C703-96 (Cold Water Meters - Fire Service Type)

American Water Works Association
ANSI/AWWA C703-96
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C703-86)
AWWA STANDARD
FOR
COLD-WATER METERS—
FIRE SERVICE TYPE
Effective date: Apr. 1, 1997.

First edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors May 24, 1923.
This edition approved June 23, 1996.
Approved by American National Standards Institute Oct. 28, 1996.
AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235
Copyright (C) 1998 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
AWWA Standard
This document is an American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard. It is not a specification.
AWWA standards describe minimum requirements and do not contain all of the engineering and
administrative information normally contained in specifications. The AWWA standards usually con-
tain options that must be evaluated by the user of the standard. Until each optional feature is
specified by the user, the product or service is not fully defined. AWWA publication of a standard
does not constitute endorsement of any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certify, or
approve any product. The use of AWWA standards is entirely voluntary. AWWA standards are
intended to represent a consensus of the water supply industry that the product described will
provide satisfactory service. When AWWA revises or withdraws this standard, an official notice of
action will be placed on the first page of the classified advertising section of Journal AWWA. The
action becomes effective on the first day of the month following the month of Journal AWWA publi-
cation of the official notice.
American National Standard

An American National Standard implies a consensus of those substantially concerned with its scope
and provisions. An American National Standard is intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the
consumer, and the general public. The existence of an American National Standard does not in any
respect preclude anyone, whether that person has approved the standard or not, from manufactur-
ing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the stan-
dard. American National Standards are subject to periodic review, and users are cautioned to obtain
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Copyright © 1997 by American Water Works Association

Printed in USA
ii
Committee Personnel
The AWWA Subcommittee on Compound and Fire-Service Meters, which devel-

oped this standard, had the following personnel at the time:
King Moss II, Chair

Leo W. Fleury Jr., Vice-Chair
Terry E. Kjartanson
The AWWA Standards Committee on Water Meters, which reviewed and ap-
proved this standard, had the following personnel at the time of approval:
Roger C. Graff, Chair

Donald J. Kullmann, Secretary
Consumer Members
G.A. Delgado, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power,

Los Angeles, Calif. (AWWA)
Frank Fenton, Denver Water Department, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
R.C. Graff, City of San Diego Water Utilities Engineering Division,
San Diego, Calif. (AWWA)
K.W. Grant, Louisville Water Company, Louisville, Ky. (AWWA)
M.J. Kebles, Elizabethtown Water Company, Plainfield, N.J. (AWWA)
T.E. Kjartanson, City of Winnipeg Waterworks, Winnipeg, Man. (AWWA)
Jean-Paul Mahieu, Kansas City Water Department, Kansas City, Mo. (AWWA)
C.A. Mattis, Washington Suburban Sanitation Commission, Laurel, Md. (AWWA)
King Moss II, Dallas Water Utilities, Dallas, Texas (AWWA)
S.J. Pagley, City of Wilson, Wilson, N.C. (AWWA)
A.A. Piasecki, City of Phoenix, Phoenix, Ariz. (AWWA)
E.M. Poaches Jr., Philadelphia Water Department, Philadelphia, Pa. (AWWA)
K.M. Poe, Memphis Light Gas & Water, Memphis, Tenn. (AWWA)
L.M. Scott, Lincoln Water System District, Lincoln, Neb. (AWWA)
J.W. Smith, Gary–Hobart Water Corporation, Gary, Ind. (AWWA)
R.A. Stehmeier, Milwaukee Water Works, Milwaukee, Wis. (AWWA)
J.P. Sullivan, Commissioners of Public Works, Charleston, S.C. (AWWA)
J.P. Sullivan Jr., Boston Water & Sewer Commission, Boston, Mass. (NEWWA)
General Interest Members
K.R. Johnson, Packwood, Wash. (AWWA)

M.S. Marcotte,* Council Liaison, Dallas Water Utilities, Dallas, Texas (AWWA)
R.C. McPherson, Rochester, N.Y. (AWWA)
*Liaison, nonvoting
iii
D.S. Morrow, Utility Technical Services, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
E.S. Ralph,* Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
Richard San Giacomo, R&D Engineering, P.C., Buffalo, N.Y. (AWWA)
L.E. Simmonds, Lafayette, Calif. (AWWA)
D.A. Wheadon, International Water Consultants Inc., Frisco, Colo. (AWWA)
Producer Members
G.D. Anderson, Sensus Technologies Inc., Uniontown, Pa. (AWWA)

P.A. Bennett,† Kent Meters Inc., Ocala, Fla. (AWWA)
Les Englemann, Ames Company Inc., Woodland, Calif. (AWWA)
Don Faber,† Schlumberger Industries, Tallassee, Ala. (AWWA)
L.W. Fleury Jr., Hersey Products Inc., Cranston, R.I. (AWWA)
T.H. Gerardi, Kent Meters Inc., Ocala, Fla. (AWWA)
R.T. Huth, Water Specialties Corporation, Porterville, Calif. (AWWA)
M.N. Kavouklis,† Hersey Products, Athens, Ga. (AWWA)
J.H. Kennedy,† Badger Meter Inc., Dallas, Texas (AWWA)
R.N. Koch, Master Meter Inc., Sewickley, Pa. (AWWA)
D.J. Kullmann, Schlumberger Industries, Roswell, Ga. (AWWA)
D.C. Pinney, Precision Meters Inc., Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
Jerry Potter,† Master Meter Inc., Longview, Texas (AWWA)
F.S. Salser Jr., Floyd S. Salser Jr. & Associates, Ocala, Fla. (AWWA)
Paul Sandhu, Sparling Instruments Company Inc., El Monte, Calif. (AWWA)
Clay Spence,† McCrometer, Division of Ketema, Hemet, Calif. (AWWA)
D.H. Strobel, Badger Meter Inc., Milwaukee, Wis. (AWWA)
G.M. Voss, McCrometer, Division of Ketema, Hemet, Calif. (AWWA)
*Liaison, nonvoting
†Alternate
iv
Contents
All AWWA standards follow the general format indicated subsequently. Some variations from this format may
be found in a particular standard.
SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE
Foreword 5 Verification
5.1 Rejection............................................ 12
I Introduction....................................... vii
I.A Background ....................................... vii
6 Delivery
I.B History............................................... vii
I.C Acceptance......................................... vii 6.1 Markings ........................................... 12
II Special Issues.................................. viii 6.2 Packaging and Shipping .................. 12
III Use of This Standard ..................... viii 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance.................... 12
III.A Purchaser Options and
Alternatives .................................. viii Appendix
III.B Modification to Standard .................. ix
IV Major Revisions ................................. ix A Supplemental Information ........... 13
V Comments ........................................... x A.1 Units of Measurement ..................... 13
A.2 Register Types .................................. 13
Standard A.3 Tests................................................... 13
A.4 Testing Equipment ........................... 14
1 General A.5 Registration Accuracy ...................... 14
1.1 Scope.................................................... 1 A.6 Periodic Tests .................................... 16
1.2 Purpose................................................ 2 A.7 Meter Storage ................................... 16
1.3 Application .......................................... 2 A.8 Installation........................................ 17
2 References......................................... 2 Tables
3 Definitions ........................................ 3 1 Operating Characteristics

