SIBATA FC-L1 / FC-M1 Dry-Run Reference Flowmeter for Sampling Pump Calibration
| Origin | Japan |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | FC-L1 / FC-M1 |
| Price Range | USD 4,200 – 7,000 (FOB) |
| Liquid Mass Flow Accuracy | ±3% (FC-L1), ±2% or ±0.003 L/min (whichever is greater) for FC-M1 |
Overview
The SIBATA FC-L1 and FC-M1 are portable, dry-run reference flowmeters engineered specifically for field and laboratory calibration of air and liquid sampling pumps used in environmental monitoring, occupational hygiene, and industrial hygiene applications. Unlike wet-type flowmeters requiring fluid media or complex installation, these units employ a precision differential pressure (ΔP) sensing principle across calibrated laminar flow elements—enabling traceable, real-time volumetric flow measurement without introducing moisture, particulates, or backpressure into the sampling train. The devices operate on standard AA alkaline batteries and deliver high reproducibility under variable ambient conditions, making them ideal for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories and field technicians performing routine pump verification per OSHA Method ID-121, NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods (NMAM) Chapter 2, and EPA Compendium Method TO-11A.
Key Features
- True dry-run operation: No fluid coupling or purge gas required—eliminates risk of contamination, condensation, or flow disturbance in sensitive sampling lines.
- Dual-range design: FC-L1 covers 5–40 L/min (instantaneous display: 1–50 L/min); FC-M1 provides high-resolution low-flow capability from 0.05–5 L/min (display range: 0–6 L/min).
- Automatic temperature and pressure compensation: Built-in correction algorithms apply standardized reference conditions (0°C/1 atm, 20°C/1 atm, 25°C/1 atm) or actual measured T/P for traceable volumetric-to-mass flow conversion.
- Compact and field-rugged: Dimensions 105(W) × 170(D) × 100(H) mm; weight ≈ 0.9 kg including four AA batteries—designed for handheld use and transport between monitoring sites.
- Traceability-ready: Supports issuance of NIST-traceable calibration certificates with documented uncertainty budgets aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
- Integrated LCD display: High-contrast digital readout showing instantaneous flow rate, accumulated volume, temperature, pressure, and selected correction mode.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The FC-L1 and FC-M1 are compatible with standard sampling media—including glass fiber filters, PVC, PTFE, and mixed-cellulose ester (MCE) membranes—as well as common tubing materials (e.g., Tygon®, silicone, and polyurethane). Each unit ships with dual Allen tube adapters (ID 10 mm / OD 14.5 mm and ID 7 mm / OD 10 mm) and a low-flow accessory kit comprising two 60 mm silicone tubes (ID 4 mm / OD 7 mm), precision orifice plates, and step-down adapters to ensure laminar flow development across the full dynamic range. The instruments comply with JIS Z 8000-3 (accuracy classification), meet the metrological requirements of ISO 5167-2 for differential pressure-based flow measurement, and support GLP/GMP audit readiness through documented calibration history and environmental condition logging.
Software & Data Management
While the FC-L1/FC-M1 operate autonomously without PC connectivity, all units store up to 1,000 timestamped measurement records internally—including flow rate, temperature, pressure, correction mode, and battery voltage. Data export is performed via optional USB-C interface (sold separately) using SIBATA’s certified configuration utility, which generates CSV reports compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements (electronic signatures, audit trails, and user access controls). Calibration certificate generation includes uncertainty analysis per GUM (Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement) and references to primary standards maintained at SIBATA’s A2LA-accredited calibration laboratory (Certificate No. 2312.01).
Applications
- Verification and adjustment of personal and area air sampling pumps prior to and following sample collection campaigns.
- Periodic performance checks of active sampling systems in compliance with ISO 16000-22 (indoor air quality) and EN 13205 (workplace exposure monitoring).
- Validation of flow stability during method development for aerosol mass concentration determination (e.g., gravimetric PM2.5/PM10 analysis).
- Field calibration of low-flow passive samplers requiring precise volumetric integration over extended durations (e.g., VOC monitoring per ASTM D5197).
- Supporting internal QA/QC programs in contract environmental labs accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 6.4 (equipment verification).
FAQ
What reference standards are used to calibrate the FC-L1 and FC-M1?
Calibration is performed against SIBATA’s primary flow standard—a gravimetric bell prover system verified annually by Japan’s National Metrology Institute (NMIJ/AIST) with expanded uncertainty ≤ ±0.15% (k=2).
Can the FC-M1 be used for gas sampling applications?
Yes—the FC-M1 is validated for use with air, nitrogen, and other non-corrosive gases at ambient temperatures; however, viscosity corrections must be applied manually when measuring gases other than air.
Is battery life monitored and displayed?
Yes—the LCD continuously displays battery voltage and triggers a low-power warning icon when voltage drops below 4.2 V, ensuring uninterrupted field operation for ≥120 hours per set of fresh AA alkaline cells.
Does the device support custom pressure/temperature compensation tables?
No—the FC-L1/FC-M1 implements fixed reference condition algorithms only (0°C/1 atm, 20°C/1 atm, 25°C/1 atm, and actual T/P); user-defined compensation is not supported.
Are replacement orifice plates available as spare parts?
Yes—SIBATA supplies certified orifice plate sets (Part No. OP-FCM-01 for FC-M1, OP-FCL-01 for FC-L1) with individual calibration certificates traceable to NMIJ.
