Open Channel Hydraulics for Engineers: Intro and Review

OPEN CHANNEL HYDRAULICS FOR ENGINEERS
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Chapter
INTRODUCTION
_________________________________________________________________________
1.1.
Review of fluid mechanics
1.2.
Structure of the course
1.3. Dimensional analysis
1.4. Similarity and models
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Summary
This introductory chapter briefly reviews the previous course, in order to remind the
students of some basic fluid properties and equations before starting this course on Open
Channel Hydraulics. Next, dimensional analysis, similitude and model studies are dealt
with and described.
Key words
Fluid mechanics; open channel flow; dimensional analysis; similitude; Reynolds number;
hydraulic model
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1.1.
REVIEW OF FLUID MECHANICS
This lecture note is written for undergraduate students who follow the training
programs in the fields of Hydraulic, Construction, Transportation and Environmental
Engineering. It is assumed that the students have passed a basic course in Fluid Mechanics
and are familiar with the basic fluid properties as well as the conservation laws of mass,
momentum and energy. However, it may be not unwise to review some important
definitions and equations dealt with in the previous course as an aid to memory before
starting.
1.1.1. Fluid mechanics

Fluid mechanics, which deals with water at rest or motion, may be considered as
one of the important courses of the Civil Engineering training program. It is defined as the
mechanics of fluids (gas or water). This course will mostly deal with the liquid water. The
following properties then are important:
(a). Density
The density of a liquid is defined as the mass of the substance per unit volume at a
standard temperature and pressure. It is also fully called mass density and denoted by the
Greek symbol (rho). In the case of water, we generally neglect the variation in mass
density and consider it at a temperature of 4C and at atmospheric pressure; then = 1,000
kg/m3 for all practical purposes. For other specific cases, the densities of common liquids
are given in tables in most fluid mechanics books.
(b) Specific weight
The specific weight of a liquid is the gravitational force per unit volume. It is given
by the Greek symbol (gamma) and sometimes briefly written as sp.wt. In SI units, the
specific weight of water at a standard reference temperature of 4C and atmospheric
pressure is 9.81 kN/m3.
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(c) Specific gravity

Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the specific weight of a given liquid to the
specific weight of pure water at a standard reference temperature. Specific gravity, or sp.
gr., is presented as:
Sp.gr. =
Specific weight of liquid

Specific weight of pure water
Specific gravity is dimensionless, because it is a ratio of specific weights.

(d) Compressibility
The compressibility of a fluid may be defined as the variation of its volume, with
the variation of pressure. All fluids are compressible under the application of an external
force, and when the force is removed they expand back to their original volume exhibiting
the property that stress is proportional to volumetric strain. In the case of water as well as
other liquids, it is found that volumes are varying very little under variations of pressure,
so that compressibility can be neglected for all practical purposes. Thus, water may be
considered as an incompressible liquid.
(e) Surface tension
The surface tension of a liquid is its property, which enables it to resist tensile
stress in the plane of the surface. It is due to the cohesion between the molecules at the
surface of a liquid. Looking at the upper end of a small-diameter tube put into a cup of
water, we can easily see the water risen in the tube with an upward concave surface, as
shown in Fig. 1a. However, if the tube is dipped into mercury, the mercury drops down in
the tube with an upward convex surface as shown in Fig. 1b. If the adhesion between the
tube and the liquid molecules is greater than the cohesion between the liquid molecules, we
will have an upward concave surface. Otherwise, we get an upward convex surface. The
surface tension of water and mercury at 20 C is 0.0075 kg/m and 0.0520 kg/m,
respectively.
Fig. 1.1a. Capillary tube in water
Fig. 1.1b. Capillary tube in mercury
The phenomenon of rising water in a small-diameter tube is called capillary rise.

(f) Viscosity
The dynamic or absolute viscosity of a liquid is denoted by the Greek symbol
(mu) and defined physically as the ratio of the shear stress to the velocity gradient du/dz:
(1-1)
z
du
dz
u
dz
du
where u = velocity in x direction

u
Fig. 1.2: Velocity distribution

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Viscosity is its property which controls the rate of flow. In the same tube, the flow of
alcohol or water is much easier than the flow of syrup or heavy oil.
1.1.2. Hydrostatics
Hydrostatics means study of pressure as exerted by a liquid at rest. Since the fluid
is at rest, there are no shear stresses in it. The direction of such a pressure is always at right
angles to the surface, on which it acts (Pascals law).
(a) The total force F on a horizontal, a vertical or
an inclined immersed surface is expressed as:
F = .A.hgc
[kN]
(1-2)
surface
liquid
hgc
where = g = specific weight of the liquid [N/m ];

A = area of the immersed surface [m2];
hgc = depth of the gravity center of the
horizontal immersed surface from
the liquid level [m] (see Fig. 1.3).
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(b) The pressure center of an immersed surface is the point through which the resultant
pressure force acts (see Fig. 1.4):
surface
90
hgc
liquid
hgc
hpc
hpc
F = .A.hgc
P
area A
Fig. 1.4. Vertical and inclined surface

(c) The depth of pressure center of an immersed surface from the liquid level, hpc, (see
Fig. 1.4) reads:
hpc =
hpc =
where IG =
=
IG
h gc
A.h gc
I G . sin 2
h gc
A.h gc
[m] (for vertical immersed surface) (1-3)