(Flow Rate Information in gpm) ..... 7
4 Requirements 1M Operating Characteristics
4.1 Materials ............................................. 4 (Flow Rate Information in m3/h) .... 8
4.2 General Design ................................... 6 2 Meter Dimensions .............................. 8
4.3 Detailed Design .................................. 7 3 Physical Characteristics of
Companion Flanges.......................... 9
4 Register Characteristics................... 10
A.1 Average Recommended Interval
Between Meter Tests...................... 16
This page intentionally blank.
Foreword
This foreword is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C703.
I. Introduction
I.A. Background. Fire-service meters were developed in 1908 to assure water
agencies that water was not being taken from fire-service lines by unauthorized
persons and was not being used at unauthorized flow rates for purposes other than
fire protection. The meters were designed to register the amount of water used for
fires and domestic purposes at the lowest possible loss in pressure.
Some of the earlier meters were equipped with valves, referred to as atmos-
pheric valves, in the mainline section. An opening from the atmosphere led to a
groove in the face of the seat ring. When the rubber seat ring was in the closed
position, it bore against this groove and opened a small lever-actuated needle valve
located within the groove. This lowered the pressure in the groove to atmospheric,
increasing the valve closing force. When the main valve opened and the rubber seat
ring moved away from the groove, the small needle valve closed the groove to atmos-
phere, thereby preventing the flow of water from within the meter.
Rather than measuring the water that passed through the mainline section by
measuring chamber and register, as is currently the case, the first fire-service me-
ters used a time meter to indicate how long the mainline valve was in the open
position. The time registered in hours and minutes. The displacement-type time me-
ter had a cap with a small orifice placed over the outlet end of the meter and was
connected at the inlet end of the seat-ring groove mentioned above. When the main-
line valve opened, a small amount of water was discharged from the groove and
passed through the displacement meter to atmosphere. The small discharge of water
was carefully regulated to pass a relatively definite amount of water per hour and
would be registered on the meter dial as 1-h duration.
In the ensuing years, many design changes have been made to fire-service me-
ters to improve their performance at different flow rates, from the lowest up to the
torrents encountered under fire-fighting conditions, as well as heavy city and indus-
trial loads. Fire-service meters are also used as master meters to measure widely
variable flow rates from reservoirs and other water services.
I.B. History. The first standard covering fire-service meters was adopted by
the New England Water Works Association (NEWWA) in March 1923, and by the
American Water Works Association (AWWA) on May 24, 1923. The second and third
editions, with the interim designations 7M.4-T and 7M.4-1949, were approved on
Oct. 24, 1946, and Jan. 18, 1949, respectively. The fourth edition, designated as
C703-49, was approved on Jan. 18, 1949. Subsequent editions of AWWA C703 were
approved on Jan. 26, 1970, Feb. 3, 1979, and June 22, 1986. ANSI/AWWA C703-96
was approved by the Board of Directors on June 23, 1996.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with a consortium led by NSF Inter-
national (NSF) to develop voluntary third-party consensus standards and a certifica-
tion program for all direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other members of
the original consortium included the American Water Works Association Research
Foundation (AWWARF) and the Conference of State Health and Environmental
Managers (COSHEM). The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the
Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) joined later.
vii
In the United States, authority to regulate products for use in, or in contact
with, drinking water rests with individual states.* Local agencies may choose to
impose requirements more stringent than those required by the state. To evaluate
the health effects of products and drinking water additives from such products, state
and local agencies may use various references, including
1. An advisory program formerly administered by USEPA, Office of Drinking
Water, discontinued on Apr. 7, 1990.
2. Specific policies of the state or local agency.
3. Two standards developed under the direction of NSF, ANSI†/NSF‡ 60,
Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects, and ANSI/NSF 61, Drinking
Water System Components—Health Effects.
4. Other references, including AWWA standards, Food Chemicals Codex,
Water Chemicals Codex,§ and other standards considered appropriate by the state or
local agency.
Various certification organizations may be involved in certifying products in
accordance with ANSI/NSF 61. Individual states or local agencies have authority to
accept or accredit certification organizations within their jurisdiction. Accreditation
of certification organizations may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Appendix A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to ANSI/NSF 61
does not stipulate a maximum allowable level (MAL) of a contaminant for sub-
stances not regulated by a USEPA final maximum contaminant level (MCL). The
MALs of an unspecified list of “unregulated contaminants” are based on toxicity
testing guidelines (noncarcinogens) and risk characterization methodology (carcino-
gens). Use of Appendix A procedures may not always be identical, depending on the
certifier.
AWWA C703-96 does not address additives requirements. Thus, users of this
standard should consult the appropriate state or local agency having jurisdiction in
order to
1. Determine additives requirements, including applicable standards.
2. Determine the status of certifications by all parties offering to certify prod-
ucts for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
3. Determine current information on product certification.
II. Special Issues. This standard has no applicable information for this section.
III. Use of This Standard. AWWA has no responsibility for the suitability or
compatibility of the provisions of this standard to any intended application by any
user. Accordingly, each user of this standard is responsible for determining that the
standard’s provisions are suitable for and compatible with that user’s intended
application.
III.A Purchaser Options and Alternatives. The following items should be in-
cluded in the purchaser’s specifications:
*Persons in Canada, Mexico, and non-North American countries should contact the appropriate
authority having jurisdiction.
†American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.
‡NSF International, 3475 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106.
§Both publications available from National Academy of Sciences, 2102 Constitution Ave.
N.W., Washington, DC 20418.
viii
1. Standard used—that is, ANSI/AWWA C703, Standard for Cold-Water Me-
ters—Fire-Service Type, of latest revision.
2. Whether an affidavit of compliance (Sec. 6.3), a certificate of testing accu-
racy (Sec. A.3.3), or both, are to be furnished.
3. Limitations on acceptable materials, if any, as referenced throughout
Sec. 4.1.
4. Restrictions on corrosion resistance treatment process (Sec. 4.1.8), if any.
5. Size of meters (Sec. 4.2.1) and quantity required.
6. Length of filler piece (Sec. 4.2.3), if required.
7. Modifications of test specifications (Sec. 4.2.6), if required, if operating
water temperatures are to exceed 80°F (27°C) (Sec. A.5.2).
8. Whether companion flanges, gaskets, bolts, and nuts (Sec. 4.3.4) are to be
furnished, and if flanges are to be of copper alloy rather than cast iron (Sec. 4.1.9).
9. Details of register to be furnished: US gallons, cubic feet, cubic meters, or
other units; with or without center-sweep test hand; open, sealed, or permanently
sealed (Sec. 4.3.5).
10. Whether or not an encoder-type register, direct-reading remote register, or
an adaptor (Sec. 4.3.6) is required.
11. Whether a proportional-type or turbine-type meter with or without a by-
pass meter (Sec. 4.3.12) is required.
12. Special materials required, if any, to resist corrosion if water is to be
highly aggressive (Sec. A.5.3).
13. Whether the meter serial number is to be imprinted on the main case
(Sec. 6.1).
14. Whether specific warranty provisions will be required.
III.B Modification to Standard. Any modification to the provisions, defini-
tions, or terminology in this standard must be provided in the purchaser’s specifications.
IV. Major Revisions. The major revisions made to the standard in this edi-
tion include the following:
1. ASTM standards have been added to the references (Sec. 2).
2. It is recognized in the materials section (Sec. 2) of this standard that ad-
vances have been made in the development of nonmetallic materials for water meter
construction. Plastic materials are currently being successfully used for meter com-
ponents. The development of new and improved materials is ongoing, thus, this
standard will not require any one specific material, but will cite examples of mate-
rial defined by ASTM specifications and typically used in construction of water me-
ters. The materials section has been modified to recognize these advances.
3. The reference to unsealed or unprotected lead for valve weights has been
deleted from Sec. 4.1.10, Automatic Valves, to comply with the latest USEPA rulings
on lead in contact with potable water.
4. The scope (Sec. 1.1) has been expanded to include a turbine (Class II)
mainline meter with strainer and bypass as a type of fire-service meter.
5. In Sec. 4.1.2, Main Casings, fabricated steel has been added as a material
with which main cases can be made.
6. Table 1, Operating Characteristics, has been revised to reflect manufac-
turer advances and has been expanded to include short-term deluge maximum flow,
flow spread at changeover flow, and accuracy information. Table 1 has also been
expanded to include the operating characteristics of the turbine mainline meter with
strainer and bypass type of fire service meter.
ix
7. A separate Table 1M, Operating Characteristics with metric equivalents,
has been added.
8. A new Table 5, Register Characteristics, was added and includes mainline
register information that was formerly listed in Table 1.
9. Table 3 (formerly of ANSI/AWWA C703-86) has been deleted and included
in the expanded Table 1.
10. In Sec. 4.2.4, Pressure Requirement, the maximum working pressure has
been raised from 150 psi (1,030 kPa) to 175 psi (1,200 kPa).
11. A section has been added to appendix A stating AWWA’s position on
grounding of electrical systems to pipe systems conveying drinking water to custom-
ers’ premises.
12. The workmanship and materials section has been deleted (Sec. 1.4.2).
13. The format has been changed to AWWA standard style.
14. The acceptance clause (Sec. I.C) has been added and the definitions
(Sec. 3) have been revised to approved wording.
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Standards and Materials Development Department, (303) 794-
7711 ext. 6283, FAX (303) 795-1440, or write to the department at 6666 W. Quincy
Ave., Denver, CO 80235.
x
American Water Works Association
ANSI/AWWA C703-96
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C703-86)
AWWA STANDARD FOR
COLD-WATER
METERS—FIRE-SERVICE TYPE
COLD-WATER METERS—FIRE-SERVICE TYPE
SECTION 1: GENERAL
Sec. 1.1 Scope
This standard covers the various types and classes of cold-water fire-service-
type meters in sizes 3 in. (75 mm)* through 10 in. (250 mm) and the materials and
workmanship used in their fabrication. A fire-service meter shall consist of one of
the following:
A. A combination of (1) a mainline meter of the proportional type, Under-
writer’s Laboratory† (UL) listed or Factory Mutual Research‡ (FM) approved, having
an unobstructed passageway of essentially the pipe size, for measuring high flow
rates; (2) a bypass meter of the appropriate size for measuring low flow rates; and
(3) an automatic valve for diverting flow rates other than fire demand through the
bypass meter.
B. A combination of (1) a mainline meter of the turbine type (class II), UL
listed or FM approved; (2) a UL-listed or FM-approved fire-service strainer; (3) a
bypass meter of the appropriate size for measuring low flow rates; and (4) an auto-
matic valve for diverting flow rates other than fire demand through the bypass meter.
C. A combination of (1) a mainline meter of the turbine type (class II), UL
listed or FM approved; and (2) a UL-listed or FM-approved fire-service strainer.
*Metric conversions given in this standard are direct conversions of US customary units
and not those specified in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards.
†Underwriter’s Laboratory, 333 Pfingsten Rd., Northbrook, IL 60062.
‡Factory Mutual Research Corporation, 1151 Boston–Providence Turnpike, P.O. Box 9102,
Norwood, MA 02062.
1
2 AWWA C703-96
Sec. 1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to provide the minimum requirements for cold-
water meters—fire-service type.
Sec. 1.3 Application
This standard can be referenced in specifications for purchasing and receiving
cold-water meters—fire-service type and can be used for manufacturing this type of
meter. The stipulations of this standard apply when this document has been refer-
enced and then only to cold-water meters—fire-service type.
SECTION 2: REFERENCES
This standard references the following documents. In their latest editions,
these documents form a part of this standard to the extent specified within the
standard. In any case of conflict, the requirements of this standard shall prevail.
ANSI*/ASME† B1.20.1—Pipe Threads, General Purpose (Inch).
ANSI/ASME B16.1—Cast Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings.
ANSI/ASME B16.24—Cast Copper Alloy Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
Class 150, 300, 400, 600, 900, 1,500 and 2,500.
ANSI/AWWA‡ C207—Standard for Steel Pipe Flanges for Waterworks Service-
Sizes 4 In. Through 144 In. (100 mm Through 3,600 mm).
ANSI/AWWA C550—Standard for Protective Epoxy Interior Coatings for Valves
and Hydrants.
ANSI/AWWA C706—Standard for Direct-Reading Remote-Registration Systems
for Cold-Water Meters.
ANSI/AWWA C707—Standard for Encoder-Type Remote-Registration Systems
for Cold-Water Meters.
Water Meters—Selection, Installation, Testing, and Maintenance, AWWA Manual
M6, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (1986).
ASTM§ A48—Standard Specification for Gray Iron Castings.
ASTM A126—Standard Specification for Gray Iron Castings for Valves,
Flanges, and Pipe Fittings.
ASTM A153—Standard Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and
Steel Hardware.
ASTM A276—Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Bars and Shapes.
ASTM A536—Standard Specification for Ductile Iron Castings.
ASTM A570/A570M—Standard Specification for Steel, Sheet and Strip, Carbon,
Hot-Rolled, Structural Quality.
ASTM A580/A580M—Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Wire.
*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.
†American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 345 E. 47th Ave., New York, NY 10017.
‡American Water Works Association, 6666 W. Quincy Ave., Denver, CO 80235.
§American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959.
COLD-WATER METERS—FIRE-SERVICE TYPE 3
ASTM A582/A582M—Standard Specification for Free-Machining Stainless Steel

