The hydraulic bench

Objective
To measure the volume flow rate at various valve positions using the volumetric tank of the hydraulic
bench.

Apparatus
1. Water Channel
2. Working Bench
3. Flow Control Valve
4. Main Switch
5. Centrifugal Pump
6. Dump Valve
7. Volumetric Tank
8. Sight Tube
9. Dump Valve

10. Sump Tank

Introduction
Water is stored in a sump tank in the lower part. A centrifugal pump is provided to draw the water from
the sump tank through a control valve to an outlet in the bed of the open channel. After passing through
testing unit, water is collected in the volumetric measuring tank which is stepped to accommodate high
and low flow rates. The volumetric tank incorporates a stilling baffle and remote sight tube with
calibrated volumetric scale. A dump valve at the base of the tank returns water to the sump tank for
recycling. An overflow opening is incorporated on the stilling baffle to prevent overtopping if the dump
valve is left closed.

Procedure
1. Ensure that the Hydraulic Bench is placed on a level ground with locked wheels and that the
sump tank of the Hydraulic Bench is approximately 90% full.
2. Direct the water supply from Hydraulic Bench into the volumetric tank using appropriate
connector and hose. Then, fasten the hose with hose clip.
3. Fully close the flow control valve then switch on the main switch to run the centrifugal
pump.
 4. Gradually open the flow control valve and allow the piping to fill with water until all air has
been expelled from the system.
5. As the water level rises in the tank, measure the amount of time taken to fill a portion of the
sump tank by observing the ‘sight gauge’.
6. Repeat the observation for various flow rates. Use a measuring cylinder instead of the
volumetric tank, when small flow rates occur.

Results

Valve position Volume, q [m3] Time, t [s] Flowrate, ̇ [m3/s]

10

Exercise
Draw a graph between valve position and the volumetric flow rate.