ELGAS EQZ Q100 Gas Flow Meter – A Reliable and Accurate Gas Measurement Solution for Industrial Plants

In gas supply and distribution systems at factories, industrial parks, and manufacturing facilities, gas flow measurement plays an important role in controlling fuel consumption, monitoring system operation, and managing operating costs. Therefore, gas flow meters must meet requirements for measuring range, operating pressure, and measurement stability during operation.

The ELGAS EQZ Q100 gas flow meter is a turbine gas meter belonging to the Quanto monopipe EQZ series, manufactured by ELGAS – Czech Republic. The meter operates based on the gas velocity measurement principle, with a maximum flow rate of 160 m³/h, a minimum flow rate of 12 m³/h, and a maximum operating pressure of 6 bar.

In addition to its turbine measuring mechanism, the product is equipped with self-lubricating ball bearings, an integrated flow strainer, and a monopipe design that facilitates installation, removal, and maintenance. These features make the ELGAS EQZ Q100 a suitable option for gas measurement and consumption management systems in industrial applications.

1. Overview of the ELGAS EQZ Q100 Gas Flow Meter

The ELGAS EQZ Q100 is a turbine-type gas flow meter belonging to the Quanto monopipe EQZ product series manufactured by ELGAS. The device is used to measure and record the volume of gas passing through pipelines in gas supply, gas distribution, and fuel consumption management systems.

The meter operates based on the gas velocity measurement principle. As gas flows through the internal measuring element, the gas stream drives the turbine rotor to rotate. This rotational movement is transmitted to the mechanical counter, which records the volume of gas passing through the meter.

With a minimum flow rate of 12 m³/h, a maximum flow rate of 160 m³/h, and a maximum operating pressure of 6 bar, the ELGAS EQZ Q100 can be considered for systems whose operating conditions fall within the meter’s specified measuring limits.

Key product features include:

• Uses the turbine-based gas velocity measurement principle.

• Measuring range from 12 to 160 m³/h.

• Maximum operating pressure of 6 bar.

• Accuracy of ±1.5% within the range from 0.2Qmax to Qmax, and ±2% below 0.2Qmax.

• Equipped with self-lubricating ball bearings to help reduce friction during operation.

• Integrated flow strainer to help protect the measuring mechanism.

• Mechanical counter for displaying the volume of gas consumed.

• Monopipe design facilitates removal and maintenance of the measuring element.

• Can be installed in different orientations, provided that the turbine shaft and counter shaft comply with the specified installation requirements.

2. Introduction to ELGAS and the Quanto Monopipe EQZ Series

ELGAS is a brand from the Czech Republic specializing in measuring equipment and solutions for gas systems. Its gas meter products are designed to meet the requirements for measuring, monitoring, and managing gas consumption across various applications.

Among its product ranges, Quanto monopipe EQZ is a series of gas flow meters based on the velocity measurement principle, developed for measurement applications in residential, commercial, and industrial systems.

This product series is available in several nominal sizes, including DN40, DN50, DN80, and DN100, with different flow ranges depending on each configuration. This allows users to select a suitable model based on the system’s gas consumption and operating conditions.

One notable feature of the Quanto monopipe EQZ series is its monopipe fitting design. The connection fitting remains installed on the pipeline, while the measuring element can be removed separately. This structure makes inspection, maintenance, and replacement of the measuring element more convenient without requiring the entire connection fitting to be removed from the pipeline system.

In addition, the EQZ series incorporates wear-resistant components, self-lubricating ball bearings, and an integrated flow strainer to help maintain stable operation of the measuring mechanism.

3. Velocity Measurement Principle of the ELGAS EQZ Turbine Gas Meter

The ELGAS EQZ Q100 operates based on the gas velocity measurement principle. This method uses the rotational movement of a turbine rotor to determine the volume of gas passing through the meter.

3.1. Operating Principle

When gas enters the meter, it passes through the flow-guiding section and acts on the turbine blades, causing the rotor to rotate around its shaft.

The rotor’s rotational speed depends on the velocity of the gas flowing through the device. As the gas flow rate changes, the gas velocity also changes, resulting in a corresponding variation in turbine rotational speed.

This rotational movement is transmitted to the mechanical counter, which records the volume of gas passing through the meter. The measured volume is displayed through the numerical registers on the counter, allowing operators to monitor and record the system’s gas consumption.

3.2. Flow Measurement Capacity

The ELGAS EQZ Q100 has the following flow limits:

• Minimum flow rate (Qmin): 12 m³/h.

• Maximum flow rate (Qmax): 160 m³/h.

This measuring range defines the flow limits within which the device is designed to operate. When selecting a meter, the actual gas flow rate of the system must be checked to ensure that the device operates within its suitable measuring range.