Bars.
ASTM B30—Standard Specification for Copper-Base Alloys in Ingot Form.
ASTM B139—Standard Specification for Phosphor Bronze Rod, Bar, and Shapes.
ASTM B176—Standard Specification for Copper-Alloy Die Castings.
ASTM B584—Standard Specification for Copper Alloy Sand Castings for Gen-
eral Applications.
ASTM D2000—Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automo-
tive Applications.
ASTM D2135—Classification of Hard Rubbers (discontinued in 1989).
ASTM D3935—Standard Specification for Polycarbonate (PC) Unfilled and Re-
inforced Material.
ASTM D4066—Standard Specification for Nylon Injection and Extrusion
Materials (PA).
ASTM D4067—Standard Specification for Reinforced and Filled Polyphenylene
Sulfide (PPS) Injection Molding and Extrusion Materials.
ASTM D4101—Standard Specification for Propylene Plastic Injection and Ex-
trusion Materials.
ASTM D4181—Standard Specification for Acetal (POM) Molding and Extrusion
Materials.
ASTM D4203—Standard Specification for Styrene-Acrylonitrile (SAN) Injection
and Extrusion Materials.
ASTM D4349—Standard Specification for Polyphenylene Ether (PPE) Materials.
ASTM D4549—Standard Specification for Polystyrene Molding and Extrusion
Materials (PS).
ASTM E527—Standard Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys (UNS).*
SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in this standard:
1. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces mate-
rials or products.
2. Open register: A register that is not sealed from the environment.
3. Permanently sealed register: A register protected from the environment by
a formed joint that can be unsealed only by destroying one or more of the compo-
nents forming the joint.
4. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any mate-
rials or work to be performed.
5. Sealed register: A register protected from the environment by a gasketed
joint that can be unsealed by loosening a connection such as a mechanical fastener
(e.g., a screw thread or some bolts).
6. Supplier: The party that supplies materials or services. A supplier may or
may not be the manufacturer.
*Also refer to Copper Development Association, Greenwich Office Park 2, P.O. Box 1840,
Greenwich, CT 06836-1840.
4 AWWA C703-96
SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 4.1 Materials
4.1.1 Choice of materials. The composition of all alloys in this section is sub-
ject to commercially accepted tolerances.* Section 4.1.2 through Sec. 4.1.11 do not
require any one specific material, but cite examples of materials typically used in
the construction of water meters. The listings are not intended to be all-inclusive
and should not be used to limit the use of other materials. When reference is made
to ANSI, ASTM, AWWA, or other standards, it shall be understood that the latest
revision thereof shall apply unless the date of the standard is also specifically listed
for a particular reason.
Materials shall be selected for their strength and resistance to corrosion and
shall not impart to the water objectionable taste or odor, nor toxic substances in
normalized concentrations exceeding the maximum contaminant levels (MCL) as de-
fined by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).
4.1.2 Main casings. Main casings shall be either of a copper alloy containing
not less than 75 percent copper, such as ASTM B30, UNS C84400, or UNS C93200,
or similar copper alloy as listed in the current revision of ASTM B584; or a cast iron
as listed in ASTM A48 or ASTM A126; or fabricated steel as listed in ASTM A570.
All ferrous bodies and parts shall be coated with a polymerized coating or shall
be hot-dip galvanized in conformance with ASTM A153. The use of synthetic coat-
ings on ferrous bodies and parts shall be subject to approval by the purchaser. This
approval applies not only to the specific use, but also to the coating and application
process.
The protective coating shall be composed of materials referenced in
ANSI/AWWA C550 as deemed acceptable in the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) document, Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations on Food Additives,
Sec. 175.300. The manufacturer shall provide documentation verifying compliance
therewith when requested.
All materials used in the construction of meter-main cases shall have sufficient
dimensional stability to retain operating clearances at working temperatures of up
to 105°F (40°C) and shall not permanently warp or deform when exposed to tem-
peratures of up to 150°F (66°C) for 1 h.
4.1.3 Register-box rings and covers. Register-box rings and covers shall be
made of a copper alloy containing not less than 57 percent copper such as UNS
C85800 as listed in ASTM B176; or a suitable engineering plastic, such as polycar-
bonate (PC) per ASTM D3935; or propylene per ASTM D4101.
All materials used in the construction of register-box rings and covers shall
have sufficient dimensional stability to retain operating clearances at working tem-
peratures of up to 105°F (40°C) and shall not permanently warp or deform when
exposed to temperatures of up to 150°F (66°C) for 1 h.
4.1.4 Measuring cages or chambers. Measuring cages or chambers shall be
made of a copper alloy containing not less than 85 percent copper, such as UNS
*The 1986 amendments to the US Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) limit materials used
for wetted pipe fittings to a maximum 8 percent lead.
C83600 listed in ASTM B584; or a suitable engineering plastic such as

