water

Article
Discharge Coefficient of Rectangular Short-Crested
Weir with Varying Slope Coefficients
Yuejun Chen ID
, Zongfu Fu *, Qingsheng Chen and Zhen Cui ID

College of Water Conservancy and Hydropower Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China;
chen-yuejun@hhu.edu.cn (Y.C.); qschen-dragon@163.com (Q.C.); cuizhen@hhu.edu.cn (Z.C.)
* Correspondence: zffu@hhu.edu.cn; Tel.: +86-138-0159-3357

Received: 8 January 2018; Accepted: 11 February 2018; Published: 14 February 2018

Abstract: Rectangular short-crested weirs are widely used for simple structure and high discharge
capacity. As one of the most important and influential factors of discharge capacity, side slope can
improve the hydraulic characteristics of weirs at special conditions. In order to systemically study
the effects of upstream and downstream slope coefficients S1 and S2 on overflow discharge coefficient
in a rectangular short-crested weir the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method and the Renormalization
Group (RNG) κ-ε turbulence model are used. In this study, the slope coefficient ranges from V to
3H:1V and each model corresponds to five total energy heads of H0 ranging from 8.0 to 24.0 cm.
Comparisons of discharge coefficients and free surface profiles between simulated and laboratory
results display a good agreement. The simulated results show that the difference of discharge
coefficients will decrease with upstream slopes and increase with downstream slopes as H0 increases.
For a given H0 , the discharge coefficient has a convex parabolic relation with S1 and a piecewise
linearity relation with S2 . The maximum discharge coefficient is always obtained at S2 = 0.8. There
exists a difference between upstream and downstream slope coefficients in the influence range of free
surface curvatures. Furthermore, a proposed discharge coefficient equation by nonlinear regression
is a function of upstream and downstream slope coefficients.

Keywords: short-crested weir; slope coefficient; discharge coefficient; free overflow; numerical
simulation

1. Introduction
As common hydraulic engineering structures, low weirs are widely used to measure discharge in
irrigation systems and to increase upstream water level in hydroelectric projects. Flat-topped weirs of
finite crest length are classified into four types: long-crested weir (0 < H/δ ≤ 0.1), broad-crested weir
(0.1 ≤ H/δ ≤ 0.4), short-crested weir (0.4 ≤ H/δ ≤ 1.5–1.9), and sharp-crested weir (1.5–1.9 ≤ H/δ),
depending on the relative length of crest H/δ, where H is the crest depth over weir at free overflow
condition and δ is the length of weir crest in the streamwise direction [1]. The flat-topped low
weirs generally include broad-crested weir and short-crested weir. Under the same inflow condition,
the discharge coefficient of short-crested weir is approximately 0.33–0.46, while that of broad-crested
weir is 0.32–0.385, hence the former is stronger than the latter in terms of discharge capacity.
The short-crested weirs are designed into curvilinear profile and broken-line profile according to the
longitudinal profile. The former is usually used as a high weir and the latter as a low weir. Considering
as the small overflow weirs, although the discharge coefficient of former is larger, the latter is widely
used in view of the convenience of construction. The broken-line short-crested weir is classified
into rectangular profile and trapezoidal profile according to the longitudinal profile [2]. Moreover,
the rectangular short-crested weir is insensitive to the downstream submergence, and in special
situations the geometrical configuration could be flexibly modified so as to increase discharge capacity
and avoid cavitation damage of weir flow structures [3].