[m] (for inclined immersed surface)
(1-4)
moment of inertia of the surface about the horizontal axis through its gravity
center [m4];
angle of the immersed surface with respect to the horizontal
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(d) The pressure center of a composite section is found as follows:

first, by splitting it up into convenient sections;
then, by determining the pressures on these sections;
then, by determining the depths of the respective pressure centers; and
finally, by equating:
F.h pc Fi h pci
n
(1-5)
i 1
where F =
n =
i =
(total) pressure force;

number of sections;
subscript denoting the ith section.
1.1.3. Continuity equation

The continuity principle is based on the conservation of mass as applying to the
flow of fluids with invariant, i.e. constant, mass density. The continuity equation of a
liquid flow is a fundamental equation stating that, if an incompressible liquid is
continuously flowing through a pipe or a channel (the cross-sectional area of which may or
may not be constant), the quantity of liquid passing per time unit is the same at all sections
as illustrated in Fig. 1.5.
Now consider a liquid flowing through a tube.
Let
Q = flow discharge [m3/s];
V = average velocity of the liquid [ms-1];
A = area of the cross-section [m2];
and
i = the number of section.
We get:
Q1
= Q2 = Q3 =
or
V1A1 = V2A2 = V3A3 =
(1-6)
(1-7)
Q2
Q3
V3A3
Q1
V2A2
V1A1
Fig.1.5. Continuity of a liquid flow
1.1.4. Types of flow
A flow, in which the velocity does not change from point to point along any of the
streamlines, is called a uniform flow. Otherwise, the flow is called a non-uniform
flow.
A flow, in which each liquid particle has a definite path and the paths of
individual particles do not cross each other, is called a laminar flow. This flow is
void of eddies. But, if each particle does not have a definite path and the paths of
individual particles also cross each other, the flow is called turbulent.
A flow, in which the quantity of liquid flowing per second, Q, is constant with
respect to time, is called a steady flow. But if Q is not constant, it is called an
unsteady flow.
A flow, in which the volume and thus the density of the fluid changes while
flowing, is called a compressible flow. But if the volume does not change while
flowing, it is called an incompressible flow.
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A flow, in which the fluid particles also rotate about their own axes while flowing,
is called a rotational flow. But if the particles do not rotate about their own axes
while flowing, it is called an irrotational flow.
A flow, whose streamlines may be represented by straight lines, is called a onedimensional flow. If the streamlines are represented by curves, the flow is called
two-dimensional. A flow, whose streamlines can be decomposed into three
mutually perpendicular directions, is called three-dimensional.
1.1.5. Bernoullis equation
It states: For a perfect incompressible liquid, flowing in a continuous stream, the

total energy of a particle remains the same, while the particle moves along a streamline
from one point to another. This statement is based on the assumption that there are no
losses due to friction. Mathematically it reads
z
where z
V2
2g
V2
p
= Constant (= energy head)

2g g
(1-8)
= elevation, i.e. the height of the point in question above the datum; z
represents the potential energy;
= energy head, representing the kinetic energy, V is the flow velocity along
the streamline at the point in question;
p
g
and
= pressure head, representing the pressure energy; p is the pressure at the

point in question and is the liquid density.
1.1.6. Euler's equation
Eulers equation for steady flow of an ideal fluid along a streamline is based on
Newtons second law (Force = Mass Acceleration). It is based on the following
assumptions:
The fluid is inviscid, homogeneous and incompressible;
The flow is continuous, steady and along the streamline;
The flow velocity is uniformly distributed over the section; and
No energy or force, except gravity and pressure force, is involved in the
flow.
Euler's equation in a differential-equation form can be written as:
dz V
dV dp
0
g
g
(1-9)
After integrating the above equation, we easily come to Bernoulli's equation in the form of
energy per unit weight of the flowing fluid.
1.1.7. Flow through orifices, mouthpieces and pipes
An orifice is an opening (in a vessel) through which the liquid flows out. The
discharge through an orifice depends on the energy head, the cross-sectional area of
the orifice and the coefficient of discharge. A pipe, the length of which is generally
more than two times the diameter of the orifice, and which is fitted externally or
internally to the orifice is known as a mouthpiece. When a liquid is flowing through
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a mouthpiece, the energy head is declining due to wall friction, change of cross
section or obstruction in the flow.
A pipe is a closed conduit used to carry fluid. When the pipe is running full, the
flow is under pressure. The friction resistance of a pipe depends on the roughness
of the pipe inside. Early experiments on fluid friction were conducted, among
others, by Chezy: the frictional resistance varies approximately with: (a) the square
of the liquid velocity, and (b) the bed slope.
Frictional resistance per

Frictional resistance =
wetted area (velocity)2
unit area at unit velocity

Reminder:
+ Reynolds number:
Re
VD
(1-10)
where = kinematic viscosity [m2/s]

