Global Water FL16 Submersible Flow Logger
| Brand | Global Water |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | FL16 |
| Price Range | USD 2,700 – 13,500 (based on configuration and accessories) |
Overview
The Global Water FL16 Submersible Flow Logger is a self-powered, high-reliability data logger engineered for continuous, long-term monitoring of open-channel flow in gravity-fed liquid systems. It operates on the principle of hydrostatic pressure measurement combined with temperature-compensated ultrasonic or pressure-based velocity profiling—depending on sensor configuration—to derive real-time water depth, temperature, flow velocity, and volumetric flow rate. Designed specifically for non-pressurized, partially filled conduits—including storm sewers, sanitary sewers, irrigation ditches, weirs, flumes, and rectangular channels—the FL16 eliminates the need for intrusive installation or confined-space entry. Its wet-wet differential pressure transducer architecture ensures stable performance under variable backpressure and submerged conditions, while integrated barometric compensation corrects for atmospheric fluctuations that would otherwise introduce systematic error in depth-derived flow calculations.
Key Features
- Self-contained operation powered by dual 9V alkaline batteries with redundant circuitry; onboard lithium backup preserves memory and time-stamped data during battery replacement
- Sub-millimeter depth resolution with ceramic diaphragm wet-wet pressure sensor capable of accurate measurement at depths as low as 12.7 mm (0.5 in), enabling deployment in shallow sumps, manholes, and constrained infrastructure
- Full environmental sealing: marine-grade epoxy encapsulation of all electronics; O-ring–sealed housing rated to IP68 (submersible to 10 m for indefinite periods)
- Automatic temperature and barometric pressure compensation algorithms embedded in firmware to maintain accuracy across seasonal and diurnal ambient shifts
- Configurable logging intervals (1 minute to 24 hours), programmable start/stop triggers, user-defined alarm thresholds, and engineering unit selection (e.g., L/s, m³/h, gpm, ft³/s)
- Two hardware variants: FL16-U (USB 2.0 interface) for direct PC connectivity; FL16-S (RS-232 serial interface) optimized for Windows CE–based PDAs and rugged field tablets
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The FL16 is validated for use in municipal wastewater collection systems, stormwater runoff monitoring networks, agricultural drainage channels, and environmental compliance reporting applications. It complies with standard methodologies referenced in ASTM D5430 (Standard Practice for Measurement of Open-Channel Flow Using Palmer-Bowlus Flumes), ISO 4064 (Water meters for cold potable water), and US EPA Method 1604 for flow-weighted sampling. While not certified to IEC 61508 or SIL standards, its robust mechanical design and fail-safe power architecture support deployment in Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations when installed within approved enclosures. All firmware and calibration routines adhere to GLP principles, with full audit trails available via software export for regulatory review.
Software & Data Management
The included FL16 Desktop Software (Windows 98–11 compatible) provides end-to-end workflow control—from site configuration to post-processing analysis. It implements the Manning equation for open-channel flow estimation and includes preloaded hydraulic coefficients for over 40 standardized flumes and weirs (e.g., Palmer-Bowlus, Parshall, Palmer, Palmer-McCormick, V-notch). Users may define custom stage-discharge relationships via editable lookup tables. Real-time telemetry mode enables live parameter verification and in-field recalibration. Data exports are generated in CSV format with ISO 8601 timestamps, compatible with Excel, MATLAB, Python pandas, and SCADA historian systems. The software supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic signatures when used with validated IT infrastructure and documented procedures.
Applications
- Inflow and infiltration (I&I) studies in aging sewer infrastructure
- Stormwater quantity and timing analysis for MS4 permit compliance
- Wastewater flow balancing across lift stations and treatment plant influent lines
- Surface water discharge monitoring at NPDES outfalls
- Irrigation canal efficiency audits and water loss quantification
- Hydrological research in ephemeral streams and intermittent channels
FAQ
Does the FL16 require venting or a reference tube to atmosphere?
No—the FL16 uses a wet-wet differential pressure sensor where both sides of the diaphragm are exposed to process fluid; no vent tube is needed, eliminating drift from moisture ingress or clogging.
Can the FL16 be deployed in pressurized pipes?
No—it is designed exclusively for gravity-flow, open-channel or partially filled conduit applications. Pressurized pipe flow requires a different sensor architecture (e.g., electromagnetic or ultrasonic transit-time).
Is Bluetooth communication natively supported?
Not built-in—but optional AK1500 Bluetooth adapter connects via the RS-232 port and enables wireless PDA communication without cables; powered independently via 9V battery.
How is calibration traceability maintained?
Each unit ships with NIST-traceable calibration certificate; field recalibration is performed using known depth benchmarks and velocity profiles, with all adjustments logged and timestamped in non-volatile memory.
What is the maximum data storage capacity?
Up to 81,920 timestamped records (depth, temperature, calculated velocity, and derived flow), stored in circular buffer memory with overwrite protection for critical events.
