The H-flume is one of the most versatile flume styles in the world and can be used in a variety of applications. While the unique design of this flume does make it suitable for measuring and managing flow in different situations, it also creates several risks, including the possibility of submergence.
When submergence occurs, it can be extremely difficult for your operators to take accurate readings, which may impact the success of your system. Luckily, with the right tools, you can prevent submergence and keep your H-flume functioning properly. Find out how you can protect an H-flume from submergence and learn why this task is so important to the ongoing success of your operation.
H-Flume Characteristics
The biggest benefit of the H-flume is that it functions somewhat as a hybrid flow management device. While the throat is similar to other styles of flume, the discharge section of the H-flume is very similar to a sharp-crest weir. Because of this design, H-flumes can accurately handle a much wider range of flow rates than other devices you could choose. These flumes are so flexible, in fact, that you can find them in both outdoor and industrial applications.
Unfortunately, because of its similarities with sharp-crested weirs, H-flumes are much more at risk for submergence than other flume styles. Depending on how and where your flume is installed, it can be very easy for flow to back up into your flume, resulting in submerged flow conditions that will drastically change how your operators should take readings. Fortunately, there are a few ways that you can protect an H-flume from submergence.
Stopping Submergence
The key in preventing submergence with an H-flume is to make sure that you are effectively directing flow away from your flow management devices. In most cases, the best way to achieve this goal is to add a drop box to the end of your flume. Once installed, flow will exit your H-flume into the drop box, which will then direct the flow away from your flume using a pipe.
If you want to add a drop box to your system, you should consider two factors to make sure that it functions properly. First, the box should be deep enough that there is no risk that the flow will back up, which would cause submergence and defeat the purpose of this tool. Second, you need to be certain that your box has enough length so that the flow doesn’t splash back as it exits the flume. As long as you keep these factors in mind, adding a drop box should easily prevent submergence in your system.
Purchase an H-Flume
As you can see, it is possible to protect an H-flume from submergence with the right tools. Before you start thinking about submergence, however, you need to purchase an H-flume for your system, which you can easily do by working with Tracom, FRP.
We provide a large selection of durable, affordable fiberglass flumes, including the versatile H-flume. Regardless of the size or focus of your operation, we have tools that can help you succeed at the level you want and need. Contact Tracom today so that we can tell you more about our flume inventory and provide you with a quote.