GE Transport PT878 User Manual (English)

Other manuals for GE Transport PT878

Questions and Answers:

S
Sandra SmithAug 18, 2025
What to do if GE Measuring Instruments show low signal?
- M
  Marie Mendez DDSAug 18, 2025
  If the GE Measuring Instruments display a low signal, which indicates poor ultrasonic signal strength, the issue might stem from a broken cable, a flowcell problem, a transducer issue, or an electronic failure. Start by checking the transducer cable. If the problem persists, it could be related to the flowcell or transducer spacing. In such cases, review the programming and transducer spacing to ensure they are correctly configured. If these steps don't resolve the problem, consider contacting the factory for further assistance.
T
Tammy EscobarAug 21, 2025
What causes Velocity Range error in GE Transport PT878 Measuring Instruments?
- A
  Andrew MorseAug 21, 2025
  A Velocity Range error in GE Measuring Instruments, indicating that the velocity exceeds programmed limits, can be due to a programming error, poor flow conditions, or incorrect transducer spacing. Ensure the flow rate is within ±12m/s (±40 ft/s). Verify the programming and transducer spacing. If the programmed value is outside the limit, adjust the limits as described in Chapter 8 on page 184. If problems persist, further guidance can be found in the sections addressing Flowcell and Transducer Problems.
A
alexisreynoldsAug 23, 2025
What to do if my GE Transport PT878 show Soundspeed Error?
- C
  Charles HernandezAug 23, 2025
  If your GE Measuring Instruments display a Soundspeed Error, it may be due to poor flow conditions, incorrect programming, bad transducer spacing, or because the measurement is very different from the programmed soundspeed. Begin by checking the soundspeed against the nominal soundspeed. Also, verify the programming and transducer spacing to ensure they are accurate. For further troubleshooting, consult the sections on Flowcell Problems and Transducer Problems.
L
Linda JohnsonAug 25, 2025
What to do if GE Transport PT878 Measuring Instruments have a Cycle skip, Acceleration?
- W
  William RamirezAug 26, 2025
  If your GE Measuring Instruments experience cycle skip during acceleration, it is likely due to poor flow conditions or incorrect transducer spacing. To address this, check the transducer spacing, comparing the programmed settings with the actual setup on the pipe. Additional guidance can be found in the sections on Flowcell Problems and Transducer Problems.
J
Julian ContrerasAug 27, 2025
How to fix Signal Quality issues in GE Measuring Instruments?
- S
  Sarah HenryAug 28, 2025
  Signal Quality issues in GE Measuring Instruments can arise from different causes depending on whether the signal is too high or too low. If the signal quality is too high, it suggests an electronic failure. If it is too low, it indicates a flowcell or electrical problem. Check for sources of electrical interference. Test the electronics using a test flowcell. If the unit continues to malfunction, it may be necessary to contact the factory for further assistance.
S
Stanley JohnsonAug 30, 2025
How to resolve Clamp-on Transducer Misalignment in GE Measuring Instruments?
- A
  Adam LopezAug 30, 2025
  To resolve misalignment issues with clamp-on transducers in GE Measuring Instruments, ensure that you precisely follow the instructions provided with your transducers and clamping fixtures. This is crucial because the transducer transmits relatively narrow beams of ultrasound, requiring careful alignment for optimal performance.
P
Patrick TaylorSep 1, 2025
How to resolve Clamp-on Transducer Cycle Skip Condition in GE Measuring Instruments?
- G
  Greg MillerSep 1, 2025
  To resolve a cycle skip condition with clamp-on transducers on GE Measuring Instruments, which is caused by a distorted or altered signal due to poor couplant, a bad wall, or unusual fluid disturbances, recouple both transducers using a proper couplant. Try standard CPL-1 couplant, which is effective up to 212°F (100°C), or CPL-2 for temperatures up to 500°F (260°C).
J
Jordan LoveSep 3, 2025
How to improve Clamp-on Transducer Coupling to Pipe on GE Transport PT878?
- J
  James FieldsSep 3, 2025
  To improve the coupling of clamp-on transducers to the pipe in GE Measuring Instruments, ensure the pipe wall is smooth and generally free of paint. The couplant material must fill any voids between the transducer and the pipe and must be firmly coupled or bonded to both the pipe and the transducer, as clamp-on transducers must be in intimate contact with the pipe.
R
robertvargasSep 6, 2025
What causes Wetted Transducer Corrosion Damage in GE Measuring Instruments?
- E
  elizabeth10Sep 6, 2025
  Wetted transducers in GE Measuring Instruments may suffer corrosion damage from corrosive fluids if the transducer material isn't suitable for the application. To check for damage, remove the transducer from the flow cell. If the wetted end is rough and pitted, replacement may be needed. GE can provide suitable transducer materials for most fluids; contact the factory for details on special transducers.
P
Phillip TurnerSep 8, 2025
What to do for Analog Out Error on GE Measuring Instruments?
- N
  Nathan CowanSep 8, 2025
  If you encounter an Analog Out Error on your GE Measuring Instruments, which indicates an under current output, verify that the output load is within the specification of

GE Transport PT878 Specifications

General

Type	Ultrasonic Flow Meter
Wetted Materials	Not applicable (non-intrusive)
Protection Rating	IP65
Measurement Principle	Transit-Time Ultrasonic
Measurement Range	0.1 to 12 m/s (0.3 to 40 ft/s)
Accuracy	±1% of reading
Display	LCD
Power Supply	100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Operating Temperature	-20 to 60°C (-4 to 140°F)
Pipe Size Range	0.5 inch (13 mm) to 48 inches (1220 mm), depending on transducer
Fluid Types	Liquids
Outputs	4-20 mA
Process Connection	Clamp-on

Summary

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities

1.1 Overview

General overview of the PT878's capabilities, operation, and key features like data logging and infrared communication.

