Capitulo para Traducir
Capitulo para Traducir
A. GENERAL
5-1. Types of Measuring Structures. - There irrigation systems but they are not included
are many different types of water measurement herein. Parshall flumes, weirs, weir boxes and
structures used in irrigation systems. The types open-flow meters are discussed in this chapter.
most commonly used in Reclamation systems A general description of each type of structure
are Parshall flumes, figures 5-1 and 5-2; weirs, is given, along with its advantages and
figure 5-3; open-flow meters, figures 5-4 and disadvantages. Design examples show how a
3-22; and constant-head orifices (CHO). particular size of water measurement structure
Constant-head orifices are mainly used in is determined. Standard design drawings of
turnou ts and have been previously discussed in Reclamation measuring structures are also
chapter 111. Acoustic velocity meters and included.
magnetic flow meters are expected to offer a In a typical irrigation system, water is
reliable method of flow measurement in usually measured at the storage reservoir
ou tlet, the canal headworks, and at lateral and
farm turnouts. The type of measuring structure
1General Engineer, Engineering Reference Branch, Bureau selected for these locations depends on
of Reclamation. availability of head, adaptability to site,
economy f installation, and ease of operation.
Figure 5-1. Flow through a 9-inch Parshall flume. Figure 5-1. Recently constructed Parshall flume.
P 20-D-29299-520 PX-D-72610
243
244 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
B. PARSHALL FLUMES
5-2. Description.-Parshall flumes are tailwater depths. The tailwater elevation may
s pe e i a 11 y designed inline open channel be appreciably higher than the flume crest
measuring structures in which canal water without affecting the free-flow discharge
flows over a broad, flat-converging section through the flume. However, if the
through a narrow downward sloping throat
section and then diverges on an upward sloping
floor (fig. 5-5).
The floor of the converging section is the
crest of the flume. It is level both
longitudinally and laterally and is usually set
above the upstream canal invert.
The flume geometry forces the water at
free-flow conditions to pass through critica}
depth on the crest, thereby providing a means
of determining the rate of flow from a single
water depth measurement. Free-flow
conditions occur when the downstream canal
water surface ( tailwater) is low enough to have
no effect on the depth of water on the crest. Figure 5-5. Artist sketch showing Parshall flume
These conditions prevail over a wide range of in a canal. CTPX-D-31408.
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 245
downstream water surface exceeds specfied has been straightened and uniformly
limits, submerged-low conditions occur and redistribu ted. Parshall flumes should be located
two water depth measurements are required to as clase as possible to canal discharge regulating
determine the rate of low. gates for convenicnce of operation, but far
enough away from the gates so that the flow is
Parshall flumes can be designed to measure uniform and free from eddies, turbulence, and
flow from 0.01 cubic foot per second (cfs) to waves.
3,000 cfs. This discussion will be limited to
small Parshall flumes having free-flow 5-3. Advantages. =Parshall flumes are
capacities of 0.05 to 139.5 cfs. These recognized as accurate and reliable low
discharges correspond to throat widths of 6 measuring structures and have the following
inches through 8 feet. For 6- and 9-inch advantages: ( 1) capa ble of measuring rate of
flumes, the maximum degree of submergence low with relatively small head Ioss, (2)
H capa ble of measuring a wide range of free-flow
( ratio, see fig. 5-6) for free-flow discharge is discharges with relatively high tailwater depths
H using a single water depth measurement, (3)
60 percent, whereas, for flumes l through 8 capable of measuring submerged flow using
feet in width, the maximum two water depth measurements when the
degree of submergence for free flow is 70 degree of submergence impedes the free-flow
discharge, ( 4) virtually a self-cleaning structure
percent
because of lume geometry and the throat
[ 1]. 2 Gage zeros for both Ha and Hb are set at
the flume crest elevation so that water depth velocity, (5) can not be easily altered to obtain
measurements are depths above the crest. unallocated water, and (6) unaffected by
Correct zeroing and reading of the gages is velocity of approach, which is automatically
necessary for accurate results which is usually controlled, when the flurne is built to the given
within about 2 percent for free flows and standard dimensions and used where the
about 5 percent for submerged flows [ 2]. incoming flow is uniform, evenly distributed,
Parshall flumes can be constructed of and free of turbulence.
concrete, wood, galvanized metal or any other 5-4. Disadvantages. =Parshall flumes: (1) are
construction material that can be built to the usually more expensive to construct than weirs,
given dimensions in the field or prefabricated (2) cannot be used in clase com bination
in a shop. Care should be taken in construction with turnouts because the inflow must be
so that the structure is built as closely as uniform and the water surface relatively
possible to the standard dimensions given in smooth, and (3) rnust be constructed carefully
figure 5-7 with one exception; the wingwalls and accurately for satisfactory performance.
may be Jengthened as required. Also, it is 5-5. Size Selecton. +Parshall flume sizes are
important to have the floor of the converging designated by their throat widths. Befare a
section Jevel so that the same amount of water Parshall flume can be selected, the channel
is passing over each increment of throat width. cross section, the range of discharges to be
An angle iron is usually embedded lush with measured, allowable head loss through the
the floor and perpendicular to the flow at the flume, and the normal depth of the flow in the
downstream end of the crest to prevent crest channel must be known. Minimizing
erosion and to provide a smooth surface for construction costs is an important factor.
setting gage zeros. Sidewalls of the throat must A particular discharge or discharge range can
be parallel and vertical. be measured by any one of severa! different
Parshall flumes should be located only in size flumes. Final selection is based on the
straight sections of channels where the flow is flume width which best fits the canal dimensions
relatively smooth and uniform. They should and hydraulic properties. As a general rule,
never be located on a curve or at right angles to the width of the Parshall flume should be
the canal flow, as in a turnout, unless the flow about one-third to one-half the width of the
upstream canal water surface at design
2
Numbers in brackets refer to items in the bibliography , see discharge and normal depth. With these
5-29.
246 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
conditions known, the selection and setting of Flurnc size throat Head loss
width, feet HL, fcet
a Parshall flume for free flow and su bmerged
flow can be described best by design examples. 5 0.58
6 0.49
S-6. De sig n Example with Free-flow 7 0.42
Discharge.-In this example, assume that a 8 0.37
Parshall flume is to be selected for use in a
canal to measure flows from 4 to 40 cfs with The head loss, H1, is the difference in water
free-flow discharge. The design capacity of the surface elevation of the headwater and
canal is 40 cfs, bottom width 6.0 feet, side tailwater as shown in figure 5-6.
slopes 1-1 /2 to 1, normal depth of water in the The 5.0- through 8.0-foot flumes meet the
canal 2.0 feet, width of water surface 1 2.0 feet depth and loss requirements; however, further
and the canal bank freeboard 1.5 feet. Further investigation is required and the final selection
assume that 0.65 foot of head is available if of the flume is made on a tria! and error basis.
required for losses through the flume. From First try a 5-foot flume as it is the smallest and
figure 5-7 "Standard Parshall Flume least expensive to build. The head loss for a
Dimensions," the Parshall flumes that have 5-foot flume is O. 58 foot, therefore the
free-flow measuring capabilities within the tailwater elevation is set O. 58 foot lower than
desired discharge range are those with throat the headwater elevation. As noted from the
widths from 3.0 to 8.0 feet. dimensions in figure 5- 7 the crest elevation is
Using the general rule to determine the set above the upstream canal invert or 0.38
throat width, the size range would be 4.0 to
6.0 feet. Since the crest of the Parshall flume is foot. Assume the upstream canal invert
set above the upstream canal invert a distance elevation is 100.00, and as previously indicated
the normal depth of water in the canal is 2.0
of a flume that is too narrow would cause feet, then the headwater elevation is 102.00.
The depth at Ha far a free-low discharge of 40
the headwater to rise and encroach on the
cfs is l.55 feet. From the continuity equation,
upstream canal freeboard. Consider for now
only the size range where the depth at Ha for
Q = VA where A is the cross-sectional area at
free-flow discharge is less than or equal to the H, the velocity at Ha is 3.85 feet per second
2
upstream water depth. (fps) and the velocity head, ;g, is 0.23 foot.