V = characteristic flow velocity [m/s];
D = characteristic length, e.g. diameter of the pipe [m]
L V2
+ DarcyWeisbachs formula for head loss hf in pipes: h f f . .
[m]
D 2g
where f = friction coefficient according to DarcyWeisbach;
L = length of the pipe
+ Chezy's formula for flow velocity V in pipe: V C Ri [m/s]
where C = Chezy's coefficient [m s-1];
R
(1-11)
(1-12)
cross section area A
wetted perimeter
P
R =
hydraulic radius [m] defined as:
i =
loss of energy head per unit length (= bed slope in uniform flow).
1.1.8. Flow through open channel

An open channel is a passage, through which the water flows due to gravity with
atmospheric pressure at the free surface. The flow velocity is different at different points in
the cross-section of a channel due to the occurrence of a velocity distribution, but in
calculations, we use the mean velocity of the flow. In the course on Fluid Mechanics, we
have assumed that the rate of discharge Q, the depth of flow h, the mean velocity V, the
slope of the bed i and the cross-sectional area A remain constant over a given length L of
the channel (see Fig. 1.6).
L
VA
Fig. 1.6. Uniform flow in open channel

Discharge through an open channel: Q VA AC Ri
(1-13)
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1.2. STRUCTURE OF THE COURSE

1.2.1. Objectives of the course
Open Channel Hydraulics is an advanced course required for all students who
follow the field-study of water resources engineering. The subject is rich in variety and of
interest to practical problems. The content is focused on the types of problems commonly
encountered by hydraulic engineers dealing with the wide fields covered by open channel
hydraulics. Due to space and lecturing-time limitations, however, the lecture note does not
extend into the specialist fields of mathematical natural flow networks required, for
example, for river engineering computations.
The course aims to present the principles dealing with water flow in open channels and to
guide trainees to solve the applied problems for hydraulic-structure design and water
system control. The main objectives of the course are:
To supply the basic principles of fluid mechanics for the formulation of open
channel flow problems.
To combine theoretical, experimental and numerical techniques as applied to open
channel flow in order to provide a synthesis that has become the hallmark of
modern fluid mechanics.
To provide theoretical formulas and experimental coefficients for designing some
hydraulic structures as canals, spillways, transition works and energy dissipators.
1.2.2. Historical note for the course

Fluid mechanics and open channel hydraulics began at the need to control water for
irrigation purposes and flood protection in Egypt, Mesopotamia, India, China and also
Vietnam. Ancient people had to record the river water levels and got some empirical
understanding of water movements. They applied basic principles on making some fluid
machinery, sailing boats, irrigation canals, water supply systems etc. The Egyptians used
dams for water diversion and gravity flow through canals to distribute water from the Nile
River, and the Mesopotamians developed canals to transfer water from the Euphrates river
to the Tigris river, but there is no recorded evidence of any understanding of the theoretical
flow principles involved. The Chinese are known to have devised a system of dikes for
protection from flooding several thousand years ago. Over the past 2,000 years, many
dikes and canal systems have been built in the Red River delta in the North of Vietnam to
contain the delta and drain off its flood water that has always been serious problems.
Vietnamese, under Ngo Quyen, have also known to apply the tidal law in Bach Dang river
battles in 939 A.D, which has become famous in Vietnamese history.
It was not until 250 B.C. that Archimedes discovered and recorded the principles of
hydrostatics and flotation. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Isaac Newton, Daniel Bernoulli
and Leonhard Euler formulated the greatest principles of hydrodynamics. The work of
Chezy on flow resistance began in 1768, originating from an engineering problem of sizing
a canal to deliver water from the Yvette River to Paris. The Manning-equation for openchannel-flow resistance has a complex historical development, but was based on field
observations. Julius Weisbach extended the sharp-crested weir equation and developed the
elements of the modern approach to open channel flow, including both theory and
experiment. William Froude, an Engish engineer, collaborated with Brunel in railway
construction and in the design of the steamer Great Eastern, the largest ship afloat at that
time. He contributed to the study of friction between solids and liquids, to wave mechanics
and to the interpretation of ship model tests.
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The work of Bakhmeteff, a Russian migr to the United States, had perhaps the most
important influence on the development of open channel hydraulics in the early 20th
century. Of course, the foundations of modern fluid mechanics were laid by Prandtl and his
students, including Blasius and von Krmn, but Bakhmeteffs contributions dealt
specifically with open channel flow. In 1932, his book on the subject was published, based
on his earlier 1912 notes developed in Russia. His book concentrated on varied flow and
introduced the notion of specific energy, still an important tool for the analysis of openchannel flow problems. In Germany at this time, the contributions of Rehbock to weir flow
also were proceeding, providing the basis for many further weir experiments and weir
formulas.
By the mid-20th century, many of the gains in knowledge in open channel flow has been
consolidated and extended by Rouse (1950), Chow (1959, 1973) and Henderson (1966), in
which books extensive reference can be found. These books set the stage for applications
of modern numerical analysis techniques and experimental instrumentation to openchannel flow problems.
1.2.3. Structure of the course

The lecture note is divided into three parts of increasing complexity.
(a) Part 1 introduces to the basic principles: course introduction (Chapter 1),
uniform flow (Chapter 2) and hydraulic jump phenomena (Chapter 3). This part
will take 15 teaching hours.
(b) Part 2 includes non-uniform flow (Chapter 4) and design application as
Spillways (Chapter 5) and Transitions and Energy dissipators (Chapter 6). This part
will take 20 teaching hours.
(c) Part 3 deals with unsteady flow (Chapter 7). This chapter will take 10 teaching
hours.
The course approach chart is presented in Fig. 1.7. on the next page.
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+
Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1. Review of fluid mechanics. 1.2. Structure of the course.
1.3. Dimensional analysis. 1.4. Similarity and models
Chapter 2: UNIFORM FLOW

