Question 1

How do I know which flow meter is right for my application?

Accepted Answer

See https://flogage.com/faq for the full answer.

Question 2

What is the difference between the Series 7000 and Series 8000?

Accepted Answer

The Series 7000 uses threaded (FNPT or BSP) end connections and is available in pipe sizes from ¼″ to 3″. The Series 8000 is a wafer-style meter that fits between 150 or 300 class flanges and is available from ½″ to 8″. Both series share the same internal mechanism and accuracy.

Question 3

Can I use a liquid flow meter for gas, or vice versa?

Accepted Answer

No — liquid and gas meters are calibrated differently. A liquid meter is calibrated in GPM or LPM for a specific fluid density, while a gas meter is calibrated in SCFM or Nm³/h at a reference pressure and temperature. Using the wrong meter type will produce inaccurate readings.

Question 4

What fluids are NOT recommended for RCM flow meters?

Accepted Answer

See https://flogage.com/faq for the full answer.

Question 5

Do you make flow meters for ammonia?

Accepted Answer

See https://flogage.com/faq for the full answer.

Question 6

Do RCM flow meters require external power?

Accepted Answer

Standard mechanical Flo-Gage meters require no external power — they are completely self-contained. The only exception is the Digital Flow Meter (Option RW3), which requires 24 Vdc (20–30 Vdc) for the digital display and 4–20 mA output.

Question 7

What orientation can the meter be installed in?

Accepted Answer

Liquid meters must be installed with the flow going upward (vertical installation) or horizontally with the scale facing up. Gas meters can be installed in any orientation. Steam meters use an inverted housing and must be installed with flow going downward. Always refer to the installation manual for your specific model.

Question 8

How much straight pipe run is required upstream and downstream?

Accepted Answer

RCM recommends a minimum of 10 pipe diameters of straight pipe upstream and 5 pipe diameters downstream of the meter. More straight run improves accuracy, especially if there are elbows, valves, or reducers nearby.

Question 9

Can the meter be installed in a pressurized system without shutting down?

Accepted Answer

No. The meter must be installed with the system depressurized and drained. Attempting to install or remove a meter under pressure is dangerous and can cause injury or equipment damage.

Question 10

How do I read the flow rate on the scale?

Accepted Answer

Read the flow rate at the center of the float (the widest point of the float for most models). The scale is direct-reading in the units shown (GPM, SCFM, etc.) at the calibration conditions printed on the nameplate. For gas meters, a correction factor may be needed if your operating pressure differs from the calibration pressure.

Question 11

What is the accuracy of RCM flow meters?

Accepted Answer

Standard accuracy is ±3% of full scale (F.S.) with ±1% repeatability. This is suitable for most industrial monitoring and control applications. If you require tighter accuracy, contact us to discuss options.

Question 12

Are the meters factory calibrated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All meters are factory calibrated before shipment. Calibration is performed with water (for liquid meters) or air (for gas meters) at standard conditions. Certificates of calibration are available upon request.

Question 13

Do I need to apply a correction factor for my gas?

Accepted Answer

If your gas has a different density than air, or if your operating pressure differs from the calibration pressure (typically 50 psig), a correction factor must be applied. Correction factor charts are included in the product documentation and available on our Downloads page.

Question 14

What transmitter options are available?

Accepted Answer

See https://flogage.com/faq for the full answer.

Question 15

Can I add a flow switch or alarm to my meter?

Accepted Answer

See https://flogage.com/faq for the full answer.

Question 16

Can I get a remote display for high-temperature or high-pressure applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Options R2 (bronze body) and R3 (316SS body) provide a remote-mounted indicator for applications where the meter body is in a location that is difficult to read or where steam pressure exceeds 120 psig. The indicator is connected via capillary tubing.

Question 17

How do I request a quote?

Accepted Answer

See https://flogage.com/faq for the full answer.

Question 18

What is the standard lead time?

Accepted Answer

Standard lead time is 2–3 weeks from receipt of order. A QuickShip option is available for 3–4 business day delivery (nominal surcharge, covers groups of up to 5 meters).

Question 19

Are replacement parts and repair services available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RCM offers replacement floats, seals, crystals, and other wear parts. Meters can also be returned for factory recalibration or repair. Contact our sales team for part numbers and pricing.

Question 20

Where are RCM flow meters manufactured?

Accepted Answer

All RCM Flo-Gage flow meters are manufactured in the United States by RCM Industries, Inc. RCM is ISO 9001 certified.

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