A crucial decision for anyone running a water management operation is what kind of flume that they’ll use to measure and manage their flow rates. Although there are several excellent styles of flume that your water operation could use, one of the most versatile is the popular Palmer-Bowlus flume. While generally accurate, there are several factors that can interfere with the accuracy of a Palmer-Bowlus flume and disrupt your regular operations.
If you want to make sure that your measurements are as accurate as possible, you need to learn about these possible errors so that you can prevent them. Here is some brief information about Palmer-Bowlus source errors and how you can correct these issues with the right tools at your disposal.
Check for Sedimentation
Other than taking measurements, the most important part of flow readings are the flow equations that you use. However, flow equations are often very sensitive, especially when it comes to Palmer-Bowlus flumes, and must be adjusted to account for certain environmental factors that you may not be aware of.
For example, sedimentation is a problem for virtually every type of flume, but it causes big difficulties for Palmer-Bowlus flumes. If you’re experiencing errors in your measurements, check the inlet of your flume for debris, and if it is present then you will need to adjust your flow equations to take the blockage into account.
Examine the Approach
A crucial factor in getting the most out of your flume is maintaining consistent approach conditions. Unfortunately, there are several factors that can influence the approach, including irregularity in the upstream channel. If approach conditions aren’t ideal, it can affect the uniformity of your velocity distribution, which, in turn, influences your upstream depths and the accuracy of your discharge computations.
After noticing errors and inaccuracies in your measurements, it’s important that you examine your approach conditions to determine if there are any problems that are causing your imprecise measurements. Correcting for approach condition problems is one of the best ways to maintain the utility of your Palmer-Bowlus flume and the overall accuracy of your operation.
Look for Roughness
You already know how roughness in your upstream channel can alter the measurements you take from your Palmer-Bowlus flume, but what you might not know is that roughness in the flume itself can be an even bigger problem. If the floor of your flume is too rough, it can impede the free-flowing conditions that your operation relies on, which can also greatly affect the consistency of your readings.
Periodically checking your Palmer-Bowlus flume for irregularities that can interfere with flow is one of the best ways to ensure accurate readings and a consistent level of success.
Purchase Durable Palmer-Bowlus Flumes
Despite the possibilities for source errors, Palmer-Bowlus flumes are still one of the most useful flow measurement tools that there is. If you’re considering the use of Palmer-Bowlus flumes in your water management system, then you need to purchase expertly produced versions from Tracom, FRP.
The fiberglass flumes that you can buy from Tracom are second to none, providing the accurate and flexible flow management solution that you need and deserve. Find out about our products today and let us increase the success of your water management operation.
