Critical-depth meter is used to measure _____.a)Discharge in an open c...
For a given value of specific energy, the critical depth gives the greatest discharge in an open channel, or conversely, for a given discharge, the specific energy is a minimum for the critical depth. So at a control section, the discharge can be calculated once the depth is known.
The critical depth is given as,
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Critical-depth meter is used to measure _____.a)Discharge in an open c...
Critical-Depth Meter in Open Channels
Critical-depth meter is a device used to measure the discharge in an open channel. It is used to determine the depth of flow in a channel when the flow rate is such that the Froude number is equal to one. The Froude number is used to determine the type of flow in a channel, whether it is subcritical or supercritical. When the Froude number is equal to one, the flow is said to be critical, meaning that the flow is neither subcritical nor supercritical.
Working of Critical-Depth Meter
The critical-depth meter works based on the principle of the critical depth. The device consists of a rectangular channel with a known cross-sectional area. The channel has a sharp-crested weir at one end, and the other end is connected to a stilling well. The weir is used to measure the flow rate, and the stilling well is used to measure the depth of flow.
When the flow rate is such that the Froude number is equal to one, the depth of flow is equal to the critical depth. At this point, the flow rate can be calculated using the following formula:
Q = CdLH^(3/2)
Where Q is the discharge, Cd is the discharge coefficient, L is the width of the weir, and H is the depth of flow.
Advantages of Critical-Depth Meter
The critical-depth meter is a simple and reliable device that can be used to measure the discharge in open channels. It is easy to install and operate, and it provides accurate results. It is also cost-effective compared to other flow measurement devices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the critical-depth meter is a useful device used to measure the discharge in open channels. It works based on the principle of the critical depth, and it provides accurate results when the flow rate is such that the Froude number is equal to one. The device is simple to operate and cost-effective, making it an ideal choice for flow measurement in open channels.
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