VPInstruments VPFlowScope M probe User manual

VPFlowScope M probe
VPINSTRUMENTS.COM
User manual
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV
MAN-VP-SMPR-UK-1600 Date:23-03-2016

All rights reserved. No parts of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or information storage and retrieval systems - without the
written permission of the publisher.
Products that are referred to in this document may be either trademarks and/or registered trademarks of the
respective owners. The publisher and the author make no claim to these trademarks.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, the publisher and the author
assume no responsibilityfor errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of information
contained in this document or from the use of programs and source code that mayaccompany it. In no event
shall the publisher and the author be liable for anyloss of profit or anyother commercial damage caused or
alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly bythis document.
Creation date: 23-03-2016 in (Delft)
VPFlowScope M probe
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV
Publisher
VPInstruments
Delft, The Netherlands
This document is available in:
English, English (UK)
www.vpinstruments.com/download

3Contents
3
Table of Contents
1Warning - Read this first 5
2Introduction 6
3Product overview 7
................................................................................................................................... 7
1VPFlowScope M transmitter
................................................................................................................................... 8
2VPSensorCartridges
................................................................................................................................... 9
3Safety system
................................................................................................................................... 9
4Configuration
4Quick start 10
5Measurement 11
................................................................................................................................... 11
1Flow
................................................................................................................................... 11
2Pressure
................................................................................................................................... 11
3Temperature
................................................................................................................................... 12
4Totalizer
6Mechanical installation 13
................................................................................................................................... 13
1Installation point
................................................................................................................................... 15
2Piping table
................................................................................................................................... 16
3Safety system
................................................................................................................................... 17
4Assembling and installing the instrument
................................................................................................................................... 19
5Replacing the VPSensorCartridge
7Connectivity 22
................................................................................................................................... 22
1LEDS
................................................................................................................................... 22
24..20mA output
................................................................................................................................... 23
3Pulse output
................................................................................................................................... 24
4RS485
................................................................................................................................... 24
5USB
................................................................................................................................... 25
6Ethernet
.......................................................................................................................................................... 25Web server
.......................................................................................................................................................... 25Modbus TCP ................................................................................................................................... 26
7Display
.......................................................................................................................................................... 26Display
.......................................................................................................................................................... 26Display status icons
.......................................................................................................................................................... 27Keypad
.......................................................................................................................................................... 27Menu ................................................................................................................................... 30
8Data logger
.......................................................................................................................................................... 30Cyclic mode
.......................................................................................................................................................... 30Multi session mode

VPFlowScope M probe4
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
8Alarm 31
9Modbus 32
10 Electrical connections 36
................................................................................................................................... 36
14..20mA
................................................................................................................................... 37
2Pulse
................................................................................................................................... 38
3Alarm
................................................................................................................................... 38
4RS485
................................................................................................................................... 40
5Ethernet
11 VPStudio software 41
12 Exchanging cartridges 42
13 Specifications transmitter 43
14 Specifications VPSensorCartridge 44
15 Order information and accessories 45
................................................................................................................................... 45
1Transmitter
................................................................................................................................... 45
2VPSensorCartridge
................................................................................................................................... 45
3Accessories
16 Appendix A - UL 46
17 Appendix B - Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Statement 47

Warning - Read this first 5
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
1 Warning - Read this first
Compressed air can be dangerous! Please familiarize yourself with the
forces under pressurized conditions. Respect the local guidelines and
regulations for working with pressurized equipment.
Gas flow through pipes follows certain physical laws. These physical laws
have serious consequences for the installation requirements. Familiarize yourself
with the basic physical laws of flow measurement, to make sure that the product
is installed correctly. Always make sure that upstream length, downstream
length, flow, pressure, temperature and humidity conditions are within
specifications.
Precision instruments need maintenance. Check your flow meter regularly
and make sure it remains clean. When polluted, gently clean the sensor using
de-mineralised water or cleaning alcohol.
Not intended for fiscal metering or billing. Our flow meters are not certified
for fiscal metering. Laws on fiscal metering and billing may vary per country or
state.
Do not overestimate the results. VPInstruments does not take any
responsibility for the correctness of measurement results under field
conditions. The practical measurement uncertainty of a flow meter in the field may
vary, depending on how well it is installed, due to the nature of gas flow. The piping
table provides guidelines on how to optimize the field accuracy. Our products are
not intended to be used as a single means to determine compressor capacity.
Do not open the device. Our instruments are assembled with high precision.
Opening this device is dangerous and may destroy the instruments. The IP
rating might be compromised. Warranty is voided when you open the
instrument.
Feedback leads to product improvement. Please share your experience
with us, as we are continuously improving our products in our commitment to
quality, reliability and ease of use. Let us know via [e-mail]!

