FT-ML3 Open Channel Flow Monitor: Radar-based Non-contact Water Flow Measurement System

The FT-ML3 Open Channel Flow Monitor is an automated system used for real-time monitoring of water flow in open channels such as rivers and irrigation canals. It is a fully automatic flow telemetry system designed for long-term, continuous monitoring of the entire water flow process in open channels. Utilizing radar technology, it measures the surface velocity and water level of the water body in a non-contact manner.

It consists of a three-in-one sensor for radar water level, surface velocity, and flow rate, a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) responsible for data collection and transmission, a solar power supply system, and poles and brackets.

The system uses a radar sensor mounted above the channel to emit radar waves toward the water surface to measure the surface velocity of the water flow. It also measures the water level height. Combined with pre-entered channel cross-sectional shape information, the flow cross-sectional area can be obtained through geometric calculations, and finally the real-time flow rate is calculated.

This non-contact measurement method makes it less susceptible to floating objects in the water, sediment content, or water quality. It does not block water flow during installation, making it ideal for channels with fast flow rates and large flow volumes.

To adapt to long-term operation in field environments or locations without mains power supply, it uses a solar panel combined with a storage battery for power supply.

Factors to note: The measurement accuracy of the system may be affected by some environmental factors, such as water surface fluctuations caused by strong winds, extremely heavy rainfall, and in cases where the water flow velocity is too slow, the error may increase.