Why choose plastic for the water meter shell?

Plastic is often chosen as the material for the water meter shell or body due to several advantages it offers. Here are some reasons why plastic is commonly used for water meter shells:

1. Corrosion Resistance: Plastic materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or thermoplastic polymers, are highly resistant to corrosion. Unlike metal materials like brass or bronze, plastic does not rust or deteriorate when exposed to water or other corrosive substances commonly found in water systems. This corrosion resistance helps to maintain the integrity and longevity of the water meter, even in harsh environments.

2. Lightweight: Plastic is significantly lighter than metals, making plastic water meter shells easier to handle during installation and maintenance. The lightweight nature of plastic can reduce the overall weight of the water meter, making it more convenient for transportation and handling.

3. Cost-Effective: Plastic water meter shells are often more cost-effective compared to their metal counterparts. Plastic materials are generally less expensive than metals like brass or bronze, making plastic meters a more economical choice, especially for large-scale installations or when budget constraints are a consideration.

4. Design Flexibility: Plastic offers greater design flexibility compared to metals. It can be molded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for the creation of intricate and customized designs. Plastic water meter shells can be manufactured with integrated features, such as mounting brackets or connectors, which simplifies the installation process and reduces the need for additional components.

5. Insulating Properties: Plastic has excellent insulating properties, which can be advantageous in certain applications. It helps to minimize heat transfer between the water inside the meter and the external environment. This insulation can prevent temperature variations from affecting the accuracy of the meter's measurement.

6. Resistance to Chemicals: Plastic materials used in water meter shells are often resistant to a wide range of chemicals commonly found in water systems, such as chlorine or various water treatment additives. This resistance ensures that the meter's performance and accuracy are not compromised by exposure to these chemicals.

7. Reduced Water Hammer Noise: Plastic water meter shells can help dampen the noise generated by water hammer or hydraulic shock waves. The inherent flexibility and damping properties of plastic materials absorb the shock and reduce the noise associated with rapid changes in water flow.

8. Longevity: High-quality plastic materials used in water meter shells can offer excellent durability and a long service life. They are resistant to degradation from UV radiation and can withstand the environmental conditions typically encountered in water supply systems, such as temperature variations and moisture exposure.

It's important to note that the choice of material for the water meter shell depends on various factors, including the specific application, regulatory requirements, and cost considerations. While plastic offers several advantages, certain applications may still require metal water meter shells for specific performance or regulatory compliance reasons.