Your Guide for H Flume Installation

H flumes are some of the most versatile open channel flow tools, providing the consistently accurate readings that your operation needs. One of the benefits of the H flume is it can be installed in a variety of applications, including in earthen channels. If you want to get the most out of your H flume, you must make sure it’s installed correctly. Here is a quick H flume installation guide you can use to add this high-quality flow management tool to your water management system.

Sizing Your H Flume

Before you can get started on installation, you must be sure you have correctly sized your H flume. If your flume is not sized properly, it will not be able to handle the flow in your system and your readings will be inaccurate.

To size your H flume, you need to calculate the expected flow rates in your system. First, you need to determine your minimum flow rate. While H flumes can generally handle low flows, there are limits. Next, you should calculate the average flow rate. This will be the typical flow in your system. Next, consider your maximum flow rate. Generally, it’s a good idea to calculate your maximum rate slightly higher than you expect it to be to make sure there are no problems if your flow rate increases without warning.

Upstream and Downstream Conditions

One of the most important steps in H flume installation is ensuring the upstream and downstream conditions in your channel will work for your flume. Let’s start with the upstream conditions.

First, you need to be certain that the upstream channel is conditioned so that the flow enters your flume correctly. This means that the flow is at the correct velocity, and is smooth and evenly distributed across the breadth of the channel. Directly upstream from your flume, the channel needs to be completely straight, free from any sudden turns or dips. Check the banks of the channel to make sure they aren’t too low. If the channel is wide, you may need to use wing walls to direct the flow into your flume.

When conditioning the downstream channel, your goal should be preventing submergence. If it’s possible in your application, flow should be allowed to freely discharge from the end of your H flume. If you are installing your flume in a natural channel, you may need to add armoring to combat erosion.

Placing Your H Flume

The last installation step is placing and securing your flume in the channel. Your flume must be level, and should be placed in the center of the channel. It’s also important to ensure your flume is oriented correctly. For earthen channels, you should determine if there is a change for flow bypass, as this can erode the channel if not corrected. You will need to anchor your H flume to make sure that it does not shift out of place.

Purchase an H Flume

If you’re ready to get started with H flume installation, you can purchase a quality fiberglass flume from Tracom, FRP. We offer affordable, durable H flumes, as well as a great selection of other flow management devices. Contact us today for more information.