The Seametrics IP150/250 series hot-tap paddlewheel flow sensors are adjustable depth insertion paddlewheels that come in brass, PVC or 316 stainless models to fit 3" to 40" pipe. Installation fittings are standard 2" NPT. Fittings such as saddles and weldolets may be purchased either locally or from Seametrics. The "hot-tap" models can be installed or serviced without shutting down the line by means of a 2" full-port isolation valve that comes with a nipple for installation on the pipe fitting. In most circumstances, no special tool is required.

Ruby bearings and a non-drag Hall-effect sensor give these meters the widest flow range of any of the paddlewheel types. A sensor detects the passage of miniature magnets in the six rotor blades. The resulting square-wave signal can be sent for hundreds of feet over unshielded cable without a transmitter and connected directly to many PLC's and other controls without any additional electronics. Maximum pressure is 200psi for brass/SS and 150psi for PVC, with temperature limits of 200°F and 130°F respectively. Accuracy is ±1.5% FS.

A modular system of electronics can be installed directly on the flow sensor or mounted remotely. The FT430 (externally powered with pulse), FT440 (loop powered), and FT450 (battery powered) all provide digital rate and total displays, as well as a programmable pulse; the FT440 also provides a 4-20 mA analog output. The AO55 is a blind analog (4-20 mA) transmitter. Applications include clean water, large pipes, aquariums, water parks, and water & wastewater monitoring.