Choosing a multi-purpose teaching flume starts with the experiments, not the largest available channel. Working-section length, cross-section, water-circuit volume, pump demand, adjustable slope, measurement access and model accessories all affect the laboratory design. Scientico lists four open-channel teaching-flume models from 1 m to 10 m; their published specifications differ materially, so buyers should compare the model-specific records rather than treat them as interchangeable sizes.
Equipment mentioned in this guide
Review the product information, specifications and model before requesting a quotation.

Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume (Length 1m) | FluidoSurge-X 392
The FluidoSurge-X 392 is a 1 m experimental flume with a closed water circuit, designed for teaching the fundamental principles of open-channel flow and hydraulic engineering. The tempered glass side walls provide clear observation of flow behaviour, and the smoothly adjustable inclination allows simulation of slope conditions. A wide range of standard and optional accessories supports a comprehensive experimental programme.
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Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume (Length 2.5 m) | FluidoSurge-X 236
The Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume FluidoSurge-X 236 is a laboratory-scale open channel flume designed for teaching and experimental studies in hydraulic engineering. Manufactured by SCIENTICO, the system enables demonstration of fundamental and advanced open-channel flow phenomena. The flume supports a wide range of experiments using interchangeable hydraulic models. It operates on a closed water circuit for controlled and repeatable testing.
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Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume (Length 5 m) | FluidoSurge-X 240
The Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume FluidoSurge-X 240 is a large-scale laboratory flume designed for teaching and experimental studies in hydraulic engineering and open-channel flow. Manufactured by SCIENTICO, the system enables detailed investigation of flow phenomena under controlled conditions. Its extended 5 m experimental section supports advanced and comparative studies. The flume operates on a closed water circuit for stable and repeatable experimentation.
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Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume (Length 10 m) | FluidoSurge-X 248
The Multi-Purpose Teaching Flume FluidoSurge-X 248 is a large-scale laboratory flume designed for advanced teaching and experimental studies in hydraulic engineering. Manufactured by SCIENTICO, the system enables detailed investigation of open-channel flow phenomena under controlled conditions. Its extended 10 m experimental section supports complex and large-scale experiments. The flume operates on a closed water circuit for stable and repeatable testing.
View product detailsCompare the listed models before setting the BOQ
| Listed model | Working-section length | Listed flow cross-section | Selected published site figures |
|---|---|---|---|
| FluidoSurge-X 392 | 1 m | 50 × 200 mm | 100 L sump; 0.37 kW pump; closed water circuit |
| FluidoSurge-X 236 | 2.5 m | 85 × 300 mm ± 1 mm | 150 L tank; 1.02 kW pump; closed water circuit |
| FluidoSurge-X 240 | 5 m | 150 × 360 mm ± 2 mm | 600 L tank; 2.2 kW pump; closed water circuit |
| FluidoSurge-X 248 | 10 m | 300 × 500 mm ± 2 mm | 3,600 L tank; 4 kW pump; closed water circuit |
These figures are copied from the corresponding live model pages and are useful for initial planning, not a substitute for a signed technical schedule. Before tender submission, request the current model-specific datasheet and confirm that the dimensions, pump data, tank capacity, accessory scope and supply configuration apply to the offered revision.
Start with the experiment programme
List the open-channel tasks the lab expects to run: uniform and non-uniform flow, flow over weirs, gate discharge, hydraulic jumps, energy dissipation, local effects around obstacles, velocity measurements, waves or sediment-related studies. Then map every task to the required control structure, measuring instrument and optional accessory. A long channel alone does not prove that a needed weir, sediment feeder, velocity instrument or data-acquisition package is included.
The model pages list several common structures and instruments, with further accessories marked as optional. Ask the supplier to split the response into “included in the quoted standard scope,” “selected optional items,” and “not offered.” This prevents an experimental objective from being mistaken for a delivered accessory.
Plan the room and water services early
Use the working-section length as only one part of the footprint. The frame, sump or tank, access along the channel, operator position, mounting or service clearances and safe water handling require additional space. Have the supplier provide a general arrangement drawing with overall length, width, height, service points and maintenance access for the selected model. Check doorway and route dimensions for installation into the lab.
Compare the listed tank and pump values with the available electrical supply, water-management plan, drainage and floor loading. A closed water circuit still requires a practical fill, drain, inspection and cleaning plan. Ask the supplier to state the required connection, operating conditions and any services that are not part of the equipment supply.
Use model length as a planning variable, not a quality score
The 1 m model is the most compact listed section and has a smaller published cross-section and circuit than the longer models. The 2.5 m, 5 m and 10 m records show progressively larger working sections and different pump/tank data. A buyer should select the shortest configuration that supports the required measurement stations and models, or document why the teaching or research programme needs a longer section. The appropriate choice depends on the lab layout, cohort workflow and test scope; this guide does not prescribe a universal best length.
For a multi-user teaching room, consider whether each group needs simultaneous access, whether the experiment requires observations at separated positions, how models are installed or exchanged, and how students safely reach the measurement locations. For research or advanced demonstrations, describe the test setup and instrumentation before deciding that a larger channel is necessary.
What to require in a flume supplier response
- Exact product name, model, revision and an overall arrangement drawing.
- Working-section length and cross-section, side-wall material, slope-adjustment range and model-mounting positions.
- Water-circuit layout, tank volume, pump electrical and hydraulic data, control method, fill/drain details and required external services.
- A numbered standard-accessory list and a separate optional-accessory quote tied to each planned experiment.
- Measurement instruments and ranges, reading method, manuals and any requested test or calibration records.
- Installation route, room layout, support/foundation conditions, operating clearances and commissioning responsibilities, clearly stated in the offer.
- Written line-by-line compliance against the institution’s BOQ, including any deviations or exclusions.
Prepare a model-matched RFQ
Attach the experiment list, candidate model, quantities, room drawing, service availability and required tender clauses. Ask the supplier to state exactly which model they propose and why, then return a response matrix with included accessories and deviations. The equipment name by itself is insufficient for comparing long-channel systems with materially different dimensions and circuit requirements.
Compare the product records and confirm scope
Open the [1 m FluidoSurge-X 392](/product/multi-purpose-teaching-flume-fluidosurge-x-392/), [2.5 m FluidoSurge-X 236](/product/multi-purpose-teaching-flume-length-2-5-m-fluidosurge-x-236/), [5 m FluidoSurge-X 240](/product/multi-purpose-teaching-flume-length-5-m-fluidosurge-x-240/) and [10 m FluidoSurge-X 248](/product/multi-purpose-teaching-flume-length-10-m-fluidosurge-x-248/) records. The [Fluid Mechanics category](/product-category/engineering-training-equipment/fluid-mechanics/) and [model-matching checklist](/laboratory-equipment-model-matching-checklist/) can help organize adjacent equipment requirements. Submit the selected model, experiment list, accessories, site services, quantity and destination through the [enquiry page](/contact-us/) and request the final technical scope in writing.
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