Pamantasan NG Lungsod NG Maynila: College of Engineering and Technology Department of Chemical Engineering

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
College of Engineering and Technology

Department of Chemical Engineering
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Objectives
Theory
Venturi Meter
Pitot Tube
Orifice Meter
Triangular Weir Notch
Actual Equipment
Equipment
Schematic Diagram
10
Description of the Equipment
10
Procedure
11
Data Sheet
13
Analysis and Calculations
15
Answer to Questions
16
Conclusion
18

Experiment A3
TESTS AND CALIBRATIONS OF FLOWMETERS AND A WEIR
INTRODUCTION
The measurement of the flow of fluids in manufacturing plants is a very
important aspect of the overall operation and performance of a production
line. Aside from being directly related to capacity, measurement of stream flow
rates in the plant is also vital to implementing site wide process control as well
as quality assurance. There are many ways of measuring liquid flow. For
closed conduits, it includes the use of pitot tubes, venturi meters, nozzles and
orifices. For open channel flow, different kinds of weirs are applied. Each of
the enumerated flow measuring devices allows the determination of the fluid
flow rate via reading specific flow parameters such as pressure drops and weir
height. Knowledge on their calibration and modeling can prove useful for
future plant engineers.
OBJECTIVES
1. To prepare calibration curves expressing flow rate versus measurable
parameters for flowmeters such as pitot tube, venturi meter, weir notch,
and orifices.
2. To study and develop a mathematical model for a jet trajectory
discharged through a small sharp-edged orifice.
3. To determine orifice coefficients such as coefficient of contraction, Cc,
coefficient of velocity Cv and the coefficient of discharge, CD.
4. To compare experimental and theoretical flow rates for the different
flowmeters under study.
DLSU EXPERIMENT TESTS AND CALIBRATIONS OF FLOWMETERS AND A WEIR

Barros, D., De Guzman, K., Pedrosa, A., Reyes, J

THEORY
A. Venturi Meter
The venturi meter used in this experiment can be
represented by Figure 1 where the pressures are indicated by the
height of liquid in the piezometer columns connected to the
upstream and constriction points of the tube.
Figure 1: Venturi Meter
Starting with the mechanical energy balance applied around the

sections 1 and 2, it can be shown that the volumetric flow rate may be
given by the equation
Q = S2
2
where
2 2
1 ( )
1
Q = Theoretical volumetric flow rate, ft3/s

S1 = Cross-sectional area of throat, ft2
S2 = Cross-sectional area of tube, ft2
= Differential head, ft = H1 - H2


Since the flow rate obtained in Equation (1) does not yield the
correct flow rate, then a correction factor is introduced, thus,
= 2
2
1 (2 )
1
where Cv is called the discharge coefficient for the venturi meters.
B. Pitot Tube
Referring to Figure 2 for the arrangement of the pitot tube
followed in this experiment, a mechanical energy balance between
points (1) and (2) will yield a velocity at point [1] given by
1 = 2
Figure 2: Pitot Tube


C. Discharge Through A Sharp Edged Orifice
If a sharp edged orifice is installed in the wall of a reservoir
or tank, the fluid flows following a trajectory as shown in Figure 3
Figure 3: Orifice Opening with Jet Trajectory
With a square-edged orifice, the fluid jet contracts during the short
distance downstream from the opening. The cross-section where the
contraction is greatest is called the vena contracta. From Fig. 2, to
determine the flow through the opening, we apply Bernoulli's Equation
between point (1) on the surface, to the center of the vena contracta at
point (2). With local atmospheric pressure as the reference pressure and
point (2) as the elevation datum, and neglecting losses, Bernoulli's
Equation gives,
12 1
22 2
+ + 1 =
+ + 2
2 1
2 2
Inserting values,
22
0+0+ =
+0+0
2
Or
= 2