2.1. Introduction. 2.2.Basic equations in uniform open channel flow.
2.3. Most economical cross-section. 2.4. Channel with compound crosssection. 2.5. Permissible velocity against erosion and sedimentation.
Chapter 3: HYDRAULIC JUMP

3.1. Introduction. 3.2. Specific energy. 3.3. Depth of hydraulic jump.
3.4. Types of hydraulic jump. 3.5. Hydraulic jump formulas in terms of
Froude-number. 3.6. Submerged hydraulic jump
Chapter 4: NON-UNIFORM FLOW

4.1. Introduction. 4.2. Gradually-varied steady flow.
4.3. Types of water surface profiles.
4.4. Drawing water surface profiles.
Chapter 5: SPILLWAYS
5.1. Introduction. 5.2. General formula. 5.3. Sharp-crested weir
5.4. The overflow spillway. 5.5. Broad-crested weir
Chapter 6: TRANSITIONS AND ENERGY DISSIPATORS

6.1. Introduction. 6.2. Expansions and Contractions.
6.3. Drop structures 6.4. Stilling basins.
6.5. Other types of energy dissipators
Chapter 7: UNSTEADY FLOW

7.1. Introduction. 7.2. The equations of motion
7.3. Solutions to the unsteady-flow equations
7.4. Positive surge and negative waves; Surge formation
Fig.1.7. Course structure chart

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1.3. DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS

Most hydraulic engineering problems are solved by applying a mathematical
analysis. In some cases they should be checked by physical experimental means. The
approach of such problems is considerably simplified by using mathematical techniques
for dimensional analysis. It is based on the assumption that the phenomenon at issue can be
expressed by a dimensionally homogeneous equation, with certain variables.
1.3.1. Fundamental dimensions

We know that all physical quantities are measured by comparison. This comparison
is always made with respect to some arbitrarily fixed value for each independent quantity,
called dimension (e.g. length, mass, time, temperature etc). Since there is no direct
relationship between these dimensions, they are called fundamental dimensions or
fundamental quantities. Some other quantities such as area, volume, velocity, force etc,
cannot be expressed in terms of fundamental dimensions and thus may be called derived
dimensions, derived quantities or secondary quantities.
There are two systems for fundamental dimensions, namely FLT (i.e. force, length, time)
and LMT (i.e. length, mass, time). The dimensional form of any quantity is independent of
the system of units (i.e. metric or English). In this course, we shall use the LMT-system.
The following table gives the dimensions and units for the various physical quantities,
which are important form the hydraulics point-of-view.
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
Table 1.1: Dimensions in terms of LMT

Quantity
Symbol Dimensions in terms of LMT-system
Length
Area
Volume
Time
Velocity
Acceleration
Gravitational acceleration
Frequency
Discharge
Force/weight
Power
Work/Energy
Pressure
Mass
Mass density
Specific weight
Dynamic viscosity
Kinematic viscosity
Surface tension
Shear stress
Bulk modulus
L
A
Vol
t
V
a
g
N
Q
F, W
P
E
p
m
L
L2
L3
T
LT-1
LT-2
LT-2
T-1
L3 T-1
LMT-2
ML2T-3
ML2T-2
ML-1 T-2
M
ML-3
ML-2 T-2
ML-1 T-1
L2 T1
MT-2
ML-1 T-2
ML-1 T-2
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All variables used in science or engineering are expressed in terms of a limited number of
basic dimensions. For example, we can designate the dimensions of velocity as:
[V] =
Dis tan ce L
LT 1
Time
T
(1-14)
Here the brackets [x] mean "dimension of". So, equation (1-14) reads as follows: "the
dimension of velocity V equals the ratio of the distance to the time". In this case, L
represents the dimension of distance and T that of time.
Note: There are four systems of units, which are commonly used and universally adopted.
These are known as:
SI Units (International System of Units or Systme International d'units in
French): a unified and systematically constituted system of fundamental and
derived units for international use have been recommended by the 11th General
Conference of Weights and Measures (CGPM). SI is widely used in Vietnam as an
official unit system. The fundamental units of LMT (length, mass and time) are
meter, kilogram and second, respectively.
CGS Units: the fundamental units of LMT are centimeter, gram and second,
respectively.
MKS Units: the fundamental units of LMT are meter, kilogram and second,
respectively.
English Units: the fundamental units of LMT are foot, pound and second,
respectively
1.3.2 Dimensional homogeneity

