Three Simple Flumes for Flow Measurement in Open Channels

The design and calibration of three simple flumes for flow measurements in open channels are discussed. The flumes are designed based on principles of critical flow in open channels. Critical flow is created through the contraction of the flow cross section by installing vertical cylindrical columns in an open channel. Calibrated equations are developed for each of the three flumes by combining the Pi Theorem principle with laboratory scale physical models. The three flumes are designed for application in prismatic (trapezoidal, rectangular, and circular) channels. The calibrated equations can be used for design and calibration of the flumes regardless of the flumes or channel dimensions. The equations are validated using field scale flumes, and a design example is provided for free flow conditions.