Summer Maintenance for Flow Structures

Fiberglass primary flow structures—including flumes and package metering manholes—are built to last, but routine upkeep will keep delivering accurate flow measurements year after year.

Fiberglass Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment

Fiberglass structures offer exceptional durability in flow measurement applications, but even the most robust systems require regular care. With minimal effort, you can extend the life of the equipment, maintain measurement accuracy, and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Summer conditions present unique challenges for flow measurement systems. Warmer water temperatures and extended sunlight exposure accelerate algae growth, which can form a carpet layer within flume structures—leading to overstated flow measurements. The solution? Proactive maintenance and strategic shading of your primary flow structures.

Essential Maintenance Practices

• Smart Cleaning Strategies: Use non-abrasive cleaners like mild soap or diluted vinegar with soft brushes to preserve surface integrity—avoid pressure washing which can compromise structural strength

• Regular Visual Inspections: Check for cracks, discoloration, or delamination in exterior surfaces, stilling wells, and staff gauges to catch issues early

• Accuracy Optimization: Maintain clean, level structures with free-flowing downstream conditions for precise measurements

Summer Maintenance Priority: Pay special attention to weir plates during warmer months. Regular cleaning prevents both solids and algae from building up, which can significantly impact measurement accuracy. Consider installing covers or shade structures as a preventive measure against direct sunlight exposure.

Have questions? We can help. Contact us at 317-896-3700 for personalized assistance from our technical sales representatives.