6
Description
Where necessary, refer to the drawings in the
section.
Overview
The F1-10 Hydraulics Bench is designed as a portable and self-contained service
module for the range of accessories that are listed later.
The bench is constructed from lightweight corrosion resistant plastic and is mounted
on wheels for mobility. The GRP bench top incorporates an open flow channel with
ledges along both sides to support the accessory on test. The open end of the
channel incorporates a weir carrier and the walls of the channel incorporate a pair of
slots for use with accessory F1-13 (Flow over weirs). The weir carrier is also used on
accessories F1-26 and F1-27 to mount the discharge manifold.
Volumetric measurement is integral and has been chosen in preference to other
methods of flow measurement for its ease of use, accuracy and safety in use (no
heavy weights for students to drop). The volumetric measuring tank is stepped to
accommodate low or high flow rates. A stilling baffle reduces turbulence and a
remote sight tube with scale gives an instantaneous indication of water level inside
the volumetric tank. When used in conjunction with a stopwatch/stopclock (not
supplied), measurement of the change in level with time allows the volume flowrate
to be calculated. A measuring cylinder is provided for measurement of very small
flow rates.
A dump valve in the base of the volumetric tank is operated by a remote actuator at
the top. Lifting the actuator opens the dump valve allowing the measured volume of
water to return to the sump in the base of the bench for recycling. When lifted, a twist
of 90° at the actuator will retain the dump valve in the open position. An overflow in
the side of the volumetric tank allows water to return directly to the sump preventing
the volumetric tank from overfilling if the dump valve remains closed.
Water is drawn from the sump tank by a self-priming centrifugal pump that is
mounted in a recess below the sump tank. A panel mounted control valve regulates
the flow from the pump to an easy-to-use quick release pipe connector situated in the
floor of the moulded channel in the bench top. The flexible supply pipe on most
accessories simply attaches to the quick release connector. Where higher flowrates
are necessary, as in the case of accessories C4-MKII or C6-MKII, the quick release
connector is unscrewed and a full bore coupling is fitted in its place. No hand tools
are required for either of these operations allowing rapid interchange of accessories.
A drain valve, incorporated in a recess at the front of the sump tank, facilitates
emptying of the sump tank. This valve is used for connecting accessories F1-26 and
F1-27 where the auxiliary pump can be used in parallel with the pump fitted to the
F1-10.
The electrical supply to the pump motor is via a switch and a residual current device
(RCD) mounted in a recess on the front of the bench. The latter gives increased
protection to the operator against electrical shock in the event that the equipment
becomes electrically dangerous.
Accessories to the Hydraulics Bench
The following accessories are available for use with the F1-10 Hydraulics Bench:
F1-11 Dead Weight Calibrator