polyphenylene oxide (PPE) per ASTM D4349 or polystyrene (PS) per ASTM D4549.
Measuring cages or chambers shall have sufficient dimensional stability to re-
tain operating clearances at working temperatures of up to 80°F (27°C) and shall
not warp or deform when exposed to operating temperatures of 100°F (38°C).
4.1.5 Measuring turbines, discs, and pistons. Turbines, discs, and pistons shall
be made of vulcanized hard rubber, such as those classified per ASTM D2135; or a
suitable engineering plastic, such as propylene per ASTM D4101, styrene acryloni-
trile (SAN) per ASTM D4203; or nylon (PA) per ASTM D4066 such that the specific
gravity approximately equals that of water.
Turbines, discs, and pistons shall have sufficient dimensional stability to retain
operating clearances at working temperatures of up to 80°F (27°C) and not warp or
deform when exposed to operating temperatures of 100°F (38°C).
4.1.6 Disc, piston, and turbine spindles. Measuring-chamber spindles shall be
made of phosphor bronze, stainless steel as listed in ASTM A276, monel, ceramic,
tungsten carbide, or suitable engineering plastic.
Measuring-chamber spindles shall have sufficient dimensional stability to re-
tain operating clearances at working temperatures of up to 80°F (27°C) and shall
not warp or deform when exposed to operating temperatures of 100°F (38°C).
4.1.7 Intermediate gear trains. Frames, gears, and pinions of intermediate
gear trains exposed to water shall be made of a copper alloy containing not less than
85 percent copper, or of other suitable corrosion-resistant metals, or of a suitable
engineering plastic such as polyphenylene oxide per ASTM D4349, acetal (PCM) per
ASTM D4181, nylon (PA) per ASTM D4066, or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) per
ASTM D4067.
Intermediate gear trains shall have sufficient dimensional stability to retain
operating clearances at working temperatures of up to 80°F (27°C) and shall not
warp or deform when exposed to operating temperatures of 100°F (38°C).
4.1.8 External fasteners (casing bolts, studs, nuts, screws, and washers). Ex-
ternal fasteners shall be made of a copper alloy containing not less than 57 percent
copper, or of stainless steel per ASTM A276 or ASTM A582, or of steel that is treated
to resist corrosion by a process acceptable to the purchaser.
Fasteners for non-pressure containment assemblies may be made of a suitable
engineering plastic such as polycarbonate (PC) per ASTM D3935, nylon (PA) per
ASTM D4066, or acetal per ASTM D4181, or any of the aforementioned copper-based
or stainless steel materials.
4.1.9 Companion flanges. Companion flanges shall be made of cast iron, such
as those listed in ASTM A48 or A126; or when so specified by the purchaser of a
copper alloy containing not less than 75 percent copper such as UNS C84400 as
listed in ASTM B584, or steel per ASTM A276.
4.1.10 Automatic valves. The valve weights shall be of a copper alloy contain-
ing not less than 75 percent copper, such as listed in ASTM B30 or UNS C84400 as
listed in ASTM B584; or of a completely enclosed copper-alloy shell loaded with lead;
a stainless steel as listed in ASTM A580; ductile iron as listed in ASTM A536; or
cast iron as listed in ASTM A126. The valve and supplemental hinge pins or spin-
dles shall be of a copper alloy containing not less that 75 percent copper, such as
ASTM B584; or of stainless steel as listed in ASTM A580 or ASTM A276; or of
monel. All valve and supplemental weight-hinge bearings shall be bushed with hard
rubber as classified per ASTM D2135 or ASTM D2000; or with bronze per ASTM
B139 or with other suitable bushing material. If the valve contains a clapper, it
6 AWWA C703-96
shall be faced with a removable semihard seat. Valve seats shall be made of a cop-
per alloy containing not less than 75 percent copper, such as UNS C84400 as listed
in ASTM B584; or of a suitable engineering plastic, such as acetal per ASTM D4181,
polyphenylene oxide per ASTM D4349, or polycarbonate (PC) per ASTM D3935. If
the meter has a spring-loaded automatic valve, the valve design shall meet all appli-
cable elements of the above standard requirements.
4.1.11 Bypass check valve. All meters using a bypass system shall be provided
with a check valve in the piping downstream of the bypass (low-flow measuring)
meter. The check valve interior mechanisms shall be of a copper alloy per ASTM
B584, UNS C84400, or other suitable nonferrous material, such as rubber as classi-
fied in ASTM D2000. The check valve shall effectively prevent reverse flow and shall
not bind or stick while in service. The check valve shall be of sufficient size to be
used to test either the main line or the bypass meter at the flow rates required by
AWWA for the respective meters. If the bypass check valve cannot be used to per-
form in-line field testing at the required AWWA flow rates, a separate plug shall be
provided.
4.1.12 Bypass shut-off valve. All meters incorporating a bypass meter system
shall be provided with shut-off valves meeting applicable AWWA standards.
Sec. 4.2 General Design
4.2.1 Size. The nominal sizes of meters (Tables 1 and 1M) shall be the nomi-
nal sizes of the casing connections.
4.2.2 Capacity. The nominal capacity ratings and the related pressure-loss
limits shall be as shown in Table 1 for the safe maximum operating capacities.
4.2.3 Length. Maximum overall lengths of the meters, face-to-face of connec-
tion flanges, shall not be greater than those shown in Table 2. An approach pipe
may be used if necessary.
4.2.4 Pressure requirement. Meters shall operate without leakage or damage
to any part at a working pressure of 175 psi (1,200 kPa). The check valve on main
and bypass meters shall be capable of resisting back pressure of 175 psi (1,200 kPa).
4.2.5 Interior parts. Meters shall be designed for easy removal of all interior
parts without disturbing the connections to the pipeline.
4.2.6 Registration accuracy. Meters shall meet the following requirements for
accuracy with water at a temperature up to 80°F (27°C).
4.2.6.1 Normal flow rate. Type I proportional meters shall register not less
than 97 percent and not more than 103 percent of the water that actually passes
through the meter at any flow rate within the normal flow and test range limits
specified in Table 1, except in the registration of flow rates within the changeover
from bypass meter to main meter. If a type II or type III turbine-type (high-velocity,
class II) meter with strainer is used, the assembly shall register not less than
98.5 percent and not more than 101.5 percent of the water that actually passes
through the meter at normal flow and test range limits listed in Table 1, except in
the registration of flow rates within the changeover from bypass meter to main
meter.
4.2.6.2 Changeover flow rate. The beginning of the changeover is when the
accuracy of registration falls below 97 percent due to the operation of the automatic
valve mechanism, and the end of the changeover is when the accuracy of registra-
tion again reaches 97 percent. The registration at the changeover flow rates shall
not be less than 85 percent. The difference in the flow rate at the beginning and at
the end of the changeover shall not exceed the figures shown in Table 1.
Table 1 Operating characteristics (flow rate information in gpm)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Accuracy
Normal Minimum
Flow Flow Safe Contin- Short- Flow
Range Range Maximum uous term Spread
Meter and and Operating Duty Deluge at Normal Minimum Change- Head
Size Test Test Capacity Maximum Maximum Crossover Flow Flow over Loss at
in. Range Range SMOC Flow Flow† Flow Range Range Range SMOC
Type I Devices—Proportional Fire-Service Meters With Check Valve
*
3 5–400 400 300 600 40 ±3% 95% 85% 4 psi
*
4 5–700 700 500 1,000 60 ±3% 95% 85% 4 psi
*
6 8–1,600 1,600 1,150 2,300 130 ±3% 95% 85% 4 psi
*
8 10–2,800 2,800 2,000 4,000 210 ±3% 95% 85% 4 psi
*
10 15–4,400 4,400 3,100 6,200 300 ±3% 95% 85% 4 psi
Type II Devices—Compound Fire-Service Meter Assembly and Strainer With Check Valve
*
3 2–350 350 250 450 30 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 12 psi
*
4 4–700 700 400 900 40 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 12 psi
*
6 5–1,600 1,600 900 2,000 90 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 12 psi
*
8 8–2,800 2,800 1,600 3,500 150 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 12 psi
*
10 8–4,400 4,400 2,200 5,500 200 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 12 psi
Type III Devices—Turbine Fire-Service Meter and Strainer Without Check Valve
3 5–350 4 350 250 450 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 11 psi
4 15–700 10 700 400 900 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 11 psi
6 30–1,600 20 1,600 900 2,000 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 11 psi
8 35–2,800 30 2,800 1,600 3,500 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 11 psi
10 55–4,400 35 4,400 2,200 5,500 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 11 psi
*
Minimum flow range to be as shown in the applicable AWWA standard for the bypass-meter employed.
†
The headloss at the short-term deluge maximum flow may be significantly higher than the headloss given
for the safe maximum operating capacity in this table. Consult with the manufacturer for specific values.
4.2.6.3 Minimum test flow rate. Not less than 95 percent of actual flow shall
be recorded when a test is made at the minimum test flow rate shown in Table 1.
The maximum permissible registration between the minimum test flow and normal
test flow shall not be more than the maximum percentage given in Sec. 4.2.6.1.
Sec. 4.3 Detailed Design

