Possibly the most important decision that needs to be made in water systems in existing channels is what kind of flume will be used to manage and measure flow. While there are several excellent options that you could select, the best choice of flume for an existing channel is a cutthroat flume. If you’ve used cutthroat flumes in other applications, then you know how accurate and versatile they can be.
Before you install a cutthroat flume in an existing channel, however, it’s a good idea to learn a few of the proper steps so that you can be sure the job is completed quickly and effectively. Learn how to install a free flow cutthroat flume in an existing channel and discover how you can purchase these flow measurement tools for your system.
What is Your Flow Rate?
If you’re installing a cutthroat flume in an existing channel, making sure you get the utility and accuracy that you’re searching for depends on following the right procedure. After you have selected your installation location, which is of primary importance, you need to gather some information to make sure that your installation goes smoothly.
The first piece of data that you will need to install your flume for free flow conditions is to calculate the maximum expected flow rate. If you don’t calculate the maximum flow rate before you begin installation, it’s likely that you will make errors and will be unable to achieve the free flow conditions that you are attempting to establish.
High Water Lines and Flow Depth
Once you have determined the maximum expected flow rate your cutthroat flume will experience, you will need to take two other important measurements. These numbers will eventually be used in the free flow equation, and are integral to the success of your free flow cutthroat flume installation.
First, at the installation point that you have selected in the existing channel, you will need to measure the high-water line on the bank. With the high-water line measurement recorded, you now must calculate the maximum flow depth where the flume will be installed. Now that you’ve gathered the necessary data, you can plug it into the free flow equation to make sure your flume is positioned correctly.
Making Calculations
With the information that’s been collected, you will use the free flow equation to determine your system’s maximum discharge capacity at the highest flow depth, which will tell you the ideal location to install your cutthroat flume. An experienced water operator should understand how to employ the free flow equation and install the flume correctly.
To make sure that free flow conditions are achieved, the floor of your cutthroat flume should be positioned below the submergence transition multiplied by the top water level.
Install a Free Flow Cutthroat Flume in Your System
The best way to make sure that your free flow cutthroat flume gives you the level of success that you’re looking for is by purchasing from a leading manufacturer such as Tracom, FRP. When you choose Tracom for all of your water management needs, you’ll be getting great service and the high-quality fiberglass products that you deserve. Reach out to a Tracom representative today and let us help you with your water management needs.
