The sharp-crest, thin-plate weir is one of the most useful flow measurement tools in the entire world. A thin-plate weir possesses several one of a kind features that make it the perfect choice for your flow measurement needs. However, if you’re not familiar with thin-plate weirs, then you might be unaware why these devices make such good choice for many flow measurement applications.
If you’ve been looking for a primary device for your system, learning a little bit more about thin-plate weirs is a good solution. Here are some facts about choosing a thin-plate weir for flow measurement that you should help you see why so many operations trust this unique device.
Biggest Weir Advantages
When learning about thin-plate weirs, it’s best to start with the wide range of benefits you’ll enjoy by choosing this device for your system.
Simplicity is perhaps the largest advantage of a thin-plate weir. In addition to their simple design, these devices are incredibly easy to install and verify. This means that when you choose a thin-plate weir for your system, you can have your device up and running in almost no time at all.
Weirs also provide impressive flexibility. For instance, weirs are very versatile in terms of point of measurement, meaning you can choose the option that best meets the needs of your system. Weir-plates are also available with several different notch styles.
Weir-Plate Drawbacks
While there are certainly a variety of advantages to using then-plate weirs, we would be remiss not to talk about some of the cons of this popular flow measurement device.
For most people, the primary disadvantage of weirs is their maintenance requirements. To make sure that your weir-plate functions correctly, you must maintain both the weir crest and weir pool.
There are also several ways in which the accuracy of your weir plate can be affected. If the approach velocity in your system is excessive, it is unlikely that your flume will be able to take accurate measurements. Weir-plates are also very vulnerable to submergence, which can easily impact your normal readings.
Before you install your weir-plate, make sure to consider these drawbacks and how likely they are in your operation.
Different Notch Styles
The last issue we will discuss related to weir-plates and flow measurements is the different notch styles. The style you choose will depend on the type of flow you are measuring.
If you need to measure low flows, for example, then a triangular v-notch weir-plate is your best option. For higher flows, you would need a rectangular, or contracted, notch. You can also choose a rectangular suppressed notch if you want an easier construction process. Other available notch styles include circular, Cipoletti, and proportional.
Choose Your Thin-Plate Weir
The thin-plate weir is a great primary device for most flow measurement operations, and if you’re ready to install a weir in your system, you can find the operation that’s right for you with Tracom, FRP.
Tracom is your top resource for fiberglass flow measurement devices, and our catalogue includes products such as weir boxes and flumes. Start shopping with us today by requesting a quote and taking a look at some of our most popular products.
