Water Meter is a device used to measure the volume of water that passes through a pipe or any other water distribution system. It is an essential tool for water utilities to track and measure the water usage by their customers. Water meters are usually installed at the point of entry into a building or facility, where the water supply is connected to the main water line. They come in various types and sizes, depending on the application and the flow rate of the water.
There are two main types of water meters - positive displacement meters and velocity meters. Positive displacement meters measure the water flow by counting the number of times a chamber or a piston is filled and emptied. Velocity meters measure the water flow by calculating the velocity of the water and the cross-sectional area of the pipe. Velocity meters include turbine meters, electromagnetic meters, and ultrasonic meters.
Water meters are typically made of materials such as brass, bronze, or plastic, and they come in different sizes ranging from 1/2 inch to 12 inches in diameter. They can be equipped with various features such as remote reading, leak detection, and tamper-proofing.
Water meters are crucial for water conservation efforts and for billing purposes. They help water utilities to monitor and manage their water supply, detect leaks, and accurately bill their customers based on their water usage.