Flow Tests on Sprinkler Systems in the United Kingdom Using a Portable Flow Meter
A&F Sprinklers uses the KATflow 200 to test sprinkler systems.
KATflow 200 Clamp-On Flow Meter Successfully in Use for Functional Testing of Sprinkler Systems
The British company A&F Sprinklers specializes in the installation and maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems and uses a KATflow 200 ultrasonic flow meter from Katronic to test the systems’ functionality. The device is used to measure flow rates in more than 100 systems across the United Kingdom without the need for mechanical intervention in the pipes. The applications for these installed systems are highly diverse, ranging from supermarkets, hotels, fashion stores, and warehouses to chemical plants.
Once a sprinkler system has been installed and commissioned by A&F, responsibility for its maintenance passes to the building owner. In accordance with the British and European standard (BS EN 12845 Fixed Firefighting Systems), weekly, quarterly, and annual inspections must be conducted, with the quarterly and annual inspections also including a flow test.
The battery-powered flow meter, designed for convenient one-handed operation, features a large display, and setting up the device takes only a few minutes thanks to its simple menu navigation. Measurement data is recorded in a data logger for later download.
Nathan O’Connor, Sprinkler Pump Manager at A&F, commented: “The KATflow 200 is a truly important tool for us. We appreciate its ease of use and accuracy, especially how easy it is to attach it to the pipes. We service systems all over the country, so it’s also very helpful that all the measurement equipment fits into a single carrying case and that I can charge the meter in the car while I’m on the road between jobs.”
