Whether you choose a flume or a weir as your primary flow management device, installing your device correctly is the key to getting the most out of your tool. If you’re trying to decide which device you should install, you may be wondering if there are any similarities in how you will install a weir or flume.
While you will need to size a weir pool when installing a weir, the installation processes for each device are similar in many regards. Check out some of the similarities of installing a flume and installing a weir so that you’ll be ready, whichever device you choose for your operation.
Channel Conditions
Channel condition requirements is one of the many ways in which the process of installing weirs and flumes is similar. For instance, the channel leading to the flume or weir should be completely straight, meaning free of any bends or junctions. If the flume is not straight, it will impact the approach velocity of the flow and the accuracy of your measurements.
When installing a weir, there is one other channel condition requirement that must be met that does not apply to flumes. With a weir, the width of the channel must be uniform for a certain distance upstream of the device. If the width varies, you would need to choose a different installation site.
Quality of the Flow
Another big similarity between installing a flume and a weir is that the flow entering the device must have certain characteristics. For instance, whichever device that you choose, the flow in the channel upstream of the device should be subcritical. The flow should also be distributed easily across the approach channel, and it should be free from any disturbances.
If the approach velocity of your flow is too high, or if the flow is not tranquil, then you will need to choose a method for conditioning the flow. If you are using a flume, you could add an energy absorber, and if your device is a weir, you can employ an underflow baffle.
Placing the Device
The final issue that weirs and flumes have in common is where in the channel you must place the device for a successful installation. Both flumes and weirs must be installed in the center of the channel. The reason for this is that center installation will allow these devices to capture all of the flow in your system.
If you fail to center your flume or weir, some flow will bypass your primary devices. As you can probably imagine, this will result in very inaccurate readings. Make sure you have properly centered your device if you want your flow management operation to succeed.
Select a Device
While flumes and weirs are different in many ways, the process of installing a flume and installing a weir is very similar. If you’re ready to purchase one of these devices so that you can get started on your installation, shop for your flume or weir with Tracom, FRP.
For open channel flow products made from fiberglass, there is no better resource than Tracom. Contact us today to find out how we can help your operation and to learn more about our catalogue.