Let us consider the common equation of hydraulics.
Q
=A.V
3 -1
We can write:
L T = L2 x LT-1 = L3T-1
(1-15)
Above example goes without saying that all equations must balance in magnitude.
However, all rational equations (those developed from basic laws of physics) must also be
dimensionally homogeneous. An equation is called dimensionally homogeneous, if the
fundamental dimensions have identical powers of LMT on both sides. That is, the left-hand
side (LHS) of the equation must have the same dimensions as the right-hand side (RHS).
Moreover, every term in the equation must have the same dimensions. Such an equation
would essentially be independent of the system of measurement (i.e. English or SI).
Note: Two dimensionally homogeneous equations can be multiplied or divided without
affecting the homogeneity. But the two dimensionally homogeneous equations cannot be
added or subtracted, as the resulting equation may not be dimensionally homogeneous.
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1.3.3. Principles of Dimensional Homogeneity

The principle of dimensional homogeneity has a number of applications. The
following issues are important from the point of view of the subject.
(a) Determining the dimension of a physical quantity
The dimensions of any physical quantity may be easily determined with this principle, e.g.
the dimension of energy:
Energy
= Work = Force Distance
(1-16)
-2
= [LMT ] [L]
(Force, [F ]= [LMT-2])
= [ML2T-2]
Example 1.1: Determine the dimension of the following quantities in the LMT-system:
(i) Force (ii) Pressure, (iii) Power, (iv) Specific weight, and (v) Surface tension
Solution:
We know the dimension of force in the LMT-system:
(i)
Force
= Mass x Acceleration
Length [ML]
= [M]
2 [MLT 2 ]
2
Time
[T ]
Similarly,
Force [MLT 2 ]
[ML1T 2 ]
2
Area
[L ]
Ans.
Work done Force Distance
Time
Time
[MLT -2 ][L]
[ML2T -3 ]
[T]
Ans.
(ii)
Pressure
(iii)
Power
(iv)
Specific weight =
=
and
(v)
Ans.
Surface tension
Weight
Force
(Weight = Force)
Volume Volume
[MLT 2 ]
[ML2 T 2 ]
3
[L ]
Force [MLT -2 ]
= [MT-2]
Length
[L]
Ans.
Ans.
Example 1.2. Determine the dimension of the following quantities in the LMT-system
(i) Discharge, (ii) Torque and (iii) Momentum.
Solution:
We know the dimension of discharge in the LMT-system:
Similarly
and
Volume [L3 ]
[L3T 1 ]
Time
[T]
(i)
Discharge
Ans.
(ii)
(iii)
Torque
Momentum
= Force Distance = [LMT-2][L] = [ML2T-2] Ans.

= Mass Velocity = [M] [LT-1] = [LMT-1] Ans.
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(b) Checking the dimensional homogeneity of an equation

The dimensional homogeneity of an equation may be easily checked with this principle;
e.g. let us consider Darcy - Weisbachs formula for loss of energy head in pipes:
hf f .
L V2
.
D 2g
(1-17)
The dimension of 2 in the denominator is not considered. The dimension of f, being

constant, is taken as 1. Now substituting the dimensions on the LHS and RHS of the
equation, we get:
[L] =
[1] x [L] x [LT -1 ] 2

= [L]
[LT 2 ][ L]
(1-18)
Example 1.3. Check the dimensional homogeneity of the following common equations in
the field of hydraulics:
(i) Q C d A 2gH and (ii) V C Ri
Solution
(i) Given equation,
= C d A 2gH
Substituting the dimensions on the LHS and RHS of the equation (the dimension of Cd,
being a discharge coefficient, is taken as 1):
[L3T-1] = [1] [L2] [[1] [LT-2 x L] = [L3T-1]
Since the dimensions on both sides of the equation are the same, the equation is
dimensionally homogeneous.
Ans.
(ii) Given equation, V = C Ri
Substituting the dimensions on the LHS and RHS of the equation (the dimension of i,
being dimensionless is taken as 1):
LT-1 = C [L 1]1/2
=
C [L]1/2
Since the dimensions on both sides of the equation are not the same, the equation is not
dimensionally homogeneous.
Ans.
From the above equation, we find that:
C
[ LT 1 ]
[ L1 / 2 T 1 ]
[L]1 / 2
(c) Changing the coefficient of an equation while using an other system of units
The coefficient of an equation may be easily changed, while using the same equation in an
other system of units, for example from English to MKS or vice versa.
Let us consider Mannings formula for the velocity
V=
1 2 3 12
.R .i
n
(1-19)
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where n is a resistance coefficient, called Manning's constant. Now substituting the

dimensions on the LHS and RHS of the equation, we get:
[LT-1] =
1
1
[L]2/3 [1]1/2 = [L]2/3
n
n
(The dimension of the bed slope i is 1).

Since the dimensions of both sides are not the same, the equation is dimensionally nonhomogeneous. From the above equation, we find that:
1
[LT ] 13 1
1
=
L .T
2
n
[L] 3
Now, in order to make the above equation applicable to English units, the coefficient of M
has to be changed. We know that 1m = 3.281 ft, and the unit of time is the same in both the
systems. Therefore the new constant is:
L1/3 = 3.2811/3 = 1.486
It is obvious, that the equation for English units will be
V=
1.486 2 3 1 2
.R .i
n
(1-20)
(d) Using the dimensional analysis methods