where H is the head on the orifice measured from the center of the
orifice to the free surface. In the experiment, the tank is provided with
an overflow tube to maintain this head constant.
Equation (5) actually gives the theoretical velocity since losses
between the reference points were neglected. To determine the actual
velocity, Va, we define a correction factor, called the velocity coefficient
Cv, given by
therefore,
= 2
The actual discharge, q from the orifice is the product of the
actual velocity at the vena contracta and the area of the jet. The ratio of
the jet area at the vena contracta, A2 to the area of the orifice, Ao is
called the coefficient of contraction Cc, that is,
=
therefore, the area of the vena contracta is given by
2 = ( 2 )
4
and the actual flow rate is estimated by the equation
= ( 2 )2
4
It is customary to combine the two coefficients into a discharge
coefficient, Cd
=
From which
= ( 2 )2
4


Assuming CD to remain practically constant (especially at high
values of Reynold's Number), the general law of flow may be represented
by
=
Where
= ( 4 2 ) (2 )1/2 and = 2
As part of the analysis, derive an equation that will express the

coordinates of the jet projectile, together with all the corrections
introduced, as a function of the head in the tank.
D. Triangular Weir Notch

Open channel flow may be measured by means of a weir,
which is an obstruction in the channel that causes the liquid to
back up behind it and to flow over it or through it. By measuring
the height of the upstream liquid surface, the rate of flow is
determined. For small discharges, the V-notch weir, as shown in
Figure 4, is particularly convenient.
Figure 4: Triangular Weir Notch

The velocity at depth, h is = 2, and the theoretical discharge is,
1 = =


by similar triangles, b may be related to h by,
after substituting for v and b

3
14
2
1 = 2 ( ) 2 ( ) =
2 ( )

15
expressing L H in terms of the angle of the V-notch gives
= tan( )
2
2
Therefore,
1 =
8
3
2 tan( ) 2
15
2
Introducing a correction factor, Cd, the actual discharge may now be

expressed as,
1 =
8
3
2 tan( ) 2
15
2
Therefore, for triangular notch

=
Where
=
2 tan( )
15
2


EQUIPMENT
A. Actual Equipment
Tank 1 (Head Tank)

Orifice Pressure Reading
Pitot Tube
Y- Coordinate Sticks
Orifice Meter
Venturi Meter
Drain Valve and Flow
Regulator
Weir
Manometer
Drain Valve for Venturi

Meter
Tank 2 (Receiver Tank)
Tank 3 (Sump Tank)


B. Schematic Diagram of the Equipment
C. Description of the Equipment
Referring to Figure 5, the equipment consists of a fabricated mild

steel constant head tank which is provided with water entry pipe baffle
and drain cock. The inside of the tank is provided with an adjustable
overflow pipe so that tests may be carried out over a complete range of
heads. The outside of the tank is fitted with a level indicator and scale
by which the orifice test head may be directly determined. The range of
orifice plates supplied is fitted flush with the wall of the constant head
tank.

10

A lever operated gate valve is incorporated to allow rapid draining
of the head tank when orifices are changed. The trajectory of the jet
issuing from the orifice may be plotted by means of a number of equally
spaced rolls situated along the center line of the jet, and supported on a
steel framework. The jet discharges into a fabricated mild steel channel
which is fitted with a baffle, knife-edged weir and lever indicator cocks.
Water flows over the weir into a volumetric measuring chamber by
means of the various devices may be calibrated. The change in level in
the chamber is measured by means of a precision vernier hook and
point gauge mounted at the side of the chamber remote from the weir
and separated from it by a brass stilling screen. The measuring chamber
is provided with a quick acting lever operated gate valve to return water
to sump and with an emergency overflow weir which is set to limit the
water level below the knofe edged weir.
The perspex venturi tube is fed with water through a system of
pipework from the constant head tank. A throttle valve is included
downstream of the venturi tube so that the flow may be regulated. Water
is discharged to the orific tank flume and then to the drain, via a
volumetric measuring chamber. To enable the venturi tube to be
accurately calibrated a differential pressure reading manometer is
supplied.
Important specifications of the venturi tube used in the experiment are
as follows:
Nominal bore 318 mm diameter

