Numerical Investigation of Hydraulic Efficiency of the Grate Inlet

Abstract

Various grate inlets are commonly used for different purposes. Since the grate inlets’ water-catching capacity depends on many factors, defining the best option is crucial for a sustainable drainage system. In this study, four cases with the same length, width, and void area but different geometries have been numerically studied to establish to which extent the design difference in the grate inlet affects the water-catching capacity. It has been determined how much of the approaching flow is caught by the grate inlets placed on the road with constant transverse and longitudinal slopes. The most efficient case is examined in more detail to determine the effect of the void area location on the water-catching capacity. The numerical results are discussed by comparing them with the analytical results. It has been confirmed that the location and shape of the void areas have an essential effect on the efficiency of grate inlets. Even though the void area is equal, it is concluded that the continuous void areas are more effective than the discontinuous areas. According to the results, choosing the most suitable grate among the alternative inlet designs is possible, or developing a more effective new design using numerical results provides the opportunity to compare the designs.