Other than installing your primary flow management device, there is nothing more important to the continued success of your business than mounting your flow meter. No matter the type of flow that you need to measure, a flow meter can help you take accurate readings that will promote long-term success.
If you never mounted a flow meter before, you might not be aware that there are several factors that can affect the success of your installation and the functioning of your flow meter. Here are a few factors to consider when mounting a flow meter in a flume that can help you complete your installation successfully.
Picking the Mounting Height
Perhaps the most important factor to consider when mounting a flow meter in a flume is the final height of your flow meter. While you want to make sure that your meter is installed at a height where it can accurately read the flow in your system, you should also make sure that your operator can easily read the meter.
For instance, if you install your flow meter too close to the ground, it can make it extremely difficult for your operators to quickly read the measurements. When mounting your flow meter, you should target a height of five feet.
Securing Your Device
Installing a flow meter in your system is a huge investment, and like any investment, you want to make sure that your flow meter is as secure as possible. If your flow meter will be mounted in an open, poorly secured area, then you may want to take precautions so that your meter is defended from thieves or vandals.
You could, for example, protect your flow meter with a lockable fiberglass instrument enclosure. An instrument enclosure will allow your operators to quickly access your flow meter while providing full protection for this important device.
Don’t Ignore the Environment
When you’re choosing the location to mount your flow meter, it’s important to consider the typical environmental conditions. For example, you should try to install your meter so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight, which can interfere with its normal functioning and reduce the accuracy of your readings. You should also think about whether your flow meter will be exposed to excessive moisture or high winds, both of which may cause serious problems if not taken into account.
If you’re not able to install your flow meter outside of the sunlight, you should consider adding a sunshade, which can limit exposure to sunlight and can also keep your flow meter dry. If you protect your flow meter from environmental stresses, you should be able to ensure a more consistent level of success.
Mounting a Flow Meter in a Flume with Help
If you need advice for mounting a flow meter in a flume, or need to purchase a flume in your system, you should work with the flow management professionals at Tracom, FRP.
Tracom is your top resource for fiberglass water management products, and we can help you choose a high-quality flume and give you advice for successfully mounting your flow meters. Request a quote for our products today.
