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The diameter of particle calculation determines the size of sediment particles that can be moved or eroded by a fluid flow at its maximum critical scour velocity. This is important in sediment transport studies and hydraulic engineering applications.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the particle diameter based on the maximum velocity at which scour occurs, gravitational acceleration, and the specific gravity of the particle material.
Details: Accurate particle diameter calculation is crucial for designing stable hydraulic structures, predicting sediment transport, and preventing erosion in rivers, channels, and coastal areas.
Tips: Enter maximum critical scour velocity in m/s, acceleration due to gravity in m/s² (default is 9.8 m/s²), and specific gravity of particle. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is maximum critical scour velocity?
A: Maximum critical scour velocity is the highest flow velocity at which sediment particles begin to move or become eroded from the bed surface.
Q2: Why is specific gravity important in this calculation?
A: Specific gravity accounts for the density difference between the particle material and water, which affects the particle's susceptibility to movement by fluid flow.
Q3: What are typical values for specific gravity of sediment particles?
A: For most natural sediments (sand, gravel), specific gravity ranges from 2.6 to 2.7. For heavier minerals, it can be higher.
Q4: How accurate is this formula for different particle shapes?
A: The formula assumes spherical particles. For non-spherical particles, the results should be considered as equivalent spherical diameters.
Q5: What are the limitations of this calculation?
A: The formula may be less accurate for very fine particles (clays) or very coarse particles where other factors like particle interlocking become significant.