4.3.1 Main case. All meters shall have an outer case with separate, removable
measuring chambers. Castings shall not be repaired in any manner. The inlet and
outlet shall have a common axis. Connection flanges shall be parallel to each other
and at right angles to the body axis.
4.3.2 External case screws, bolts, nuts, and washers. All external screws, bolts,
cap bolts, nuts, and washers shall be designed for easy removal after long service.
4.3.3 Main case connections. All main case connections shall be flanged. The
flanges shall be of the round type, faced, and drilled, and shall conform to
ANSI/ASME B16.1, class 125 for cast-iron flanges; to ANSI/ASME B16.24 for bronze
8 AWWA C703-96
Table 1M Operating characteristics (flow rate information in m3/h)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Accuracy
Minimum
Normal Flow Safe Con- Short- Flow
Flow Range Maximum tinuous term Spread
Meter Range and Operating Duty Deluge at Normal Minimum Change- Head
Size and Test Test Capacity Maximum Maximum Crossover Flow Flow over Loss at
in. Range Range SMOC Flow Flow† Flow Range Range Range SMOC
Type I Devices—Proportional Fire-Service Meters With Check Valve
*
75 1–90 90 70 140 9 ±3% 95% 85% 28 kPa
*
100 1–160 160 110 230 14 ±3% 95% 85% 28 kPa
*
150 2–360 360 260 520 29 ±3% 95% 85% 28 kPa
*
200 2–640 640 450 910 50 ±3% 95% 85% 28 kPa
*
250 3–1,000 1,000 700 1,410 70 ±3% 95% 85% 28 kPa
Type II Devices—Compound Fire-Service Meter Assembly and Strainer With Check Valve
*
75 0.5–80 80 60 100 7 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 83 kPa
*
100 1–160 160 90 200 9 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 83 kPa
*
150 1–360 360 200 450 20 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 83 kPa
*
200 2–640 640 360 790 34 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 83 kPa
*
250 2–1,000 1,000 500 1,250 45 ±11⁄2% 95% 85% 83 kPa
Type III Devices—Turbine Fire-Service Meter and Strainer Without Check Valve
75 1–80 1 80 60 100 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 76 kPa
100 3–160 2 160 90 200 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 76 kPa
150 7–360 5 360 200 450 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 76 kPa
200 8–640 7 640 360 790 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 76 kPa
250 12–1,000 8 1,000 500 1,250 N/A ±11⁄2% 95% N/A 76 kPa
*
Minimum flow range to be as shown in the applicable AWWA standard for the bypass-meter employed.
†
The headloss at the short-term deluge maximum flow may be significantly higher than the headloss given
for the safe maximum operating capacity in this table. Consult with the manufacturer for specific values.
Table 2 Meter dimensions
Meter Size Maximum Overall Length Preferred Overall Length