Table 5-3 gives the foJlowing values of Ha
for a discharge of 40 cfs for differen t lume The energy at H is the crest elevation + Ha +
widths that meet the criteria set forth in the y2
preceding paragraph. ,,--- or (100.0 + 0.38) + 1.55 + 0.23 = 102.16
zg
feet. lf this flume were used, the headwater
Flume size Upper hcad would rise about 0.16 foot and encroach on
throat wid th, fcet Ha. fcct the upstream canal freeboard which is
undesirable. Next check to see if this is a
5 1.55
6 1.38 free-flow flume. Since the water surface at Hb
7 1.25 is the sarne elevation as the tailwater, the
8 l. IS H
degree of su bmergence is the ratio of _!:. Then
Ha
Allowable head loss through the Parshall Hb is the difference in elevation of the
lumes must also be considered. For lume sizes tailwater and the crest of the flurne, or 1.04
in this example, free-flow discharge exists until
n, 1.04
the degree of submergence exceeds 70 percent. feet. The ratio of H = _
1 55
= 67 percent,
The following head losses far a discharge of 40 a
cfs and a 70 percent degree of submergence are for explanation on reading this chart).
obtained from figure 5-8 (see subsection 5-8(c)
which meets the free-low criteria. The 6-foot
flume is the next smallest, so using the same
procedure try a 6-foot Parshall lume. Since the
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 247
head loss through the flurne is 0.49 foot, set be designed for frec-flow discharge, howevcr
the downstream water surface 0.49 foot below they will measure submerged flows up to 95
the upstream water surface. The crest elevation percent submergence. If a flume is set for this
is the same as for the 5-foot flume, as high submergence and hydraulic conditons in
dimenson M is the same for both the 5- and the downstream channel change to cause
6-foot flumes. The depth at H3 for a discharge greater submergence, the flume becomes
of 40 cfs is 1.38 feet. From the continuity useless.
equation the velocity at Ha is 3. 70 feet per In the preceding exarnple of the 6-foot
v2 Parshall flurnc assume that the flume is set for
second and velocty head, Zg ' 0.21 foot. The 90 perccnt su bmergence. Recall tha t the
energy at Ha is 100.38 + 1.38 + 0.21 = 101.97 headwater elevation is 102.00, crest elevation is
which is slightly less than the upstream water 100.38 and Ha for free-flow discharge is 1.38
surface elevation. When checking this flume for Hb
Hb
feet. Then thc ratio - = 0.90 and Hb =
free low, the degree of submergence is - = Ha
Ha O. 9 ( 1.3 8) == l. 24 feet. The tailwatcr surface is
l. 13 feet
_ feet = 82 percent (should be 70 percent or then tentatively set at elevation 1 O 1.62 or 1.24
1 38
feet above the crest. From figure 5-8 determine
less as prevously determined), which does not
the head loss for 90 percen t su bmergence,
meet the criteria for free-flow discharge.
40-cfs discharge and a 6-foot flume. Read a
Recalling that 0.65 foot of head was initially
head Joss of 0.17 foot. Submergencc in cxcess
available, the downstream water surface should of 70 percent, however, will influence thc
be set at elevation I O 1.3 5 and the new Hb =
water surface at the H measuring well and an
- Th . f b l O. 97 foot
O . 97 t ot. e rat o o H now equa s _ erroneous discharge would be reacl or
o i 1 38 feet
a computed using only this reading. Hence a new
or 70 percent which meets the criteria for Ha and Hb for 90 percent submerged flow
free-flow conditions. The 6-foot flumc should must be determined. Using a trial and error
be selected bccause it is the least expensive to procedure, select values of Ha from table 5-3
construct, can be set for free-flow conditions, and read the free-flow discharge for a 6-foot
and does not cause an encroachment on the flumc. Then from figure 5-11 read the
upstream freeboard. correction for 90 percent submergence and
If a Parshall flume is always going to be subtract it from the free-flow discharge until an
operated at 70 percent or less submergence, Ha is found that will give a correct reading for
that portian of the flume downstream from the measuring 40 cfs through a 6-foot flume at 90
throat section is not needed. If, however, the percen t su bmergencc.
downstream channel should become silted up An Ha of 1.58 feet is then determined to be
or clogged with vegetation, the submergence satisfactory. Then the ncw Hb reading is
would increase to greater than 70 percent and O. 90 ( I. 5 8) = 1.4 2 feet. The new tailwater
the downstream portion of the flume with an surface is set 1.42 feet above the crcst elevation
Hb measuring well would be needed to or 100.38 + 1.42 = 1 O 1.80. The flume is now
determine the discharge for su bmerged flow. set for 90 percent submergence and will
5-7. Design Examp/e with Submerged-flow measure 40 cfs with an Ha reading of 1.58 fcet
Discharge. -If possible Parshall flumes should and an Hb reading of 1.42 feet. The actual
Submergcd-llow Submcrgcd-llow
Ha, Throat width, Frce-flow discharge, correct io n ( correction * dischargc,
feet feet cfs times multiplying cfs
factor M)
Ha
5
l1..025 = 84 percent. Find 84 percen t
a.
PLAN
IM-- - tl--B----
Water surfoce
FLOW
Slope
PROFILE
FREE-FLOW CAPACITY
w A JA B e o E F G M N p R IIIINIIIIUIII IIIAXIIIIUIII
F"T. IN. FT. IN. Ff. IN. FT. IN. FT. IN. n IN. FT. IN. r t. IN. FT. IN. FT. IN. FT. IN. FT. IN. Ff. IN. CFS CFS
/ ,.._ - --
,,::,../ V
/ / / /
V
../, "/' V /v _,//.,
f / ->: V,, / V V / /1,,r
e, c->v,., / / ,. , // //
/v -:
#"';',ff;
"/_., / / V/ .,// V
a,., v,., / /
V ,.. vv / V /
-: V/ V v,, / ., .....+ / / V / /
,,,,., ,, /
V IVV 1//,,r t, V V / / / /
V/
V V/ V/ ,o /., / V / V/ k(., / / V V
/ /
1/ vv _,v / /
/V/ /
.,,V/,., / / / /
" /
V // / ., V /
/ / ,: / / / / /
V / IV,/ / /,,r ., V / V 1/ / / /
V
., '1-
/ / --
1/ / VI/ /// V / ?/ /// // V /
V / /
V / /1/ // V _,v // ., V // V /
/ / /
,, --- -- -- .
"v l7
\
'l- V //V V/v V /
l'.'." V V
V V ,., ,,-v/ v., vv
V
V
V/
V
V
.r :
/
/ V IV V/
/ vi_., V V/ V
.,,,_,/ V/ / V // vv V V V
V V V V /o".Y V/ / ., / V/ /V / 1/-- /
1/ V V
/h Vob Vv / // V/ / / V
/v-
V IV 1,-?'"// r:,'> V _,v V// V/ V
/ V
/ I/ , / V//,, a / V// V V V k:'.'." _
V Vv ,/V/,, a"' V/ V -: V
v./ :,,-v V/, / ., / V
V/ V/ rv ., V/ V
V / V
V/ V v., V 1/ / -:
r.> V V -: /
e> [7 --.,.. / /
V V /
1/ /
V
60
3
62
1
1 ': (/ --,- --ll1 -+./-++---+--,t--
- ---+- ,. ,. -;-----,---,I.,. .-,_-_,_-_t"-
"" --Y_-. .,.r_- r:
j --- 7
64
66
68
; 1 / /
>-r+-++--ll--++++_-:
+ ::;;:=:::+, -
+_-,_--:_r_-:-+---t-+--+-----
-
, t--H/-+-+--+--t-t-----t-----t-
/-+-+-+;--;,tV-----r70
70 1 1
w
76
78
74
==:=:=:=:=::: ::1., ..r/--+---+---+,+ T t / /- - f / o/._.o/':.:=:=:=:=::
o::
w 80 /1 I / / /
'?--;;
f -reo
!/ // I / / ,{,
11 _ - , 11 --+-y+-+--,--+--+-;---+---,v,'l--t---t-/-,_...Y
::.CD 82
/ 1 / 1 i / / / 1 / ,'Y/
11
1 /
::, 1 1
<f>
u.
