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Basic Hydraulics: Rating curve. Definition & terminology. Rating curve, also known as stage–discharge curve, is a graph showing the relation between the water height (stage), and the volumetric flow-rate (discharge). Channels and hydraulic structures can have rating curves.
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Definition & terminology • Rating curve, also known as stage–discharge curve, is a graph showing the relation between the water height (stage), and the volumetric flow-rate (discharge). • Channels and hydraulic structures can have rating curves
Definition & terminology • An accurate stage–discharge relationship is necessary for design to evaluate the interrelationships of flow characteristics (depth and discharge) • The stage-discharge relationship also enables you to evaluate a range of conditions as opposed to a preselected design flow rate.
How Rating Curves are Constructed - I • Record stage (depth) during an interesting runoff event • Measure velocity across the channel (or structure) • Compute discharge as produce of the flow area and velocity Wading during flow Cross Section – Measure V at different stations. Q=S VA ADV Probe Boat mounted for deeper/faster water
How Rating Curves are Constructed - II • Stage and measured discharge recorded for several different flow events • A curve is fitted to these event pairs, and that curve is the “Rating Curve”
Rating Curves for Hydraulic Structures • Certain hydraulic structures force flow through critical depth, where the specific energy is a minimum. • Knowledge that critical depth will occur along with geometry and an appropriate discharge coefficient produces an indirect measurement of discharge • Weir equations • Orifice equations • Sluice gate equations
Qweir Weir flow • Weir = obstruction in open channel over which water flows • Flow over a weir directly related to water depth (head) upstream of weir (A rating curve!)
Sharp crested weir Width into the figure Discharge Coefficient (from tables, but derived from rated weirs)
Sharp crested weir flow calculation • For US units, weir discharge coefficient of CD = 3.3 commonly used • Example: If upstream head is 1.2 ft above weir crest, and weir length (normal to the flow) is 8 ft, what is the flow over weir?Q = CDLh3/2= 3.3(8)(1.2)3/2 = 34.7 cfs
Broad crested weir • Equation for discharge is the same • Head often measured to total energy line • Discharge coefficient CD= 2.34 to 3.32