Can I calibrate a flowmeter using another flowmeter but more accurate?

Question

I am thinking if it is possible to calibrate a flowmeter (Unit Under Test) by connecting a flowmeter which will act as my reference meter. However , I am not so sure about it since there could be some other factors which will affect my measurement accuracy like differential pressure and temperature. And how will these factors affect my measurement. Equations of flowrate will be a big help for . thanks.....

Answer 1

Of course you can use one flow meter to calibrate another.  This method actually reduces concern over variances from factors such as pressure and temperature liquid properties since both meters will see the same liquid at about the same condition.

The problem with calibrating one meter with another one is, HOW DO YOU VERIFY THE CALIBRATION OF THE "REFERENCE" METER.

If you have calibrated the reference meter against some kind of traceable standard, then you can use it to calibrate another meter.  There can be error propogated this way, but it is calcuable and usually small.

If the range of both meters is similar and the accuracy and repeatability of the reference meter at least as good as you need for the other meter, you should be able to achieve an acceptable calibration.

Normally if the materials and situation allow, it is more straightforward to use an appropriately sized container and a stopwatch.  If you can weigh the container before and after loading through the flowmeter, and you can measure the temperature and you have a density curve, you can get very accurate calibration.