Which Flow Control - Orifice Plate or Vortex?

An attenuation system can alleviate this by controlling the speed and regulating the flow, and here we describe and compare the differences between two of the methods used to do this: orifice plate flow control, and vortex plate flow control.

What is Orifice Plate Flow Control?

An orifice plate flow control places a plate with a small hole in the path of the water flow. As this restricts the flow it causes the water pressure to slightly increase upstream and at the orifice plate, resulting in higher velocity and lower pressure downstream.

Better suited to smaller-scale attenuation systems, the benefits of an orifice plate flow control include:

1. It is delivered as a one-piece unit that reduces the time and cost of installation.
2. It doesn’t require a larger flow control chamber at the site’s final outlet so land requirement, installation and maintenance costs are reduced.
3. Its strong and lightweight construction presents fewer health and safety risks.
4. Its fixed restriction places less demand on other flow system components.
5. It allows precise discharge rate control.

What's A Vortex System?

A vortex system is better suited to larger-scale attenuation requirements, using the power of the water itself rather than moving parts or power supply to regulate its flow.

When the water level upstream rises above a set level, the system creates a vortex motion that significantly reduces the pressure of the water as it flows through the system and discharges into the main sewer.

The advantages of a vortex system include:
         
Six times larger than an orifice plate system, the risk of blockages and consequential maintenance costs are reduced.
         
Its significant reduction of the energy in the water flow means it is less likely to cause physical damage downstream.
         
With no moving parts or power supply required, it is a lower-maintenance, more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option.


Still not sure which would be best for your application? Call the experts at Drainfast on 01730 774000 or email them at [email protected] for prompt, friendly advice and support from one of the UK’s leading providers of specialist drainage supplies and related products.