84
1+-1+--+.,1-+--t+-,.,.,1-,---,..,/---,f-----\l r: ',?! } ' ,i J':"/ --:. - o-+--+-+--t--,---,--t--t-----1
o - "'
>---
z
86
/! / / 17 : V / / //
/
/
w 'I I l 1 / ! 1 : / / // V V
88
!/
o::
J
o, 90 f-+-ll-+-+-+++-+--+-++--+-++-+++--+-+-+--,--,t.1--t--.;<---+-+.<-+--+---,f.--+--+-,.<+-+--+90r--t-r-+--+--+--+--+--+-+--+-----t
92
I !/ / V / /V // //
j / / !
1/'? IV yV vv
94 1-Ht-++++--ft--+f-t---t---+t----+++-+--t----lf,'---1--t+.---t-,'+--+-,,+--+--+-+--+ -
11 / / y -- - -- .---r-.--r-.---+--+---,---+-----t---,
/1 / !VII Jv 1
1
/V Yv,,vv 1/iY j
960'-'-'-'---'---:co
2,---'-04. ._ou s_._ .L.1..-
o'-'----'-.'2'--'----"_-...J...LL
s-'----,8----'-2o-'------_'-...J..._2_4-1...._26----'--2-....LL
o-'-----3L2--'--3-..1...._--'-----3L8_J_ J_0
DISCHARGE, CFS
W=6 INCHES
Figure 5-9. Diagram for determining rate of submerged flow in a 6-inch ParshaU flume. 103-0-1227
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 251
UPSTREAM HEAD Ha, FEET
..,
60 "'
-
1 I 1 I ' I I
62
I I I I
64 I
1 1 1 I
66
I 1 I
68
70
72
I
1
I
I 1
1
1
!/
"r
y
4.
- 70 --
I I / /
W 74
(.)
z1s
I ' I I
I I J 1 el?J
w 1 I / $/
78 <-
I I ,t;-
/ /
w 1 / /
::=; 60
' 1
80
al I I /
I / /
s:
62
' :,,
I I / / I V /
I 1/ .:/
84
-: (\/
<(
f--
I I / /
J / 1
V I
/ '/ /
V V
z 88
V V V
w
(.)
I / '/ V
V /
5 90 I / IV V
I'
J /
I
I
/
vv /
vvv
90
a..
/ / / vv
92 / / V
/ V V /
94
/ ),V // / vv V /
I 1/ / / '/ /
I V / V V
J
I /
/ ; J
V /
/
/
V e/V
1/ /
/V
vv V
//
/
V
/
0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5 6.0
DISCHARGE, SECONDFEET
Figure 5-1 O. Diagram for determining rate of submerged flow in a 9-inch Parshall flume. 103-D l 228
-- - -- - - - --
2.5
,_
,_
-
2.0 (, - - - - -- ,_ / - ,_ - - /
c,,::o
<:,,..-
- - - --- -- ......
--
.,, ./ V
'!"" . . .
.......
- ...... - - - /
.,, /
-
1.5
...... ...... V V
- ,_ .,, V .,, ./ 1./ ./ .,,
.,,
,# . . . .,, .,,
.;'
V
V
.,, .,,.. / ....... ...... V
w ,V -
.,,.. / ./
/
... .,,
l '?-C, 1/ / .;' V .r
- / / / V : V ./
/ V / / ./ V ./
1.0
.r v SIZE OF FLUME MULTIPLYING
1
a ./ /
0.9
.,, V.,, ...., V./ /
w
1/// ,.v / / / V/ vv 2 1.8
0.B
I
1
/ // / V/ / /
/
/ -: / /V / V 3 2.4
.
]! 0.7
/ // / / // 1/
/
/ .... / /V ,V
.... V -: -
4
5
3. 1
3.7
--+
w 6 4.3--
a:
>-
V)
0.6
/ / 1'/ / V V /V / V V/
/ -: .: .,,,V
V 8
7 5.4
4.9
0.5 ,
V V/ /V V V / / '/ /
Q.
/
::,
11 / /
NOTE, Correction is used directly fer
0.4 / / / / / 1-foot flumes. For ror qer srz e s the
Figure 5-11. Diagram for determining correction to be substracted from free-Oow discharge to obtain rate of submerged-tlow
discharge through Parshall Oumes, l through 8 feet wide. 103-01229
252 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
Table 5-1.-Frec-.flow discharge through 6-inch Parshall measuring [lumc in cubic [eet per second.
Compu ted [rom the formula Q = 2.06 Ha 1 .ss. l 03-0-1230
1 1
[]
u []
[]
PLAN
PRO FILE
Figure 5-12. Modified Parshall flume. 103-0-1233
260 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
D. STILLING WELLS
Diameter of inlet
5-11. Description. -Stilling wells are used in Diameter of cortduit, 20 to
combination with Parshall flumes, figure 5-2; Float well dimensions inlet port , 30 feet long,
weirs, figure 5-3; and constan t head orifices, inches in ches
figure 3-24, to permit more accurate reading of 12-inch diameter 1/2 1/2
gages. They provide a water surface essentially 16-inch diameter 1/2 3/4
20-inch diameter 5/8 3/4
free from surface fluctuations. 24-inch diameter 3/4 1
Stilling wells are connected to the measuring 30-inch diarneter 1 1-1/2
structures by small pipes and provide a place 36-inch diameter 1-1/4 2
3 feet by 3 fce t
far the installation of staff gages, hook gages, square 1-1/4 2
float gage recorders or any other type of device 3 feet by 4 feet
suitable far measuring water surface levels. The rectangular 1-1/2 3
4 feet by 5 fcc:
water surface in the stilling well is essentially rectangular 2 4
the same elevation as in the measuring
structure at the pressure taps. Stilling wells can be constructed
5-12. Design Criteria. -Gages far Parshall monolithically with a measuring structure or
flumes and weirs should be set so they show placed adjacen t to it. In either case, since the
the depth of the water above the crest and not primary purpose of the stilling well is to
above the pressure openings. provide a smooth water surface, the structure
must be well anchored to prevent movements
By restricting the area of inlet port to
that would otherwise cause undesirable water
approximately
10 0
[ 1] of the inside surface fluctuations.
Intake pipes to stilling wells should be
horizontal cross-sectional area of the well,
cleaned occasionally either by hand or by sorne
water surface in the measuring structure is
type of flushing system. Sediment or other
effectively dampened. The inlet area of the
foreign material lodged in the pipe could cause
conduit should be increased if the stilling well
improper water levels to be transmitted to the
is offset from the channel by more than 20 to
stilling wel!. However, permanent flushing
30 feet.
systems usually are not warranted except
Sorne dimensions [ 1 J for stilling wells and
where the water normally carries a significant
their inlet pipe diameters are given in the
suspended sediment load.
following tabulation:
E. WEIRS
5-13. Purpose and Description. -Weirs are sho wn in figure 5-13.
overflow structures built across open channels Weirs also may be designated as suppressed
to measure the rate of flow of water. They or contracted. depending on whether or not the
have been used for many years and offer a sides of the weir are coincident with the sides
simple, reliable method far water measurement of the approach channel. If the sides of a
if they are built correctly and maintained rectangular weir are coincident with the sides
properly. Weirs discussed herein are those that of the approach channel and extend
will measure flows from about 1 to 100 cfs. downstream from the weir, the sheet of water
5-14. Types of Weirs.-Weirs are identifed (nappe) leaving the weir crest <loes not contract
by the shape of their openings. These openings late rally, thus the end con tractions are
can be either sharp-crested or broad-crested. suppressed and weir is called a suppressed weir
Those most frequently used far water (fig. 5-14). However, if the sides and crest of a
measurement and discussed herein are rectangular, trapezoidal, or V-notch weir are
sharp-crested rectangular, trapezoidal or far enough away from the sides and bottom of
Cipolletti, and triangular or 90 V-notch weirs the approach channel, the nappe will fully
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 261
---S,des-
+
1
Cr es t
i
A
- -
flo.,,
we,r blade
1-:.-,
- '
-.,,,
..
