Galvanized Steel Trapezoidal Flumes provide robust protection again accidental damage. Galvanized Steel Trapezoidal Flumes are commonly used to measure watershed, irrigation, surface water, and runoff flows.
Galvanized Steel Advantages
Galvanized steel Trapezoidal Flumes from Openchannelflow can be economical, have good damage resistance, and are available with some accessories and mounting / end configuration options.
Damage Resistance
The heavy gauge construction of Openchannelflow galvanized steel Trapezoidal Flumes provide good damage resistance. In irrigation / water rights applications this can be useful, particularly when cattle or other livestock may be in / around the flume.
Configuration Flexibility
Openchannelflow fiberglass Trapezoidal Flumes are available with a selection of accessories and mounting / end configuration options.
Contact Openchannelflow for additional details.
Galvanized Steel Disadvantages
While galvanized steel Trapezoidal Flumes have a number of advantages, it is important to remember that there are several disadvantages to the material.
Cost
Unlike Parshall or H Flumes where galvanized steel is an economical alternative to the standard fiberglass construction, galvanized steel Trapezoidal Flumes generally do not cost less than their fiberglass counterparts. If cost savings is key, then fiberglass construction should be considered.
Weight
Galvanized steel Trapezoidal Flumes weigh more twice as much as their fiberglass counterparts - on average ~5 lbs/ft2 [24.4 kg/m2]. This increased weight means that more manpower / heavier duty equipment is typically needed to install the flume. Additionally, the added weight means that galvanized steel Trapezoidal Flumes are not generally used in remote watershed applications unless damage resistance is needed.
Abrasion Resistance
The surface galvanization on the flumes can be abraded by heavy / sharp sediments in the flow stream. In applications where these are present their will be a need for ongoing maintenance of the galvanization or a different flume material (typically stainless steel) should be used.
Maintenance
Depending upon the application, the galvanized surfaces of the flume may present an ongoing maintenance issue. Where the hot dipped galvanization has been worn away, the surface must be dried, cleaned, and the cold galvanization applied.