Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur

Water Resource and Geotechnical Engineering Sessional

(CE39204)

VIKRAM SINGH MEENA

22CE10086
ASSIGNMENT-2

Topic- “Computation of critical and normal

depths for prismatic open channels”

Date-03/02/2025
 INTRODUCTION
In the realm of hydraulic engineering and environmental management, open channels serve
as vital conduits for water flow in diverse settings, ranging from agricultural irrigation to
urban drainage systems. A deep understanding of the flow dynamics within these channels is
essential for ensuring their effective design, operation, and maintenance. Among the key
parameters characterizing flow behaviour, the critical depth and normal depth hold
significant importance.

The critical depth denotes the minimum depth at which the transition from subcritical to
supercritical flow occurs, signifying a critical threshold for flow stability and energy
dissipation. On the other hand, the normal depth represents the equilibrium depth at which
flow becomes uniform and steady under specific hydraulic conditions. Accurate computation
of these depths is pivotal for assessing channel performance, capacity, and resilience, thus
guiding the planning and management of water resources.

Within prismatic open channels, where the cross-sectional shape remains constant along
their length, determining critical and normal depths is fundamental for hydraulic analysis and
infrastructure design. Various analytical methods and equations have been developed to
estimate these depths, each tailored to accommodate different channel geometries and flow
characteristics.

In this study, we delve into the computation of critical and normal depths for prismatic open
channels, employing established hydraulic principles and empirical formulas. Our focus lies
particularly on exploring the application of Manning's equation, a widely-utilized formula
renowned for its efficacy in predicting flow parameters in open channel systems. Through this
investigation, our aim is to shed light on the hydraulic behaviour of prismatic channels,
facilitating informed decision-making in engineering design and water management practices.

One Dimensional Open Channel Flow

One-dimensional open channel flow is a simplified yet essential model in hydraulic
engineering, focusing on longitudinal variations of flow parameters like velocity and depth
while disregarding lateral changes. This approach allows engineers to apply fundamental fluid
mechanics principles accurately. Widely used in disciplines such as river hydraulics and
stormwater management, it enables precise prediction of flow behaviour. By assuming
predominantly unidirectional and uniform flow along the channel length, engineers can
effectively design hydraulic structures, evaluate flood risks, and optimize water resource
management. Despite its simplifications, one-dimensional open channel flow remains a
valuable tool for understanding and managing water systems, aiding in engineering practice
and environmental conservation.

Assumptions:
  Flow domain's length greatly exceeds its width and depth.
 Variables include average cross-sectional velocity and water depth.
 Hydrostatic pressure approximated using vertical depth due to gentle bed slopes.
 Validity of horizontal flow approximation and hydrostatic pressure distribution.

The behaviour of these flows depends heavily on the Froude number:

𝐹𝑟 = 𝑢 √𝑔𝑦

(1) For Fr = 1 flow is critical, for Fr < 1 flow is subcritical and for Fr > 1 flow is supercritical. The
Froude number is indicative of the balance between inertia and gravity forces.

2. Iterative Solution for Normal Depth:

 Set up an implicit nonlinear function (fn(yn)) for the normal depth (yn) using the
appropriate equation for each channel shape.
 Use numerical methods like the Newton-Raphson iteration to solve for yn
iteratively.

3. Iterative Solution for Critical Depth:

 Set up an implicit nonlinear function (fc(yc)) for the critical depth (yc) using the
appropriate equation for each channel shape.
 Use numerical methods like the Newton-Raphson iteration to solve for yc
iteratively.

4. Convergence and Verification:

 Repeat the iterative process until convergence is achieved for both normal and
critical depths.
 Verify the obtained depths against physical constraints and engineering
standards.

LITERATURE REVIEW
Objective and Conclusion
1. García Díaz, R. (2005), Analysis of Manning coefficient for small-depth flows on vegetated
beds. Hydrol. Process., 19: 3221-3233. https://doi.org/10.1002/hyp.5820

Objective: This review dives into the complexities surrounding the use of Manning's
formula, especially when dealing with challenging scenarios like shallow flows on beds
covered with natural vegetation. Drawing on extensive research, including experiments
conducted at the Laboratory of Hydraulics and Hydrology of the Forestry Engineering
Faculty, we aim to shed light on the difficulties of estimating Manning coefficients in such
conditions. Additionally, we explore the development of a new method for approximating
Manning coefficients based on the Froude number, offering insights for handling steep
slopes and shallow flows.

Conclusion: Through our exploration, it's clear that Manning coefficient values aren't one-
size-fits-all, especially when it comes to varying bed slopes. Existing research, alongside our
own investigations, highlights the necessity of tailoring coefficient values to specific flow
situations. We've uncovered a range of methods proposed to tackle coefficient
determination in extreme conditions, stressing the importance of selecting the right
approach based on unique flow and bed characteristics. While progress has been made,
there's still work to be done to refine these methods for better accuracy, particularly in
scenarios with shallow depths and diverse bed compositions.

