A Trendsetter in Flow Technology, FCRI

Fluid Control Research Institute (FCRI) is the foremost flow lab and fluid engineering facility situated in Palakkad, Kerala. Established in 1989, FCRI is functioning under the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, Govt. of India. FCRI is acknowledged as a seat of knowledge in the field of flow calibration, measurement & control. Its role in training, skill development and dissemination of domain knowledge is also commendable. Dr. Jacob Chandapillai, Director, updates us on the innovations showcased recently, and the value additions further envisaged by the Institute which is yearning to be a globally renowned and reliable service provider in flow technology. – P.K. Balasubbramaniian

Q. What are the innovations you could showcase recently as a trendsetter?

We are in the process of setting up a multiphase flow laboratory which will help us to develop / assess multiphase flow meters. A Valve Cavitation Research Centre has been established which would pave the way for manufacturers and users to assess the cavitation characteristics of the valve. This is very much necessary for the healthy control of the flow. In fact this facility is the first of its kind in this part of the world which would provide 900 m3 /hr flow at 30 bar pressure.

FCRI is also helping to set up flow measurement standards for Government departments like Ministry of Consumer Affairs , Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai , etc. to help them assess the quality of flow meters which they are assessing. This way the importance of flow measurement is being propagated. FCRI is also in to providing consultancy for MCGM , LPSC , ONGC, etc. for them to do data acquisition and effective control and automation of their process.

Q. There’s always a better way. How did you prove this axiom?

If You Can’t Measure It, You Can’t Improve It. Management Expert Peter Drucker is often quoted as saying that “You can’t manage what you can’t measure.” Drucker means that you can’t know whether or not you are successful unless success is defined and tracked. This is true for flow measurement also, especially when your bottom line depends on your measurement accuracy.The accuracy /uncertainty of flow measurement plays a vital role in any industry.
In order to verify it, one needs to know how accurate the meter is. The technology for flow measurement has improved a lot and the hence the demand for accuracy needed for their verification standards also has to improve. FCRI is always in the process of improving their measurement standards as per industry demand.

Q. What are the dynamics of your industry and what measures do you take to stay ahead?

• Creation of a knowledge bank with experts in the related areas of activities
• Create a group in social media to discuss relevant problems
• Involve actively in national and international policy making bodies and standard formulation bodies in the sphere of influence.

Q. What are the value additions you envisage to keep up your brand promise and to delight the customer in a competitive environment?

• Continuous up-gradation of the facilities and knowledge
• Improve the quality of staff through training in related areas and management
• Conduct Inter-comparison with other similar International organizations at least once in two years
• Acquire quality manpower envisaging the future
• Actively pursue efforts to acquire and renew accreditations, certifications and recognitions from national and international bodies and establish global recognition especially in the area of fluid flow
• Continue to actively pursue efforts to obtain designated institute status
• Tie-up with academic institutes/universities and similar research institutes in India and abroad for enhancing research output.

Q. What’s your vision for your organization?

Our vision is to be a globally renowned and reliable service provider in flow technology

This is expected to be done through:

• Evaluation of flow products with world-class , accurate, reliable advanced technology for end-users and manufacturers complying with globally accepted standards and practices
• Act as a solution provider to flow and related problems
• Conduct research programs in order to develop technology / product/solutions
• Act as a National standard for flow
• Disseminating knowledge to working professionals and students in India and abroad
• Expand the sphere of influence by venturing into new areas and services with proper strategies
• Increasing the visibility of FCRI