If you need a flow measuring device, you have two basic options: A flume or a weir. While both of these devices have their advantages, most flow management operations choose to use flumes. But why exactly do they make that choice? Here are a few facts that you need to keep in mind about flumes vs. weirs if you’re looking for a primary device for your flow management operation.
Measuring Flow Rates
The ability to measure higher flow rates is one of the reasons that many operations decide to use a flume instead of a weir. In some circumstances, flow rate will be consistent, which means that either devices can be a good choice. Generally, a consistent flow rate is rare, which is why flumes can be the more dependable choice.
Imagine, for instance, that you need to measure storm water runoff. After a heavy storm, flow rates can surge, and if the rate gets too high, a weir may not be able to provide an accurate measurement. Many styles of flumes can easily handle these surging rates, making them the better choice in applications where this is possible.
Maintenance Requirements
When you’re choosing a primary device for your open-channel flow operation, regular maintenance should be a consideration. You want a device that works the way that it’s supposed to without the need for constant maintenance, which is another reason to choose a flume over a weir.
For starters, flumes can pass solid debris a lot easier than weirs, which means your operator won’t have to worry about constantly cleaning your device so that flow is unimpeded. On top of that, flumes generally have less regular maintenance requirements. With a weir, for instance, you’ll need to monitor the crest to make sure it hasn’t suffered any damage, make sure there’s nothing impeding the flow and maintain the weir pool. Flumes have much less strict maintenance requirements.
Easier to Find
If you’re trying to choose between flumes vs. weirs, you should consider the fact that it’s much easier to find the flume that fits your needs than it is with a weir. Flumes are available in an array of sizes and styles, so you should have no problem finding an option that can easily be installed in your system and measure whatever type of flow that you need. Depending on the needs of your operation, you may need to have a custom weir constructed, which can be expensive.
Many of the most popular styles of flumes are available off the shelf. This means that you won’t need to wait to purchase the device that you need. Fewer weirs have off-the-shelf availability, meaning they’re not a good choice if you need your device is soon as possible.
Purchase Your Flume
After comparing flumes vs. weirs, it should be clear that flumes are the best device for most open channel flow operations. If you’re interested in purchasing a flume, the team at Tracom, FRP is here to help you. We offer fiberglass flumes in the most popular styles, and can help you select the device that will perfectly fit your flow management needs. Contact Tracom today to learn more about our flumes and to get a quote.
