Open Channel Flow Computer for Frequency Flow Meter and Analog Level Sensors

Open Channel Flow Computer

The OC01 open channel flow computer measures the flow of fluid in an open channel by using a frequency flow meter with a velocity proportional output and an analogue level input. The level input in conjunction with entered dimensional parameters is used to determine the cross-sectional area of the fluid in the channel.

Several regular channels are catered for including: Rectangular, Triangular, Trapezoidal, Circular and Half-Round. Flow can be measured in other channel shapes with a Non-linear selection that allows the level input to represent the actual cross-sectional area of the fluid at various levels.

Calculations

The volume calculation is based on the multiplication of the cross-sectional area and the velocity of the fluid in the channel.

Volume flow = velocity x area

The area for one of the selectable channel shapes is derived from the channel dimensions (width, base or diameter) and the input from the level sensor. For “non-linear” channels, parameters are available to allow the area to be read directly from the level input via a series of correction points.

For more information on Contrec’s Open Channel Flow Computers please click on the link.