in. (mm) in. (m) in. (m)
3 (75) 643⁄8 (1.635) 33 (0.838)
4 (100) 67 (1.702) 35 (0.889)
6 (150) 837⁄8 (2.130) 45 (1.143)
8 (200) 893⁄4 (2.280) 53 (1.346)
10 (250) 981⁄8 (2.492) 68 (1.727)
pipe flanges; or ANSI/AWWA C207, steel flat face flange, class D. See Table 3 for
diameter and drilling.
4.3.4 Companion flanges. Companion flanges of the same size as the meter
flanges, gaskets, bolts, and nuts shall be provided if specified by the purchaser.
Companion flanges shall be faced, drilled, and tapped in accordance with ANSI
B1.20.1 and shall conform to ANSI/ASME B16.1 for cast-iron pipe flanges, class 125,
ANSI/ASME B16.24 for bronze flanges; or ANSI/AWWA C207, steel flat-face flanges,
class D. See Table 3 for diameter, drilling, and thickness.
4.3.5 Registers. Registers shall be straight reading, subject to the limitations
in the following sections, and shall read in US gallons (gal), cubic feet (ft3), cubic
meters (m3), or other units as specified by the purchaser. The maximum indications
of the initial dial and the minimum capacities of the registers shall be those shown
in Table 4.
4.3.5.1 Straight-reading registers. The register lock and side gears shall be
fastened securely to the number-wheel discs and hubs. The tumbler pinions shall
mesh accurately, at the turnover points, with the lock and side gears of the adjacent
number wheels. Both main and pinion shafts shall be so secured in the register
frame or register plates that they cannot get out of position. The pinion shaft shall
be so designed that there is no possibility of its bending and allowing the pinions to
skip at the turnover point. The numerals on the number wheels of straight-reading
registers shall not be less than 3⁄16 in. (5 mm) in height and should be readable at a
45° angle from the vertical.
4.3.5.2 Gears and pinions. If the register is sealed, or permanently sealed,
gears and pinions shall run free on fixed shafts or be fixed on shafts that run free in
the register frame or between plates and shall be so constructed that they cannot
become unmeshed. The tumbler pinion shall mesh accurately, at the turnover points,
with the lock and side gears of adjacent number wheels.
4.3.5.3 Register face. The register face shall have a test circle that shall be
divided into 10 equal parts. The hand or pointer shall taper to a sharp point and
shall be accurately set and securely held in place. Registers with a center-sweep test
hand shall have a test circle located on the periphery of the register and graduated
in 100 equal parts, with each tenth graduation being numbered. The maximum
quantity indicated by a single revolution of the test hand and the minimum capacity
of the register shall be as shown in Table 4.
Table 3 Physical characteristics of companion flanges
Minimum Thickness*
Diameter of Bolt- Number Diameter of Bolt
Meter Size Hole Circle of Bolt Holes At Bolt Hole At Hub
in. (mm) in. (mm) Holes in. (mm) in. (mm) in. (mm)
3 (75) 6 (152) 4 3⁄4 (19) 3⁄4 (19) 13⁄16 (30)
4 (100) 71⁄2 (190) 8 3⁄4 (19) 15⁄16 (24) 15⁄16 (33)
6 (150) 91⁄2 (241) 8 7⁄8 (22) 1 (25) 19⁄16 (40)
8 (200) 113⁄4 (298) 8 7⁄8 (22) 11⁄8 (29) 13⁄4 (44)
10 (250) 141⁄4 (362) 12 1 (25 13⁄16 (30) 115⁄16 (49)
*
NOTE: The minimum thickness values do not apply to steel flat-face flanges, class D.
10 AWWA C703-96
4.3.5.4 AWWA standard straight-reading registers. A new model of meter (as

distinguished from modification of existing models) supplied under this standard
shall be equipped with an AWWA standard straight-reading register. The register
shall be of the center-sweep test-hand type with the test circle located on the periph-
ery of the register face and graduated in 100 equal parts, with each tenth gradu-
ation being numbered. Register construction shall conform in all other details to the
requirements of Sec. 4.3.5 of this standard.
4.3.6 Register boxes. The cover shall be recessed and shall overlap the register
box to protect the lens. The lens shall be securely held in place. When the intermedi-
ate gear train is located in the register compartment, the register compartment
shall be sealed. If the meter is equipped with a hood, the register-box cover may be
omitted, in which case the serial number shall be imprinted on the hood. Provisions
shall be made to adapt direct-reading remote registers (ANSI/AWWA C706) or
encoder-type registers (ANSI/AWWA C707) if required by the purchaser’s specifi-
cations.
4.3.7 Intermediate gear trains. Intermediate gear trains may be mounted on
the measuring chamber or cage or in the main casings. When not exposed to water,
they may also be combined with or mounted adjacent to the register gearing. Inter-
mediate gear trains located in the line of flow shall be of the oil-enclosed type, shall
have separate housings, or shall form housings with the main casings or measuring
chambers, and shall operate in a suitable lubricant. Gear trains made of corrosion-
resistant metals or engineering plastic may be exposed to water.
Table 4 Register characteristics
Main-Line Register
Maximum Allowable Indication of Minimum Allowable Capacity of
Meter Size Initial Dial Register (in millions)
in. (mm) ft3 (m3) gal ft3 (m3) gal
Proportional Mainline Type
3 (75) 100 (1) 1,000 10 (1) 100
4 (100) 100 (1) 1,000 10 (1) 100
6 (150) 100 (1) 1,000 10 (1) 100
8 (200) 1,000 (10) 10,000 100 (10) 1,000
10 (250) 1,000 (10) 10,000 100 (10) 1,000
Turbine (Class II) Mainline Type With Valve and Strainer
3 (75) 10 (1) 100 10 (0.1) 100
4 (100) 100 (10) 1,000 10 (1) 100
6 (150) 100 (10) 1,000 100 (1) 1,000
8 (200) 1,000 (100) 10,000 100 (10) 1,000
10 (250) 1,000 (100) 10,000 1,000 (10) 1,000
Turbine (Class II) Mainline Type Without Valve and With Strainer
3 (75) 10 (1) 100 10 (0.1) 100
4 (100) 100 (10) 1,000 10 (1) 100
6 (150) 100 (10) 1,000 100 (1) 1,000
8 (200) 1,000 (100) 10,000 100 (10) 1,000
10 (250) 1,000 (100) 10,000 1,000 (10) 1,000
4.3.8 Measuring chambers or cages. The mainline section chambers or cages

