Vent Cleaners

Vent Cleaners (VC)


To Clear & Maintain Tap Holes For Blockage Prevention
Rod Out Pressure Sensing Ports 

  • Common sizes: 1/4″, 1/2″, 3/4″
  • Removes obstructions and prevents blockages in pressure-sensing lines
  • Fully customizable

Industry-Leading Manual Vent Cleaner for dP Meter Pressure Tap Maintenance 

Vent cleaners are a simple, field-proven accessory used to manually clear the pressure taps (piezometer connections) on static-tap or corner-tap differential producer primary flow elements. By removing debris or buildup at the tap, they help prevent obstructions in the pressure-sensing line(s) between the meter and transmitter, supporting more reliable dP signal performance over time.

Each tap location uses its own vent cleaner (one per piezometer). For standard HVT-CI (cast iron) meters, there is no difference between high- and low-pressure tap vent cleaners; installation and use are the same for both sides.

Key Advantages Include:

  • Built-In Isolation: Optional isolation ball valves support safer, more controlled maintenance.
  • Fits Exact Meter Geometry: Precision component design matches the meter’s tap geometry to assure proper cleaning.
  • Multiple Length Options: Different lengths are available to suit varying meter layouts and access needs.
  • Static or Corner Tap Designs: Supports both common tap configurations used on dP primary elements.
  • Custom Solutions for Tight Spaces: Custom designs are available for difficult or space-constrained installations.

Typical applications include wastewater, raw water, municipal water systems, and potable water services—anywhere pressure taps and sensing lines may be prone to plugging and require periodic manual clearing to maintain dependable measurement.

Installation Overview

Installation is straightforward: remove the plastic thread protector(s), apply Teflon tape or pipe compound to the threads, insert the threaded end into the piezometer connection on the primary flow element, and tighten securely enough to eliminate leakage (torqueing is not required).

Vent Cleaner Specifications

Seal Assembly
Designed to seal and prevent the leakage of the line fluid

¾” NPT Cross
Provides attachment points for the pressure-sensing lines from transmitter to meter taps
¾” NPT Plug
Plug is provided for single-transmitter applications where the space connection tap is plugged
½” Stainless Steel Shaft
This rod with “T”-handle is provided to facilitate pushing any accumulated dirt back into the flow stream and away from the pressure-sensing lines. Normal rod position is fully withdrawn.
¾” Nipple
Connects the ball valve to the cross and allows for applications where different lengths are required by changing the length of the nipple
¾” Ball Valve
Allows for isolation of the process from the transmitter

Vent Cleaner Materials

Typical material selections for standard applications:


  • Stainless Steel (304, 316SS)

Other options for material selection:


  • Aluminum 
  • Duplex S/S
  • Hastelloy B & C

Vent Cleaner Certifications

PFS is a contributor to various international standards committees, fully supporting our staff’s memberships to these commissions.

Individual products follow relevant industry regulations, including requirements specific to the oil and gas, water/wastewater, and power generation industries.

PFS maintains the following certifications, standards & compliances:

  • ISO 9001
  • AGA
  • ASME S & U
  • API
  • ANSI
  • European Pressure Equipment Directive (PED)

Applications

Water, Wastewater & Municipal Utility Systems

Vent cleaners help water and wastewater operators maintain reliable dP flow measurement by manually clearing plugged pressure taps on static- or corner-tap primary elements. They’re especially valuable in services prone to sediment, grit, biofilm, and debris, such as raw water intakes, treatment processes, distribution networks, and wastewater collection, where keeping sensing lines clear reduces signal issues, troubleshooting time, and unplanned downtime.

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