-
Ji
o
SECTION A-A
- , ,- -/:;-,w.. _
_::,,\.:
contract laterally at the ends and vertically at surface downstream of the weir is low enough
the crest of the weir. When these conditions to allow air to circulate between the weir and
occur, the weir is called a contracted weir. In the underside of the nappe. In a suppressed
this case water flows slowly and uniformly in weir the sides of the structure prevent the air
its lateral approach to the weir ends. As the from circulating under the nappe so the
water nears the weir it accelerates and turns to underside of the nappe has to be vented.
pass through the opening. When the water Submerged-flow conditions exist when the
tums, the streamlines contract and the water water surface downstream of the weir rises
springs free (fig. 5-15) from the weir ends to above the weir crest. Weirs should be designed
form a jet narrower than the weir opening [ 1] . to discharge freely rather than submerged
Similarly, streamlines from the bottom spring because of greater measurement accuracy,
free from the crest. A contracted Cipolletti although a slight submergence <loes not
weir is shown in figure 5-16. appreciably affect the discharge as much as the
lf the weirs and weir pools are built to lack of ventilation under the nappe. The
specified shapes and definite dimensions as underside of the nappe on a free-flow weir
shown in figures 5-17 and 5-18, standard should be properly vented so the nappe springs
conditions exist and the weirs are classified as free from the weir crest and full contraction
standard weirs. Standard type weirs used by occurs.
Reclamation are standard contracted and 5-16. Application.-Weirs can be used,
standard suppressed rectangular weirs, standard where adequate head is available, as inline
Cipolletti weirs, and 90 V-notch weirs. measuring structures as shown in figures 5-1 7
5-15. Types of Flow. -All weirs may be and 5-18, or in combination with division
classified as free flow or submerged flow. structures and turnouts as shown in figures
Free-flow conditions exist when the water 5-19 and 5-26, respectively.
262 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
Air vent
.
SECTION A-A
......... .
/
..,., ..
1 --
-'.... ._.,
r: ..' ... )1 .:"
. .:,.-
,(1'
r-"
-w
<1
A
l-4 o
<,!
t-- _j
S ECTION A-A
------.---
\
?"''
a.
' -- .
T/11S d1mens1on ,s:.. m r,,M"'"'D-0". '-
-re _
tables 5-4. 55 ooa s.s
scoocereoa. "w'os"h"'e, .
r - r . -..::.1
PLAN , ..
Reinf not sllo;,r:
'
.r - Dan- [! we rcrtst
-- ---!
e-e
1
-"IW'i ' . 1 [/ 1
SECTION
,ro
\1($Pl=,, "l-ew,.,',-,'e! : ; e ::;:,.,
r
- ,:Mm - ;Jr:x;:,en:;tnl5htm,n;
,::. "'
!!; , 114(,i, Jil troosvecse oars conrmooos
7 5',1Pf " .vol! :nl.'1 f100 tJe"' !on91t /JO'S ,ntv curorrs
SECTION AA
1 . .
i
1
I J_
:
1
?Gaoetc w,, - -------- 1
SECTION 8-8
,,.. .,
ANCHOR 80LT ANO WEIR 8LADE
18
G
"
-,r jr
A . ,
DATA
s e
2
2or z._s; ,1-r ,,o,rr
,". ' ur i-Jj" -r '";f
s-o" ,", z-,, l- .f 14
'@'" ,, ,e;-
6r ,._,.r :,.!." l(i!/4 u/{ 10{'
NOTES
MOH'l:urr a1!owotlt' drJO ,,1 "''"r s rr to-r. t: : J::,, reet
Mmrmum aroo ,s eaoor to neaa. " or, r,1p "'e" rw t1e"
a.scnor qe
O,rrens,on H' oroaaes I?- freeboorr, for 'he foflo,,,,nq uSSumt!a
&;7/o;::.o;.1&1A, O. f5&t5A.1,. ?&ZA,10.
01mens1on H oro-oes tor 12" freeooorc for e mo. , m(hPS "
tne 11e,r Ofode ana B 1nchr:; un tne strocnre
_-,
_
'T -- 9 1
, 1
;} 'i .
- l l..,.... e .. j ,._ L.,
- .. _.,--- ..,...- !.!!!.!. ,_. ;....--........ 12 Go stef- \ --- _
!" -
_i
AL.
1
( t.
J
I
fh1s d1mens1of'I ,s l ,n
5-4. 5-5.
j
I
_
1
L(!) . _.. ,:o
. rootes ond 5-6 .
,,-:. - "i-
--
_j
l l
: i ---------- ----'--- :,,-- ((;- Hotts, csk far s.oe
r.vers. Or,ve r,vets cota
f l1N coorea
'Jf!C c.:v
--A-1-._.. ._.l.......__......_
1 i
E'Jrth trons1t1on
SECT/ON e-e
- 5d1 Mm Prorect ioo
SECTION A-A
--- -.. 8
SECTION B-B
WEIR DETAILS
J.00'
ANCHOR BOLT ANO WEIR BLADE DATA NOTES
YQmnum onovoote aroo 1n otee surfoce. F. 15 JO teer for
a,sr11oroes up to ro cfs. nnd 15 fept for t11schnr9es
qceoter rhar1 10 crs
t.1m1mum drop m wof;,r wr toce. F.; f!Q1JC' to tne eoa, ,i. 0,1
fhe we1r for aestqn d,5:horgt-
We1r blode ' be qolon,,ed by file flO+ o.o m ocew otrr
tatmconoo
!._ 50'
.1.s_a_ _,.so
.. so 1 so
-, sf , so:
Figure 5-18. Cipolletti weir structures-5 feet to 16 feet. 1030-1238
266 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
(3) Can be used in cornbination with
tumouts.
( 4) Can be used in division structures.
(5) Can be both rnovable (portable) and
adjustable.
Sorne disadvantages of weirs are:
( l) lrnpose a greater head loss in the canal
system than other water measurement
structures.
(2) Weir pools must be cleaned of sediment
periodically and kept free of weeds and trash.
( 3) Can be easily altered to obtain
unallocated water.
( 4) Sorne leakage occurs around movable
weirs.
5 -1 9. Re q ulrem enrs for Accurate
Measurement. -To obtain the highest degree of
measurement accuracy, standard weir
Figure 5-19. Division structure with adjustable
structures must be accurately constructed and weirs. Operator is measuring depth of water on
properly maintained. The necessary weir crest. P222-116-52034
requirements for weir blade, nappe, approach
channel-weir relationship and gage location are: (b) Nappe.-The nappe requirements are:
(a) Weir Blade. -The weir blade should be (1) Air should circulate freely under the
designed and installed as follows: nappe. In suppressed weirs the underside of
( l) The upstream face of the bulkhead the nappe should be vented from both sides.
and weir blade must be vertical. An increase in discharge as much as 25
(2) The crest of the weir blade should be percent may occur if the nappe is not
level and have a sharp right angle comer on properly vented [2].
the upstream side. (2) The nappe should only touch the
(3) The sides of a rectangular contracted upstream side of the crest and sides of the
weir blade should be vertical, have a sharp weir blade.