VPFlowScope M probe6
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
2 Introduction
Congratulations! You purchased the easiest to use and most complete compressed air
measurement tool in the world. With the VPFlowScope M probe, you can monitor and record
flow, pressure, temperature, and total air consumption, simultaneously.
With the introduction of the VPFlowScope M, re-calibration becomes history. Unlike traditional flow
meters, the VPFlowScope M does not require traditional re-calibration, where you have to ship the
unit back. Instead, the VPFlowScope M consists of a transmitter and the patented
VPSensorCartridge which reduces re-calibration to a simple exchange.
But there is more to the VPFlowScope M:
Three in one: flow, pressure and temperature simultaneously
Wide measurement range (1:300)
2% reading accuracy on flow
Optional direction measurement
Ultra compact size and low weight
Great products deserve great user manuals. We have done our best to make this user manual as
complete as possible. New users, please read it carefully to familiarize yourself with our products.
Experienced users can check out the Quick start chapter.
Check the packaging box for any inconsistencies. Should there be any shipping damage, notify the
local carrier. At the same time a report should be submitted to Van Putten Instruments BV,
Buitenwatersloot 335, 2614 GS DELFT, The Netherlands.
This manual is dedicated to:
VPFlowScope M transmitter: VPM.T001.DXXX
VPStudio software version 2.0.0
Firmware version 1.0.0
Do you like our products and this user manual? Tell others! Do you miss something? Let us know
via [e-mail]!

Introduction 7
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
3 Product overview
3.1 VPFlowScope M transmitter
Meet the VPFlowScope M transmitter, the 'brains' of the VPFlowScope M. The transmitter is one
part of the VPFlowScope M which needs to be combined with a VPSensorCartridge and a safety
system. The transmitter features various outputs. Modbus, 4..20 mA, Pulse, USB, Ethernet are all
standard. The optional display and data logger offer additional functionality for data logging and
mobile energy audits.
The VPFlowScope M transmitter is available in 3 configurations to fit every application. The
transmitter is to be used with the VPSensorCartridge. There are two VPSensorCartridges available,
both having their own unique features. Inside the VPSensorCartridge are sensors that perform the
actual measurement.
When mated to a VPSensorCartridge, the Transmitter can be rotated 360 degree. This enables you
to align the display for every orientation. Turn the locking ring loose when rotating the display.
Connectivity
Order Code
4..20 mA / Pulse / Alarm
RS485
USB
Ethernet
Display
Data logger
VPM.T001.D000
VPM.T001.D010
VPM.T001.D011
* Available models on day of printing

VPFlowScope M probe8
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
3.2 VPSensorCartridges
The VPSensorCartridge includes all sensors to measure flow, pressure and temperature
simultaneously. It also includes the calibration characteristics for all available sensors. This makes it
possible to exchange the VPSensorCartridge between transmitters or to replace it when calibration is
required.
All VPSensorCartridges use a proprietary and universal interface. Therefore every type of
VPSensorCartridge can be connected to every model of transmitter. See chapter 3.1 for all available
transmitters
The VPSensorCartridge has a flow direction indicator that indicates to positive an negative side of the
VPSensorCartridge. The indicator can be used for proper alignment.
Order Code
Flow
Temperature
Pressure
Bi-directional
VPM.R150.P350.PN10
VPM.R150.P351.PN10
* Available models on day of printing

Product overview 9
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
3.3 Safety system
Installation under pressure can be dangerous. Make sure that you understand the
safety system before installing the VPFlowScope M probe.
The safety system is specially designed for the VPFlowScope M. When the VPSensorCartridge is in
the compression fitting and the safety cable is attached, the probe can never exit the compression
fitting due to the matching length of the cable. When the VPSensorCartridge is installed on the right
depth, the safety cable can be strained and locked. The complete safety cable assembly is tested
and certified for safety. Instructions on how to assemble the safety system can be found in chapter 6
mechanical installation
1. Compression fitting: 0.5 inch with Teflon ferrule.
2. Safety plate: Used to connect fitting and safety
system
3. Auto brake: The safety chain can be slide through
the auto brake system. Moving upwards is only
possible when the safety lock is pushed downwards.
4. Safety lock: This nut can be used to lock of unlock
the safety release. Push down the lock to release
the safety chain
5. Safety chain: The safety chain can be attached to
the VPSensorCartridge. Maximum rated pressure 10
bar | 145 psi
3.4 Configuration
The VPFlowScope M needs only one step to be ready for basic operation. It needs to know the exact
inner pipe diameter for accurate measurement, wrong inner diameter will lead to very significant
errors. The pipe diameter can be programmed with the keypad on the display module, via the built-in
Web interface or with the VPStudio 2.0 configuration software. This software suite is also used for
configuration of the outputs and data logger. This software can be downloaded from our website.
www.vpinstruments.com/downloads. To get the right diameter, use a wall thickness gauge, ask us
for availability.
The default units are set to SI. For read out in Imperial units, use the keypad to change the units via
the menu. Go to menu->settings->display->rows

