Experimental Analysis of Combined Overflow and Underflow through a Vertical Plane Gate

Abstract

The problem of combined overflow and underflow through a vertical plane gate is analyzed using an experimental approach, under the assumption that to determine the total discharge it is possible to split the flow into two parts: a) the free overflow of the gate with a fictitious height for the plane structure and b) the lower discharge with the approaching flow under pressure, located within a tunnel, and a fictitious free water level upstream. Definition of the separation line or surface between flows is one of the most important objectives of this study To compare the experimental results, other particular experiences were considered. Laboratory research validates the proposed theoretical scheme and allows working out hydraulic design diagrams for these kind of hydraulic structures.