right angle comer on the upstream side and (c) Approach Channel-to-weir
form a right angle at the junction with the Relationship.-The following design criteria
crest. have been developed from extensive tests and
( 4) The sides of a Cipolletti weir blade prolonged use of standard weirs:
should be on l to 4 slope, and have sharp ( 1) The approach channel or weir pool
right angle comers on the upstream side. should be designed so that the velocity of
(5) The sides of a 90 V-notch weir blade approach in the weir pool is about 0.5 foot
should have a sharp right angle comer on the per second. It should extend upstream from
upstream side. the weir a distance of 15 to 20 times the
( 6) The downstream edge of the crest and head on the weir. lf for sorne reason the
sides of a movable weir blade should be weir pool cannot be designed to meet this
chamfered at a 45 angle or more (crest velocity requirement, then a discharge
should be about one-eighth inch thick); correction coefficient must be applied. The
however, knife edges on all weirs should be second edition of the Bureau of Reclamation
avoided because they are difficult to "Water Measurement Manual" [ 1] contains
maintain. a table for determining the discharge
(7) Weir blades must be kept free of rust correction for various heads and approach
and nicks. Any form of roughness will cause velocities.
the weir to discharge more water than (2) The distance between the weir crest
indicated in the standard tables. and the invert of the approach channel or
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 267
A,-
y
---=-r
---Pror1de o hondwl!et-1 rote
ltff Set! F,gure 5-21
Corer piafe
!:
l
<l>il,, 1I'
' '-....tvo 12 909e
golr piafe
ti] t
1:::
1
i: c r: ---- -4------
1--- -- - - 1--------
111 1
BLADE DETAILS
1: 1
Cot1crete so-roce
! _ ,,, contoct wah
cor shofl be
-+------+-<-- .._ smooth ond
stro1qhf _
el,..
WE IR ASSEMBL Y
SECTJDN e-e
SECTION AA
_.,.__. ....,.,;e; ......
i-o e'-
, ... 5'-tl
l,rr,11u bar
L i-2 i-10
... O o J
o- ,o 1
.,
-f i__;--
J'-5 ,-a
s- - 2"
.. - 4':!_l_
1_:J[_ -- ' -:{
o'-s ' O
- e-o:
i-o FRAME DETAILS
ToCI< weld gu,de IJors. filler oars ona
JiJ"s( ongles tooemer
Smoalh coslmg
Same COVER PL A TE
u sed far is" ond 21"
dio handwheels
Cover piole
ASSEMBLY
COVER PLATE
CAST /RON
..
Smoalh castmq
':l
!"{j ,, ,
Rough bronre nut casi 1
CAST !RON
NOTE
Copoctt y based on o hondwheel
pul/ af 20 pounds.
{PI
4'-3" ---
F
-,.
1
"'
" "'
f'I i
..
2J
.r rto'es, pt onae 12- FA .r =ccr
ootts wtfh hex nvts
,, !
"'
WEIR
STC.EL
ONE REQUIRCD
e-o:
,; 3"- r '- 5 Spc- @ 6'-2' 5"
FRAME
STEEL L'l> , !: j L "' 1
fFc'es Rar 1f x .
Prov-ae 2lr2 n ccn ,,..Prorde 1" Hondwheel gote !tft FILLER
to'-s w!'l nes rsts . / See Frgure 5-21
rwo
= f?EOUIRED
=r-c:>
.,' --
.- - -- - tL".;) ---
o
1-L--,
-
I rWP:r ,,..est n -o.seo pos t.or- fHoies .9or2,(f
, n m se set ot or stetvtv
, \ a!Ja>'e orrnot water
surfoce e,e.,orron GUIDE
FOUR Rf:OUIRED
------ ,,..--,
- 1-'tf -1
i
12"- ...-3"1 ,"
-.---===========[_; -fi
35pc@6'\,'5"
,fHoles,., 2,4-545
A
y .' GUIDE
r-,:,- -
WOOD
r1NQ flEQUIRED
,:,-i',-
( -y;,-
0..ffiMNljfflM
t" 5,,g,e :icme 1/': reods_./'
4 pu ,riel'
: dif-1r
\1'Dn/1,pnmde {xif'
mocti /Jolf wdh he.r nur
\Aoo111onol nmoer s11/ to be A SSEMBL Y
otoceo :mder werr otoae STEM
assPmD/y, when reovoeo
ONC RC DUIRED
'1
o- ;::;.-+-
-- :mt' .111q1e
O - 1-DJ tt.
c JJ
1
1
[
r [hamfer
s1de; ooa ;{Hales- 1
r t 1r=-1 1
'J!I
crest of
we,r alote r ,. \ *' _ 1 <
I J _7 J_
2"x 2{ or
stop
croe-
D'CiJt e"
qrOCL1
, J,r-- , ,oc
0 -- J,rL s ec. e-e
2tl2-545 SILL
SEC 8-8
SECTION A-A
1
::; ;r -- 9
'---- We,r cresr in ro,sed
pos1r1on is to be set
ar or sl,ghlty obore
normal water wrroce
tft'IOflOfl
{PI
-2 / Too of
.: wocd q/Jtdes
- ----s-,;
fHoles, oronoe 24-fd{
macmne bolts - ------
_j
J_ /,' A.SSE;,,BLY' /,/.
Add1t1onol limbu sil/ to
be placed undtr we,r
/ ////,
Wooa 51/1
,-a
r: ; Or,11, pro,11dt 6-. f' t r
-.,.- mql),n bO!!_S wlfh flt6 nvrs
,,:_.,p.,r,,--'r ,,-
I I L .. itl..-
-----4'-111
- 4.5- ::=r:--_-:-:-J
2\ 2r Or 'urger Gus5et
stoo uionk. qroo1e
2"P1onksS4S SILL SEC. 8-9
wOOD
ON[ R[Ol)IR[D
SECTION AA
. - _
\...rThtCk rmg frl
1
8or2,,, LJ,21; '-Wl!'1r creer
: l
11
on Sldl!'S FLOW
oca cresr
of we1r plote
-
iPI
{PI
l
1
!
--...-+---t'1\-r -+- '
SECTION e-e SEC. 0-0
\\ ,il.-
WEIR
srcn
OIV[ R[OUIR[O
:.,- [
[
S1n9!1 A L
S
eme H
A
fflr1ods F
4 T
o I
N
e G
r O
m N
c [
n R
[
O
U
I
r ---;:;- --.
R
E
O
S
T
-
----a - . E
M
:i111 1 1 111 1 11111:11 :m11M: S
f
9le
cr .Cold Frnrsh
s-1s Oressed o 4 s.aes
G
rwo R[OVIR(D U
I
O
E
S
T
C
(
t
.
F
O
V
R
R
[
Q
U
I
R
E
O
L
E
G
F
.
N
O
!
,
,
.
.
O
,
a
m
t
'
f
e
r
o
f
s
r
e
e
t
s
t
e
m
F
'
I
P
.
'
o
t
e
"
o
c
-
S
P
O
C
l
'
.
m
o
c
n
m
o
c
h
i
n
e
h
t
,
h
e
x
a
g
o
n
L
.
l
a
1
Figure 5-23. Three-foot movable weir. 103-0-1242
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 271
I ,.= .....,.,. _
r:
---
1 (
1 1
1 1
1 1
I J
Bottom of we qoge
hMeasured
heod on we,r
NOTES
!
r--- W1th we
in ful/y towered postt ion set tero of we,r goqe
beto crest of weir o dtstonce equot to A
L.J h For ony position af weir crest equots wetr qaqe reodinq
Pla,n concrete minus stem projec t ion above hondwheel hub
anchor
J Leo,o
SECTION A-A
I :1
;f u-Bott . Round oend.
Golvonized 2-Required
SECTION IJ-8
Not to scote
..
3 ----------- ---1-
+----
9<!) -
-
2Q- NOTES
Gages to be mooe of No. 18 qoqe (U S stondor a t mnd steet piafe
and to be coverea w,th vitreous enomet wifh o mm,mum
ttnckness of 12 mds on numeral side and J mtls on tbe
srde and on
9-=
= reverse
ovncbed or ortttea.
eoqes tiere piafe has been cut,
-=
t---'--t---t--T'r-J- sbown.