There are several methods that may be used to carry out the process of dimension analysis,
such as the Step-by-Step method, the Exponent method, .... Students can find them in
reference books. In this course, Buckingham's -theorem will be introduced shortly in the
next section.
1.3.4. Buckinghams - theorem
Buckinghams -theorem states, If there are n variables in a dimensionally

homogeneous equation and if these variables contain m fundamental dimensions such as
(L, M, T), they may be grouped into (n-m) non-dimensional independent -terms.
Mathematically, if a variable X1 depends on the independent variables X2, X3, X4, ..., Xn
the function may be written as:
X1 = k (X2, X3, X4, ..., Xn)
The equation may be written in its general form as:
f(X1, X2, X3, X4, ..., Xn) = C
where C is a constant, and f represents the functional relationship. In this equation, there
are n variables. If there are m fundamental dimensions, then according to Buckinghams theorem
f1 (1,2,3,...,n-m) = Constant
where is a dimensionless term.
Students can read for understanding details and how to apply in reference hydraulics
books.
14

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Example 1.4: Flow through a closed conduit with rectangular cross-section. Let us
determine the wall friction as a dependent quantity.
Solution:
Let be the average wall shear stress over the full perimeter
depends on: b = internal breadth [m]
h = internal height [m]
k = dimension of wall roughness [m]
= specific mass density of fluid [kgm-3]
= dynamic viscosity of fluid [kgm-1s-1]
V = fluid velocity, averaged over cross-section [ms-1]
= f1(b, h, k, , , V)
[] = ML-1T-2
[b] = L
[h] = L
[k] = L
[] = ML-3
[] = ML-1T-1
[V] = LT-1
We have totally 7 quantities and 3 basic dimensions, viz. M. L and T

There are 4 independent dimensionless parameters.
b k

f2 , ,
2
V
h h Vh
= cfV2
cf
V2
cf is a friction factor, i.e. dimensionless
Therefore,
b k
c f f 3 , , Re h ,
h h
with Re h
Vh
or
h k
c f f 4 , , Re b ,
b b
with Re b
Vb
15

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1.3.5. Limitations of dimensional analysis
Some problems may be met when applying dimensional analysis:

In order to use dimensional analysis, we must first decide which variables are
significant. If we do not understand the problem well enough to make a good initial
choice of variables, dimensional analysis seldom provides clarification.
One error might be the inclusion of variables whose influence is already accounted
for. For example, one might tend to include two or three length variables in a scalemodel test, where only one may be sufficient.
Another serious error might be the omission of a significant variable. If this is done,
one of the significant dimensionless parameters will likewise be missing.
How do we know whether a variable is significant for a given problem? Probably the
proper answer is from experience. After working in the field of fluid mechanics and openchannel hydraulics for several years, one develops a feeling for the significance of
variables to certain kinds of application.
1.4. SIMILARITY AND MODELS

Since the beginning of the twentieth century, the engineers engaged on the creation
or design of hydraulic structures (such as dams, spillways or large hydraulic machines)
have developed a new and scientific method to predict the performance of their structures
and machines. This is done by preparing physical scale models and testing them in a
laboratory; so as to form some opinion, about the working and behaviour of the proposed
hydraulic structures, after their completion or actual installation. The structure, of which
the model is prepared, is known as prototype and the model is known as scale model or
simply physical model.
1.4.1 Advantages of model analysis

Though there are numerous advantages of model testing, yet the following is to be
mentioned:
1. The behaviour and working details of a hydraulic structure or a machine can be
easily predicted from its physical model. The smooth and reliable working of a
hydraulic structure or a machine can be ascertained by spending a relatively
small sum of money, which is a negligible fraction of the total cost to be spent
on the prototype.
2. If the hydraulic structure or machine is made directly, then in case of its failure,
it is very difficult to change its design. Moreover, it is very costly. Laboratory
tests can result in saving human labour and material.
3. With the help of model testing, a number of alternative designs can be studied.
Finally, the most economical, accurate and safe design may be selected.
4. When the existing hydraulic structure is not functioning properly, then model
testing can help us in detecting and rectifying the defects.
5. Sometimes, it is difficult to design a particular portion of a complex hydraulic
structure or machine. In such a case, model testing is very essential in order to
ascertain the safety and reliability of that particular portion of the prototype.
16

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1.4.2. Hydraulic similarity

If we look at a photograph of a man, very carefully, we can have an idea of the
proportion of various parts of his body. The photograph will also give an idea of the
features of each part of the man. Similarly, to know the complete working and behaviour
of the prototype from its model, there should be a complete similarity between the
prototype and its scale model. This similarity is known as hydraulic similitude or
Hydraulic Similarity. Three types of hydraulic similarity are important, viz.:
1. Geometric similarity,
2. Kinematic similarity, and
3. Dynamic similarity
1.4.3. Geometric similarity

Geometric similarity is said to exist between the model and the prototype, if both of
them are identical in shape, but differ only in size. Or in other words, geometric similarity
is said to exist between the model and the prototype, if the ratios of all corresponding
linear, geometrical dimensions are equal (see Fig. 1.8).
Lp
Bp
(a)
Lm
(b)
Bm
Fig.1.8. Geometric similarity: (a) Prototype and (b) Model

Let
Lp = length of the prototype

Bp = breadth of the prototype,
Dp = depth of the prototype, and
Lm, Bm and Dm = corresponding values for the model.
Now, if geometric similarity exists between the prototype and the model, then the linear
ratio of the prototype and the model (also called scale ratio) reads as:
L
B
D
Lr = p = p = p
L m Bm D m
Similarly, it hold for the area ratio of the prototype and the model:
17