Water 2018, 10, 204; doi:10.3390/w10020204 www.mdpi.com/journal/water

Water 2018, 10, 204 2 of 18

Extensive experimental and numerical studies on weir height and weir crest length of the
short-crested weir were carried out [4–7], and the corresponding discharge coefficient formulae have
been derived [1,8–10]. Although the existing research displays a close relation between slope coefficient
and discharge coefficient of broad-crested weirs [10–12], recently there has been little research on
the effect of slope coefficient on short-crested weirs[4,6]. Azimi et al. [13] found that flow separated
from the entrance of crest, and this part of flow would reattach to the weir crest with curvilinear flow
existing over the entire weir before it left the crest again. Goodarzi et al. [14] showed that the size
of flow separation space at the entrance of weir crest varied with upstream slope, which indirectly
resulted in variation of discharge coefficients. Bos [4] found that a higher streamline curvature above
the weir crest and a smaller size on separation region had a positive influence on the head-discharge
relationship of weirs. Farhoudi et al. [15] concluded that decreasing upstream slope angle increased
the discharge coefficient until it reached the maximum value at α = 25◦ (2.1H:1V). Compared with
a rectangular weir with a sloped upstream weir face, Sargison et al. [16] found that the weir with
sloped downstream weir face could improve the discharge capacity. Recently, Tong et al. [10,17] have
carried out much work on investigating the flow characteristics of short-crested weir and concluded
that the maximum discharge coefficient existed at S1 = 2.0–3.0. Chen et al. [18,19] analyzed the effect
of upstream slope on the discharge coefficient by combining experiments and numerical simulations.
Li et al. [20] pointed that the discharge coefficient of rectangular short-crested weir with S1 = 0.5 is 2.0%
larger than that of the rectangular short-crested weir, and the flow regime of the former was better
than the latter. Haun et al. [21] applied computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software Flow-3D [22]
to simulate the free overflow over the trapezoidal broad-crested weir, and the results were in good
agreement with the experimental data [16]. Paik et al. [23] used the RNG κ-ε turbulent model to
calculate the two flow separation zones for free overflow over the rectangular broad-crested weir,
which fit well with those of physical models. In conclusion, the approach of numerical simulation
meets the requirement of studying the hydraulic characteristics of the free surface weir flow.
Almost all of the above conclusions are premised on the inflow discharge, whereas this study is
premised on the total energy head H0 over the crest to realize the flexible manipulation in engineering.
Besides, the previous research on the discharge coefficient has not taken the slope coefficients into
consideration [1,10]. In order to meet the demand of high accuracy on applicability and construction
design, performing research on the effect of slope coefficients on discharge capacity is necessary.
The present paper uses the Flow-3D software to simulate the free overflow over the rectangular
short-crested weir with varying upstream and downstream slope coefficients, and systematically
studies the effects of slope coefficients on the discharge capacity of short-crested weir. Moreover,
a calculation formula of discharge coefficient including the variables of upstream and downstream
slope coefficients is derived by the nonlinear regression method, which provides references for the
engineering design of short-crested weir.

2. Theoretical Analysis of Influential Factors of Discharge Coefficient

Figure 1 showed the definition sketch of short-crested weir constructed from three parts in the
longitudinal cross-section: the upstream weir face U, the rectangular crest R and the downstream weir
face D. The axis of x and y were along the longitudinal direction and vertical direction, respectively.
The weir width B was equal to the flume width without considering lateral contraction. The common
practice to determine discharge coefficient in most discharge measuring structures is based on the
method of dimensional analysis. The discharge coefficient of the short-crested weir depends on
hydraulic conditions, geometrical parameters and fluid properties [24]. Considering these influential
factors one could end up with the following relation:

F ( Q, H0 , B, δ, P, S1 , S2 , g, σ, ρ, µ) = 0 (1)
Water 2018, 10, 204 3 of 18

Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 18

where Q is inflow discharge, m3 /s;
H0 is total energy head over crest, H0 = H + U2 /2g, m; U is the
where Q is inflow
approaching discharge,
velocity, m/s; B is m
the/s;width
3 H0 isoftotal energy
weir, m; δ ishead over crest,
the length of weir H0crest,
= H +m;UP2/2g, m;height
is the U is the
of
approaching velocity, m/s; B is the width of weir, m; δ is the length of weir crest,
weir, m; S1 and S2 are up- and downstream slope coefficients, respectively; g is gravity acceleration, m; P is the height of
weir,
2 m; S 1 and S2 are up- and downstream slope coefficients, respectively; 3 g
m/s ; σ is surface tension of fluid, N/m; ρ is mass density of fluid, kg/m ; µ is dynamic viscosity ofis gravity acceleration,
m/s2; Pa
fluid, σ is
·s.surface tension
Based on of fluid, N/m;
Buckingham’s ρ is mass
Π theorem, thedensity of fluid, of
three variables kg/mH0 , ;gμand
3 is dynamic viscosity
ρ are selected of
as the
fluid,dimensions,
basic Pa·s. Based and
on Buckingham’s Π theorem,
the relations between the three variables
dimensionless numbersofcould H0, gbe and ρ are selected
expressed as the
as follows:
basic dimensions, and the relations between dimensionless numbers could be expressed as follows:
Q  
p Q3/2 = f δ/H0 , P/H0 , S1 , S2 , ρ0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 1.5
B 2gH0 3/2 = f (δ / H 0 , P / H 0 , S1 , S2 , ρ g H 0 / σ , ρ g H 0 / μ )
0.5 g 0.5 H0 /σ 0.5 , ρg 0.5 H01.5 /µ (2)
(2)
B 2g H0

Figure1.1. Definition
Figure Definition sketch
sketch of
of free
free overflow
overflow over
over rectangular
rectangular short-crested
short-crested weir
weir with
with sloped
sloped weir
weir faces.
faces.

