The ACU-FLO balance regulator system is designed to maintain a constant, accurate flow (+/- 5%) from a minimum of 16 gpm (1 L/s) to a maximum of 4,000 gpm (250 L/s) for upstream water. water levels ranging from 0 to 40 feet (12 m). The ACU-FLO Balance Regulator has been used for flow control in combined sewer systems (CSO), sanitary sewer systems (SSO) and batch plant effluents, and is well suited to regulating very low to medium discharges. The ACU-FLO balancing controller is installed on the downstream side of the control point in a dry well and requires a differential head for proper operation.

Field of Application

The ACU-FLO balancing system ranges from the GAF-R-15 model to the GAF-R-40 model. The GAF-R-15 model features a 6-inch (15 cm) inlet diameter with a flow range of 16 to 80 gpm (1 to 5 L/s), while the GAF-R-40 model has a 16-inch (40 cm) inlet diameter with a flow range of 1,300 to 4,000 gpm (80 to 250 L/s). The choice of ACU-FLO model is determined entirely by the required flow range.

How it works

The ACU-FLO balance regulator ensures a consistent flow rate at a predefined value, regardless of the upstream water level. The ACU-FLO regulator effectively balances the water mass flowing through it against a fixed counterweight. Its key functional components include the pivoting radial valve, the weighing basin, and the regulation counterweight. During periods of low flow, the pivoting radial valve remains fully open. As incoming flow increases, water passes through the regulator's housing into the weighing basin. The growing weight of the water pushes the basin downward while raising the regulation counterweight. These movements are transferred to the pivoting radial valve via coupled levers, initiating the regulation process. As the water's weight in the basin increases, the radial valve gradually closes, reducing the discharge opening. The ACU-FLO balance regulator’s opening is automatically adjusted based on the upstream water level, ensuring a consistently regulated flow.

The ACU-FLO balance regulator features an automatic self-cleaning mechanism to prevent blockages. In the event of a blockage, the flow through the regulator decreases, causing a corresponding reduction in the regulatory water weight on the weighing basin. This triggers the basin to rise, fully opening the radial valve. The blockage is then cleared under the pressure of the upstream water level, after which the regulation process resumes seamlessly.

Each ACU-FLO balance regulator is calibrated on a fully operational, full-scale test bench. It is shipped pre-set to the desired design flow rate. Additionally, setpoints are clearly marked to facilitate future on-site flow adjustments if needed. This allows for straightforward installation and commissioning, eliminating the need for lengthy and costly on-site calibration or flow measurement.

The ACU-FLO balance regulator can be fitted with a servo-control unit to adjust the design flow from fully open to fully closed. It can be operated either locally or remotely from a central control station. In the event of a power failure, the regulator will continue to operate automatically, maintaining the last set flow rate.

The ACU-FLO balance regulator can be equipped with a flow monitoring device.

-16 gpm to 4,000 gpm (1 to 250 L/S)
-Waterhead up to 40 ft (12 m)
-Can be used to monitor flows
-Can be equipped for a remote operation
-Automatic rinsing effect which prevents blockage
-Design flow rate can be adjusted on site
-Easy to adapt to existing installations
-Stainless steel construction