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L B D
Ar = p = p = p
L m Bm D m
And for the volume ratio:
2
L B D
Vr = p = p = p
L m Bm D m
3
1.4.4. Kinematic similarity

Kinematic similarity is said to exist between the model and the prototype, if both of
them have corresponding motions or velocities. Or in other words, kinematic similarity is
said to exist between the model and the prototype, if the ratio of the corresponding
velocities at corresponding points are equal.
Let
V1p = velocity of liquid in prototype at point 1,
V2p = velocity of liquid in prototype at point 2,
V1m, V2m = corresponding values for the model.
Now, if kinematic similarity exists between the prototype and the model, then the velocity
ratio of the prototype and the model reads as:
Vr =
V1p
V1m
V2 p
V2 m
V3 p
V3 m
...
1.4.5. Dynamic similarity

Dynamic similarity is said to exist between the model and the prototype, if both of
them have corresponding forces. Or in other words, dynamic similarity is said to exist
between the model and the prototype, if the ratios of the corresponding forces acting at
corresponding points are equal:
Let
F1p and F1m = force acting in prototype and model at point 1;
F2p and F2m = force acting in prototype and model at point 2.
Now, if dynamic similarity exists between the prototype and the model, then the force ratio
of the prototype and the model reads as:
F
F
F
Fr = 1p = 2p = 3p =...
F1m F2m F3m
Consider the flow over the spillway shown in Fig. 1.9. Here corresponding masses of fluid
in the model and the prototype are acted on by corresponding forces. These forces are the
force of gravity Fg, the pressure force Fp, and the viscous resistance force Fv. These forces
add vectorially in Fig. 1.9 to yield a resultant force FR, which will in turn produce an
acceleration of the volume of fluid in accordance with Newtons second law.
FRm M m a m
FRp
Mpa p
18

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prototype force polygon
forces on fluid element

FPp
FPp
Fgp
Fvp
FRp = Mp.ap
(a)
Fvp
Fgp
model force polygon

FPm
FPm
FRm = Mm.am
Fvm
(b)
Fgm
Fvm
Fgm
Fig. 1.9: Dynamic similarity (a) Prototype and (b) Model
1.4.6. Technique of hydraulic modelling

The technique of hydraulic modelling involves the following steps:
a. Selection of suitable scale,
b. Operation of the hydraulic model, and
c. Correct prediction
a. Selection of suitable scale
This depends on many factors. But the following is important concerning this issue:
Availability of funds;
Availability of time;
Availability or space for accommodating the model; and
Availability of employees.
The usual practice is to make the model geometrically similar to the prototype. But in some
cases distorted models are also employed.
19

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b. Operation of the hydraulic model

After selecting the type, the scale and the materials of the model, the next step is to
construct the model accurately according to the plan. High-tech instruments can be
essential for precisely measuring the hydraulic quantities in the experiments. Great care
and patience are required for correctly interpreting the model results.
c. Correct prediction
After obtaining the precise measurements of the required hydraulic quantities in an
experiment, the next step is to predict the correct working of the prototype. We shall study
the correct prediction of prototypes in the following pages.
1.4.7. Developments in hydraulic model testing

The model testing is the most scientific and common feature of the design and
successful working of hydraulic structures and machines. Two types of facility are
important and need to be dealt with: 1) the wind tunnel, and 2) the water tunnel.
1. Wind tunnel
A wind tunnel is a standard equipment for aircraft design. It provides a steady flow of air
around the model which is suspended in the stream. Though the walls of the tunnel will
interfere, to some extent, with the stream of air, yet its effect is generally neglected.
In a wind tunnel, the air is set in motion by means of a compressor. The model under
investigation is mounted in the path of the wind stream. Sometimes, the compression of air
in the wind tunnel produces an appreciable rise in temperature, which must be dissipated
by a cooling device.
2. Water tunnel
A water tunnel is a standard equipment for the design of turbines, pumps and ships. In
water tunnels, a uniform stream of water is produced and the model under investigation is
mounted in the path of the water.
The size of the water tunnel is, usually, expressed as the diameter of its best section. The
existing water tunnels range as size from 10 cm to 150 cm.
1.4.8. Undistorted models

All the hydraulic models may be broadly classified into the following two types:
1. Undistorted models, and
2. Distorted models.
A model, which is geometrically similar to its prototype is known as an undistorted model.
The prediction from an undistorted model is comparatively easy and the results obtained
from the model, can be easily transferred to the prototype, if the basis condition (of
geometric similarity) is satisfied. A distorted model will be discussed in Section 1.4.10.
20

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1.4.9. Comparison of an undistorted model and the prototype