The left term represents the fundamental weir formulae (Equation (3)) where m is the discharge
The left term represents the fundamental weir formulae (Equation (3)) where m is the
coefficient.
discharge coefficient.
Q
m m== p 3/2
(3)
(3)
2 g H03/2
BB 2gH 0

The
Thefirst
firstfour
fourterms
termson onthe
theright
rightofofEquation
Equation (2)(2)
describe thethe
describe effect of the
effect geometrical
of the geometrical properties on
properties
the discharge capacity, while the last two terms respectively describe the effects of surface
on the discharge capacity, while the last two terms respectively describe the effects of surface tension tension and
viscosity on theon
and viscosity discharge capacity.
the discharge Isaacs [25]
capacity. and[25]
Isaacs Ranga
andRaju
Ranga et al. [26]etconcluded
Raju that the influence
al. [26] concluded that the
of
influence of viscosity and surface tension on the water flowing through weirs could be ignoreddepth
viscosity and surface tension on the water flowing through weirs could be ignored if the flow if the
over
flowthe crestover
depth wasthe
greater
crestthan
was 5.0 cm. Regarding
greater than 5.0 cm.theRegarding
above conclusion
the above theconclusion
experiments theselect the flow
experiments
depths overflow
select the the crest
depthsbetween
over the8.0crest
cm and 24.0 cm.
between 8.0Regardless
cm and 24.0 of the
cm.influence
Regardless of surface tension and
of the influence of
viscosity, Equation (2) is simplified as:
surface tension and viscosity, Equation (2) is simplified as:

mm== ff11((δ/H P / H00, ,SS11,, SS22 ))

δ / H0 0, ,P/H (4)
(4)

Four dimensionless
dimensionless numbers
numbersareareincluded
includedininEquation π1 =πδ/H=0,δ/H
(4):(4): π2 = P/H 0, π3 = S1 and π4 = S2,
Four Equation 1 0 , π 2 = P/H0 , π 3 = S1
which show the effects of the geometrical parameters and hydraulic conditions
and π 4 = S2 , which show the effects of the geometrical parameters and hydraulic conditions on the discharge
on the
coefficient of short-crested weir. A good deal of research has studied the influence
discharge coefficient of short-crested weir. A good deal of research has studied the influence of weir crest
of weir
length
crest and weir
length and height on discharge
weir height coefficient
on discharge in detail,
coefficient so in this
in detail, study
so in this the twothe
study elements are settled
two elements are
as constants and the research only focuses on the effect of varying upstream and downstream
settled as constants and the research only focuses on the effect of varying upstream and downstream slope
coefficients
slope on discharge
coefficients coefficient
on discharge of short-crested
coefficient weir.weir.
of short-crested

3. Numerical Modeling
A brief introduction to the numerical models is given below, including governing equations,
grids layout, and the calculation of the free water surface.
Water 2018, 10, 204 4 of 18

3. Numerical Modeling
A brief introduction to the numerical models is given below, including governing equations, grids
layout, and the calculation of the free water surface.

3.1. Governing Equations

In the Cartesian coordinate system, the incompressible continuity (5) and Reynolds-Averaged
Navier–Stokes (RANS) (6) equations are used to solve the water motion for turbulent flow.

∂ui
=0 (5)
∂xi

∂ui ∂u 1 ∂p 1 ∂ ∂u
+ uj i = f i − + (µ i − ρui0 uj0 ) (6)
∂t ∂xj ρ ∂xi ρ ∂xj ∂xj
where ui and uj are average velocity components, m/s; xi and xj are Cartesian coordinate axes; f i is
body force, m/s2 ; p is pressure, Pa; −ρui0 uj0 is the term of Reynolds shear stress with i, j = 1, 2, 3. In this
study, the turbulence is predicted by the renormalization group (RNG) κ-ε turbulent model (turbulent
kinetic energy κ and its dissipation ratio ε) [27]. This model could dispose of the high shear and
curvature area with higher accuracy and showed better performance in the simulated area with flow
separation [28,29]. The wall function method was used for the flow close to the wall and the flow with
the lower Reynolds number.

