The success of an open channel flow operation depends on having a quality primary device such as a flume or a weir. Simply choosing your primary device, however, is not enough to guarantee operational success. You also need to be certain that you have correctly sized your device.
Luckily, you can easily size your flume or weir by keeping a few simple pieces of information in mind. Check out these tips for sizing a flow management device so that you can be sure you’re installing the right flume or weir in your system.
Determining Flow Rates
The first and most important step of sizing your flume or weir is determining both your minimum and maximum flow rates. You need to be sure that your device can accommodate the typical range of flows in your system so that your readings will be consistently accurate.
When determining your minimum flow rate, you should be sure to use a hard number. Calculating your minimum below rate above what it will actually be will result in an incorrectly sized primary device. On the other hand, you may wish to calculate your maximum rate a little above what you expect the maximum rate to be. This will make your flow device a little more flexible.
Measure Your Channel
Once you’ve determined your minimum and maximum flow rates, the next step to sizing a flow management device in measuring the channel where your device will be installed. This measurement is particularly important if you’re installing your flume or weir in a natural channel.
You want to be certain that your flume or weir fits snugly into the channel. If your primary device is too small for the channel, you will need to spend extra time and money securing device so that it will not be displaced. Correctly sizing your device to the channel will guarantee that it will capture all the flow so that your operators can take precise readings.
Always Research Discharge Tables
The final factor in correctly sizing a weir or flume is making sure that you are researching the discharge tables for any device you are considering purchasing. Checking the discharge tables will provide you with valuable information about a device, including the maximum amount of discharge that the device can accommodate.
If you fail to adequately research the discharge tables, it’s possible that you will purchase a flow management device that does not suit your needs, limiting or eliminating the success of your operation. Spend some time on this step so that you can be certain you’re picking the right sized device.
Purchase a Primary Device
Correctly sizing a flow management device isn’t as hard as you might imagine. As you can see, by making a few calculations and doing a little research, you can size a device that will match your operation. If you’re ready to purchase a flume or weir, you need to browse the different options available from Tracom, FRP.
Tracom is your number one source for open channel flow products, including weir boxes and flumes. We can listen to your needs and help you size a device that will easily fit into your system. Get started by requesting a quote today.