We have discussed in Sections 1.4.3 through 1.4.5 the different types of hydraulic
similarity between model and prototype. If the model is to be overall similar to the
prototype, then all the three similarities (i.e. geometric, kinematic and dynamic) should
exist between the model and the prototype. But this is generally not possible in actual
practice, as it is difficult to deal with two types of similarities simultaneously. In general,
an undistorted model of a prototype is made applying geometric similarity only, and the
remaining similarities are then compared on account of the scale ratio (i.e. geometric ratio
of prototype and model).
Though the given scale ratio provides us a wide range of data of the prototype, yet the
following is important to take into consideration:
1. Velocity of water in the prototype versus the given velocity at the corresponding point of
the model.
2. Discharge of the prototype versus the given discharge of the model.
3. Time of emptying a prototype versus the given time of emptying the model.
4. Power developed by the prototype versus the given power developed by the model.
5. Speed of prototype versus the given speed of the model (e.g. in r.p.m.)
Let
V = velocity of water flowing over a weir, a dam, or a spillway,

Q
N
P
T
=
=
=
=
discharge over of a weir, out of a notch, or over a spillway,

speed, in r.p.m., of a centrifugal pump or a turbine,
resistance power developed on a ship, or an air-plane,
time needed for emptying a tank, a reservoir,
p, m
subscript characters denoting the prototype and the model
r =
scale ratio of the prototype to the model
We apply the following formulas in Table 1.2. for an undistorted, geometrically similar
model.
Sometimes the model of an object is made and tested in the hydraulic laboratory with a
difference in the specific weights of the liquids applied, for example: a ship test in sea
water and fresh water, or an air-plane in a wind tunnel. In such a case, we must multiple r
with a ratio of the prototype specific weight to model specific weight: p .

m
21

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Table 1.2: Ratio of prototype value and model value for an undistorted model
(geometrical similarity)
No.
Hydraulic quantity Symbol
Ratio of
prototype to model
Vp
1
Water Velocity
V
Vr
2
3
4
5
Flow Discharge
(Emptying) Time
Power
(Runner) Speed
Q
t
P
N
Qp
Qr
tr
Pr
Vm
Qm
tp
tm
Pp
Pm
Nr
r
r
Np
Nm
1
r
1.4.10. Distorted models

In the previous sections, we have discussed the working of undistorted models.
Sometimes, however, a model has not or cannot have complete geometrical similarity with
the prototype. Such a model is called distorted. Moreover, models of hydraulic structures,
such as rivers, harbours, reservoirs etc. have very large horizontal dimensions, as compared
to the vertical ones. If such a model would be completely geometrically similar, then the
water depth would be so small that measurements can not be performed accurately, and the
flow patterns cannot be represented properly.
In order to overcome this difficulty, the models of such structures are made with different
horizontal and vertical scales. A model having complete geometric similarity with the
prototype, but working under a different head of water, also behaves as a distorted model.
In such models, the scale ratio of model to prototype is taken as the horizontal scale ratio
and the ratio of the head of water in the model to the head of water in the prototype is taken
as the vertical scale ratio. The prediction from a distorted model is relatively difficult, and
the results of the models being distorted cannot be easily transferred to the prototype, as
the condition (of geometric similarity) is not satisfied.
22

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14.11 Advantages and disadvantages of distorted models

A distorted model has the following advantages and disadvantages:
+ Advantage :
The model size can be sufficiently reduced by its distortion. As a result of this, the
cost of the model is considerably reduced and its operation is simplified.
The vertical exaggeration results in a steeper water surface, which can be easily and
accurately measured.
The Reynolds-number of the model is considerably increased due to the
exaggareted water slopes. This helps in simulating the flow conditions in the model
and its prototype.
+ Disadvantages
There is an unfavourable psychological effect on the observer.

The behaviour of flow of a model in action differs from that of the prototype.
The magnitude and direction of the pressures is not correctly reproduced.
The velocities are not correctly reproduced, as the vertical exaggeration causes
distortion of lateral velocity and kinetic energy.
In spite of the above-mentioned disadvantages of a distorted model, it is sometimes

preferred to use the distorted model. However, by exercising utmost care, the results of the
model may be transferred to the prototype.
1.4.12. Comparison of a distorted model and its prototype

We have seen that the models of large hydraulic structures are made with different
horizontal and vertical scales. The comparison of such distorted models and their
prototypes is done by starting from the fundamentals. In the following, we shall discuss the
comparison of a distorted model and its prototype.
1. Velocity of water in the prototype versus the given velocity at the corresponding point of
the model.
2. Discharge of the prototype versus the given discharge of the model.
3. Time of emptying a prototype versus the given time of emptying the model.
4. Power developed by the prototype versus the given power of the model.
5. Speed of the prototype versus the given speed of the model.
Let us use the same symbols as in Section 1.4.9 and add rH and rV as horizontal and
vertical scale ratio of the prototype to the model.
23

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Table 1.3: Ratio of prototype value and model value for a distorted model
No. Hydraulic quantity Symbol
Ratio of
prototype to model
Vp
1
Water Velocity
V
Vr
2
3
4
5
Flow Discharge
(Emptying) Time
Power
(Runner) Speed
Q
t
P
N
Qp
Qr
tr
Pr
rV
Vm
Qm
tp
tm
Pp
Pm
Nr
rH .rV
rH
rV
rH .rV 2
Np
Nm
rV
rH
24

Open Channel Hydraulics for Engineers: Intro and Review

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OPEN CHANNEL HYDRAULICS FOR ENGINEERS

REVIEW OF FLUID MECHANICS

1.1.1. Fluid mechanics