3.2. Disposal of Free Water Surface

In this study, the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method proposed by Hirth et al. [30] is used to accurately
predict the variation of the free water surface. The transport Equation (7) of fluid fraction is expressed
as follows:
∂F ∂(ui F )
+ =0 (7)
∂t ∂xi
where F is the fraction of fluid in a cell. This is a two-phase approach where fluid and air are simulated
in a structured grid of the finite difference algorithm. The method is based on the concept that every
cell has a fraction of fluid (F), which is 0 when the element is full of air and 1 when the element is
totally full of fluid. If the value is between 0 and 1, the element contains the free fluid surface.

3.3. Boundary Conditions

In this study, the laboratory experiments were conducted in order to validate the Computational
Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model results. Thus, the boundary conditions in numerical models should
consist with the real boundaries in laboratory experiments. Stagnation pressure is used as inflow and
outflow boundary, and the corresponding flow depths are specified respectively. Moreover, keep the
outflow depth as low as possible to ensure the tail water will not influence the upstream inflow. In view
of the symmetry of the weir model and the existence of free surface, the symmetry boundary conditions
are set at the symmetrical face and on the top of the flume, respectively. All the solid walls—including
the side wall and the flume bed—are considered as the no-slip wall boundary conditions. Moreover,
the initial fluid level is specified to save the computational time.

3.4. Grids Layout

The gridding of computational field was shown in Figure 2. The whole computational domain
was gridded by nonuniform mesh blocks consisting of rectangular elements. In Table 1 the gridding
characteristics of numerical models for free surface profiles were provided. To check the accuracy
Water 2018, 10, 204 5 of 18

of numerical model the statistical variables of the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and the Mean
Absolute
Water 2018,Percent
10, x FORError (MAPE) were calculated using the following equations:
PEER REVIEW 5 of 18
v
u N
u1 N
t1
RMSE %  100  N ∑
RMSE% = 100 ×
 ( Rm−RR)s2)2
(R m s
(8)
(8)
i =1 N i 1

100NN RRmm −
R


MAPE % 100 Rss 
MAPE% = ∑ (9)
(9)
NN i=i11 RRm

m


whereRRmm and Rss are the laboratory results and simulated results,
where results, respectively.
respectively.

(a) (b)
Figure 2.
Figure 2. Sketch
Sketch of
of numerical
numerical model:
model: (a)
(a) solving
solving domain;
domain; (b)
(b) grids
grids layout
layout around
around the
the weir.
weir.

Table 1.
Table 1. Gridding
Gridding characteristics,
characteristics, RMSE
RMSE and
andMAPE
MAPEfor
forthe
thesimulated
simulatedprofiles
profilesof
offree
freesurface.
surface.

Meshing Number of Cells RMSE MAPE

Meshing Number of Cells RMSE MAPE
1 195,600 8.30% 7.53%
1 2 195,600
283,360 8.30%
6.21% 7.53%
4.97%
2 283,360 6.21% 4.97%
3 568,800 2.93% 0.57%
3 568,800 2.93% 0.57%
4 4 652,500
652,500 2.75%
2.75% 0.45%
0.45%

