Understanding MCERTS Accredited Flow Meters: From Certification to Implementation​​

At Teledyne ISCO, many of our water and wastewater measurement systems and samplers are “MCERTS" (Monitoring Certification Scheme) accredited. While MCERTS is a designation of the United Kingdom's Environment Agency for environmental permit holders, most nations have environmental regulations to which companies must abide.

MCERTS is a cornerstone in ensuring the integrity of environmental monitoring. MCERTS sets rigorous standards for monitoring equipment used by environmental permit holders who may produce emissions that could harm air, water, or land. This certification scheme is crucial in maintaining the highest levels of environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.

MCERTS-certified flow meters are specialized instruments designed to measure water flow in open channels and partially filled pipes with unparalleled accuracy. These meters are certified to meet the exacting standards set by the MCERTS program, ensuring they provide reliable and consistent measurements in various environmental monitoring applications.

The primary purpose of these flow meters is to enable precise quantification of water flow, which is essential for measuring effluent discharge, managing water resources, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The following sections present key features of MCERTS-certified flow meters, their applications in regulated industries, and the benefits they offer for environmental compliance and operational efficiency.​

MCERTS-certified flow meters boast several distinctive features that set them apart from standard flow measurement devices. These features include:

• High Accuracy: MCERTS-certified products must meet stringent accuracy standards set by the certification scheme. These standards ensure high levels of precision across a range of flow conditions.
• Durability: These meters are built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, ensuring reliable performance in challenging industrial and natural settings.
• Data Logger Capabilities: Many MCERTS flow meters come equipped with advanced data logger features, allowing for continuous measurement and reporting of flow data.
• Non-Intrusive Measurement: Some advanced MCERTS flow meters use non-contact technologies, such as laser-based systems, to measure flow without disrupting the water body or risking sensor fouling. For example, Teledyne ISCO's LaserFlow is the only non-contact flow measurement device to read below the surface.
• Calibration Stability: MCERTS certification requires flow meters to maintain their calibration over extended periods, reducing the need for frequent recalibration and ensuring consistent performance.
  

MCERTS flow meters are used extensively across various regulated industries where accurate water flow measurement is critical. These applications include:

• Wastewater Treatment: In sewage treatment plants, MCERTS flow meters monitor influent and effluent flows, ensuring compliance with discharge permits and optimizing treatment processes.
• Trade Effluent: Where any liquid waste that is discharged from a business, trade, or industrial process flows into a public sewer, MCERTS flow meters are called for to ensure compliance with governing rules and regulations.
• Industrial Discharge Monitoring: Manufacturing facilities use these meters to measure and report their wastewater discharges, adhering to environmental regulations and avoiding penalties.
• Water Abstraction: Water companies and large-scale users employ MCERTS flow meters to accurately measure water abstraction from rivers and aquifers, ensuring sustainable use of water resources.
• Environmental Research: Scientists and environmental agencies use these meters in studies related to water quality, ecosystem health, and climate change impacts on water systems.
• Urban Flood Management: MCERTS flow meters play a crucial role in monitoring urban drainage systems and helping predict and manage flood risks in cities.
  

Implementing MCERTS-certified flow meters offers numerous benefits for organizations seeking to ensure environmental compliance:

• Regulatory Confidence: By using MCERTS-certified equipment, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to accurate monitoring and build trust with regulatory bodies.
• Risk Mitigation: Precise flow measurement helps identify potential environmental risks early, allowing for proactive management and reducing the likelihood of non-compliance incidents.
  
• Operational Efficiency: Accurate flow data enables organizations to optimize their water usage and treatment processes, potentially leading to cost savings and improved environmental performance.
• Legal Protection: In the event of disputes or legal challenges, data from MCERTS-certified meters provides evidence of compliance with environmental regulations.
• Environmental Stewardship: By ensuring accurate measurement of water flows, organizations contribute to better management of water resources and environmental protection.

MCERTS certification extends beyond flow meters to encompass water sampling equipment and practices. This includes automatic water samplers, sample handling procedures, and personnel certification. By using MCERTS-certified sensor flow meters in conjunction with certified sampling equipment, organizations can ensure a comprehensive and consistent approach to water quality monitoring.

Proper installation and maintenance of MCERTS flow meters are crucial for ensuring their ongoing accuracy and reliability. Key considerations include:

• Site Selection: The flow meter's location should be carefully chosen to ensure stable flow conditions and minimize potential sources of interference.
• Calibration: Regular calibration checks are essential to maintain the meter's accuracy over time. The frequency of these checks must meet the minimum requirements set by both manufacturer recommendations and regulatory standards. Adhering to these minimum requirements for calibration ensures ongoing compliance and optimal performance of MCERTS flow meters.
• Cleaning and Inspection: Periodic cleaning and inspection of the meter and its components helps prevent fouling and ensures consistent performance, especially in environments with high sediment loads or biological growth.
• Data Management: Implementing systems for collecting, storing, and analyzing flow data is crucial for leveraging the full benefits of MCERTS flow meters.
  
• Staff Training: Properly training personnel in the operation and maintenance of MCERTS certified products is essential for maximizing their effectiveness and longevity.

MCERTS flow meters are critical in environmental monitoring and compliance. By providing accurate, reliable measurements of water flow, these instruments enable organizations to meet regulatory requirements, optimize their operations, and contribute to sustainable water management practices.

As environmental concerns continue to grow, the role of MCERTS-certified flow meters in ensuring responsible stewardship of water resources is becoming ever-more significant. For those seeking to implement or upgrade their flow measurement systems, choosing MCERTS-certified equipment from reputable manufacturers like Teledyne ISCO offers a path to enhanced compliance, operational efficiency, and environmental protection. For example, ISCO's Signature flow meter is MCERTS-certified.

​At Teledyne ISCO, we don't just monitor the environment—we're revolutionizing how it's done. We are at the forefront of environmental monitoring technology, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Our team of world-class engineers, scientists, and technicians brings decades of collective experience to every product we design. This expertise is coupled with an unwavering commitment to innovation. We invest heavily in ensuring our solutions are always ahead of the curve and aligned with the latest MCERTS and other environmental regulations.

At Teledyne ISCO, we're passionate about providing the tools and expertise needed to protect our planet's most precious resources. Choose Teledyne ISCO, and join us in our mission to set new standards in environmental monitoring and protection. Together, we're not just observing the environment—we're safeguarding it for future generations.​

Frequently ​Asked Questions

What is the purpose o​f MC​ERTS certification for flow meters?

MCERTS certification for flow meters ensures that these instruments meet rigorous standards for accuracy and reliability in environmental monitoring applications. The purpose is to provide regulators and users with confidence that the flow measurements obtained are trustworthy and suitable for compliance reporting and environmental management decisions.

How often should MCERTS​ flow meters be calibrated?

MCERTS flow meters should be calibrated according to the manufacturer's recommendations and regulatory requirements. Typically, this involves an initial calibration upon installation and subsequent calibrations at intervals depending on the specific meter and its application. Regular calibration checks help maintain the meter's accuracy and ensure ongoing compliance with MCERTS standards.

Can MCERTS flow meters be​ used in all types of water bodies?

MCERTS flow meters are designed for a wide range of water bodies, including open channels and partially filled or fully filled pipes. However, the specific type of MCERTS flow meter must be chosen based on the characteristics of the water body and flow conditions. Some meters are better suited for certain applications, such as non-contact laser systems for open channels or electromagnetic meters for full pipes. Teledyne ISCO's Signature flow meter can accommodate either.​​