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title: "Using Setflows"
canonical: "https://docs.rubiconwater.com/space/PNC/2051867047/Using%20Setflows"
format: markdown
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> Macro (toc)

# What is a Setflow?

A setflow is a regulator that is managed by planners (that is, there is a PLANNER authority for ALL PARTIES attached to the regulator).

A setflow is used to mark a boundary for demand calculations.

# Implicit and Explicit Setflows

Regulators at the downstream boundary of an area must be setflows, because demand calculations for the area must end at these regulators. These regulators are called *implicit setflows* because you do not have to explicitly create them.

In some cases, you may want to create additional setflows within an area. To do this you must set PLANNER authority for ALL PARTIES for the setflow. A setflow that you create in this way is called an *explicit setflow*.

> ℹ️ **Example**
> ℹ️ 
> ℹ️ If there is a loop in a network, the DMS demand calculation may traverse indefinitely around the loop. To prevent this, you can create a setflow within the loop to stop the demand calculation at the setflow.

# Viewing and Managing Setflow Values

Use the Setflows module to change the value of a setflow, and to view the history of setflow values.

When you apply a value to a setflow, you are specifying what flow is required through that regulator to meet the demand downstream.

You would write a value to a setflow for two reasons:

- To stop the demand calculation at that regulator, for example, where there is a loop in the network. In this case the actual value is not important, and you might set the value to zero.
- To indicate the flow required into the downstream planning area to satisfy demand within that area.

## Change the value of a setflow:

1. In the Setflows module, or in the **Planning Schematic > Setflows** screen, select the setflow that you want to change.
2. Click **Modify**
3. Enter the new **Flow value** and the **Date** when the value should take effect (this defaults to the present date and time).
4. Click **Save** to save your changes.

When you set a setflow value in the Planning Schematic, the requested flow is displayed on the network diagram.

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