As shown in Table 1, the differences between the results of meshing 3 and meshing 4 were
As shown in Table 1, the differences between the results of meshing 3 and meshing 4 were
negligible and gridding 3 was chosen. Therefore, the whole computational domain was gridded by
negligible and gridding 3 was chosen. Therefore, the whole computational domain was gridded by
632, 18, 50 rectangular elements in the direction X, Y and Z, respectively. Moreover, the number of
632, 18, 50 rectangular elements in the direction X, Y and Z, respectively. Moreover, the number of
grids in x and z direction will be adjusted properly according to the geometry of the weir model and
grids in x and z direction will be adjusted properly according to the geometry of the weir model and
the upstream water depth.
the upstream water depth.
3.5. Numerical Simulation
3.5. Numerical Simulation
In this study, the flume with a length of 10.0 m, width of 0.3 m, and height of 0.5 m was defined.
In this study, the flume with a length of 10.0 m, width of 0.3 m, and height of 0.5 m was defined.
The weir model was located at a distance of 4.0 m from the inlet. In Table 2, the schemes of numerical
The weir model was located at a distance of 4.0 m from the inlet. In Table 2, the schemes of numerical
simulation were listed. The schemes were expressed as Mij, in which i = 1–7 correspond to seven
simulation were listed. The schemes were expressed as Mij , in which i = 1–7 correspond to seven
simulated upstream slope coefficients S1 of V, 0.3H:1V, 0.5H:1V, 0.8H:1V, 1.0H:1V, 1.5H:1V and
simulated upstream slope coefficients S1 of V, 0.3H:1V, 0.5H:1V, 0.8H:1V, 1.0H:1V, 1.5H:1V and 2.0H:1V
2.0H:1V respectively, while j = 1–9 correspond to nine downstream slope coefficient S2 of V, 0.4H:1V,
respectively, while j = 1–9 correspond to nine downstream slope coefficient S2 of V, 0.4H:1V, 0.8H:1V,
0.8H:1V, 1.0H:1V, 1.3H:1V, 1.5H:1V, 1.8H:1V, 2.0H:1V and 3.0H:1V—all with effective square edges
1.0H:1V, 1.3H:1V, 1.5H:1V, 1.8H:1V, 2.0H:1V and 3.0H:1V—all with effective square edges at the joins.
at the joins. Based on the definition of the short-crested weir by Tong et al. [10] the short-crested weir
Based on the definition of the short-crested weir by Tong et al. [10] the short-crested weir was limited to
was limited to
0.67  / H≤ 1.5 ~∼2.0
0.67< δ/H , 0.5≤ P/H
2.0,0.5 P / H < 3.0 (10)
(10)

Accordingto
According tothe
theabove
abovecriteria,
criteria,the
theheight
heightof
ofweir
weirP,
P,the
thelength
lengthof ofweir
weirδδandandthe
the width
widthofof weir
weir BB
were constant during this study and the values are 24.0 cm, 16.0 cm and 30.0 cm, respectively.
were constant during this study and the values are 24.0 cm, 16.0 cm and 30.0 cm, respectively. There There
were63
were 63weir
weirmodels
modelsin intotal,
total, and
and each
each weir
weir model
model was
was calculated
calculated corresponding
corresponding to to five
five total
total energy
energy
headsH
heads H00 of 8.0 cm, 12.0 cm, 16.0 cm, 20.0 cm, and 24.0 cm over the crest. crest. The discharge
discharge coefficients
coefficients of
of
the numerical results could be obtained according to Equation
the numerical results could be obtained according to Equation (3). (3).
Water 2018, 10, 204 6 of 18

Table 2. List of design schemes of numerical simulation.

Upstream Side Downstream

Configuration Scheme No. of Models Interpretation
Slope Coeff. S1 Slope Coeff. S2
Mij
VRV 0.0 0.0 1 Rectangular short-crested weir
i = 1, j = 1
Only study the effect of the varying S1 on the
Mij 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1.0,
URV 0.0 6 discharge coefficient of rectangular
i 6= 1, j = 1 1.5, 2.0
short-crested weir
Mij 0.4, 0.8, 1.0, 1.3, Only study the effect of the varying S2 on the
VRD 0.0 8
i = 1, j 6= 1 1.5, 1.8, 2.0, 3.0 discharge coefficient of short-crested weir
Study the combinational effect of the varying
Mij 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1.0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.0, 1.3,
URD 48 S1 and S2 on discharge coefficient of
i 6= 1, j 6= 1 1.5, 2.0 1.5, 1.8, 2.0, 3.0
rectangular short-crested weir

4. Results and Discussion

4.1. Validation of Numerical Models

To validate the numerical model results, the laboratory experiments were conducted. The physical
model consisted of a self-circular, horizontal, rectangular flume with a short-crested weir. The side
walls and weirs were made of Plexiglas. The upstream water level was measured with an accuracy of
±0.1 mm using a needle water level gauge and the volume flow rate with ±0.1 mm using 90◦ V-notch
weir. The tail water depth was selected in a way that would not affect the incoming flow. Table 3 listed
the selected geometrical and hydraulic characteristic parameters used to validate the accuracy of the
numerical models.

Table 3. Range of variables for laboratory measurements.