2.Ömer Akgiray. 2005. Explicit solutions of the Manning equation for partially filled circular
pipes. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering. 32(3): 490-499. https://doi.org/10.1139/l05-
001

Objective: In this review, we dive into the practical side of using the Manning equation for
partially filled circular pipes. We'll explore the challenges engineers face when dealing with
situations where we don't know the surface angle or the depth of flow beforehand. By
sifting through existing research and examining explicit solutions proposed in the literature,
we aim to offer some clarity on these complex scenarios and provide new equations to
simplify the calculations.

Conclusion: The Manning equation is a go-to tool for engineers, but it's not without its
hurdles, especially when applied to partially filled circular pipes. Traditionally, solving
certain problems required iterative calculations, which can be time-consuming. Our review
introduces new equations to tackle these challenges head-on, offering both simplicity and
accuracy. With these equations in hand, engineers can make quicker, more confident
decisions, whether they're designing drainage systems or analyzing flow in pipes. It's our
hope that these findings will prove valuable to both seasoned engineers and students
learning the ropes of hydraulic engineering.
3.Shirley, Edward D.; Lopes, Vicente L. (1991). Normal‐Depth Calculations in Complex
Channel Sections. Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering, 117(2), 220–
232. doi:10.1061/(asce)0733-9437(1991)117:2(220)

Objective: In exploring normal-depth calculations for complex channel sections, researchers

underscore the pivotal role of the Manning and Chezy equations in hydraulic engineering.
These equations, central to open-channel flow analysis, are essential for sewer system
design and performance evaluation. Existing methods face challenges, prompting
investigations into alternative iterative procedures. This review aims to assess recent
research proposing such procedures, emphasizing their importance in ensuring accurate
solutions amidst diverse channel geometries while guaranteeing convergence and
computational efficiency.

Conclusion: Recent studies present promising iterative approaches to address normal-

depth calculations in complex channel sections, highlighting the criticality of the Manning
and Chezy equations in hydraulic engineering. Through computational analyses and testing,
these methods demonstrate efficacy in providing accurate and efficient solutions,
emphasizing the indispensable role of these equations in channel design and management.
The findings suggest that these iterative methods offer practical alternatives, advancing
hydraulic modelling and infrastructure planning. Further research validation is needed to
bolster confidence in these procedures, underlining the ongoing evolution of hydraulic
engineering methodologies.

4.Bjerklie, David M.; Dingman, S. Lawrence; Bolster, Carl H. (2005). Comparison of

constitutive flow resistance equations based on the Manning and Chezy equations applied
to natural rivers. Water Resources Research, 41(11),
n/a–n/a. doi:10.1029/2004wr003776

Objective: In this study, we're digging into how different equations, based on Manning and
Chezy equations, stack up when it comes to estimating river discharge. By crunching
numbers from over a thousand discharge measurements across various rivers, we're aiming
to find the sweet spot where variance and uncertainty in our estimates drop, especially
when we're lacking specific flow resistance info for a site.

Conclusion: Our dive into these equations sheds light on how we can better understand
flow resistance in natural rivers. By tweaking the traditional methods and using a slope
variable exponent of 0.33, we've managed to dial down the variance in our flow resistance
estimates, which could mean more accurate results. These findings open up possibilities for
remote sensing of river data, comparing different discharge estimation methods, and even
modelling entire river systems. Despite the inherent uncertainties, these models offer a
solid starting point for estimating river discharge, especially when detailed data are hard to
come by.

5.Strupczewski, W. G. (1996). Warning of Application of the Chezy-Manning Formula

Regardless of Channel Shape. Proceedings of the International Conference on Hydrology
and Water Resources, New Delhi, India, December 1993, 371–383. doi:10.1007/978-94-
011-0389-3_24

Objective: This paper endeavours to caution against the indiscriminate use of the Chezy-
Manning formula across varying channel shapes. While the Chezy formula assumes ideal
conditions of uniform channels, real-world river channels exhibit diverse configurations
and complexities. By scrutinizing the influence of channel shape on Manning's coefficient,
the study aims to elucidate the intricate dynamics of hydraulic modelling, particularly in
the context of natural channel morphologies. Through mathematical analysis and
theoretical exploration, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into the limitations
of conventional hydraulic formulas and the necessity for a more nuanced approach to flow
resistance estimation in non-uniform channels.

Conclusion: In summary, this analysis underscores the intricate interplay between

channel morphology and flow characteristics, challenging the oversimplified assumptions
inherent in traditional hydraulic modelling approaches. By highlighting the significance of
channel shape in determining Manning's coefficient, the study underscores the need for a
paradigm shift towards more context-specific and adaptable methodologies in hydraulic
engineering. By acknowledging the complexities of real-world river channels and
embracing a more nuanced understanding of flow resistance, researchers and
practitioners can enhance the accuracy and reliability of hydraulic models, ultimately
facilitating more effective and sustainable water resource management practices.

Computational Method
Results
FLOW CHART