VPFlowScope M probe10
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
4 Quick start
This chapter contains the basic steps to start using your VPFlowScope M probe flow meter.
Additional information on all subjects can be found in the next chapters.
1. Unpack
Unpack the meter and check if all items are there and in good shape. A check list with all items is
available on the box.
2. Apply power and communication
Connect the unit to a DC power source (12..24 VDC).
3. Mechanical installation
See chapter 6 mechanical installation for more detailed information
Find the best point of installation for this product. Make sure that the process conditions are within
the specifications of the flow meter
For installation of the VPFlowScope M probe, an insertion point needs to be created. You can weld
a socket with internal 1/2 inch thread or use a hot tap saddle
A ball valve with a minimum size of 0,5 inch female BSP or NPT process connection should be in
place
Assemble the VPFlowScope M including safety system and mount it on top of the ball valve
Open the valve and insert the probe
The sensor needs to be in the middle of the pipe for diameters larger then 2 inch. See chapter 6.1
installation point
Tighten the compression fitting according to instruction.
Pull on the safety chain to strain it and turn the safety lock clockwise to lock it
4. Electrical installation
4.1 Permanent installation
Connect a cable with 5 Pin M12 connector to the VPFlowScope M probe. The cable can be
connected to VPVision, a central data acquisition / building management system or data logger
via Modbus RTU (TCP), 4..20mA or pulse. Connect the 4 Pin M12 connector to the
VPFlowScope M probe and the other side to a laptop or router for an Ethernet connection. See
chapter 10 electrical connections for more information.
Apply 12..24 VDC to power up the device. Use a Class II power supply (less than 2 Amps). If a
display is available, it will light up when power is applied.
4.2 Temporary installation
Use a 12 Volt power supply with M12 connector to power the VPFlowScope M probe. This quick
method is ideal for audits.
5. Configure the VPFlowScope M
For correct measurement, the diameter should be programmed into the instrument.
The quickest way: Program the inner pipe diameter needs via the display
Alternative method: The diameter can also be programmed by Ethernet (using the web server) or
with the VPStudio 2.0 software
Advanced settings: Use the built in web server or VPStudio to set the output parameters for
networking, Modbus, pulse, alarm and current outputs
6. Data recording
If the data logger option is available, it will automatically start recording when the power is supplied
and when a VPSensorCartridge is connected. The data logger will record data of every parameter
with an interval of 1 second. The data logger can also be put in start/stop mode. Changing this
setting can be done using the display or with the VPStudio 2.0 software.

Quick start 11
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
5 Measurement
For all parameters the update interval is 1 second. Within this second, multiple samples are taken
and averaged to provide a stable and reliable output.
5.1 Flow
The VPSensorCartridge uses our proprietary insertion type thermal mass flow sensor. There is no
bypass flow, which results in a high robustness and less sensitivity for dirt or particles. The flow
sensor is directly temperature compensated. The flow reading is under normalized conditions (DIN
1343).
The sensor response signal is directly related to
the mass flow rate and can be described by the
following formula:
Vout = k *λ* ρ* v * (Ts-Tg)
Vout = output voltage
k = sensor (geometrical) constant
λ= thermal conductivity of the gas
ρ= density of the gas
v = actual velocity in m / sec
Ts = sensor temperature
Tg = gas temperature
The optional bi-directional sensitivity is shown in
the picture on the right. In bi-directional mode the
negative flow value will show up as a minus sign.
The 4..20 mA value needs to be adapted to suit
the application. See chapter 7 connectivity for
details.
5.2 Pressure
The VPSensorCartridge features a built-in gauge pressure sensor. The range of the pressure sensor
can vary per VPSensorCartridge type. Check specifications for details. The sensor membrane can
handle media which are compatible with glass, silicon, stainless steel, Sn/Ni, plating and An/Ag
solder.
5.3 Temperature
The built in temperature sensor measures the compressed air / gas temperature.
At low flow rates between zero flow and 10 m/sec, the temperature sensor may heat up at zero flow
conditions, due to the heated flow sensor element.
Temperature compensation effects: The flow sensor is compensated dynamically for changes in gas
temperature. When exposed to quick temperature changes or large temperature changes (for
example taking the unit from outdoor to indoor during winter time, or when mounted downstream of a
heat regenerated drier) the temperature compensation may lag behind, which may result in
significant measurement errors.

