USTI developed the first fully-automated flow measurement audit system -- AUTO-PROBE Q2000^® -- for Methods 1, 2, 2G, 2H and CTM-041 that performs all necessary calculations using a laptop computer and proprietary software.

The heart of this system is the probe itself.

The AUTO-PROBE Q2000^® head assembly is a Type S 316 stainless steel pitot tube of known coefficient and a platinum Resistive Temperature Device.

The system is menu-driven from proprietary software in a portable laptop computer that prompts for all information needed for performing RATA testing using Method 1, 2, 2G, 2H and CTM-041. The Software was developed so that even the most inexperienced operator can enter data and perform testing procedures.  

The patented system allows the operator to perform leak and calibration checks on the pitot assembly using the computer. The operator also uses the computer to position the pitot tube automatically at appropriate sampling points to record differential pressure, stack temperature and other data required by a specific test run.

Other specifications include:

• The Auto-Probe System typically includes four automated Method 2 probes for U.S. EPA Test Method 2 or 2G and 2H on circular stacks.
• The Auto-Probe can also be used to perform rectangular duct RATA testing using CTM-041 and up to eight probes.
• Each measuring head contains a pitot tube and a platinum resistive temperature device.
• 316L SS Type S pitot tubes held to tight tolerances. Each tube is calibrated in a U.S. EPA-certified wind tunnel at USTI offices in Warrendale PA.
• Stepper motors and encoders control precise positioning of pitot tubes.
• Temperature-controlled electronic manometers (calibrated against NIST traceable pressure source) provide exceptional accuracy and stability.
• Laptop personal computer is supplied with menu-driven software capable of performing U.S. EPA Test Methods 1, 2, 2G, 2H and CTM-041. Software is custom-programmed for test execution and data retrieval. Software prompts for geometric data and gas concentrations, then the operator uses the computer to calculate traverse point locations and stack gas molecular weight.
• Thirty differential pressure readings per second are taken at each sample traverse point.
• Static and barometric pressure readings are measured and stored via computer.
• Data collected and stored in the Data Acquisition System are also stored to hard disk for future on-site reporting and for regulatory reporting.
• Clients are provided with both an electronic copy and a hard copy of all services provided. For example, clients are provided with a copy of all QA checks, a copy of all preliminary test results, a copy of the RATA test results for each source, and an EPA EDR formatted CD of the RATA test results (Records 610, 611, 614, 615, 616).

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