When you install a flume in your flow management operation, your primary goal is being able to take accurate flow readings day in and day out. Unfortunately, there are countless issues that can interfere with the accuracy of your readings, some of which are easily fixable and others that are not.
Before installing your flume, it’s a good idea to learn about some of the sources for errors in your flow readings so that you’ll be prepared for any issues that may arise with your device. Here are some common reasons for flume errors that you should watch out for if you want to maintain the accuracy of your readings.
Deposits in the Flume
One of the main reasons you may see errors in your flow readings is sedimentation within your flume. When there are deposits of dirt and debris in your flume, it changes the characteristics of the flow, which will throw off your readings unless you make adjustments to your flow equations.
If you notice that there are errors in your flow readings, have one of your operators check your flume for sediment deposits. Periodically cleaning your flume should prevent sedimentation and maintain the accuracy of your readings. You may also want to invest in a flume designed to pass sediment such as a Trapezoidal flume.
Flow Energy
The energy of the flow in your system is another common cause of flume errors. Flows that are too energetic — meaning they have a Froude number above 0.6 — can make it hard to take accurate readings for several different reasons. In particular, overly energetic flows can result in standing waves, which will interfere with your readings.
Fortunately, removing energy from your flow is easier than you might imagine. By adding an energy absorber or a tranquilizing rack to your flume, you can prevent your flow from becoming too energetic and thereby can increase the accuracy of your readings.
Problems With the Approach Channel
In many cases, your flow readings will be inaccurate because of an issue with your approach channel. The flow that enters your flume must possess a uniform velocity, and if there’s something in the approach channel that can impact this uniformity, inaccurate readings will be the likely result.
For instance, if there are rough areas in the approach channel, it can cause the flow to become turbulent, which would impact your flow measurements. Similarly, if the approach channel features a variety of dips and curves, it will be nearly impossible to maintain a uniform velocity. If you want to guarantee the accuracy of your readings, you need to be sure the approach channel is smooth and straight.
Find Your Flume
Now that you know about some of the common causes of flume errors, you’ll be able to make sure that your device works the way that it should. If you need to purchase a new flume for your operation, Tracom, FRP is ready to serve you.
We offer an outstanding selection of fiberglass flumes in the most popular styles, and our experienced team can help you find the device that meets your flow management needs. Contact us today to start shopping for your flume.