VPFlowScope M probe12
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
5.4 Totalizer
The totalizer keeps track of the total consumed amount of compressed air in normal cubic meters,
normal liters per minute or in (M)(M)SCF depending on which unit you choose to read out. The
refresh interval is 1 second: Actual totalizer data will be available on the display and via the Modbus
interfaces. The totalizer value is written to it's internal memory with an interval of 15 minutes. A power
failure may result in maximum 15 minutes of totalizer data loss.
The transmitter features 2 totalizers, plus a combined totalizer. The first totalizer counter will count
up all positive flow, the second counter will count up all negative flow. The sum of these two totalizer
values is shown on the display. The display will show totalizer values up to 99.999.999,9 and will
then become 0,0. The totalizer will not be cleared and higher values will be available via Modbus and
VPStudio. Via Modbus, all three totalizers are available. See chapter 9 for Modbus registers.
The totalizers can only be reset to zero, and will be reset all together. It's not possible to set them to
any different value.

Measurement 13
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
6 Mechanical installation
6.1 Installation point
The installation point is crucial for a correct measurement. Sources of error can be: installation
effects, unknown flow profiles, swirls, pressure and temperature effects, humidity effects, oscillations
in the flow. To ensure the highest possible accuracy of flow measurement, the installation and piping
instructions must be followed. Therefore read this paragraph carefully.
Take into account:
Choose a site which is accessible, which allows ease of wiring and maintenance, and which allows
you to still read and access the display if possible.
Meet the specifications of the VPFlowScope M probe. When the specifications are not met, for
instance the pressure or temperature level is too high; this will cause inaccurate flow measurement
and can even damage your flow meter.
Do not apply mechanical stress on the sensor head.
Avoid:
Excessive heat, check the temperature range of your VPFlowScope M probe.
Corrosive atmosphere where possible.
Electrical problems (high voltage/ high power).
Mechanical vibration and danger (walking bridges, fork lift trucks).
Any source of potential error.
Stop: These devices are only for use with Air, Nitrogen, Argon, Helium, Carbon Dioxide
and other non hazardous, or non combustible gases.
Prepare the installation
The VPFlowScope M probe can be inserted through a welding tap with 1/2 inch female thread or
through a hot tap saddle. A hot tap saddle can be installed under pressurized conditions, so there is
no need to shut down production.
Use a ball valve to insert and retract the VPFlowScope M probe when you want. The VPInstruments
hot tap drill has a 1” drill size. In that case, place a 1” ball valve and use, after drilling, a reducer to
mount the 1/2” compression fitting.
Warning: Make sure that the hole is at least 16mm inner diameter, and completely
clear for insertion. A too small hole will damage the probe or your measurement value
will be very low.

VPFlowScope M probe14
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
Installation procedure
Insertion depth
Generally the insertion depth of the VPFlowScope M probe is 0.5
times the inner pipe diameter, where the bottom of the sensor tip must
be in the middle of the pipe (see picture).
Position
Install the VPFlowScope M upwards in an angle between 1 and 2
o'clock (see picture). Never install the instruments upside down.
The VPSensorCartridge has a flow direction indicator, this also indicates the alignment of the
instruments. A second indicator can be found on the safety system. Make sure it points in the right
flow direction. Alignment “by the eye” is sufficient.
Info: Put a ruler to the flow indicator when aligning the instrument. This will improve the
accuracy of the alignment.
Exception
Between pipe sizes of 1” and 2”: be aware
that the field accuracy is +/- 10%;
installation errors are bigger. The insertion
depth between DN25 and DN65 is also
different. The VPFlowScope M probe has to
be inserted almost completely to the bottom
of the pipe or else the temperature sensor of
the VPFlowScope M probe itself is outside
the flow path. The sensor tip will not be in the
middle of the pipe any more. The
measurement value is automatically
corrected for small diameters inside the
VPSensorCartridge.

