Open Channel Flow

Hydraulics
CE2040-Hydraulic Engineering
Lecture 2
Velocity Distribution in Open Channel
Field observations in rivers and canals have shown that the
average velocity at any vertical 𝑉𝑎𝑣 occurs at level of 0.6
𝑦0 from the free surface, where 𝑦0 = depth of flow.

Further it is found that,

𝑉0.2 + 𝑉0.8
𝑉𝑎𝑣 =
2

Where 𝑉0.2 =velocity at a depth of 0.2 𝑦0 from the free

surface and 𝑉0.8 = velocity at a depth of 0.8 𝑦0 from the
free surface
Pressure Distribution
• The intensity of pressure for a liquid at its free surface is equal to that of the
surrounding atmosphere

• The distribution of pressure in an open channel flow is governed by the

acceleration due to gravity g and other accelerations

• In any arbitrary direction s,

𝜕(𝑝+𝑍𝛾)
− = 𝜌𝑎𝑛
𝜕𝑠
Hydrostatic Pressure Distribution
𝑉2
The normal acceleration of any streamline at a section is 𝑎𝑛 =
𝑟
Where V=velocity of flow along the streamline of radius of curvature r

Normal acceleration is zero ,

i) If v=0, i.e., when there is no motion, or
ii) If 𝑟 →∝ i.e., when the streamlines are straight lines

𝑃
Then +Z=C
𝛾

This linear variation of pressure with depth having the constant of proportionality
equal to the unit weight of liquid is know as hydrostatic pressure distribution
Self-Study
Apply Conservation Mass, Momentum and Energy in the below open
channel section
Reference
• Subramanya, K., Flow in Open Channels. 4th Ed., McGraw Hill
Education (India) Pvt. Ltd.
• https://nptel.ac.in/courses/105107059/
Tutorial -1