Flow splitter
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A flow splitter, additionally referred to as a flow divider, is a device in hydraulic engineering designed to break up the flow of water or nappe over a dam wall or weir. This flow can be broken up into differing ratios, which varies depending on the type of flow splitter. Flow splitters are used to reduce the likelihood of nappe vibration that might cause the failure of a dam wall by aerating the water flow. They are also used to restrict large flows of stormwater, in situations where a stormwater management device is designed only to treat small storms.[1]
Another use for a flow splitter is to again break up the nappe so as to allow fish, such as salmon to swim upstream and over small weirs.
Split flow weirs are also used in drinking water and wastewater treatment plants (sewage treatment or industrial wastewater treatment) to proportion flows to different outlets in a junction box.
Flow splitters are known in various forms including, but not limited to:
- Rotary / Gear type
- Spool type
- Motor type
Spool type dividers allow for the input flow to be split into countless ratios through two outputs. This divider allows upkeep on its continuous flow through the freedom of movement within the housing, even against changes in loads and pressures. An obstruction in either section of the two in this splitter results the entirety of the component to be impeded.[2]
Motor type flow splitters change the ratios in flow based on the number of hydraulic motors that are connected to the main feed. The use of two hydraulic motors can form a 50/50 split in flow, with additional motors allowing for versatility in the ratio.[3]
The gear type creates two or more flow paths through its use of mating gears located within the housing. With the input flow traveling through housing, the liquid flows through the component and splits as the interlinked gears move with the liquid acting against them.
See also
References
- ^ Metropolitan Council, St. Paul, MN (2001). "Flow Control Structures: Flow Splitters." Archived 2010-07-05 at the Wayback Machine Urban Small Sites Best Management Practice Manual.
- ^ "What is a flow divider?". www.mobilehydraulictips.com. Retrieved 2025-02-21.
- ^ Weeks, Jack (2025-02-20). "Hydraulic Flow Dividers - An Overview". Machinery Lubrication. Retrieved 2025-02-20.
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