Open Channel Flowmeter

Open channel flowmeters perform flow measurement of liquids that are open to the atmosphere at some point in the flow measurement path. The liquid may be entirely open to the atmosphere, or may be contained within a closed pipe that is not full of liquid and only open to the atmosphere at the installation point of the flowmeter itself.

Regardless of which type of open channel flow measurement techniques are used, level measurement must be used in combination with velocity measurement, and a flow computer using the manning equation of open channel flow to calculate the true flow rate of any wetted channel (pipes, streams, etc).

It has the following distinguishing advantages:

  • It can realize forward and reverse two-way flow measurement.
  • Simple installation and convenient maintenance
  • It is not affected by factors such as downstream, direct flow, obstruction, etc.
  • Quick and easy sensor mounting
  • Reliable and repeatable measurements.
  • Very low head pressure loss.
  • Largely unaffected by changes in pressure, density, temperature and viscosity

Working Principle

Open channel flow monitoring is an old technique for measuring water flow rates in irrigation channels, streams, and storm water systems. The method is also used in wastewater processing for monitoring the effluent discharge. In most applications for open channel flow, weirs and flumes are used. For those of us not familiar, weirs and flumes concentrate the flow into a known cross sectional area, relating an accurate level reading to an accurate flow rate. The height of the water in the channel, going over the weir or flume, is directly proportional to the flow rate.

Key Feature

  • The sensor can work reliably for a long time under harsh scenes and sewage water quality
  • Robust design: Our instruments for flow measurement are made in robust designs with unique mounting options.
  • High precision: Our flow meters guarantee high precision measurements, which helps you eliminate water loss.
  • The instrument display and output functions are complete. It can display data such as instantaneous flow, flow rate, cumulative flow

Application Range

Open channel flowmeters can be used to measure and record flows in all types of open channels and overflows, as well as non-standard channels in treatment plants and overflows.

  • Semi-pipe flow sewage pipes and large flow pipes without overflow weirs
  • Continuous flow rate measurement in a WWTP intake area
  • Flow of liquid suspensions
  • Sewage pipes and particularly in manholes, canals, streams, and rivers
  • Especially suitable for municipal rainwater, waste water, sewage discharge and irrigation water pipelines.