Work

Development of a laboratory-scale open channel flow simulator

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This presents the design, construction and calibration of a laboratory-scale open-channel flow simulator to enhance the understanding of open-channel hydraulics. The simulation shows key flow behaviours, including critical flow, gradually varied flow (GVF), and the effects of channel roughness. Experimental tests were conducted to analyze flow characteristics with the Froude number ranging from 0.55 to 4.15 downstream and 0.64 to 11.50 upstream in critical flow tests. The manning's roughness coefficient varied between 0.011 and 0.038, this shows significant effect of roughness on flow conditions. Specific energy losses of up to 0.0447m were recorded in critical flow scenarios. The developed simulator serves as a valuable tool for practical learning in hydraulic engineering, offering insights into flow behaviour, energy loss, and channel roughness effects.

Source: Springer Link (Chiba Institute of Technology)

DOI: 10.1051/e3sconf/202668402010/pdf

Authors: Philip Olufemi Babalola, Isaac Taiwo Ogunremi, Johnbeloved Temiloluwa Afolabi, Samson Ongbali, Ekene Udoye

Institution: Covenant University

Language: English

Topic: Hydraulic flow and structures

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: green

Funder: Covenant University