Modeling Open Channel Fluid Flow with Trapezoidal Cross Section and a Segment Base
Date
2016Author
Marangu, Philip Karobia.
Mwenda, Eustace Kirima
Theuri, DM
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
This study investigates the suitability of trapezoidal cross-section with segment base in drainage system design.
The study has considered steady uniform open channel flow. The saint-Venant partial differential equations of
continuity and momentum governing free surface flow in open channels have been solved using finite difference
approximation method. We investigate the effects of the channel radius, area of the cross section, the flow depth
and the manning coefficient on the flow velocity. The flow variables are velocity and the flow depth while the flow
parameters are cross section area of flow, channel radius, slope of the channel and manning coefficient. The study
has established that increase in cross section area of flow leads to a decrease in flow velocity. Further, increase
in channel radius and cross section area of flow leads to a decrease in flow velocity and increase in roughness
coefficient cause flow velocity to decrease. Additionally, increase in flow depth increases velocity. The physical
conditions of the flow channel have been applied to conservation equations to arrive at specific governing equations.
The results of the study have been presented graphically.