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6.3
Charging the Flowmeter
The DCT7088 is a DC-powered instrument that normally operates from the internal 12-V battery supplied
with the unit. It may also be powered by one of the following sources which connect to the 12-15 Vdc input
on the breakout box:
•
battery charger/AC adapter, which converts a 90 to 64 Vac, 50/60 Hz, 15-W input to a 15 Vdc output
•
automobile cigarette lighter adapter, which provides a 12 Vdc output
If the battery charger/AC adapter is connected, it simultaneously powers the flowmeter and recharges or
maintains the charge on the internal battery. The battery charges at a slower rate when the charger/
adapter is used to power the unit and charge the battery.
6.4
Replacing Sonic Coupling Compound
Any voids or air gaps that exist in the coupling compound beneath the transducers can reduce the signal
and render the flowmeter inoperative. Coupling compound should be protected from washout and replaced
as required. Annual replacement is recommended for most applications to maintain optimal performance.
To replace the coupling compound:
1.
Remove the transducers from the pipe.
2.
Clean the old compound from the transducers and the pipe.
3.
Apply a wide bead of compound lengthwise down the center of each transducer face.
4.
Remount the transducers, verifying that the compound is squeezing out from underneath all sides of
the transducers and forming a bead along the edges.
We recommend the following sonic coupling compounds:
•
Sil-Glyde
®
(American Grease Stick Company): made from a silicon base and suited for most
transducer installations; rated for pip skin temperatures from -40º to +212º F (-40º to +100º C)
•
Dow Corning
®
111 or similar high temperature couplant: can be used for applications with pipe skin
temperatures up to 300º F (150º C)
•
General Electric RTV-108 or similar silicon RTV: should be used for underground or submerged
transducer sites or sites where a more permanent bond is required; RTV should be completely cured
prior to covering up the transducer site or taking readings
•
Krautkramer
®
Hitempco (Thermo P/N 22861-0001): good high temperature couplant; should be used
with optional high temperature transducers rated up to 392º F (200º C)
The transducers should not be bonded with epoxy.