In your outdoor open channel flow system, there is no tool more important than an irrigation flume, allowing you to manage flow and take the measurements your operations rely on. However, because irrigation flumes are exposed to the elements, they can face a number of structural problems that can affect your overall success.
Preparing for problems typical to irrigation flumes before they arise will ensure that your open channel system functions properly well into the future. Learn more about irrigation flume problems and where you can purchase the fiberglass flumes that your operation needs for long-term success.
Biological Growth
Virtually every water operator is familiar with the risk of debris build-up, such as leaves and sticks, in an irrigation flume, but an even larger problem that can negatively affect the health of your water system is algae growth. The more algae that accumulates within your flume, the more restricted your flow will be, which can result in inaccurate readings and inefficiency in your system.
Although it’s important to periodically clean your irrigation flumes out, it’s also a good idea to try and prevent algae growth in the first place. Making sure your flume isn’t exposed to sunlight and laying down a protective coating will keep your flume clear and your flow unhindered.
Damaged Flume Dimensions
Because they often have to be installed in non-standard channels, irrigation flumes are usually made from lightweight, flexible materials. While this makes irrigation flume versatile, it also leads to the next big obstacle you should be on the lookout for: Distortion.
Without the proper support, irrigation flumes have a high risk of distortion. The sidewalls and the cross beams can bend and sometimes break, making your flumes ineffectual and interrupting your normal operations. During installation, it’s important to provide your flume with the right bracing to eliminate the possibility of distortions.
Escaping Flow
The most important task of a flume is to capture and direct flow, and when flow escapes, it threatens the success of your entire operation. The channel’s in which irrigation flumes are typically located can suffer erosion over time, allowing flow to escape around the sides of the channel. Periodically check to make sure your irrigation flume is capturing all of your flow to secure your operation’s continued success.
Leveling Issues
Finally, for you to get the most utility out of your flume, the device needs to be completely level in the channel. Whether through shifting or due to an improper installation, an unlevel flume can massively affect your measurements and deserves your immediate attention. First, make sure that your flume is installed levelly. Secondly, make sure you have taken the proper precautions against shifting.
How to Get the Right Irrigation Flume
Although the require a little extra attention to ensure their functioning, irrigation flumes are still one of the best solutions for measuring and controlling open channel flow in outdoor situations. If you’re looking to use an irrigation flume in your operation, then you need to browse the catalogue of excellent fiberglass products from Tracom, FRP.
Tracom produces high quality fiberglass water management products for operation all over the country, and we can help equip your system with the tools that you need and deserve. Request a quote from us today!
