A Montana flume is one of the top flow management devices that you could install in your system. If you’ve never used this style of flume before, however, then you probably have a few questions about the device and its benefits. Here is a Montana flume FAQ that should tell you everything that you want to know about this flow management device.
Is a Montana Flume Different From a Parshall Flume?
One of the most common questions that people have about Montana flumes is how they differ from Parshall flumes, which are another popular style of flow management device. This makes sense because Montana flumes are actually modified versions of Parshall flumes.
The difference between Montana and Parshall flumes is that the diverging sections and the throat of a Montana flume have been removed, which provides several different benefits. In particular, Montana flumes are generally a lot more affordable than Parshall flumes and are also lighter, which means they can easily be transported from location to location.
Despite the modifications, Montana flumes use the same flow tables as Parshall flumes when free-flow exists. In addition, because they are smaller, you don’t need as much room to install a Montana flume as you would for a Parshall flume. It is for this reason that Montana flumes are a popular choice for measuring flow in natural channels.
Resistance to submergence downstream of the flume is the primary advantage Parshall flumes have over Montana flumes. Because of this, you should only install a Montana flume where free discharge is possible.
Is It Possible for Flow to Spill Freely Off a Montana Flume?
Absolutely. In fact, Montana flumes were designed intentionally to allow for free-spilling discharge. Allowing flow to freely spill over the end of the Montana flume is very beneficial, particularly when you’re installing your flume in outdoor applications, such as when measuring flow in a stream.
How Accurate Are Montana Flumes?
Another Montana flume FAQ has to do with the accuracy of these devices. When you install a flume, you want to make sure you’ve chosen the most accurate device possible, and Montana flumes are highly accurate when measuring a variety of flow types.
In most situations, Montana flumes offer a +/- 5% accuracy rate, particularly if you take a few steps for optimal accuracy. In addition to making sure you’ve chosen a suitable installation site for your flume, it’s important that the flow is conditioned properly, the flume is level in the channel and the interior of the flume is kept free of debris. With the right conditions, the Montana flume is one of the most accurate flumes you could choose.
Purchase Your Montana Flume
Hopefully, this Montana flume FAQ has answered all your questions about this flow management device. If you have any remaining questions, or if you’re ready to purchase a Montana flume, Tracom, FRP is here for you.
Tracom is proud to produce a wide variety of fiberglass flow management tools, including accurate and dependable Montana flumes. Contact us today so that we can tell you more about the benefits of the Montana flume and provide you with a quote for your device.
