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Mixmate Knowledge Base

Mechanical Meters

Mechanical meters (paddle, turbine, and similar designs that rotate on an axis) all share the same operation and diagnostics.

For the full official manual (ARAG WOLF paddle flowmeter), see the ARAG WOLF Paddle Flowmeter Manual (PDF).

Not Reading Accurately? Check for a Sticky Mechanism

The most common issue is the mechanism getting sticky with usage. As residue builds up on the axis, the rotor starts to drag in the liquid instead of spinning freely, and the meter under-reads the actual flow.

  • Check for free rotation: With the meter depressurized, confirm the rotor spins freely on its axis.
  • Clean the axis: Residue buildup on the axis or bearing is the usual cause of drag — clean it and recheck rotation.
Calibrating Your Mechanical Meter

Like a mag meter, a mechanical meter's flow constant can drift out of accuracy with your specific plumbing (tubing, valves, etc.) and needs to be checked after installation.

  1. Open the Data tab, tap Mixmates.

  2. Tap the middle of your Mixmate Card, then tap Configuration.

  3. Open the Assemblies tab, tap the middle of the assembly the meter belongs to (Carrier, Stack Stand, or Single).

  4. Scroll down to the Calibration field for the mechanical meter.

Run a test delivery first — if the amount Mixmate records doesn't match the amount actually delivered, recalculate the constant: (amount measured by Mixmate ÷ amount actually delivered) × the current constant shown on the meter's label. Enter the new number into the Calibration field and tap Save in the upper right, then tap the System tab and Save once more to commit the change to the hardware.

Installation Requirements

  • Clearance from Turbulence: Install the meter at least 20 cm (8 inches) away from anything that could cause turbulence in the line — valves, elbows, bottlenecks, etc.

  • Orientation: Can be mounted horizontally or vertically, but never with the connector facing straight down.

  • Filtration Required: The system must have a filter of at least 50 mesh upstream of the meter for correct operation.

Wiring

This is a simple 3-pin pulse-output connector, not a CAN-bus device:

  • Pin 1: Ground (Black)

  • Pin 2: +12 Vdc (Red)

  • Pin 3: Signal (Green)

Cleaning and Replacing the Paddle

Periodically clean or replace the paddle as needed — periodic cleaning is recommended even if the meter is reading fine. Do not use metal or abrasive objects, solvents, or fuel to clean the meter inside or outside.

[!CAUTION] Before doing any of the following: wear gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing; stop the machine and remove power from the system; and make sure the system is fully depressurized.

  1. Unscrew the knob and slide the sensor unit off the meter body.

  2. Turn the paddle unit a half-turn counterclockwise and pull it out of the sensor unit.

  3. Soak the paddle unit in a cleaning detergent fluid for a few hours.

  4. Wash the paddle unit thoroughly with running water and check that it operates properly. If needed, replace the paddle unit as a full set.

  5. Refit the paddle unit to the electronic sensor, turning it clockwise until it clicks into place.

  6. Refit the sensor unit onto the meter body and fully tighten the ring nut.

After replacing the sensor or paddle, re-verify the meter's readings and recalibrate if needed (see Calibrating Your Mechanical Meter above).

Technical Specs

  • Power Supply Voltage: 4.5 to 26 Vdc

  • Current Consumption: Less than 25 mA

  • Short-Circuit Protection: Yes

  • Signal: Square wave, up to 1.2 kHz

  • Max Load Current: Less than 100 mA

  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C (32°F to +140°F)

  • Storage Temperature: -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to +140°F)

  • Max Pressure and Flow Range: Both vary significantly by model (roughly 7 to 40 bar / 130 to 580 PSI, and 5 to 800 L/min) — check the code stamped on your specific meter against the manufacturer's model table.