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Length of Dam to which Flow Net applies given Quantity of Seepage in Length of Dam Calculator

Length of Dam Formula:

\[ L = \frac{Q \times N}{B \times H_L \times k} \]

m³/s
m
m/s

1. What is Length of Dam to which Flow Net applies?

Definition: This calculator determines the length of dam affected by seepage flow based on hydraulic parameters.

Purpose: It helps hydraulic engineers design dams and analyze seepage patterns beneath dam structures.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ L = \frac{Q \times N}{B \times H_L \times k} \]

Where:

  • \( L \) — Length of Dam (meters)
  • \( Q \) — Quantity of Seepage (m³/s)
  • \( N \) — Number of Equipotential Lines
  • \( B \) — Number of Beds between potential drops
  • \( H_L \) — Loss of Head (meters)
  • \( k \) — Coefficient of Permeability (m/s)

Explanation: The formula calculates the dam length affected by seepage flow based on flow net parameters and soil permeability.

3. Importance of Length Calculation

Details: Accurate length estimation helps in designing proper drainage systems, preventing piping failure, and ensuring dam stability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters. Values should be > 0. The ±5% indicates typical measurement tolerances.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a flow net?
A: A flow net is a graphical representation of 2D steady-state groundwater flow through porous media.

Q2: How to determine coefficient of permeability?
A: It's typically measured through laboratory tests like constant-head or falling-head permeability tests.

Q3: What affects the number of equipotential lines?
A: It depends on the flow net construction and the desired precision of analysis.

Q4: Why is loss of head important?
A: It represents the energy dissipated due to seepage and affects the seepage quantity.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Results are theoretical estimates; actual field conditions may vary by ±5% or more.

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