FloPath PFM1 / PFM1-A

The FloPath PFM1 and PFM1-A are cellular-communicating pressure and flow data loggers developed by MOBILTEX Data Ltd., a Canadian manufacturer headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, founded in 1985 and specialized in instrumentation for pressurized pipeline monitoring. The PFM1 is the standard version with 1 pressure and 1 flow input (1P/1F), while the PFM1-A supports 2P/2F or 3P/2F configurations for sites with multiple measurement points, such as pressure reducing stations.

Both models store data in 2 MB of non-volatile flash memory organized into 8 independent data files, each with its own logging parameters. Several files can record different data types —average, instantaneous, minimum and maximum— for the same channel. The logging architecture incorporates Pulse Interval Timing (PIT), a technique that measures the interval between meter pulses to quantify minimum night flow more accurately and detect pressure surges, and enables additional fast logging, such as step testing, without interfering with the main 15-minute recordings.

Unlike conventional manual-download loggers, the PFM1/PFM1-A transmits data through an integrated cellular modem with LTE-M (CAT M1), NB-IoT and 4G LTE options, plus 2G for legacy systems, reducing field visits for data collection. The polycarbonate enclosure provides IP68 submersible protection, a built-in digital display for at-a-glance parameter review and field-replaceable batteries with a life of more than 5 years; external battery pack and DC power options are also available. The unit can be purchased without communications as a portable logger and later field-upgraded to cellular.

Data is managed with FPLog software for remote setup, monitoring and control, and with the FloPath.Cloud web platform, which provides real-time monitoring, alerts, fleet reporting and analytics without relying on existing SCADA infrastructure. Local download is performed via an IrDA infrared link at 115,200 baud. MOBILTEX also offers integration of the PFM1 with the Flow-Tronic TORPEE-MAG electromagnetic insertion flowmeter for flow measurement in medium and large diameter pipes.