For water systems that rely on accurate flow measurements, it’s common to combine the primary measuring device, such as a flume or weir, with a secondary device. However, because flow can be turbulent, many operations choose to mount their secondary device inside of a stilling well.
If you’ve never used a stilling well in your system before, it’s a good idea to learn more about this common tool and how you can best use it in your operation. Learn a few common facts about stilling wells, and advice for purchasing and installing this versatile measurement tool in your operation.
Stilling Well Basics
The first thing that you need to understand before installing a stilling well in your system is what this device is for and how it works. As its name might suggest, a stilling well is a chamber that is isolated from the main flow in your weir or flume. The level of the water in the stilling well will match the level in your primary device, but will be less energetic.
Because the flow inside of the stilling well is less turbulent, it makes the perfect location for installing a secondary measuring device like an ultrasonic meter or a bubbler. With a stilling well, your operators will be able to take much more accurate readings, increasing the success of your system.
Attached and Detached
When you install a stilling well inside of your flume or weir, you will have two different options, attached and detached. Each style has its own advantages, so it’s a good idea to examine them in closer detail.
An attached stilling well is incorporated into your flume or weir, usually through welding or molding. Detached stilling wells are located outside of your primary flow measuring device, and are connected to the flow using tubing.
Using an attached stilling well can be difficult depending on the type of flume you use, as certain flumes, like Trapezoidal flumes, do not have the type of flat sidewalls that are suitable for attachment. On the other hand, with a detached stilling well, it can be very easy for the tubing to become disconnected.
Sedimentation
While stilling wells are generally a useful tool, there are certain applications where they simply cannot be employed. Primarily, a stilling well should not be used in a system where there is high risk for sedimentation, such as with sanitary flows. In these systems, it’s very likely that the inlet of your stilling well will become blocked, preventing flow from entering the chamber.
You should also think twice about using a stilling well for cold water flows. If ice forms, it can block the inlet, requiring frequent maintenance from your operators. While immersion heaters can be used to prevent this, it means an added expense.
Purchase Stilling Wells
Although there are some factors that you need to keep in mind, a stilling well is a great choice for any system that wants to take accurate measurements by installing a secondary device. To get the high-quality stilling wells that your system needs, your best option is working with Tracom, FRP.
Tracom produces flow management products like flumes and weirs, as well as accessories like stilling wells. We can help you equip your operation with the tools that you need. Contact Tracom today.
