The model designation PT878-01 specifically refers to the portable ultrasonic flowmeter electronics unit—the core converter and display component of the complete TransPort PT878 system. This unit is designed to work in conjunction with clamp-on ultrasonic transducers, mounting fixtures, and optional temperature or thickness probes to form a complete field measurement kit. The PT878-01 ships with a soft carrying case and power supply, providing the essential electronics for non-intrusive liquid flow measurement.
Measurement Principle: Correlation Transit-Time Technology
The PT878 employs Panametrics’ patented Correlation Transit-Time ultrasonic technique, a method that measures flow by comparing the transit time of ultrasonic signals traveling upstream versus downstream. When liquid is flowing, the downstream transit time is shorter than the upstream time; the difference is directly proportional to flow velocity, and its sign indicates flow direction. This digital signal processing approach significantly enhances signal-to-noise ratio, enabling accurate measurement in liquids containing entrained solids or gas bubbles—applications where conventional transit-time meters may struggle.
Key Performance Specifications
Parameter Specification
Flow Velocity Range ±12.2 m/s (±40 ft/s), bidirectional
Pipe Size Range 12.7 mm to 7.6 m (0.5 in to 300 in), depending on transducer
Pipe Wall Thickness Up to 76.2 mm (3 in)
Clamp-On Accuracy ±1–2% of reading (pipe ID >150 mm); ±2–5% (pipe ID <150 mm)
Repeatability ±0.1–0.3% of reading
Rangeability 400:1
Accuracy specifications assume a fully developed flow profile, typically requiring straight pipe runs of 10 diameters upstream and 5 diameters downstream, with flow velocity exceeding 0.3 m/s.
Physical and Environmental Characteristics
The PT878-01 electronics unit is housed in a sealed enclosure rated IP67, providing protection against dust ingress and temporary water immersion up to 1 meter. The unit weighs approximately 1.36 kg (3 lb) with dimensions of 238 × 138 × 38 mm, making it suitable for handheld field use. The 240 × 200 pixel backlit LCD graphic display supports both alphanumeric and graphical presentation of flow data, trends, and diagnostic parameters.
The operating temperature range is −20°C to +55°C (−4°F to 131°F), with storage capability from −40°C to +70°C. A 25-key rubberized tactile membrane keypad provides access to menu-driven configuration and data management functions.
Data Logging and Communication
The PT878-01 includes an internal data logger capable of storing more than 100,000 flow data points and up to 32 sets of site parameters. Data transfer to a PC is accomplished via the built-in infrared (IR) communication port, with an optional IR-to-serial or USB adapter available for computers lacking native IR capability. The system is compatible with Panametrics PanaView software for data management and instrument programming.
Power and Battery Operation
The unit operates from an internal rechargeable battery pack providing approximately 9 to 11 hours of continuous operation, depending on usage conditions. The universal battery charger accepts 100–250 VAC, 50/60 Hz input, supporting international deployment. For optimal battery life, charging is recommended within a temperature range of 10°C to 40°C.
Optional Capabilities
Two significant optional functions extend the PT878’s utility:
Pipe Wall Thickness Measurement: A thickness gauge transducer can be connected directly to the transducer ports, allowing pipe wall thickness measurement from the outside of the pipe without a separate instrument. This is critical for clamp-on accuracy, as standard pipe wall thickness can vary by up to 13%.
Energy Flow Measurement: With the energy kit option, matched Pt1000 surface-mount RTDs (30 ft cable) connect to the PT878’s analog inputs, enabling calculation of energy flow rate in heating and cooling systems.
Typical Applications
The PT878 is suited for temporary flow verification, commissioning, and diagnostic measurements across municipal water and wastewater systems, HVAC cooling and heating loops, chemical processing, and oil and gas operations. Its non-intrusive clamp-on design eliminates pressure drop, leakage risk, and process contamination concerns associated with wetted sensors. The instrument is particularly valuable for verifying the accuracy of permanently installed flowmeters and conducting flow surveys without process interruption.
GE Panametrics PT878-01 TransPort Portable Liquid Flowmeter
