instrumentation, 45, 188–197.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.flowmeasinst.2015.06.009

Camnasio, E., & Orsi, E. (2011). Calibration method of current meters. Journal of Hydraulic

Engineering, 137(3), 386–392. https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)hy.1943-7900.0000311

Ferrante, M., Rogers, D., Mugabi, J., & Casinini, F. (2023). Addressing water meter inaccuracies

caused by intermittent water supply: A laboratory investigation of remedial measures. Water

Resources Management, 37(10), 3921–3933. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11269-023-03532-x

Key factors affecting water meter accuracy | MCAST. (n.d.-c). https://www.mcast.edu.mt/wp

content/uploads/KEYFACTORSAFFECTINGWATERMETERACCURACY.pdf

In situ calibration of large water meters. (n.d.-c). https://www.wrc.org.za/wp-

content/uploads/mdocs/871-1-98.pdf

Authored by:

Carlo Jose R. Magtajas

Supervised by:

Redentor R. Payumo

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