Water management, including wastewater and water treatment operations, relies entirely on the ability to take good, accurate measurements and manage water flow. When it comes to open channel flow operations, one of the most important tools you need for your system is the right flume. Flumes come in a wide variety of styles and applications.
Understanding the different types of flumes and the best applications for each can help you keep your operations at optimal levels. Let’s examine the different types of fiberglass flumes, what each one can do for your operation and where you can get the best one for your needs.
Common Fiberglass Flumes
There are a number of different types of fiberglass flumes, and each is ideal for a different type of operation. In addition, some of these have a number of styles from which to choose. The major varieties of fiberglass flumes include:
- Parshall
- Palmer-Bowlus
- HS/H/HL
- Trapezoidal
- Cutthroat
- RBC
- Montana
Let’s break down a few of the most common uses and features.
Parshall Flumes
Parshall flumes are the most common flume type used in permanent installations. They feature a standard design that conforms to many different U.S. government standards. They have self-cleaning features, are available with adapters and offer simple meter calibration.
Palmer-Bowlus Flumes
These flumes come in different styles for permanent installations and feature short sections with trapezoidal ramps and with or without end flanges. They are available with bulkheads designed to connect to existing pipelines and are easy to install.
HS/H/HL Flumes
These flumes offer a standard design that conforms to U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. They can be had in a range of sizes and are intended to deal with agricultural runoff. Like many flumes, they are also designed to connect to existing pipes.
Trapezoidal Flumes
These types of flumes were originally designed for flow measurement in irrigation operations. They conform to the normal shape of ditches and are able to operate in higher submergence than the more common Parshall type. They also allow for debris to pass through and are great for low flow systems.
Cutthroat Flumes
Cutthroat flumes are similar to Parshall flumes, but they don’t possess an extended throat, and they have a flat bottom. They’re intended for use in channels with a flat gradient and are great for either free flow or submerged flow situations.
RBC Flumes
RBC flumes are best for use in unlined canals or small furrows. They offer a very simple construction design and come in a range of five different throat widths. They are best used for systems with exceptionally low flow rates.
Montana Flumes
Montana flumes are a modification of Parshall flumes, but with the discharge and throat sections removed. They use the same discharge tables as Parshall flumes and conform to standards set by the U.S. Department of the Interior. They are perhaps the least common of the flume types and are for specialized purposes.
Learn More and Buy Today
Tracom specializes in a wide range of fiberglass water management equipment, including all of the above types of fiberglass flumes. For more information, take a look at our flumes product page where you can see the full specs on each of these. Then get in touch with us today for a quote or to place your order.
