Automatic Throttle Hose—New Flow Regulator

Abstract

Flow regulators in both irrigation and storm water engineering normally must not be very exact, but should be simple to construct and maintain, “fool‐proof,” and of course inexpensive. A new flow regulator which matches these requirements, the so‐called Automatic Throttle Hose, is described. The device delivers an almost constant discharge independently of fluctuations in the upstream water level. No external power supply is needed for running the device, as it takes all required energy from the fluid itself. Following an explanation of the regulating principle, the application of this new regulator to irrigation practice is described and a design chart for application in the low head range presented. Further, modifications are listed which may be used to extend the effective head range. Practical experiences in both irrigation schemes and storm water projects indicate that this flow regulator has a place alongside other proven regulators for rather low discharges.