Throat diameter 155 mm
Entry cone 10.50
Diffuser cone 7.00
PROCEDURE
Part I. Jet projectile, Pitot Tube and Orifice
1. Open the water supply valve and fill the sump with enough water.
When the level is above the submersible pump, switch the pump
to on and allow water to flow to the head tank. Make sure that the
11

2.
3.
4.
5.
valve from the pump is fully open. Adjust the overflow pipe so as
to get the maximum level in the head tank.
Choose one size orifice and install this tightly on the side of the
head tank. To prevent water from flowing out you may insert a
rubber stopper thru the orifice opening.
When a predetermined head is already maintained constant, allow
water to flow from the orifice and determine the coordinates of the
jet stream versus the head of the water in the tank. Measure the
actual flow rate of the water discharging by means of a graduated
cylinder and stop watch or by using the collection chamber and
level gauge. Make sure that the valve venturi is closed and all the
water discharging through the orifice is channeled to the
measuring chamber.
Without changing the head, position the pitot tube so that it is
situated at the center of the jet stream. Measure the level of water
inside the pitot tube column.
Change the level of water in the head tank and repeat the
procedure. Do this for six different heads.
Part II. Venturi Meter and V-Notch Weir

1. After Part I is completed, remove the orifice and install the plug
lightly. Adjust the overflow pipe to the maximum level.
2. Open the valve from the venturi tube partially so that a differential
reading is obtained. Allow time for flow to settle. When everything
is stabilized, record the differential head and the level over the sill
of the notch using the hook and point gauge in the stilling well.
3. Measure the flow at this head by timing the flow into the
volumetric measuring tank.
4. Repeat the procedure until six different readings are obtained
maintaining or varying the head in the tank.

12

DATA SHEET
PART I. PROJECTILE, PITOT TUBE AND ORIFICE OPENING
A. Pitot Tube
Trial
Water
Head (cm)
70
80
90
Pitot Head
(cm)
15
29.3
53.1
B. Jet Trajectory
Stick
Number
Y- values for Each Trial (cm)

1
12.9
12.9
12.9
13.2
13.2
13
13.6
13.5
13.3
14
14
13.7
14.7
14.7
14.3
15.7
15.4
15
16.6
16.1
15.6
17.5
17
16.4
19
18.3
17
10
20.3
19.6
18.2
11
22
20.8
19.2
12
23.1
22.3
20.5
13
25.3
23.9
21.9
14
27.2
25.1
23.4
15
27.1
25
16
29
26.1
17
28.2
18
29.8

13

C. Flow rate using the Graduated Cylinder
1
Volume
4500 cm3
4500 cm3
4500 cm3
Time
36.56 s
32.81 s
31.30 s
Flow Rate
123.0853
cm3/s
137.1533
cm3/s
143.7700
cm3/s
PART II. TRIANGULAR WEIR NOTCH AND VENTURI METER

Width of Weir 10 cm
Dimension of Measuring Tank:
Total Height of Weir 70 cm

Venturi Manometer, cm H2O
40 cm by 40 cm
Height of
water
surface in
Weir, cm
Determination of Flow
rate in measuring tank
Time
Differential
Level
29.16 s
20 cm
25.8
12.4
16.79 s
20 cm
50
26.8
11.99 s
20 cm
Left
Right
Difference
80.8
69.8
11
78.3
47.5
73.0
23.0