In cose a qreater lengfh fhon 4'-0" is reootred tne aeros
snon be similor to oe+oits shown for shorter tengths.
t. -$ -
-
B, -
9 o
'
1
gtocr .-
'e
-'">
-
6-
- 'e
:'-
Ll 1
--
1
3
1
,! 1 1
...
2 -
'
1
=- ti I
1
-=- 11 ' :
fo- ;; i i
? ' H
, ..
e_ --t-
- J J - -- . i
_i_
J.1" l.
I i'' ,
-, ,,"
e 2
2j"- -l
weir pool should be at least twice the head clings to the crest of other weirs. The mnimum
on the weir and never less than 1 foot for all head on a V-notch weir should be 0.2 foot.
weirs. The distance between the corners of 5-21. Design Example of Selecting and
the weir crest and the sides of the approach Setting a Weir. -(a) Requirements. -Select and
channel should also be at least twice the set a Cipolletti weir structure to rneasure a
rnaximurn flow of 40 cfs. The weir structure is
head on the weir and never less than 1 foot
to be constructed in a trapezoidal earth canal
for all standard contracted weirs.
which has the following hydraulic properties:
(d) Head on Weir. =The head on the weir is
Q = 40 cfs; bottom width = 6.0 feet; side slopes
the difference in elevation between the weir
1-1/2 to 1; normal water depth upstream (d1)
crest and the water surface upstream. The head
and downstream (d2) of weir = 2.0
is measured by:
feet; velocity = 2.22 feet per second; and canal
( 1) Either a staff gage in the weir pool or bank freeboard = 1.5 feet. Assume a 3-foot drop
a gage in a measuring well located upstream (F)
of the weir a distance of four times the between upstream and downstream normal
maximum head on the weir. water surf aces has been provided in the canal
pro file.
5-20. Head-discharge
(b) Weir Selection. -The table of weir
Relationship. -(a) Rectangular and Cipollet ti structures in figure 5-18 gives sorne standard
Weirs. - The discharge in cubic feet per second weir lengths with their corresponding
of these standard weirs depends on the crest rnaximum discharges, Q rnax., and mnimum
length and the head on the weir. Knowing the and maximum drops, F, between upstream and
weir length and head on the weir, the free-flow downstream water surfaces. Select the
discharge can be read directly from tables 5-4, structure having the least weir length for a
5-5, and 5-6. design discharge of 40 cfs and F = 3.0 feet.
The mnimum head on standard rectangular Structure No. 6A (from table on fig. 5-18), has
and Cipolletti weirs is O. 2 foot. A t heads less a crest length, W, of 6 feet which rneets ths
than 0.2 foot the nappe does not spring free of criteria. The maxmum design capacity of this
the crest and measurement error results. structure is 57 cfs and a maximum allowable F
The maximum head on standard rectangular = 3 feet. Table 5-5 shows that for a 6-foot weir
and Cipolletti weirs is one-third of the crest and a discharge of 40.1 cfs, the head, h, equals
length. For the weir structure shown in figure 1.58 feet.
5-18, the maximum head (h max.) on the weir (e) Weir Setting. -Set the weir pool invert so
should not exceed the values given in the table that elevation B shown in figure 5-18 is 3h
because in unlined canals excessive channel below the upstream normal water surface
erosion may occur immediately downstream of (NWS) elevation. Assume the upstream canal
the structure. lf this structure is used in a hard invert elevation is 100.00 feet. Then
surface lined canal where erosion is not a El. B = Canal invert elevation + d, - 3h
problem, the head on the weir can be one-third El. B = l 00.00 + 2.00 - 3( 1.58)
the crest length and the discharge computed = 97.26 feet
from the appropriate weir formula. Since 2h = 3 .16 feet is greater than the 12-inch
(b) V-notch Weirs. -The discharge in cubic
rninimum, El. B is satisfactory. The elevation
feet per second of a standard 90 V-notch weir
of the top of weir wall (El. T) is gven by the
is determined only by the head on the bottom
following equation:
of the V-notch. Table 5-7 gives the discharges
for various heads. Toe V-notch weirs are
usually limited to flows of l O cfs or less. More
2
El. T = El. B + 2h - / + G
2
Cipolletti weirs but for flows up to l cfs they El. T = 103.42 feet
are generally more accurate. The reason for this
is that the nappe springs free from the V-shaped
section even for small heads, whereas the nappe
In the above calculation, 252 is the weir blade
274 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
projection in feet above the concrete sill and G example is 4.74 feet. Using the general rule, the
is the concrete depth of the weir notch given in cutoff should extend 2.5 feet below the invert.
the Anchor Bolt and Weir Blade Data table Toen in. shown in figure 5-18 is:
shown in figure 5-18.
Next calculate the elevation of the weir floor in. = 2.5 - (El.B - El.K)
(El. K). K,,,in. = 2.5 - (96.26 - 96.50)
El. K = NWS El. (upstm.) - F - d2 - 0.5 (rnin.) K,,,in. = 2.5 - 0.76
El. K = 102.00 - 3.00 - 2.00 - O.SO K,,,in. = l. 74 feet
El. K = 96.50 feet
Water depth at the downstream cutoff is 2.5
In all cases El. K should be at or below El. B. feet and using the general rule, emin. is 24
The height of the weir wall, H, is: inches. Use 24 inches for both in. and
emin. . Additional cutoff lengths may be
H = El. T - El. K required depending on the percolation factor as
H = 103.42 - 96.50 discussed in detail in section 8-1 O. Lane's
H = 6.92 feet weighted creep length in this example is:
The height of the sloping sidewall, H', is: Weighted creep length
+ structure freeboard 6 6
+ (in. - ) + (emin. -
f2
As the weir structure freeboard is 1 foot, then + (emin. - protection thickness)
11 6
= (97.26 - 96.50) + 2.00 +
H' =O.SO+ 2.00 + 1.00 = 3.50 feet 3 + (2 - 12)
The length, L, of the weir structure should be + ( 2 - i62) + ( 2 - 1)
long enough to contain the plunging nappe and = 10.43 feet
to provide a pool for stilling the water before it
passes downstream into the canal. The length is Next determine the maximum difference in
computed by the following emprica! formula: water surface (L'i WS) between the upstream
and downstream ends of the structure:
L = 3h + 2F
L = 3(1.58) + 2(3.0) = 10.74 feet ( 1) For design discharge, L', WS = 3.0
feet
Therefore, the structure can be made 11 feet (2) For upstream water ponded to weir
long. crest and downstream water at canal
Cutoff walls are added to provide additional invert
percolation path to prevent pipmg of L', WS = Crest elevation-
foundation materials from under the structure, Downstream canal
to protect the structure from being invert elevation
undermined if channel erosion occurs, and to = (El. B+2h) - (El. K+0.50)
provide structure stabili ty to resist overturning = 100.42 - 97.00 = 3.42 feet
and sliding. As a general rule cu toff walls
should extend below the canal invert as shown Compute weighted creep ratio (percolation
for the following water depths at the cu toff: factor) for L', WS = 3.42 feet,
10.43 I
P erco 1 at i. on factor= .4 = 3.
Water depth , Cutoff depth, Cutoff thickness,
feet feet in ches 3 2
0-3
> 2.0
3-6 6 2.5
3.0 colation factor calculated is greater
6
A
ss
u
m
e
th
e
re
q
ui
re
d
p
er
c
ol
at
io
n
fa
ct
or
fo
r
th
e
8
8
fo
u
n
d
at
io
n
m
at
er
ia
l
fo
r
th
is
st
ru
ct
ur
e
is
2.
5.
T
h
e
p
e
r
The upstream water depth (3h) adjacent to than 2.5 and therefore the cutoffs are adequate
the upstream face of the structure for this in length.
