Investigation of the hydraulic characteristics of stepped labyrinth side weir

Proposed by:

Asst. Prof. Dr. Thair jabbar Mizhir

Weirs are simple hydraulic structures which are used for flow measurement,
diversion and flow control. A side weir is also a flow regulating structure which is
constructed in the side-wall of the channel, which allows lateral flow when the
liquid surface is above the crest of side weir. These side weir structures were
widely used in irrigation, drainage engineering, sewer works and in controlling the
floods. When the crest of side weir is not straight in the plane form, then side weir
becomes labyrinth side weir. Due to the increase in crest length on the plan,
labyrinth side weirs could overflow more discharge when compared to classical
side weirs. This increase in the effective length of the crest is achieved by folding
the crest of side weir in various forms like triangular, trapezoidal and other shapes.

Proposed study will focus the stepped labyrinth weir, the study is planned to be
concentrated on the hydraulic characteristics through the main canal and also
through weir cross section. Many geometric properties will be changed and the
variation according to these changes will be investigated.

Furthermore, the following parameter will be studied:

1- Effect of orientation and configuration

2- Effect of nappe
3- Effect of velocity profiles
4- Effect of recirculation zone, turbulence
5- Effect of submergence
6- Effect of jet overcrossing
Two approaches can be used to reach the objectives of the study, the first depended
on experimental work with available materials and apparatuses, the second
depended on CFD approaches like ANSYS, Fluent or Flow 3D software’s.
According to present circumstances, one or both experimental and CFD will be
suitable.