Manning's Formula:
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Manning's Formula for Hydraulic Radius calculates the hydraulic radius of a channel section when the conveyance factor is known. The hydraulic radius is a fundamental parameter in open channel flow calculations, representing the ratio of cross-sectional area to wetted perimeter.
The calculator uses Manning's Formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the hydraulic radius based on the conveyance factor, Manning's roughness coefficient, and cross-sectional area of the channel.
Details: Hydraulic radius is crucial in open channel flow calculations as it directly affects flow velocity, discharge capacity, and energy loss calculations. It's used in designing irrigation channels, drainage systems, and natural waterway analysis.
Tips: Enter the conveyance factor, Manning's roughness coefficient (typically between 0.01-0.1 for most channels), and cross-sectional area in square meters. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the conveyance factor in channel flow?
A: The conveyance factor represents the channel's capacity to convey flow and is calculated as Q/√S, where Q is discharge and S is the energy gradient.
Q2: How does Manning's roughness coefficient affect the hydraulic radius?
A: Higher roughness coefficients result in larger calculated hydraulic radii for the same conveyance factor and cross-sectional area.
Q3: What are typical values for Manning's roughness coefficient?
A: Values range from 0.01 (smooth concrete) to 0.06 (natural streams with vegetation) to 0.15 (very rough natural channels).
Q4: How is hydraulic radius different from hydraulic diameter?
A: Hydraulic radius is area divided by wetted perimeter, while hydraulic diameter is 4 times the hydraulic radius. Hydraulic radius is more commonly used in open channel flow.
Q5: When is this formula particularly useful?
A: This formula is especially useful when the conveyance factor is known from previous calculations or measurements, but the hydraulic radius needs to be determined.