Upstream Slope Downstream Weir Height Crest Length δ Weir Width Total crest Head
Scheme
Coeff. S1 Slope Coeff. S2 P (cm) (cm) B (cm) H 0 (cm)
M11 0.0 0.0
8.0, 12.0, 16.0,
M71 2.0 0.0 24.0 16.0 30.0
20.0, 24.0
M73 2.0 0.8

The comparison of discharge coefficients between simulated and laboratory results at free overflow
condition are shown in Figure 3. The discharge coefficients gradually increase as the total energy head
H0 increases, and the simulated results are slightly larger than those of laboratory results. Figure 4
shows the comparisons of free surface profiles between the simulated and laboratory results, in which
the origin locates at the entrance of the weir crest and h is the fluid level along the streamwise direction
and ξ = H0 /(P + δ) is the relative total energy head. The deviation from free surface profiles might
result from flow separation and the slightly less accurate simulation for the shapely varied free-surface
profile. As shown in Figure 5, the changing trend of free surface elevation is nearly identical for
simulated and laboratory results and the bottom roll backflow zone simultaneously appear in back
of downstream weir face. Table 4 lists the RMSE and MAPE for the discharge coefficients and free
surface profiles. In consideration of the comparative results it is obvious that the numerical model
is able to accurately predict the water surface over the short-crested weir and the directly linked
discharge coefficient.

Table 4. RMSE and MAPE for discharge coefficients and flow surface profiles.

Statistical Object ξ Scheme RMSE MAPE

S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.0 0.37% 0.91%
Discharge coefficient 0.2–0.6 S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0 0.49% 1.11%
S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8 0.36% 0.85%
S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.0 2.95% 2.80%
Free surface profile 0.6 S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0 2.68% 2.86%
S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8 1.84% 2.20%
Water 2018, 10, 204 7 of 18
Water
Water 2018,
2018, 10,
10, x
x FOR
FOR PEER
PEER REVIEW
REVIEW 77 of
of 18
18

(a)
(a) (b)
(b)

(c)
(c)
Figure
Figure 3.
Figure 3. Comparison
3. Comparison
Comparison of of discharge
of discharge coefficients
discharge coefficients between
coefficients between numerical
between numerical results
numerical results and
results and laboratory
and laboratory results
laboratory results for:
results for:
for:
(a)
(a) S
S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.0; (b) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8.
(a) S1 == 0.0, S = 0.0; (b) S = 2.0, S = 0.0; (c) S = 2.0, S = 0.8.
1 2 = 0.0; (b) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8.
2 1 2 1 2

(a)
(a) (b)
(b)

(c)
(c)
Figure
Figure 4.4. Comparison
Comparison of of free
free surface
surface profiles
profiles between
between numerical
numerical results
results and
and laboratory
laboratory results
results at
at ξ
ξ ==
Figure 4. Comparison of free surface profiles between numerical results and laboratory results at
0.6 for: (a) S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.0; (b) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8.
0.6 for: (a) S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.0; (b) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8.
ξ = 0.6 for: (a) S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.0; (b) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8.
Water 2018, 10, 204 8 of 18
Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 18

(a) (b)

Figure 5. Comparison of free surface profiles for S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0 at ξ = 0.6: (a) simulated results; (b)
Figure 5. Comparison of free surface profiles for S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.0 at ξ = 0.6: (a) simulated results;
laboratory results.
(b) laboratory results.

4.2. Calculation Formula of Discharge Coefficient

4.2. Calculation Formula of Discharge Coefficient
Sixty-three weir models and 315 numerical simulations are conducted. From the dimensional
Sixty-three weir models and 315 numerical simulations are conducted. From the dimensional
analysis of Equation (4) a monotonically increasing linear relation between m and lnξ for different
analysis of Equation (4) a monotonically increasing linear relation between m and lnξ for different weir
weir models is expressed as follows:
models is expressed as follows:
 HH00 
 