shall be self-contained units firmly seated and easily detached and removed from
the main case. Chambers or cages with turbines that have revolving spindles shall
have removable bearings for such spindles. Chambers or cages with stationary spin-
dles on which turbines revolve shall provide rigid, centrally located fastenings for
the spindles. The spindles shall be removable.
4.3.8.1 Bypass chamber. The bypass-section chamber shall be of a type cov-
ered by an AWWA standard for the type of meter used as the bypass. The chamber
shall be a self-contained unit, firmly seated and easily removed from the case, and
shall not be cast as part of the outer case. The chamber shall be secured in position
in the outer case so that any distortion of the case that might occur under 175-psi
(1,200-kPa) pressure will not affect the accuracy of the meter.
4.3.8.2 Bypass valve. If a separate bypass meter is used, a shut-off valve,
meeting the applicable AWWA standards, shall be installed on the inlet side and a
check valve on the outlet side of the bypass-section meter to prevent reverse flow
and to enable servicing of the bypass meter without shutting down the mainline-
section meter.
4.3.9 Measuring turbines, discs, and pistons. Measuring turbines that have
revolving spindles shall rotate on spindles supported by bushings or replaceable
bearings. Turbines that rotate on stationary spindles also shall have bushings or
replaceable bearings. Measuring discs or pistons in the bypass section shall be accu-
rately fitted to their chambers and shall operate smoothly and freely. The plates of
discs or pistons, whether flat or conical, shall have metal reinforcements or shall be
equipped with thrust rollers.
4.3.10 Magnetic couplings. When intermediate gear trains are located in the
water compartment of the main or bypass section of the meter, the revolutions of the
train output spindles shall be transmitted to the registers by means of magnetic
couplings through the meter case. When intermediate gear trains are located in the
register compartments, the revolutions shall also be transmitted by magnetic couplings.
4.3.11 Automatic valves. The automatic valve shall be of a type suitable for
such purpose. It shall close by force. The weight of the valve and any supplemental
force imposed on it shall offer sufficient resistance to the incoming water to divert
all small rates of flow through the bypass meter until such time as the flow rate
through the meter is great enough to ensure efficient operation of the main measur-
ing section. Valve hinge pins or spindles, if provided, shall have bronze link arms or
other suitable corrosion-resistant materials and may be bushed with corrosion-
resistant material. Valve seats shall be of bronze or other corrosion-resistant
material. Valve seats shall have a satisfactory width of face and shall be firmly held
in place. An automatic valve, whether spring loaded or weight activated, shall be
provided with a replaceable, resilient facing that may be attached to either the clapper
or seat.
4.3.12 Bypass meter. The physical and operating characteristics and dimen-
sions of the bypass meter shall be in accordance with the AWWA standard for the
type of meter used as the bypass.
4.3.13 Strainers. Turbine meters used as mainline devices must include
strainers immediately upstream of the meter. Strainers shall have flanged connec-
tions to the pipeline and turbine meter. Strainers that are fabricated or cast as an
integral part of the turbine meter shall have flanged connections to the pipeline.
Strainers shall have effective straining areas of at least four times the open area of
the nominal meter size and shall not cause any changes in water velocity that
12 AWWA C703-96
adversely affect meter accuracy or that accelerate meter wear. Local authorities hav-
ing jurisdiction will very likely require that the strainer be UL listed or FM ap-
proved. Maximum pressure loss across the strainer shall be 4 psi (28 kPa) at the
safe maximum rated capacity in Table 1. Strainers supplied under this standard
shall operate without leakage at working pressures of 175 psi (1,200 kPa) or less.
4.3.14 Seal-wire holes. If tamper-resistant features are required by the pur-
chaser, register box screws, locking pins, main-case top, and inlet and outlet cou-
pling nuts, if furnished, shall be so equipped. If drilled for seal wires, seal-wire holes
shall not be less than 3⁄32 in. (2.4 mm) in diameter.
SECTION 5: VERIFICATION
Sec. 5.1 Rejection
Meters not complying with all requirements of this standard and the pur-
chaser’s specifications shall be rejected. The manufacturer shall replace or satisfac-
torily repair all meters rejected for failure to comply with this standard.
SECTION 6: DELIVERY
Sec. 6.1 Markings
The size, model, and direction of flow through the meter shall be cast or
stamped, or otherwise permanently indicated on the exterior of all meters. Meters
composed of independent flanged units in separate housings shall have this informa-
tion cast or stamped on each unit.
6.1.1 Register boxes. The name of the manufacturer shall be permanently im-
pressed on the covers of the register boxes. The serial number of the meter shall
also be imprinted on the covers. ANSI/AWWA C706 and C707 address numbering
requirements for direct read and encoder-type remote registration systems.
Sec. 6.2 Packaging and Shipping

This standard has no applicable information for this section.
Sec. 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance
The purchaser may require an affidavit from the manufacturer or supplier at-
testing that the meters furnished under the purchaser’s specifications comply with
all applicable requirements of this standard.
APPENDIX A
Supplemental Information
This appendix is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C703.
SECTION A.1: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT

The majority of water meters presently in service in the United States register
in either US gallons or cubic feet. With the availability of the metric system, the
user may now determine the most suitable unit of measure from the three available
units—US gallons, cubic feet, or cubic meters.
SECTION A.2: REGISTER TYPES

Water-meter registers may be of the straight-reading or round-reading type.
Although the round-reading register is no longer manufactured, many are still used
by various water utility systems. The round-reading type is more often misread, and
the problem is further complicated if more than one make of meter is used in a
single water system. It is also more difficult to print postcards for customers to read
when two or more makes of meters with round-reading registers are used. It is
recommended that the straight-reading type of register be adopted as standard to
eliminate these difficulties.
SECTION A.3: TESTS

Sec. A.3.1 Capacity and Pressure-Loss Tests
Capacity tests are tests of the design of a meter. Once a meter of each size of a
given design has been tested for pressure loss at safe maximum operating capacity,
it should not be necessary to test others of the same type.
The pressure loss should be determined using two identical piezometer rings of
the same diameter as the nominal size of the meter being tested. The piezometer
rings must be free from any burrs where the holes are drilled through the wall of
the ring. No fewer than four holes should be provided, drilled in pairs on diameters
at right angles to each other. The inlet ring should be set close to the meter at a
distance of eight diameters or more below the nearest upstream stop valve or fitting.
The outlet ring should be placed at a distance of 8 to 10 diameters from the outlet of
the meter. The diameter of the inlet and outlet pipe should be the same as the
nominal size of the meter to be tested. The rings are to be connected to a suitable
differential pressure (DP) cell or manometer with measurement capability of 0.1 psi
(0.7 kPa). If a manometer is used, provisions should be made for the complete re-
moval of air from the apparatus, and the installation should be such that air will
rise to the air outlets.
Provisions must be made for traps to prevent accidental expulsion of mercury
into the test line when using mercury manometers. If measurements of U-tube
13
14 AWWA C703-96
manometers are to be made at relatively high flow rates, then it is necessary to read
both sides of the mercury column simultaneously to compensate for irregularities in
the diameter of the glass U-tube and to avoid errors due to fluctuations. (Other
appropriate types of manometers may be used.) The pressure loss of inlet and outlet
piping from meter to piezometer rings shall be deducted in determining the meter
pressure loss.
Sec. A.3.2 Pressure Tests
A pressure test should be performed on each size of a particular design of me-
ter furnished. The test pressure should be 350 psi (2,400 kPa) static, which may be
produced by use of a hand pump or any other available device. The meter should be
tested for accuracy before and after it has been pressure tested to determine
whether there has been any distortion that could affect the registration. If satisfac-
tory results are obtained, then it will be unnecessary to make more than one pres-
sure test on each size of a given design of meter.
Sec. A.3.3 Accuracy Tests
All meters should be tested for accuracy of registration at flow rates and test
flow quantities in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C703 and AWWA M6. If the pur-
chaser does not have suitable means for testing, then the manufacturer should be
requested to furnish a certificate showing that each meter has been tested for accu-
racy of registration and that it complies with accuracy and capacity requirements of
ANSI/AWWA C703.
SECTION A.4: TESTING EQUIPMENT

The measuring device that is used to determine the amount of water dis-
charged when testing should be designed to provide measuring accuracy to within
0.25 percent of the actual quantity. Tanks and scales should be tested and calibrated
at least once a year and records kept of such tests and calibration.
SECTION A.5: REGISTRATION ACCURACY

In a fire-service meter, the motion of the measuring element (turbine, piston,
and disc) is transmitted by a system of gearing or magnets, or both, to the register,
which records the flow in convenient units of measurement. The gearing or magnets
translates the motions of the element to the unit of measurement indicated by the
register. The registration is thus directly dependent on the number of revolutions of
the element. After proper calibration, the meter should continue to register correctly
only so long as the element continues to make the proper number of cycles for each
unit of quantity that passes through the meter. If any condition develops whereby
the element is compelled to make fewer than the proper number of cycles per unit of
quantity that passes through the meter, then the meter will underregister. If the
element is compelled to make more than the proper number of cycles, the meter will
overregister. Under ordinary working conditions, several factors may cause inaccu-
rate registration after comparatively short intervals. The more important of these
factors are excessive wear, extreme temperatures, corrosion, material in suspension,

and the presence of entrained air in the lines.
Sec. A.5.1 Excessive Wear
Excessive wear of the moving parts of the meter may be caused by improper
setting, overspeeding, or by the selection of a meter that is too small for the water
demand. The results of excessive wear of the turbine or measuring chamber are
slippage and underregistration. Excessive wear of an intermediate gear train may
cause the gears to slip or bind. In either case, if the meter does not stop entirely,
underregistration will result. To avoid excessive wear, meters should be set in a
horizontal position and should not be operated at excessive speeds. The short-term
deluge maximum flows given in Table 1 of ANSI/AWWA C703 are the maximum
rates of flow at which water should be passed through the meter for only short
periods of time and at infrequent intervals. Maximum flow could be destructive if
continuous. For continuous 24-h service, fire-service meters should not be operated
at flows greater than those shown in ANSI/AWWA C703, Table 1, column 5.
Sec. A.5.2 Temperature Extremes

