Mastering Flow Measurement: Why In-Situ MACE Area Velocity Flowmeters Excel in Open Channels and Partially Filled Pipes
In the world of water resource management, accurate flow measurement is essential for operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re monitoring stormwater runoff, managing wastewater systems, or studying natural waterways, reliable flow data empowers smarter decisions.
For challenging applications like open channel flow and partially filled pipes, few technologies match the performance and flexibility of area velocity flowmeters—and In-Situ’s MACE series stands out as a top-tier solution.
What Is an Area Velocity Flowmeter?
Area velocity flowmeters calculate flow using two critical measurements:
-
Velocity of the fluid (often measured using Doppler ultrasonic sensors).
-
Depth of the fluid (captured via pressure, ultrasonic, or radar sensors).
With these two values, the flow rate is determined using the equation:
Flow (Q) = Area × Velocity
This makes area velocity meters ideal for environments with dynamic or irregular flow conditions—precisely what you’ll find in open channels and partially filled conduits.
Why Choose Area Velocity Technology?
Traditional methods such as flumes and weirs require consistent flow conditions and permanent infrastructure. In contrast, area velocity meters:
-
Perform in fluctuating flow depths.
-
Tolerate sediment, debris, and foam.
-
Operate in irregular or undefined channels.
-
Do not require pressurized or full pipes.
These characteristics make them essential in sectors like stormwater management, sewer monitoring, and industrial discharge regulation.
In-Situ MACE: Purpose-Built for Real-World Challenges
In-Situ’s MACE (Monitoring and Control Equipment) flowmeters offer a rugged, intelligent approach to measuring flow in the field. Their design is built around the needs of practitioners working in harsh and variable environments.
Top 5 Benefits of In-Situ MACE Area Velocity Flowmeters
1. Versatile Across Diverse Sites
From stormwater drains to natural creeks, MACE flowmeters deliver reliable data in engineered and natural settings alike. They’re a strong fit for:
-
Open stormwater channels
-
Culverts and drains
-
Partially full sewer lines
2. No Need for Major Infrastructure
Forget about installing weirs or flumes. MACE meters offer non-intrusive, low-impact installations, making them ideal for remote or environmentally sensitive areas.
3. Durable in Harsh Field Conditions
Built with non-corrosive, stainless-steel components, MACE sensors handle:
-
High sediment loads
-
Industrial effluent streams
-
Abrasive and fluctuating flow environments
4. Integrated Smart Data Capabilities
MACE Smart Loggers and FloSeries3 controllers enable:
-
High-resolution data logging
-
Long-term trend analysis
-
Remote monitoring via cellular or satellite telemetry
-
Seamless integration with SCADA or cloud systems
5. Flexible Integration Options
With support for SDI-12, Modbus RTU, analog, and pulse outputs, MACE flowmeters work with virtually any data management system, enhancing interoperability and scalability.
The range includes:
Mace HVFlow XCi
The IP68 HVFlo system supports Doppler velocity and level measurement sensors for challenging environments in which the system could get fully submerged. Advanced spectrum signal processing produces superior results under a wide range of hydraulic operating conditions. Even under full pipe, surcharge, or reverse flow conditions, HVFlo produces accurate, repeatable results. Combined with optional telemetry and HydroVu Data Services interface for remote, long-term monitoring applications.
Mace FloPro XCi
The FloPro XCi can be used to monitor just about any water quantity and quality sensor, together with vital mining, municipal, and industrial equipment and assets. Whether you need to measure flow, conductivity, pH or rainfall, or use a non-contact level sensor to measure pond levels, the FloPro is fully expandable to your meet needs.
Mace AgriFlo XCi
The AgriFlo XCi monitors diverse inputs such as irrigation flows, farm wastewater flows, water quality, dam levels, soil moisture, and pump/engine management systems. It’s easy to install, easy to use and virtually maintenance-free. Choose from multiple cards for a variety of applications and easily configure your system with MACE FloCom+ software.
MACE Doppler ultrasonic velocity sensors have no moving parts to obstruct flow, allowing them to excel in even in trash-laden water and animal waste. Keep your costs down and your equipment in service, delivering the data you need.
Where Are MACE Flowmeters Used?
✅ Stormwater Management: Real-time runoff monitoring during wet and dry events.
✅ Sewer Networks: Track I&I, assess system performance, and optimize capacity planning.
✅ Environmental Monitoring: Measure streamflow for habitat studies and water rights enforcement.
✅ Agricultural Irrigation: Monitor canal discharge and return flows to improve efficiency.
✅ Industrial Discharge: Verify compliance with effluent permits and water treatment requirements.
Why In-Situ?
With over 40 years in the water monitoring space, In-Situ has earned a reputation for:
-
Reliable, field-ready instruments
-
Expert technical support
-
Comprehensive training and documentation
-
A global partner and distributor network
Final Thoughts
When you’re measuring flow in tough, variable environments, area velocity flowmeters are the smart choice. And when you need durability, precision, and flexibility, In-Situ MACE flowmeters deliver exceptional value.
From stormwater to sewer systems to streamflow, these meters provide the actionable data needed to protect resources, ensure compliance, and optimize operations.