Common Flume Applications

If you know anything about flumes, then you probably know that these flow management devices are available in a variety of styles. The style of the flume will impact its applications, so if you’re looking for a flume for your open channel flow operation, it’s a good idea to learn about the different types of flumes available and where they can be used. Here is some basic information about flume styles, their individual applications and how you can purchase the flume that’s right for your operation.

Parshall Flume

The Parshall flume is the style of flume with which most people in the open channel flow industry are familiar, and it is this familiarity that is the biggest benefit of this type of flume. For instance, flow meters are typically preprogrammed for Parshall flumes because they are so common, and most operators already understand how to use this device.Parshall flumes are also beneficial because a range of throat widths are available, meaning you can install them in most applications. There are also modified versions of the Parshall flume, such as the Montana and Cutthroat flumes, used in a variety of circumstances.

Palmer-Bowlus

Several flume styles are centered on measuring wastewater flows, including the Palmer-Bowlus flume. Often found in sanitary systems, Palmer-Bowlus flumes are designed to measure piped flows, and you may use them in both new and existing applications. While there are several advantages to the Palmer-Bowlus flume, this device has one major drawback: lack of standardization. The manufacturers from which you purchase your Palmer-Bowlus flume can affect the flow tables, which means you need to do your research when installing this flume style in your system.

Flumes for Outdoor Flows

If you need to measure outdoor flows, such as an irrigation channel or agricultural runoff, there are a variety of flumes that you could choose. H/HS/HL flumes, for example, were specifically made to measure agricultural runoff, and they are capable of handling a wide range of flows from low to high. The ability of the H/HS/HL flume to handle a wide range of flows also makes it a good choice for certain industrial applications.A Trapezoidal flume is a good solution if you need to measure flow in an irrigation channel. This flume is manufactured with a unique shape which makes it particularly adept at passing solids, which is very important when measuring irrigation flow. Trapezoidal flumes are very effective at measuring low flows, but because of their flat-bottom design, you can only install them in some channels.

Browse Flume Styles

When it comes to measuring flow, there is almost no better choice than a flume. Flumes are accurate, easy to use and available in a wide variety of styles. If you want to know more about these flume styles, or if you’re ready to purchase a flume for your operation, you can shop with Tracom, FRP.Tracom offers our consumers the world’s most popular styles of flumes, including Parshall flumes. Whatever type of device you need for your system, we have an option that will meet your needs perfectly. Request a quote from us today and learn more about our flumes.

Andrew Helbling

Product Production Manager

Andrew Helbling is the Product Specialist at Tracom, where he works with engineers, contractors, and product owners alike to assess and select the best open channel flow and general-purpose fiberglass products for their application. Andrew is passionate about clean water and helping operators and engineers provide the cleanest water possible.