In your water management operation, you will use one of two primary flow measuring devices: a flume or a weir. What you might not realize, however, is that flumes and weirs come in multiple styles, and not every style matches every application. This means that before you can install a measuring device in your system, you need to decide which style matches your needs. Fortunately, this isn’t difficult when you have the right information at your disposal.
Learn about different styles of flumes and weirs, and find out how you can purchase the right flow management tools for your system.
Configuration of Site
The first factor that you need to consider when choosing your flume or weir style is the configuration of the installation site. Different flumes and weirs have different installation needs, and examining your site should help you choose the right flow management tool for your operation.
For example, if you want your weir to function properly, the water spilling over the nappe must be correctly aerated. If your installation site cannot ensure proper aeration, then a weir may not be the right choice for you. Similarly, most styles of weir will need to be installed in a flat channel.
Composition of Flow
After examining your installation site, you will need to think about the composition of your expected flow. For instance, while weirs can handle most flow volumes, they can be very vulnerable to flows with solid wastes. This is because sediment can easily be caught in the V-notch of most weirs. If solids will be present, then you may need a Rectangular or Cipoletti weir.
Virtually every flume style can pass solid waste to some degree or another. However, certain flumes are better at passing solids than others, including the Parshall flume and H-flume. If you know the amount of sediment your flow will contain, you’ll be better able to choose your weir or flume style.
Flow Rate
The final issue that you need to take into account is the flow range that your system will experience. Some flumes and weirs need a consistent flow rate to function properly. Determining your typical flow rate prior to installation will ensure you choose the right flume or weir.
When it comes to flumes, Trapezoidal and H-flumes are the best choice for low flows. For larger flows, you will need an HL or Parshall flume. If you want to use a weir and expect a low flow, you will need a V-notch weir. Cipoletti weirs are more suited to heavier flows.
Purchase Styles of Flumes and Weirs
Clearly, choosing the right style of flume or weir for your system can be very complicated, and depends on several different issues. Once you’ve decided on the right styles of flumes and weirs for your operation, you should purchase your tools from a dependable source like Tracom, FRP.
When you browse the Tracom catalogue, you’ll find high-quality fiberglass water management products, including the most popular styles of flumes and weirs. Whatever water management tools you need, you’ll find them by shopping with Tracom. Contact Tracom today to learn more about our products.
