Best Flume for Measuring Stormwater

parshall flume

If you need to measure stormwater flows, it’s important to choose the right flow measurement device. Measuring stormwater flows can be extremely difficult, especially since flow rates are inconsistent and the flow is likely to contain several different types of debris, which is why choosing dependable flumes for stormwater runoff measurement is of the utmost importance. While there are several ways that you could measure stormwater flows, the best option is installing an H-flume. H-flumes feature several characteristics that make them ideal for measuring stormwater flows, and if you install one of these devices, you should be able to take the accurate readings you need. Here are a few things you should know about H-flumes if you need a device to help you measure stormwater flows.

The Best of Both Worlds

The reason that H-flumes make such great choices when it comes to stormwater flows is that they combine the best characteristics of thin-plate weirs and flumes. For instance, like thin-plate weirs, H-flumes are low-flow sensitive, which means they can accurately measure stormwater even when it’s just a trickle.

H-flumes are also adept at stormwater measurements because of their self-cleaning nature. Stormwater flows often contain natural debris, including rocks, twigs and leaves. In most cases, these different types of debris will easily pass through, meaning you won’t have to worry about them building up and eventually blocking the stormwater flow. The unique design of H-flumes also means that they can easily be installed in a natural channel, which is generally where you’ll measure stormwater flows.

Free-Spilling Discharge is Key

If you’re interested in using an H-flume to measure stormwater, you should remember that free-spilling discharge is a must. In basic terms, this means that the flow must be allowed to spill freely out of the v-shaped discharge section of the H-flume if you want the device to work properly.

Unlike other flumes, H-flumes have no resistance to downstream conditions, which means it’s very easy for submergence to occur. If you do detect submergence, you’ll need to raise the flume to restore free-spilling discharge.

Accessorizing Your Flume

One of the biggest benefits of H-flumes is that they are available with several different types of accessories that will maintain their utility. For example, if the flow you’re measuring combines a low rate with high sediment content, you can add a false floor to your flume to separate the flow from the debris. If the flow you’re measuring doesn’t have the correct velocity profile or has too much surface turbulence, you can also add a tranquilizer rack or energy absorber to your device.

Install an H-Flume

As you can see, H-flumes are an excellent choice if you need to measure stormwater flows. if you’re ready to invest in an H-flume for your flow management operation, Tracom, FRP is ready to work with you. Fiberglass flumes are our specialty, and we offer these flow management devices in a variety of styles. Contact us today so that one of our representatives can tell you about our product line and provide you with a quote.

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Andrew Helbling

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.