=α
mm0 '= α ln  ++β β (11)
(11)
 PP++δ δ
where m′
where m0 isis the
the fitted
fitted discharge
discharge coefficient
coefficientand andααandandββare
aredimensionless
dimensionlessparameters
parametersdetermined
determined S1
byby
Sand
1 and S2 .SIn
2. Figure
In Figure 6a–b6a–b
the effects of S2 of
the effects on Sα2and α are
on β andshown
β are for all of for
shown the all
upstream
of the slope coefficients
upstream slope
S , and the corresponding values are listed in Table 5. Both of α and β firstly
coefficients S1, and the corresponding values are listed in Table 5. Both of α and β firstly increase
1 increase until they reach
the maximum
until they reach themaxof α and
maximum β at S
maxof αmax = 0.8, and then decrease until they reach the minimum
2 and βmax at S2 = 0.8, and then decrease until they reach αthe of min
and βmin of
minimum at αSmin
2 =and3.0.βmin
Moreover, a good
at S2 = 3.0. lineara relation
Moreover, between
good linear αmax
relation and S1αand
between a good
max and S1 andparabolic
a good
relation between
parabolic max and S
relationβbetween 1 are
βmax shown
and S1 areinshown
Figurein6c,d, and 6c,d,
Figure the relations
and the could be expressed
relations as follows:
could be expressed
as follows:
αmax = −0.013S1 + 0.0809 (12)
α max = −0.013S1 + 0.0809 (12)
β max = −0.0086S12 2 + 0.0079S1 + 0.4935 (13)
β max = −0.0086S1 + 0.0079S1 + 0.4935 (13)
with R2 = 0.989 and 0.979 respectively. The data are normalized by introducing the variables of
with
α0 = R
α/α=max
2 0.989
andand
β0 0.979
= β/βrespectively. The data are normalized by 0 introducing
0 the variables of α′ =
max as shown in Figure 6e,f. Both of α and β have good piecewise linear
α/α max and β′ = β/βmax as shown in Figure 6e,f. Both of α′ and β′ have good piecewise linear relations
relations with S2 , which could end up with the expressions:
with S2, which could end up with the expressions:
(
0.2862S + 0.7658 0.0 ≤ S ≤ 0.8
α0 =α ' = 0.2862S22 + 0.7658 0.0 ≤ S2 ≤20.8 (14)
− 0.1797S2 + 1.1355 0.8 < S2 ≤ 3.0 (14)
 −0.1797 S 2 + 1.1355 0.8 < S2 ≤ 3.0

0.0533S + 0.9574 0.0≤ ≤

S2 S≤20.8
(
0.0533S22 + 0.9574 0.0 ≤ 0.8
β0 =β ' =  (15)
(15)
 −0.0424S
− 0.0424S22++ 1.0328 0.80.8< <S2 S≤2 3.0
≤ 3.0
CombiningEquations
Combining Equations(12)–(15),
(12)–(15),the
thecalculation
calculationformula
formulaof
ofdischarge
dischargecoefficient
coefficientof
ofrectangular
rectangular
short-crested weir with varying upstream and downstream slope coefficients (URD)
short-crested weir with varying upstream and downstream slope coefficients (URD) is derivedis derivedas
as
Equation(11),
Equation (11),where
where

( −1.31 S+1 +8.09

(−1.3S 8.09)()( 7.658))×
2.8622S2++7.658 × 10 −3
10−3 0.00.0 ≤ S≤
1 ≤S2.0,0.0 ≤ S2 ≤≤0.8
(
2.862S 1 ≤ 2.0, 0.0 S2 ≤ 0.8
α= α= (16)
(16)
( −1.3
1 S1 + 8.09 )( −1.797 2 S 2 + 11.355 ) ×
−
−33
(−1.3S + 8.09 )(− 1.797S + 11.355 ) × 10 0.0 ≤ S1 ≤ 2.0,
0.0 ≤ S 1 0.8 < S2 ≤ 3.0
≤ 2.0, 0.8 < S2 ≤ 3.0

−8.6S12( −+8.6 ) (5.33 ) × 10

(
S12 +1 7.9 S1 + 493.5 + 95.74
S2 95.74 10−−5 5 0.0 ≤ S≤
1 ≤S2.0,
1 ≤0.0 ≤ 0.0
S2 ≤≤ 0.8S2 ≤ 0.8


7.9S + 493.5 (5.33S 2+ )× 0.0 2.0,
β= β =2 (17)
( )
− 5 <3.0S2 ≤ 3.0 (17)