Mechanical installation 15
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
6.2 Piping table
At least 20 times the pipe diameter upstream and at least 5 times the pipe diameter downstream
needs to be applied, to avoid any distortion of the flow profile. This is a general rule, check the piping
table below for your application. The table shows the amount of length upstream or downstream
depending on the installation. If applicable in front of the meter, use given upstream length. If
applicable in behind the meter, use given downstream length. Gas flow in pipes follows certain rules,
which must be observed for optimal measurement results. For some exceptions the upstream length
needs to be longer, or can be shorter.
If possible, you can always choose a longer upstream length, as these are minimum
values. The up- and downstream lengths are used industry wide as guidelines, but will
never be a guarantee for obtaining the “true value”. So always be careful and try to build
up your own experience from practical measurements
Piping table
The following table provides a guideline for proper distances between upstream or downstream
objects and the VPFlowScope M probe. The upstream length is the length between the last non-
straight object and the VPFlowScope M probe. If the upstream length is straight, and the distortion is
downstream of the VPFlowScope probe, you can use the column "downstream length" as a
guideline. In very complex situations, with multiple up- and downstream objects, you should consider
another location. This table is a practical guideline and is not exact science. Practical situations can
have multiple sources of distortion, therefore VPInstruments does not take any responsibility for the
correctness.
Picture
Description
Upstream
length2
Downstream
length2
Effect
Single elbow
30 * D1
10 * D1
Distorted flow profile
Complex feed-in
situation (header)
40 * D1
10 * D1
Flow profile will be
distorted
Double elbow, multiple
elbows following each
other
40 * D1
10 * D1
Distorted profile +
swirl

VPFlowScope M probe16
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
Diameter change from
small to large (gradual or
instant)
40 * D1
5 *D1
Jet shaped flow
Diameter change from
large to small (gradual
change, between 7 and
15 degrees)
10 * D1
5 * D1
Flattened flow profile
1 = inner diameter; 2 = minimumlength
6.3 Safety system
Step 1.
1. Remove the compression fitting's parts on the long
threaded end side.
2. Place the safety plate over the compression fitting
long threaded end.
Step 2.
1. Mount the nut, and close tight. Then
mount the compression fitting's teflon
rings and nut.

Mechanical installation 17
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
6.4 Assembling and installing the instrument
Step 1
1. Lift the safety cable
2. Slide the locking ring over the safety cable
3. Place the VPSensorCartridge through the locking
ring into the compression fitting
Step 2
1. Mount the safety line to the
VPSensorCartridge, it should snap in
completely
2. Move the locking ring upwards over the
VPSensorCartridge and hold it in place
Step 3
1. Place the VPFlowScope M transmitter on top of
the assembly
2. Tighten the locking ring completely. Align the probe
with the display (default position, arrow should
point to the left as on the picture)
Step 4
The assembly should look like this
Check if the safety line is secured

VPFlowScope M probe18
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
Step 5
1. Keep the ball valve closed, the probe remains in
the compression fitting
2. Check if the safety system is locked
3. Mount the VPFlowScope M assembly on the ball
valve
Step 6
1. Keep your hand on top of the instrument.
Performing next step will apply force on
the instrument
2. Open the ball valve and insert the probe
3. The probe tip should be in the center of
the pipe
4. Tighten the compression fitting
Step 7
1. Unscrew the safety lock and pull the safety line
tight
2. Tighten the safety lock
3. Align the flow direction. Alignment by the eye is
sufficient

Mechanical installation 19
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
6.5 Replacing the VPSensorCartridge
When a VPSensorCartridge needs to be replaced, there is no need to remove the complete
assembly. The safety system can be left in place.
Step 1
1. Unscrew the safety lock
2. Push the safety lock downwards and lift the
safety line until it reaches the end stop.
Step 2
1. Apply pressure on top of the instrument, then
slowly loosen the compression fitting
2. Lift the probe gently, until the safety chain is
completely strained
3. Close the ball valve
Step 3
1. Unscrew the locking ring and slide it
downwards
2. Remove the safety cable from the
VPSensorCartridge
Step 4
Lay aside the VPFlowScope M Transmitter and
replace the used VPSensorCartridge

VPFlowScope M probe20
© 2016 Van Putten Instruments BV | MAN-VP-SMPR-UK | Revision:1600 | Date:23-03-2016
Step 5
1. Place the new VPSensorCartridge through the
locking ring into the compression fitting
Step 6
1. Mount the safety line to the
VPSensorCartridge
2. Move the locking ring upwards over the
VPSensorCartridge
Step 7
1. Place the VPFlowScope M transmitter on top
of the assembly
2. Tighten the locking ring
Step 8
1. Keep your hand on top of the instrument.
Open the ball valve and insert the probe
2. The probe tip should be in the center of the
pipe
3. Tighten the compression fitting