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Hydraulic Radius Formula:
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Hydraulic Radius is the ratio of the cross-sectional area of a channel or pipe in which a fluid is flowing to the wet perimeter of the conduit. It's a fundamental parameter in open channel flow calculations.
The calculator uses the hydraulic radius formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the hydraulic radius based on the conveyance function, Manning's roughness coefficient, and cross-sectional area of the flow.
Details: Hydraulic radius is crucial for determining flow characteristics in open channels, designing drainage systems, and analyzing water flow in rivers and canals. It helps in calculating flow velocity and discharge using Manning's equation.
Tips: Enter the conveyance function, Manning's roughness coefficient, and cross-sectional area. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the conveyance function?
A: Conveyance function represents the carrying capacity of a channel section and is determined empirically or by standard friction laws.
Q2: What are typical values for Manning's roughness coefficient?
A: Manning's n values range from 0.012 (smooth concrete) to 0.15 (dense vegetation). The value depends on the channel material and surface roughness.
Q3: How does hydraulic radius differ from hydraulic diameter?
A: Hydraulic radius is area divided by wetted perimeter, while hydraulic diameter is 4 times the hydraulic radius. Hydraulic radius is commonly used in open channel flow.
Q4: What are typical hydraulic radius values?
A: Hydraulic radius values vary widely depending on channel size and shape, from a few centimeters in small channels to several meters in large rivers.
Q5: When is this calculation most useful?
A: This calculation is essential for civil engineers, hydrologists, and environmental engineers working with open channel flow, drainage design, and flood management.