Area of Section given Energy Gradient Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ \text{Wetted Surface Area} = \left( \frac{\text{Discharge by Energy Gradient}^2 \times \text{Top Width}}{\left(1 - \frac{\text{Hydraulic Gradient to Head Loss}}{\text{Slope of Line}}\right) \times [g]} \right)^{1/3} \]

Discharge by Energy Gradient (Qeg):

m³/s

Top Width (T):

Hydraulic Gradient to Head Loss (i):

Slope of Line (m):

Wetted Surface Area (S):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Area of Section given Energy Gradient?

The Wetted Surface Area calculation using energy gradient parameters helps determine the cross-sectional area of flow in open channels. This is essential for hydraulic engineering and water resource management applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ S = \left( \frac{Q_{eg}^2 \times T}{\left(1 - \frac{i}{m}\right) \times g} \right)^{1/3} \]

Where:

\( S \) — Wetted Surface Area (m²)
\( Q_{eg} \) — Discharge by Energy Gradient (m³/s)
\( T \) — Top Width (m)
\( i \) — Hydraulic Gradient to Head Loss
\( m \) — Slope of Line
\( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)

Explanation: The formula calculates the wetted surface area based on energy principles, considering discharge, channel geometry, and gradient relationships.

3. Importance of Wetted Surface Area Calculation

Details: Accurate wetted surface area calculation is crucial for designing hydraulic structures, flood control systems, and irrigation channels. It helps in determining flow characteristics and energy dissipation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter discharge in m³/s, top width in meters, and appropriate values for hydraulic gradient and slope. Ensure all values are positive and slope is not zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is wetted surface area?
A: Wetted surface area refers to the cross-sectional area of flow in contact with the channel boundaries in an open channel flow.

Q2: When is this calculation typically used?
A: This calculation is used in hydraulic engineering for designing canals, rivers, and drainage systems where energy gradient considerations are important.

Q3: What are typical units for these parameters?
A: Discharge is in m³/s, dimensions in meters, and gradients are dimensionless ratios.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: The formula assumes steady, uniform flow conditions and may not be accurate for rapidly varying flow or complex channel geometries.

Q5: How does energy gradient affect the calculation?
A: The energy gradient represents the rate of energy loss along the flow path and significantly influences the calculated wetted area.