Cold-water meters are not affected by temperatures up to about 80°F (27°C).
For temperatures higher than 80°F (27°C), meters with slightly larger clearances
than usual should be used, and the accuracy limits set forth in ANSI/AWWA C703,
Sec. 4.2.6, may have to be modified. High temperatures can cause expansion of the
turbine and piston or disc and create unusual friction or bind the parts in the cham-
bers. The result is slippage and underregistration or complete stoppage of the meter.
Lower temperatures have no noticeable effect on the working parts of the meter
unless the water freezes, which will damage the meter. To avoid problems caused by
temperature extremes, meters should be located where they will be protected from
extreme heat, direct sunlight, and freezing.
If the authority having jurisdiction so requires, at locations where hot water
from heating systems is not allowed to expand back through the meter, a backflow-
prevention device consistent with the degree of hazard and a pressure-and-tempera-
ture relief valve should be installed sufficiently downstream from the meter.
Sec. A.5.3 Corrosion
All metals used in the construction of a meter are affected by the corrosive
action of water, although the action is very slow with most potable waters. It should
be recognized, however, that when meters are used in highly aggressive waters, it
may be necessary to use materials that are more resistant to corrosive attack. The
solution of internal corrosion problems requires a high degree of experience and
knowledge, and the meter manufacturer should be consulted for assistance.
Sec. A.5.4 Materials in Suspension

Foreign material carried in suspension has a tendency to fill the spaces be-
tween the turbine vanes and cause overregistration. Such overregistration is not
limited to turbine-type meters. Meter installations provided with strainers will re-
tain the larger particles in suspension, but the strainer will become clogged if the
water is not kept reasonably free of suspended matter. A partially clogged strainer
can cause uneven flow distribution through the meter, resulting in erroneous regis-
tration. Sand is especially destructive and care should be exercised to keep sand
from reaching meters.
16 AWWA C703-96
Sec. A.5.5 Entrained Air

Entrained air in water lines will result in inaccurate registration of the meter.
This inaccuracy can result in substantial overregistration under certain circum-
stances. In addition, entrained air can cause meter damage and premature wear;
precautions should be taken to either eliminate or minimize this condition.
SECTION A.6: PERIODIC TESTS

Meters properly selected based on size and type will provide satisfactory serv-
ice over a long period of time without attention only if operated under ideal condi-
tions. Under ordinary conditions, meters must be given some care if they are to
function properly. In most cases, it is impossible to ascertain, without actual testing,
whether a meter in service is registering with the required degree of accuracy. Con-
sequently, to ensure reliable meter measurements, it is essential that all meters and
associated parts be subjected to periodic tests. The interval between tests and the
method of conducting them must be governed largely by local conditions. Many state
regulatory commissions specify intervals between tests on both a time and quantity
basis. The most frequently used intervals between tests are set forth in Table A.1.
SECTION A.7: METER STORAGE

Meters should be stored in a location that is not subject to unduly high or low
temperatures. When meters are to be stored outdoors for an extended period of time,
they should be covered to protect them from exposure to direct sunlight.
Table A.1 Average recommended interval between meter tests
Meter Size Interval Between Tests*

in. (mm) Years
3 (75) 3
4 (100) 2
6 (150) 1
8 (200) 1
10 (250) 1
*
Based on normal usage and conditions. Sec. A.5 of this appendix should be reviewed in its entirety prior to
establishing test-year intervals for the individual utility.
SECTION A.8: INSTALLATION

Sec. A.8.1 Turbine-Meter Installation
Turbine-type meters used for fire service operate more accurately and reliably
if installed properly. Turbine-meter performance is directly related to the flow condi-
tions of the water stream entering the meter. To create optimum flow conditions,
most meter manufacturers may recommend installing a straight length of pipe equal
to 8 to 10 pipe diameters in addition to the strainer on the inlet side of the meter
and installing 3 to 5 pipe diameters of straight pipe on the outlet side at the meter.
Specific meter manufacturers should be consulted for their optimum installation
instructions.
Sec. A.8.2 Electrical Grounded Pipe Systems
AWWA’s statement on policy on public water supply matters states that “AWWA
opposes the grounding of electric systems to pipe systems conveying drinking water
to a customer’s premises.”* At the time this edition of ANSI/AWWA C703 was pub-
lished, the latest revision to the policy statement of AWWA on the grounding of
electrical circuits to water pipes had been adopted on Jan. 28, 1995. However, it
must be recognized that many pipe systems continue to be used as a grounding
electrode system.
Sec. 260-81(A) of the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that “continuity
of the grounding path or bonding connection to interior piping shall not rely on
water meters.” Most utilities require permanent ground strapping around meters to
prevent accidents to workers changing meters. All meters, both metal and plastic,
should be permanently ground strapped. This is especially important in the case of
plastic meter couplings, which are nonconductors of electricity.
*Statements of Policy on Public Water Supply Matters: Grounding of Electric Circuits on

Water Pipe. In 1995–96 Officers and Committee Directory, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (1995).
1P-7.6M-43703-1/97-MG Printed on recycled paper.

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American Water Works Association

Effective date: Apr. 1, 1997.

AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

American National Standard

Copyright © 1997 by American Water Works Association

The AWWA Subcommittee on Compound and Fire-Service Meters, which devel-

King Moss II, Chair

Roger C. Graff, Chair

G.A. Delgado, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power,

General Interest Members

K.R. Johnson, Packwood, Wash. (AWWA)

G.D. Anderson, Sensus Technologies Inc., Uniontown, Pa. (AWWA)

SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

3 Definitions ........................................ 3 1 Operating Characteristics

‡NSF International, 3475 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106.

AWWA STANDARD FOR

Sec. 1.2 Purpose

*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.

‡American Water Works Association, 6666 W. Quincy Ave., Denver, CO 80235.

ASTM A582/A582M—Standard Specification for Free-Machining Stainless Steel

C83600 listed in ASTM B584; or a suitable engineering plastic such as

Table 1 Operating characteristics (flow rate information in gpm)

Sec. 4.3 Detailed Design

Table 1M Operating characteristics (flow rate information in m3/h)

Table 2 Meter dimensions

Meter Size Maximum Overall Length Preferred Overall Length

Table 3 Physical characteristics of companion flanges

4.3.5.4 AWWA standard straight-reading registers. A new model of meter (as

Table 4 Register characteristics

4.3.8 Measuring chambers or cages. The mainline section chambers or cages

Sec. 6.2 Packaging and Shipping

SECTION A.1: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT

SECTION A.2: REGISTER TYPES

SECTION A.3: TESTS

SECTION A.4: TESTING EQUIPMENT

SECTION A.5: REGISTRATION ACCURACY

factors are excessive wear, extreme temperatures, corrosion, material in suspension,

Sec. A.5.2 Temperature Extremes

Sec. A.5.4 Materials in Suspension

Sec. A.5.5 Entrained Air

SECTION A.6: PERIODIC TESTS

SECTION A.7: METER STORAGE

Table A.1 Average recommended interval between meter tests

Meter Size Interval Between Tests*

SECTION A.8: INSTALLATION

*Statements of Policy on Public Water Supply Matters: Grounding of Electric Circuits on

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