Meter Testing Services
WRc carry out accuracy testing of meters removed from service for: Customer dispute tests, Meter under-registration studies, Performance surveillance tests, Regulatory compliance. Such testing can cover meters from small domestic meters up to 150mm bore. Testing is conducted in accordance with UK and International Standards using fully calibrated and traceable reference methods. Individual test certificates can be provided.
Experienced in using the latest technologies
We have direct experience using and developing cutting-edge technologies in clean and wastewater.
A one-stop-shop for meter testing
Having recently developed our own small rig to compliment our large meters, WRc is capable of providing testing and analysis for water meters from 15mm-300mm. That`s 99% of those used across the water industry.
Pushing the boundaries of what`s possible
We are a part of industry committees to influence regulatory standards and drive technological development.
Meters can fail in many ways: quality of components, excessive wear, installation practices, environmental stresses and network events. Rectifying problems can be expensive where a large cohort of meters are affected, so water companies often look to share this cost with suppliers or installers if relevant contributory factors can be identified.
WRc carries out forensic examinations of meters to identify patterns of failure. We have a rigorous procedure for dismantling meters to examine their components with a variety of techniques, including microscopy and dimensional analysis. There will often be multiple contributory factors. Using targeted testing methods (which we design and carry out), we can identify the key factor or sequence of factors to isolate different variables and determine the root cause. The evidence gained can then be shared to help improve practice and mitigate future problems.
We provide specialist and bespoke investigation and testing services including:
- Investigating specific issues that a company may be having with a certain meter or group of meters.
- Evaluating the claims of potential meter suppliers through rigorous testing on various aspects of the meters offered.
- Accelerated aging to understand likely long term performance.
- Tests for the effect of different environmental conditions, including submergence.
- Assessment of battery life and radio performance for meters with Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) systems.
- Supporting robust procurement with in-depth testing to identify which meters can perform in practice, not just those that look good on paper.