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Number of Equipotential Drops of Net given Quantity of Seepage in Length of Dam Calculator

Equipotential Lines Formula:

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

m/s
m
m
m³/s

1. What is Number of Equipotential Drops Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the number of equipotential drops in a flow net based on soil permeability, number of beds, head loss, dam length, and seepage quantity.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

  • \( N \) — Number of equipotential drops
  • \( k \) — Coefficient of permeability of soil (m/s)
  • \( B \) — Number of beds between potential drops
  • \( HL \) — Loss of head (m)
  • \( L \) — Length of dam (m)
  • \( Q \) — Quantity of seepage (m³/s)

Explanation: The formula relates the physical characteristics of the dam and soil to the resulting flow net pattern.

3. Importance of Equipotential Drops Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation helps in designing effective drainage systems, preventing piping failures, and ensuring dam stability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. The ±5% indicates typical measurement tolerances for these values.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are equipotential drops?
A: They represent lines of equal hydraulic head in a flow net, showing how water pressure decreases along the seepage path.

Q2: How is coefficient of permeability determined?
A: Through laboratory tests (like constant head or falling head tests) or field measurements.

Q3: Why is seepage quantity important?
A: Excessive seepage can lead to structural instability or loss of stored water.

Q4: What affects the number of beds (B)?
A: Soil stratification and the presence of different permeability layers.

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

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