Dimensionless Stage–Discharge Relationship in Radial Gates

Abstract

Dimensional analysis was used to obtain stage–discharge relationships under submerged and free flow conditions in radial gates to develop a management tool. Experimental data from a laboratory flume and the indicial method of dimensional analysis were used for this purpose. The resulting equation relates the discharge (or critical depth) to upstream and downstream water depth and gate opening. These equations were then validated by experimental data obtained from field radial gates and compared with the conventional gate equation. Results showed that there was a good agreement between dimensionless equations and field and laboratory data under submerged or free flow conditions. Dimensionless equations are more general and accurate than the conventional ones when there is not an accurate estimation of discharge coefficients.