Initially designed to measure agricultural flows, H Flumes are a cross between a flume and V-notch weir, with sharp exits and flat floors. This hybrid shape makes H Flumes capable of measuring a range of flow types and ranges. H Flumes are particularly suitable for measuring low and highly variable flows.
The H Flume design accommodates a wider range, or “turndown ratio,” of flows than any other flume type. Two applications that are ideal for H Flumes include edge-of-field runoff monitoring and stormwater flows. For example:
- The nature of edge-of-field monitoring projects is to understand sediment movement in low flows, and the flat floor of H Flumes allows for this type of small debris to pass through.
- The excellent turndown ratio makes it possible to accurately measure both low and high flows.
Openchannelflow H Flumes can be customized to a variety of site conditions. The rectangular shape of the optional approach section makes it easy to attach multiple flow / parameter monitoring accessories or pre-condition the flow before it enters the flume.
While H Flumes can accommodate a variety of flows and are highly customizable, they might not be the right choice for every application. For example:
- Size is a factor. Small sizes of HS / H Flumes shouldn’t be used with sanitary flows or flows with larger debris that can get stuck.
- Free discharge. No matter the configuration, there must be free-spilling discharge off the end of an H Flume.
- Some simplicity, some complexity. While the flume itself is a simple device, the equation to calculate flow is complex. Not all flow meters come programmed with H Flumes, so double-check your meter selection.
If you need help sorting through the considerations for your application, we’re happy to help. Contact us.
HS / H / HL Flumes are available in:
- Aluminum, which is easy to handle and lightweight enough to be portable.
- Fiberglass, which is resistant to corrosion, competitively priced, and the best choice for sewage flows.
- Galvanized steel, which is easy to repair, the best choice when cost is a concern, but not for use on applications measuring sewage.
- Stainless steel, which is very strong, resistant to corrosion, and the most expensive.
Make the most of HS / H / HL Flumes with accessories including:
- Approach Sections for transitioning pipe flows and mounting accessories.
- Flow Conditioners come in a variety of shapes to slow or straighten flows.
- Drop Boxes collect and direct exit flow into discharge piping.
- Stilling Wells that isolate flow, dampening waves and surges, allowing for exact flow measurement.
- Flow Meter Mounts ensure sensors are in the right point of measurement within the flume, plus are easy for operators to use and adjust.
- Packaged Metering Manholes that combine with the flume for a complete, integrated structure for operators to measure and sample flows.
Let’s bring your HS / H / HL Flume project to life.
There's more to learn in the OCF Research Center
Get industry-leading technical guidance
Your needs are unique and Openchannelflow strives to meet you where you are. Try our Solve A Problem section where we walk you through some common problems and ways to solve them.
If you already have a good idea what you need, but just need more specifics, find exactly what you need in the Research A Solution section.
Contact Us