14

ANALYSES AND CALCULATIONS
1. Prepare a calibration curve for the venturi meter, pitot tube and orifice
presented as measured volumetric flow rate in liters per hour versus
differential head in cm. For the V-notch, calibration curve is in terms
of flow rate in L/ hr versus height of the surface of water from the
vertex of the V-notch.
Differential Head (cm)
Calibration Curve
90
80
50
70
25.8
29.3
11
15
443.1071
493.7519
517.572
Volumetric flow rate (l/hr)
Pitot
Height of the water from the vertex
53.1
Venturi
Orifice
Calibration Curve
(V-notch)
26.8
12.4
5
3950.6173
6861.227
Volumetric flow rate (l/hr)
9608.0067

15

2. Plot the jet trajectories obtained for the different heads.
Jet Trajectories
35
25
20
15
trajectories
30
10
5
0
1
8
70
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
80
90 (heads)
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS
1. Discuss the significance of the orifice coefficients Cv, Cc and Cd.
For any type of orifice,
Coefficient of discharge (Cd) = Coeff. of flow/velocity (Cv) x Coeff of
contraction (Cc).
Where:
Cd = Actual discharge/Theoretical discharge
Cc = Area of vena contracta/ Area of orifice
Cv = Actual velocity at vena contracta/Theoretical velocity
If you know the coefficient of flow/velocity (Cv), you will be able to
calculate coefficient of discharge (Cd), once Cc is known. Cc changes
depending on the shape of the jet at vena contract however a value
between 0.61 - 0.64 is usually accepted.

16

2. Describe at least two more devices
measurement of flow in open channels.
that
are
used
in
the
A flume is a specially shaped open channel flow section providing

a restriction in channel area and/or a change in channel slope. The flow
rate in the channel is determined by measuring the liquid depth at a
specified point in the flume.
The most common flume is the

Parshall flume. The flow rate
through
a
Parshall
flume
is
determined by measuring the liquid
level one third of the way into the
converging section.
Parshall flumes are designated by the
width of the throat, which ranges
from one inch to 50 feet. The throat
width and all other dimensions must
be strictly followed so that standard
discharge tables can be used. Also, note the drop in the floor of the
flume, which makes it difficult to install a Parshall flume in an existing
channel.
In contrast, the Palmer-Bowlus

flume is designed to be installed in
an existing channel with minimal
effort. The flow rate through a
Palmer-Bowlus flume is determined
by measuring the liquid depth at a
point
one-half
pipe
diameter
upstream from the flume throat.
Palmer-Bowlus
flumes
are
designated by the size of the pipe
into which they fit. Standard sizes
range from four to 42 inches. The dimensional configuration is not
17

rigidly established for each flume size. However, a Palmer-Bowlus flume
with a trapezoidal throat with a flat bottom has emerged as the standard
design for circular pipes.
Flumes are more expensive and more difficult to install than weirs.
Common materials of construction include fiberglass, concrete and
metal. However, flumes result in a lower head loss and are self-cleaning,
requiring less maintenance than a weir.
CONCLUSIONS
There are many ways of measuring liquid flow. For closed conduits, it
includes the use of pitot tubes, venturi meters, nozzles and orifices. In the
measurement of flow using orifice meters, the following coefficients are used;
contraction coefficient, velocity coefficient, and discharge coefficient, which is
the product of contraction and velocity coefficients. These orifice coefficients
are used to characterize the flow and pressure loss behavior of the orifice in
fluid systems.
While in the measurement of flow using venturi meters, the difference in
pressure from the left and right manometers are used. The differential
pressure and flowrate are directly proportional meaning, as the differential
pressure increases, the flowrate of the fluid increases.
For open channel flow, weirs are used to determine the discharge
flowrate. The basic principle is that discharge is directly related to the water
depth above the crotch (bottom) of the V; this distance is called head (h). The
V-notch design causes small changes in discharge to have a large change in
depth allowing more accurate head measurement than with a rectangular
weir.

18

Pamantasan NG Lungsod NG Maynila: College of Engineering and Technology Department of Chemical Engineering

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Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

College of Engineering and Technology

Triangular Weir Notch

Description of the Equipment

Analysis and Calculations