If the normal operating flow rate is consistently below Qmin, the meter may not meet the measurement requirements under those conditions. Similarly, a flow rate exceeding Qmax is outside the specified operating limits of the device.

3.3. Measurement Accuracy

The Quanto monopipe EQZ series has specified accuracy levels across two flow ranges:

• From 0.2Qmax to Qmax: accuracy of ±1.5%.

• Below 0.2Qmax: accuracy of ±2%.

For a model with a Qmax of 160 m³/h, the 0.2Qmax threshold corresponds to 32 m³/h. Accordingly, the specified accuracy levels are as follows:

• From 32 to 160 m³/h: ±1.5%.

• Below 32 m³/h: ±2%, within the meter’s measurable flow range.

When evaluating measurement performance, both the normal operating flow rate and the maximum flow rate should be considered rather than relying solely on the Qmax value.

4. Construction and Key Technical Features

The ELGAS EQZ Q100 gas flow meter is designed with components that support measurement, operation, and maintenance. Its notable features include:

4.1. Turbine Flow Measurement Mechanism

The turbine assembly is the main component responsible for measuring gas velocity. As gas passes through the meter, the rotor rotates under the force of the gas stream and transmits its movement to the counter.

This mechanism enables the device to record the volume of gas passing through it during operation. The mechanical counter displays the accumulated gas volume, making consumption monitoring and reading convenient.

4.2. Self-Lubricating Ball Bearings

The meter is equipped with a self-lubricating ball bearing system. This component supports smooth rotor rotation, reduces friction during operation, and helps minimize mechanical wear.

The use of wear-resistant components contributes to maintaining measurement stability during continuous operation.

4.3. Mechanical Counter in a Gas-Free Compartment

One feature of the Quanto monopipe EQZ series is that the counter is positioned in a gas-free compartment. This design separates the display and recording area from the internal gas-flow space of the meter.

The mechanical counter displays the volume of gas passing through the device, allowing operators to easily read and record consumption figures.

4.4. Integrated Flow Strainer

The ELGAS EQZ is equipped with an integrated flow strainer designed to help retain impurities in the gas stream before they can affect the measuring mechanism.

This feature is important for mechanical flow measurement devices because dust and other contaminants may interfere with rotor movement and internal components.

The integrated strainer helps protect the measuring mechanism. However, periodic inspection and maintenance are still necessary according to actual operating conditions.

4.5. Monopipe Design for Easier Maintenance

The monopipe design is one of the key features of the EQZ series. The measuring element can be removed without disconnecting the entire monopipe fitting from the pipeline system.

When inspection or maintenance is required, the measuring element can be removed separately while the monopipe fitting remains installed on the pipeline. This helps reduce the need to dismantle the entire connection assembly.

In addition, this structure facilitates the installation and removal of the measuring element without introducing mechanical stress into the pipeline system.

4.6. Measuring Element Calibration Capability

Another feature of the EQZ series is that the measuring element can be calibrated without the monopipe fitting.

This allows inspection and calibration of the measuring element to be carried out independently of the pipeline connection, providing greater convenience for equipment maintenance and measurement management.

5. Technical Specifications of the ELGAS EQZ Q100 Gas Flow Meter

The following table summarizes the technical specifications of the ELGAS EQZ Q100 gas flow meter:

Note: When selecting the equipment, actual operating conditions and the ordered configuration should be checked to confirm the connection specifications, measurement requirements, and supplied accessories.

6. Installation and Maintenance of the Gas Flow Meter

In addition to measurement performance, installation and maintenance are also important factors when selecting a gas meter for industrial systems. The ELGAS Quanto monopipe EQZ series incorporates several features that facilitate these activities.

6.1. Installation in Different Orientations

The meter can be installed in different orientations, from horizontal to vertical. However, the following requirements regarding the measuring mechanism must be observed:

• The turbine shaft must not be suspended.

• The counter shaft must always remain horizontal.

Correct positioning allows the measuring mechanism to operate as designed and helps maintain measurement stability during operation.

6.2. Maintenance Without Removing the Entire Monopipe Fitting

Thanks to its monopipe design, the measuring element can be removed from the connection fitting without removing the entire monopipe assembly from the pipeline.

This is a notable advantage in industrial gas systems, particularly when the meter is installed in areas with limited space or where dismantling the pipeline could affect the overall operation of the system.

6.3. Minimizing Mechanical Stress on the Pipeline

The monopipe construction allows the measuring element to be removed and installed without introducing mechanical stress into the pipeline network.

This makes equipment maintenance more convenient while helping minimize unnecessary mechanical loads on the pipeline connections.

