Basic Principles and Developments in Flow Measurement

This Flow Measurement workshop deals specifically with flow measurement concepts, devices, instrumentation, and the new WinFlume program to design long-throated flumes. This workshop could be an alternative to our "Modern Methods in Canal Operation and Control" workshop, for people who want more detailed information on flow measurement without the canal operation and control topics.

A training course on Basic Principles and Developments in Flow Measurement has been developed by the Bureau of Reclamation's Hydraulic Investigations and Laboratory Services Group. This course covers open channel and closed pipe measurement methods and instrumentation. Laboratory workshop sessions involve each student in the hands-on flow measurement using different techniques and various types of water measurement equipment.

A computer laboratory is also included in the class with in-depth coverage and application of a Windows-based program to design long-throated flumes (WinFlume). Long-throated flumes are the preferred alternative for many new flow measurement sites, since the devices can be custom designed for the site. They are cheaper to build than Parshall flumes and are more versatile since they can be designed to operate with a small head difference. The computer program produces rating tables, equations and staff gage templates at full scale.

Canal Automation is becoming widely used to improve the operation of canal systems and to conserve water. Automatic control systems are installed on most new canals, and many older canals are being modernized with data collection, telemetry, and control equipment to help canal operators better manage their water.

This training course on canal operations and control methods is taught by the Bureau of Reclamation's Hydraulic Investigations and Laboratory Services Group in Denver, and has been offered each year since 1996.  The course covers modern methods to upgrade the operations of existing canals, including canal automation techniques and equipment.