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 275
Table 54.-Discharge of standard contracted rectangular weirs in cubic feet per second. Vaiues he/ow
and to the left of heavy line determined experimcntally; others computed
Table 5-4.-Discharge of standard contracted rectangular weirs in cubic feet per second.
Computed from the formula Q = 3.33 (L-0. 2h)h3 12_-continued. 103-D-1245-5
h,
feet 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0
0.20 0.30 0.60 0.90 1.20 1.51 1.81 2.11
.21 .32 .65 .97 1.30 l.62 1.94 2.27
.22 .35 .70 1.04 1.39 1.74 2.08 2.43
.23 .37 .74 1.11 l.48 l.86 2.23 2.60
.24 .40 .19 1.19 l.58 1.98 2.38 2.77
.25 .42 .84 1.26 l.68 2.10 2.53 2.95
.26 .45 .89 1.34 1.78 2.23 2.68 3.12
.27 .47 .94 1.42 l.89 2.36 2.83 3.31
.28 .50 l.00 1.50 2.00 2.49 2.99 3.49
.29 .53 1.05 1.58 2.10 2.63 3.15 3.68
.30 .55 l.11 1.66 2.21 2.77 3.32 3.87
.31 .58 1.16 1.74 2.32 2.90 3.49 4.07
.32 .61 1.22 1.83 2.44 3.05 3.66 4.27
.33 .64 1.28 I.92 2.55 3.19 3.83 4.47
.34 i>.7 1.34 2.00 2.67 3.34 4.00 4.67
.35 .70 1.39 2.09 2.79 3.49 4.18 4.88
.36 .73 1.45 2.18 2.91 3.64 4.36 S.09
. 37 .76 1.52 2.27 3.03 3.79 4.55 5.30
.38 .79 1.58 2.37 3.16 3.94 4.73 5.52
.39 .82 1.64 2.46 3.28 4.10 4.92 1 5.74
.40 .85 l.70 2.56 3.41 4.26 5.11 5.96
.41 .88 1.77 2.65 3.54 4.42 5.30 6.19
.42 .92 l.83 2.75 3.66 4.58 S.50 6.41
.43 .95 1.90 2.85 3.80 4.75 5.70 6.65
.44 .98 l.96 2.95 3.93 4.91 5.90 6.88
.45 l.02 2.03 3.05 4.06 5.08 6.10 7.11
.46 1.05 2.10 3.15 4.20 5.25 6.30 7.35
.47 1.08 2.17 3.25 4.34 5.42 6.51 7.59
.48 1.12 2.24 3.36 4.48 5.60 6.72 7.84
.49 1.16 2.31 3.46 4.62 5.77 6.93 8.08
.50 l.20 2.38 3.57 4.76 5.95 7.14 8.33
.51 2.45 3.68 4.90 6.13 7.36 8.58
.52 2.52 3.79 5.05 6.31 7.57 8.84
.53 2.60 3.90 5.20 6.50 7.79 9.09
.54 2.67 4.01 S.34 6.68 8.02 9.35
.55 2.75 4.12 5.49 6.87 8.24 9.61
.56 2.82 4.23 5.64 7.05 8.47 9.88
.57 2.90 4.35 5.80 7.24 8.69 10.l
.58 2.97 4.46 5.95 7.44 8.92
.59 10.4
3.05 4.58 6.10 7.63 9.15 10. 7
.60 3.13 4.69 6.26 7.82 9.39 11.0
.61 3.21 4.81 6.42 8.02 9.62 ] 1.2
.62 3.29 4.93 6.57 8.22 9.86 11.5
.63 3.37 5.05 6.73 8.42 10.] 11.8
.64 3.45 5.17 6.90 8.62 10.3 12.1
.65 3.53 5.29 7.06 8.82 10.6 12.4
.66 3.61 5.42 7.22 9.03 10.8 12.6
.67 3.69 5.54 7.38 9.23 11.1 12.9
.68 T.t 5.66 7.55 9.44 11.3 13.2
.69 3.90 5.79 7.72 9.65 11.6 13.5
.70 3.98 5.92 7.89 9.86 11.8 13.8
282 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
Table 5-5 =Discharge of standard Cipolletti weirs in cubic feet per second. Values below and to
the /eft of heavy fines determined experimental/y; others computed [rom the
formula Q = 3.367 Lh312. -Continued. l 03-D-1246-2
Head Length of weir, L, feet Head Length of weir, L, feet Head Length of weir, L, feet
h, h, h,
feet 15.0 16.0 feet 15.0 16.0 feet 15.0 16.0
F. WEIR BOXES
5-22. Purpose and Description. -Weir boxes standard discharge equation for rectangular
are small structures used in combination with weirs is not applicable to weir boxes. The
pipe turnouts (fig. 5-26) to dissipate excess discharges for various heads are given on the
energy and measure rate of flow of water to design drawings. These discharges were
laterals or farm turnouts. Three-foot weir determined from full-scale model studies
boxes developed by Reclamation have been conducted in Reclamation's Hydraulic
successfully used for a number of years. They Laboratory in Denver, CO. [ 4] [ 5).
are equipped with 3-foot suppressed (b) Head Losses. -The inlet loss to the pipe
rectangular weirs and are capable of measuring is O. 5 of the velocity head in the pipe with the
flows up to 5 cfs with effective heads up to 6 slide gate fully opened. The pipe loss is
feet on the control gate. These structures are controlled by the pipe diameter, length of pipe,
economical to build, easy to operate and have and discharge. Normally the pipe should be
proven to be an accurate and reliable method sized so that the water velocity in the full pipe
of measuring small flows. Recently a 4-foot at the entrance to the box does not exceed
weir box was developed and calibrated by about 4 feet per second. The loss through the
Reclamation. The box is capable of measuring pipe outlet, baffle assembly, and into the
flows up to about 12 cfs with effective heads stilling well vary with the discharge. In the
of 6 feet on the control gate. In both of these 4-foot weir box, the loss vares uniformly as
structures, the water passes from the canal shown in figure 5-29 from 0.045 foot for a
through a gated turnout, into a short length of discharge of 3 cfs to 0.33 foot for a discharge
pipe, and through a system of baffles into the of 12.4 cfs. No figures are available on the
weir box. Although the baffle arrangement in losses through the 3-foot weir box baffle
the 3-foot weir box is different from that in assernbly, however, experience indicates that
the 4-foot weir box, both baffle assemblies for a flow of 5 cfs the head loss through the
dissipate excess energy and distribute the baffle assembly and stilling pool is about 0.15
inflow from the pipe so that the water surface foot.
in the weir pool is smooth and free from The following example problem gives a
turbulence as it passes over the weir. procedure for selecting and setting a weir box.
5-23. Design Considerations. -( a) Head 5-24. Design Example. -For this example,
Discharge Relationship, -Figures 5-27 and 5-28 assume that water is to be turned out from a
are design drawings for 3- and 4-foot weir canal to a lateral through a turnout with a weir
boxes respectively. Examination of these box as shown in figure 5-28. The control water
drawings show that the weir pool dimensions surface in the canal is assumed to be at
and the placement of the weir gage do not elevation 103.00. The delivery water surface
conform to the standard conditions given in elevation required in the lateral is elevation
subchapter E for standard weirs. Therefore, the 101.35. The normal water depth in the lateral
is 1.0 foot. Assume the length of pipe between
the turnout gate and the weir box is 50 feet.
Further assume that there is one 5 mitered
bend in the pipe. Then, select and set a weir
box at the downstream end of the turnout to
measure a flow of 9 cfs.
(a) So/ution. -From the continuity
equation, Q = V 1 A1 = V 2 A2 , find the area of
pipe to satisfy the allowable velocity of 4 feet
per second in the pipe.
Q=VA
A= 9/4
Figure 5-26. Longitudinal section turnout and weir
box. PX-D-31417
A= 2.25 square feet
292 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
DISCHAffGE T/IBLE
h o
(ft} (C f S)
',, J9
,, ,.
<8
68 ..
