Water management system, particularly those that deal with natural flows and channels, have a wide variety of tools to choose from, but one of the most common options are weir plates. Weir plates are one of the simplest, most effective water management tools that there is, providing a super quick installation and consistently accurate measurements when you need them.
However, like any tool, weir plates come with some definite drawbacks that you need to be aware of before you decide to use this product in your water management system. Here are a few of the main cons of using weir plates that you should consider prior to scheduling an installation and tips for purchasing this product.
Using Weirs in Cold Weather
If you’re at all familiar with the use of weir plates, then you probably understand that the most important aspect of getting the accurate readings you need is keep the crest completely free of debris. However, you might not realize that this risk is more pronounced during cold weather, which means that weir plates are not suitable for every outdoor application.
Weir plates should only be used in areas that experience above freezing temperature. If a weir plate experiences temperature below freezing, ice can build-up on the crest and interfere with this tool’s normal operation. So, a big disadvantage or weir plates is that they can only be used when the temperature is ideal.
Maintenance and Solid Waste
As mentioned in the previous section, weir plates only function correctly when the crest is completely free of debris. Unfortunately, weir maintenance is not limited solely to the crest, which can interfere with the regular duties of your operator and may slow down operations. In addition to keeping the weir crest free of debris, the weir pool must also be maintained, an extremely difficult task depending on the needs of your operation.
Also, because of a weir plates design, they do not allow solid wastes to easily pass over the crest, which can end up causing problems both upstream and downstream of your weir. If you can’t afford a higher level of maintenance, then a weir plate is not the right flow management tool for your operation.
Limited Application
For some water management operations, choosing the right flow management tool is a matter of versatility, and if this is what you’re looking for, then weir plates probably aren’t the right solution for you.
In order for a weir plate to function correctly, it needs to have a free-spilling discharge with an aerated flow, and if this is something that’s impossible for your water management system, your weir plate will not function to the level that you deserve. Before installing weir plates, you should examine your flow type to determine if this is the right measurement and management tool for you.
Should You Use Weir Plates?
After considering all of the disadvantages of using weir plates, this still might be the right tool for your operation, and if so, then you need to find the right source to equip your operation. Get weir plates for your water management system by partnering with Tracom, FRP today.
Tracom produces weir plates, flumes and a wide range of other fiberglass water products, and we can help you find the right solution for your water management needs. Request a quote from us right away.
