Experimental Setting of Normal Depths for Achieving a Uniform Flow in Open Channel System

Abstract

Achieving a good flow distribution is a key parameter in open channel hydraulics, due to the nature of open channel system, the need to achieve uniform flow leads to the elimination of irregular flow properties, for example velocity been localized to cause uneven flow property distribution that can lead to inaccurate estimation of flow quantities along the channel section. The parallel nature of the energy grade line, water surface and channel bottom slopes are the main results when an open channel operates under a uniform condition. To achieve and maintain uniform flow under a wide range of flow conditions in laboratory open channels, experiments have been performed, this paper presents the study which shows the correct setting of the normal depths through flow profiles for selected discharges. The channel tailgate was adjusted periodically to provide corresponding surface flow profiles for normal depths estimation.