Effect of stream equalizer plate on flow distribution in open channel flow passages

Stream equalizer plates or flow distribution devices are the means for regulating a uniform flow in open channel flow passages. This paper describes the hydraulic experiment conducted on water for achieving a uniform flow upstream of the open channel flow passage under laminar flow conditions with various stream equalizer plate lengths at flow rates in the range of 100–500 liters per minute (LPM). The concept of achieving uniform flow conditions is used in many industrial applications including cooling of the nuclear reactor. The length of a stream equalizer plate, its location and its porosity are the operating parameters.