6.4. Periodic Inspection and Maintenance

During operation, periodic inspections should be carried out to monitor the condition of the meter and its related components.

Key inspection and maintenance activities include:

• Checking the connection condition and locations where gas leakage may occur.

• Monitoring the readings displayed on the mechanical counter.

• Inspecting the condition of the integrated flow strainer.

• Checking for any abnormal signs in the measuring mechanism.

• Performing inspections and calibration in accordance with measurement management requirements and actual operating conditions.

For gas systems, all removal, installation, and maintenance activities must be performed by qualified personnel, in compliance with safety procedures and only after the system has been properly isolated and depressurized in accordance with applicable technical requirements.

7. Applications of ELGAS EQZ in Industrial Gas Systems

With a flow range of 12 to 160 m³/h and a maximum operating pressure of 6 bar, the ELGAS EQZ Q100 can be considered for gas measurement systems whose operating conditions are compatible with the device’s specifications.

Typical applications include:

7.1. Centralized Gas Supply Systems in Factories

The meter can be installed on main gas supply pipelines or suitable distribution branches to monitor the volume of gas passing through the system. The measurement data helps operating personnel monitor gas consumption and track the performance of the gas supply system.

7.2. Gas Distribution Systems in Industrial Parks

In industrial parks, gas may be distributed to multiple factories or production areas. Installing flow meters at appropriate locations helps monitor gas consumption and supports overall consumption management.

7.3. Fuel Supply Systems for Production Equipment

Many industrial machines and systems use gas as fuel, such as heating furnaces, drying ovens, and certain heat-treatment lines. A flow meter can be installed on the gas supply line to monitor the volume of fuel supplied to the equipment.

7.4. Gas Consumption Management and Monitoring Systems

The readings displayed on the mechanical counter provide a basis for recording gas consumption over different periods. This information helps businesses monitor fuel usage, compare operating data, and support energy management activities.

8. Considerations When Selecting and Installing a Gas Flow Meter

To ensure that a gas flow meter is suitable for a particular system, several technical factors should be considered before selecting and commissioning the equipment.

8.1. Check the Actual Flow Rate

This is one of the most important factors when selecting a turbine gas meter. The minimum gas flow rate, normal operating flow rate, and maximum flow rate of the system should be determined.

For the ELGAS EQZ Q100:

• Qmin: 12 m³/h.

• Qmax: 160 m³/h.

The selected meter must be suitable for the system’s actual operating flow range. The meter model should not be selected solely based on the pipeline size.

8.2. Check the Operating Pressure

The meter has a maximum operating pressure of 6 bar. Therefore, the actual system pressure must be checked, including the normal operating pressure and any pressure conditions that may arise, to ensure that the equipment does not exceed its specified operating limit.

8.3. Determine the Size and Connection Type

When selecting a gas meter, compatibility between the equipment dimensions, pipeline, connection standard, and existing installation configuration must be checked. Selecting the correct connection type facilitates installation and helps prevent problems during operation.

8.4. Follow the Installation Orientation Requirements

The meter can be installed in different orientations, but the turbine shaft must not be suspended and the counter shaft must always remain horizontal. These requirements should be taken into account during pipeline design and equipment positioning.

8.5. Ensure Safety in Gas Systems

Gas is a flammable medium; therefore, meter installation and maintenance must strictly comply with applicable safety regulations. Connection points must be checked for tightness, suitable fittings must be used, and work on the system must only be carried out after the necessary isolation and depressurization measures have been implemented.

9. ANCES – Consultation and Supply of ELGAS Gas Flow Meters

Selecting a suitable gas flow meter depends not only on pipeline dimensions but also on gas consumption, operating pressure, installation conditions, and the system’s measurement management requirements.

ANCES supplies and provides consultation on industrial equipment for pipeline systems, measurement applications, and industrial treatment processes. For the ELGAS EQZ Q100 gas flow meter, ANCES supports customers in reviewing technical specifications, assessing operating conditions, and selecting a suitable configuration for their applications.

If your business is looking to install a new gas flow meter or replace an existing unit in an operating system, please contact ANCES for technical consultation and a quotation.

10. Conclusion

The ELGAS EQZ Q100 gas flow meter is a turbine-type gas measuring device that uses the gas velocity measurement principle to record the volume of gas passing through a system. With a flow range of 12–160 m³/h, a maximum operating pressure of 6 bar, and features such as self-lubricating ball bearings, an integrated flow strainer, and a monopipe design that facilitates maintenance, the product is suitable for consideration in various industrial gas measurement applications.

Selecting the correct model and installing it in accordance with technical requirements will help maintain measurement stability, support fuel consumption monitoring, and improve the efficiency of gas system management in factories.