Natural gas is metered using a device, typically installed between the incoming gas line and the point of distribution within a building, which measures the volume of gas consumed.
Here's a breakdown of how natural gas metering works:
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Location: Utility companies install gas meters at each customer's premises. This meter is usually located outside the building for easy access by meter readers. As the reference points out, it's positioned "between the incoming gas lines and the point of distribution at the house."
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Mechanism: Gas meters are driven by the force of the natural gas flowing through them. The greater the flow rate, the faster the meter operates. There are several types of gas meters, but the most common for residential use are positive displacement meters.
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Positive Displacement Meters: These meters contain chambers that fill and empty with gas in a cyclical manner. With each cycle, a known volume of gas passes through the meter. A mechanical linkage connected to these chambers drives a series of dials or a digital display that records the total volume of gas that has passed through the meter.
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Reading the Meter: Utility companies regularly read gas meters to determine the amount of gas consumed during a billing cycle. Traditionally, this involved a meter reader physically visiting each location. However, automated meter reading (AMR) systems are becoming increasingly common, allowing meter readings to be collected remotely.
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Units of Measurement: Natural gas consumption is typically measured in cubic feet (cf) or therms. One therm is equal to 100,000 British thermal units (BTUs). Utility companies bill customers based on the number of cubic feet or therms of gas they consume.
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Factors Affecting Meter Accuracy: Several factors can affect the accuracy of a gas meter, including temperature, pressure, and the composition of the gas. Gas meters are calibrated to compensate for these factors to ensure accurate measurements.
In summary, natural gas is metered by a device, typically a positive displacement meter, that measures the volume of gas flowing through it. This measurement is then used to calculate the customer's gas consumption for billing purposes.
