Cole-Parmer Programmable Ultrasonic Flowmeter Model 05613-65

Overview

The Cole-Parmer Programmable Ultrasonic Flowmeter Model 05613-65 is a non-invasive, transit-time ultrasonic flow measurement system engineered for reliable, maintenance-free monitoring of liquid flow in pipes with internal diameters ranging from 25 mm to 762 mm (1–30 inches). Unlike mechanical or electromagnetic technologies, this device employs dual-sensor ultrasonic transducers mounted externally on the pipe wall—eliminating pressure drop, flow obstruction, and process contamination risks. It operates on the principle of measuring the time differential between upstream and downstream ultrasonic pulse propagation, enabling precise calculation of average axial velocity and volumetric flow rate under varying Reynolds numbers. Designed for industrial, municipal, and laboratory applications where fluid composition may include suspended solids (>100 µm), microbubbles, or moderate viscosity variations, the 05613-65 delivers stable performance without requiring wetted parts calibration or routine sensor cleaning.

Key Features

• Programmable multi-unit display: Velocity in ft/s or m/s; flow rate in gal/min, ft³/s, gal/day, Mgal/day, or L/s; 7-digit totalizer in gal or L
• High-contrast 3.5-digit LCD with 12.7 mm character height—optimized for readability in ambient light or low-illumination environments
• 4–20 mA analog output with configurable scaling, supporting integration into PLCs, SCADA systems, and DCS architectures
• User-adjustable digital filtering and response time (0–99 s) to suppress noise from pump pulsation, turbulence, or variable pipe conditions
• Dual power architecture: Rechargeable NiMH battery (4 h runtime) + universal 230 VAC input—enabling both portable surveying and continuous fixed installation
• Robust enclosure (105 × 184 × 51 mm) with IP65-rated front panel; supplied with mounting couplers, 1 m sensor cable, AC/DC charger, and rugged nylon carry case with shoulder strap

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

This flowmeter is validated for use with clean to moderately challenging liquids—including water, wastewater, glycol solutions, food-grade syrups, and chemical process streams containing particulates ≥100 µm or dispersed gas bubbles. It does not require fluid conductivity, density homogeneity, or laminar flow profiles. While not NIST-certified, its accuracy specification (±2.0 least significant digit) and repeatability (±0.2% FS) are traceable to internal factory verification protocols aligned with ISO 17025 principles. The device meets CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61326-1) and low-voltage safety (EN 61010-1). For regulated environments, its analog output and stable firmware support audit-ready operation under GLP and GMP frameworks when paired with documented calibration procedures and logbook records.

Software & Data Management

The 05613-65 operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded firmware update capability or PC connectivity—intentionally designed for operational simplicity and long-term field reliability. All configuration (unit selection, damping, zero adjustment, output scaling) is performed via intuitive front-panel membrane keys. The 4–20 mA output provides continuous real-time data suitable for connection to third-party data loggers compliant with IEC 62591 (WirelessHART) or Modbus RTU gateways. While the unit itself lacks onboard memory or timestamped logging, its analog signal integrity supports integration into FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant systems when paired with validated acquisition hardware and electronic record management software that enforces audit trails, user authentication, and electronic signatures.

Applications

• Field verification of municipal water distribution network flow rates and leak detection surveys
• Batch monitoring in pharmaceutical clean utilities (PW, WFI return loops) where non-invasive measurement avoids bioburden risk
• Process validation in beverage and dairy production lines handling pulp-containing juices or viscous dairy concentrates
• Environmental compliance reporting for effluent discharge monitoring per EPA Method 1609 or ISO 4064-2
• Energy efficiency audits of chilled water or condensate return systems in commercial HVAC infrastructure
• Educational laboratories demonstrating ultrasonic flow principles without requiring pipe cutting or intrusive instrumentation

FAQ

Is this flowmeter suitable for measuring flow in stainless steel sanitary tubing?
Yes—provided the pipe wall thickness and material acoustic impedance fall within the manufacturer’s specified range (typically ≤12 mm wall thickness for austenitic stainless steels). Couplant gel application and proper transducer alignment are critical for signal coupling.
Can it measure bidirectional flow?
No—the 05613-65 is unidirectional and assumes consistent flow direction during setup. Reverse flow will register as zero or invalid reading.
Does it require periodic recalibration?
Not under stable installation conditions. However, annual verification against a master meter or gravimetric standard is recommended for ISO/IEC 17025-compliant quality systems.
What is the minimum fluid conductivity requirement?
None—ultrasonic transit-time technology is independent of electrical conductivity, making it compatible with deionized water, hydrocarbons, and high-purity solvents.
Is the battery pack replaceable in the field?
Yes—the NiMH battery module is user-serviceable using standard Torx tools; replacement part number is CP-05613-BAT.