1.2 System Description

Details the PT878's two essential subsystems: the flowcell and the electronics package.

Chapter 2. Initial Setup

2.1 Making Electrical Connections

Guides on connecting power, transducers, input/output, and infrared interfaces to the PT878 unit.

2.2 Caring for the PT878 Batteries

Covers charging, storing, replacing, and disposing of the PT878's rechargeable batteries for optimal performance.

2.3 Powering ON and OFF

Provides instructions on turning the PT878 on and off, including shutdown menu options and potential issues.

Chapter 3. Programming Site Data

3.1 Entering the Program Menu

Guides on accessing the Program Menu to enter site-specific information like transducer, pipe, and fluid data.

3.2 Entering Transducer Parameters

Explains how to configure transducer type, frequency, time delay, and angle for accurate measurements.

3.5 Entering Fluid Types and Speeds

Guides on specifying fluid properties such as type, sound speed, and speed limits for optimal measurement accuracy.

Chapter 4. Creating and Managing Sites

4.1 The Site Manager

Introduces the Site Manager for creating, opening, saving, renaming, deleting, and transferring site files.

Chapter 5. Displaying and Configuring Data

5.1 The Format Option

Allows specifying the numeric format (default, fixed decimal, scientific) and decimal places for displayed measurements.

5.5 Customizing the Display Screen

Covers adjusting the number of displayed parameters and customizing softkeys for quick menu access.

5.6 Managing Files — The Drive Manager

Provides tools to review, print, or transfer files stored in the PT878's memory.

Chapter 6. Programming Meter Settings

6.1 Entering the Meter Menu

Guides on accessing the Meter Menu to adjust global settings like units, date/time, contrast, and language.

6.4 Entering Date and Time

Covers setting the current date and time, essential for accurate data logging and event timestamps.

6.9 Changing Communications Settings

Details how to configure parameters for PC communication via the infrared interface, including node ID, baud rate, and parity.

Chapter 7. Logging Data

7.1 Entering the Logging Menu

Guides on accessing the Logging Menu to configure and manage data logging operations like setting up new logs.

7.2 The Log Manager

Allows checking log status, memory size, and selecting logs for copying, renaming, deleting, or printing.

7.3 The File Menu

Provides options within the Log Manager for file operations including creating, copying, deleting, printing, and transferring logs.

Chapter 8. Servicing the PT878

8.1 Entering the Service Menu

Guides on accessing the Service Menu for performing maintenance functions like printing reports and running diagnostics.

8.3 Setting up the Thickness Gauge

Explains how to measure pipe wall thickness using an optional thickness gauge transducer, including calibration.

8.12 Updating PT878 Software

Provides instructions for updating the meter's operating software using a PC and infrared adapter via IrOBEX or IrCOMM.

Chapter 9. Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

9.1 Error Code Messages

Lists error codes, their possible causes, and recommended actions for isolating and resolving problems.

9.4 Transducer Problems

Covers potential problems with wetted and clamp-on transducers, including leaks, corrosion, internal damage, and physical damage.

Chapter 10. Specifications

10.1 Overall

Specifies overall hardware configuration, size, weight, and enclosure details of the PT878 flowmeter.

10.2 Electrical

Details electrical specifications including internal batteries, battery life, charger input, memory capacity, and compliance standards.

10.3 Operational Specifications

Outlines operational aspects like site programming interface, data logging capacity, display functions, and totalizer outputs.

Appendix A. Menu Maps

Site Menu - Figure 138 on page 221

Provides a visual map of the PT878's Site Menu structure, including file management and softkey customization.

Program Menu -

Illustrates the hierarchical structure of the PT878's Program Menu options for configuring transducer, pipe, fluid, and other settings.

Meter Menu -

Displays the menu flow for configuring meter settings and global parameters such as units, date/time, and communications.

Appendix C. Temperature Transmitter Installation

C.1 Guidelines for RTD Installation

Provides essential guidelines for installing RTDs to ensure accurate temperature measurements, such as pipe cleaning and insulation.

C.3 Making Electrical Connections

Explains how to connect RTD sensors to a 4-20 mA transmitter and the transmitter to the PT878 for temperature input.

Appendix D. Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge Theory of Operation

D.1 Factors Affecting Performance and Accuracy

Discusses factors like surface condition, material properties, and transducer alignment affecting ultrasonic thickness measurements.

D.1.1 Transducer Positioning/Alignment

Covers the importance of proper transducer placement and alignment for achieving good sound coupling and accurate readings.

Appendix F. Establishing IR Communications

Windows 2000/XP

Explains IR port configuration for Windows 2000 and XP, including driver setup and dongle usage.

Appendix G. Glossary

Energy Option

An option enabling flow measurement in heating/cooling systems by calculating energy based on temperature and flow data.

Flowcell

The part of the flowmeter system using ultrasonic pulses to interrogate flow, comprising the pipe and transducers.

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