18 78
PL /IN 20
22
' ''
"
26
1 20
1 sr
28
30 '
1 "
73
-
32 1"
34
36
' '
2 27
J8 2 .,
'.,
..
e
2 "
2 8J
J 02
J 22
511de golt nol shown
8 J.,
---
'
",. J 87
'
4@12 In ceoeer
ofslab 8end mra wans
and floor
ss
. ..J.B . ",.
LONGITUDIN/IL SECTION ,- n,ome,er roe 62 _4 !--
s oo
Jr
i" Frllet weld
i
"..@12
f,1f8oits- ./
' '-
zf r Bar-
..,
"' SECTJON A-A SECTION B-8
Corrvqote<J meta1
onffles--.
2{1 Bar
SECTION e-e
ESTIM/1 TEO QV/INTIT/ES
{ We1r box)
Concrele Is Cv tds
j !- ----+----- _ 6-j+ _
'
"bu'r"rs"'"'"
Bofflt osscmbly ond 011 m1sctlloneo1Js merolwor/1: sho/1 be
golonued by t/'le hot d1p process ofter otmconon
we BLADE DETAILS
lf {)()/led USf' -rtr
bol!S (_il 6=; 1( welded use continoJCl.o'S
f1/ltl ..-elds
Figure 5-27. Three-foot weir box, 103-0-1249
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 293
PLAN
t orerot ln1tn
- _..,.,---+--- +-'-+'-+-----1
'Bordt!ri m1tued
ppp bf!rK
LONGITUOINAL SECTION
,s"we,rqog,..,s,..ruro
pomt at etevat.an of ..,,..,,
crest-.. . . . _
-- -s,,llinqwe/1
.r
- Bor2,J
NOTES
llnrnor ,.,Olts 10 novt' SQuort fleods Md htr nvs
"n"isn,..odon .,.,..,,,forOshow"'" rablt
ffaff,,.. ourrnt>ly ond 01 m1srt//or1tous mttolworA wau Ot
..J
u
l Points(overage)
et
u,
Bend loss = 0.013 h, = 0.013 (0.22) a: I I
::, Sides(overoge)
= about 0.003 foot 1/)
0.02
a:
w Water surfoce
Since the bend loss is so small, it can be fo-
et differentiol
neglected for this problem. 3
The pipe outlet loss and the baffle assembly
o.oi 1
discharge table on the weir box drawing, figure Figure 5-29. Water surface drop and total head loss
5-28, a 4-foot weir box will measure a flow of across baffles and weir gage stilling well of 4 -foot
9 cfs with O. 74 foot of head on the weir. The weir box. 103-D-1251
total head loss from the canal to the weir is the
sum of the pipe inlet loss, pipe loss, baffle Since the delivery water surface (DWS)
assem bly loss, bend loss if any, and the head on elevation required in the lateral was 1O1.35,
the weir. Therefore and the normal depth in the lateral was 1.0
foot, set the invert of the lateral at elevation
HL =0.11 +0.16+0.15+0.74 100.35. In this problem the DWS could have
been as high as 101.59 without submerging the
HL=l.16feet weir.
Always set the crest of the weir at least 0.25
The maximum elevation of the weir crest is: foot above the downstream water surface to
El. weir crest = 103.00 - 1.16 prevent submergence and to assure air
= 101.84 feet circulation under the nappe of the weir.
lf the differential head between the control
then: water surface in the canal and the water surface
in the weir box exceeds the head loss through
El. K (fig. 5-28) the structure, the turnout gate can be partially
= El. weir crest - weir heigh t closed to obtain the appropriate water surface
elevation in the weir box for the desired
El. K = 101.84 - 2.58 = 99.26 feet discharge.
WATER MEASUREMENT STRUCTURES 295
G. OPEN-FLOW METERS
5-25. Purpose and Description. -Open-flow velocity of the water is less than about 1.5 feet
meters are propeller-type meters which may be per second. For velocities exceeding 8 feet per
installed at the ends of gravity pipe turnouts as second, standard meter bearings require
shown in figures 5-30 and 5-31, to measure and excessive maintenance. Heavy-duty meters are
record the rate of flow of water. The usually used for velocities greater than 8 feet
multibladed, conical propeller is rotated by the per second.
energy of the moving water. The rotation of (b) Re q uirements for Accurate Flow
the propeller actuates a register which totals Measurement.-When used properly, the
the flow and gives a direct volumetric reading propeller should always be submerged and the
in gallons, cubic feet, acre-feet, or in any other conduit should be flowing full. To provide for
desired units common to water measurement. this requirement, stoplog guides are included in
Sorne meters not only totalize the flow but the outlet transition as shown on figure 5-31 to
give an instantaneous discharge reading in accommodate placing stoplogs when required
desired units on a dial, similar to a speedometer to force the conduit to flow full.
in an automobile. The propeller should be suspended so that
Open-flow meters are commercially available the propeller hub is in the center of the
for pipe diameters ranging from 4 to 72 inches. conduit which can be either rectangular or
The meter size is designated according to the round. A slight eccentricity or misalinement of
diameter of the conduit where it will be used. the propeller will affect measurement accuracy.
Thus, a 24-inch meter would be used in a Therefore, anchor bolts for the mounting
24-inch-diameter pipe. bracket must be located very accurately (fig.
3-23).
Open-flow meters have a reasonably accurate
measurement range of about 1 to 10, that is, Propeller meters are very sensitive to spiral
the meter can measure and total flows up to 1 O flow, and large measurement errors result from
times the minimum flow. They are generally this condition. Flow straightening vanes,
accurate to plus or minus 2 to 5 percent of the several pipe diameters in length, installed a
actual discharge. Sorne manufacturers short distance upstream of the propeller will
guarantee accuracy to 2 percent of the true reduce the measurement errors caused by spiral
flow for ali flows above the minimum specified flow. Straightening vanes are not required if a
rate. straight level section of pipe, as recommended
by the meter manufacturer, is used
5-26 Destgn Considerations.-(a) Veloc- immediately upstream from the meter location.
it y . -Open-flow meters provide accurate
(e) Size Determination. -The selection of
measurement for flow velocities of 0.5 to 17
the size of the meter is a very important design
f eet per second; however, measurement
consideration. Many meters have been taken
accuracy is likely to be affected when the
out of service because they were too large to
accurately measure the average day-to-day
flows. If possible, a meter that measures flow
in the midrange of its capability should be
selected. Meter propeller diameters generally
range from 0.5 to 0.8 of the pipe diameter.
Laboratory tests show that the best accuracy is
obtained when the propeller diameter is 75
percent or more of the pipe diameter.
( d) Head Loss. -The head loss across a
propeller-type meter is usually considered to be
negligible; however, sorne allowance for loss
Figure 5-30. Artist sketch of turnout with open-low should be included in the design, particularly if
meter attached. PXD-31428 head is a critical consideration. The meter
296 SMALL CANAL STRUCTURES
l.
A
JA
1 =,
PLAN DETAI L A
Anchor bolts
@ IZ Bend
,nfo heodwoll
H. BIBLIOGRAPHY
5-29. Bibliography, Structures'<-Part 2 Parshall Flumes, Utah State
University, Logan, Utah, 1967.
(l J Water Measurement Manual, Bureau of Reclamation, [4 J Simmons, W. P., Case, W. C., "Hydraulic Model Studies of
Second Edition, 1967, Revised Reprint, 1974. Small Weir Box Turnout Structures for General
[2 J Water Measurement Procedures, Report No. Hyd-577, Irrigation Use" Hyd-396, Bureau of Reclamation, 1954.
Bureau of Reclamation, 1967. [5) Palde, U. J., "Hydraulic Laboratory Studies of a 4-foot
[3 J Skogerboe, V. B., Hyatt, M. L., "Design and Calibration Weir B ox Turn out S t r u cture for lrrigation
of Submerged Open Channel Flow Measurement Use"-REC-ERC-72-31, Bureau of Reclamation, 1972.