College of Engineering Education

2nd Floor, BE Building

Matina Campus, Davao City
Telefax: (082)296-1084
Phone No.: (082)300-5456/300-0647 Local 131

BCE 314 – Hydraulics

Laboratory Experiment 3

Hydrostatic Force on Plane Surfaces

Name: Bermoy, Bethany G Instructor: Engr. Michelle A. Daarol

Program: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Code: 2255

*****Note: refer to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6ivZEke67w

I. Introduction

The resulting force created by the pressure loading of a liquid acting on submerged surfaces is
known as hydrostatic forces. In fluid mechanics, the calculation of the hydrostatic force and the location
of the center of pressure are key topics. The resultant hydrostatic pressure force acts at the center of
pressure, which is a point on the submerged surface.

II. Objective

• To determine the hydrostatic force exerted by water on a partly or completely submerged surface.
• To determine the center of pressure of the experimentally and theoretically.

III. Apparatus/Materials

• Weights
• Hydraulic Bench
• Hydraulic Apparatus
• Ruler

IV. Procedure

1. Measure the depth of the face vertical quadrant "D".

2. Measure the width of the face of vertical quadrant "B".
3. Level the hydraulic apparatus. Ensure the bubbles is on center.
4. Turn on the hydraulic bench after attaching the discharge hose to the hydraulic apparatus. The
discharge hose would allow the drainage of water while adjusting water level.
5. By rotating the valve, water is allowed to enter the hydraulic apparatus. Supply water into the
apparatus until the desired level is achieved. Close the valve when done.
6. Attach the weight onto the lever to keep it balanced.
7. Also adjust the counterweight to make sure that the lever is balanced. (Caution: Make sure that
before any reading is made, the lever must reach the center scale.)
8. Once the lever is stabilized, measure the horizontal distance between the pivot and the weight
holder "L".
9. In the 1st trial, read the vertical height of the immersed face "d".
10. Determine the vertical distance between the water surface and the top end of the submerged
vertical surface "y".
11. Repeat the steps for trial 2 and 3 with different weights.

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 College of Engineering Education
2nd Floor, BE Building
Matina Campus, Davao City
Telefax: (082)296-1084
Phone No.: (082)300-5456/300-0647 Local 131

VIII. Discussion of Results/Conclusion

The forces produced by the fluid must be investigated and specific research conducted to monitor
their effects, particularly when a plane region is immersed in the fluid. Thus, in the construction of
storage tanks, weirs, and other hydraulic structures, evaluating the forces that form on the surface
owing to the fluid is critical. Finally, it depicts the link between theoretical and experimental hydrostatic
pressure for both partially and totally submerged surface planes, based on the studies performed in
this study. For both partially and totally submerged surface planes, a linear model appears in this
connection.

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