−8.6S1+
 − 7.9S
8.6 S1
+7.9
12 + 493.5
S1 + (−4.24S
493.5 ( − 2 +S 2103.28
4.24 + ) ×) ×10
103.28 10 −5 0.0
0.0 ≤ S≤ ≤S2.0,
1
1 ≤0.8
2.0,
< 0.8
S 2 ≤
The Equation (11) is valid for 0.0 ≤ S ≤ 2.0, 0.0 ≤ S2 ≤ 3.0, 0.67 ≤ δ/H ≤ 2.0, 1.0 ≤ P/H ≤ 3.0
The Equation (11) is valid for 0.0 ≤ S1 ≤12.0, 0.0 ≤ S2 ≤ 3.0, 0.67 ≤ δ/H ≤ 2.0, 1.0 ≤ P/H ≤ 3.0 and −1.61
and −1.61 ≤ lnξ ≤ −0.51. The range out of simulated results should be verified further. The deviation
≤ lnξ ≤ −0.51. The range out of simulated results should be verified further. The deviation from m is
plotted in Figure 7. The RMSE, MAPE and R2 for discharge coefficient are computed with the values
0.36%, 0.02% and 0.977, respectively. Recently, it has not have a discharge coefficient formula
Water 2018, 10, 204 9 of 18

from m is plotted in Figure 7. The RMSE, MAPE and R2 for discharge coefficient are computed with the
values 0.36%, 0.02% and 0.977, respectively. Recently, it has not have a discharge coefficient formula
including S1 and S2 . The discharge coefficient m1 calculated by Equation (11) at S1 = 0 and S2 = 0 is
compared
Waterwith the
2018, 10, Equation
x FOR (18) proposed by Govinda Rao and Muralidhar [1], and comparative
PEER REVIEW 9 of 18
results are shown in the Figure 8 with the maximum relative error 1.92%.
including S1 and S2. The discharge coefficient m1 calculated by Equation (11) at S1 = 0 and S2 = 0 is
H
compared with the Equation (18) proposed by Govinda Rao and Muralidhar [1], and comparative
m2 = 0.08 + 0.329 (18)
results are shown in the Figure 8 with the maximum
δ relative error 1.92%.
The application range of Equation (18) ism20.4 ≤ H/δH ≤ 1.5–1.9. Analyzing Equation (11) concludes
= 0.08 + 0.329 (18)
that the geometrical configuration corresponding to the δ maximum discharge coefficient relates closely
to the value Therange of lnξ.range
application In the range −(18)
of Equation 1.06is<0.4lnξ ≤−
≤ H/δ 0.51 (13.8
≤ 1.5–1.9. cm < H
Analyzing 0 ≤ 24 (11)
Equation m0 reaches
cm),concludes
0
m max =that the geometrical
(7.43lnξ − 2
+ 49.53) × configuration
10 at S1 = 0.459 corresponding
− 0.75lnξ to andtheS2maximum
= 0.8; in the discharge
range −coefficient
1.61 ≤ lnξrelates
≤ −1.06
closely to the value 0
range of lnξ. 0
In the range −1.06 < lnξ ≤ −0.51 −(13.8
2
(8.0 cm ≤ H0 ≤ 13.8 cm), m reaches m max = (5.46lnξ + 47.49) × 10 at S1 = 2.0 and S2 = 0.8. And the cm < H 0 ≤ 24 cm), m′ reaches

maximumm′maxdischarge
= (7.43lnξ coefficient
+ 49.53) × 10is −2 at S1 = 0.459 − 0.75lnξ and S2 = 0.8; in the range −1.61 ≤ lnξ ≤ −1.06 (8.0
always obtained at S2 = 0.8. The existence of a maximum discharge
cm ≤ H0 ≤ 13.8 cm), m′ reaches m′max = (5.46lnξ + 47.49) × 10−2 at S1 = 2.0 and S2 = 0.8. And the maximum
coefficient at S2 = 0.8 relates to the flow regime in back of downstream weir face. Comparisons of
discharge coefficient is always obtained at S2 = 0.8. The existence of a maximum discharge coefficient
the velocity fields and free-surface elevations of weirs at S1 = 1.0 with H/δ = 1.41 for S2 = 0.0, 0.8
at S2 = 0.8 relates to the flow regime in back of downstream weir face. Comparisons of the velocity
and 2.0fields
are shown in Figures
and free-surface 9 and 10,
elevations of respectively.
weirs at S1 = 1.0InwithFigure
H/δ =9a, a bottom
1.41 roll0.8backflow
for S2 = 0.0, and 2.0 are zone forms
shown
betweenin the downstream
Figures 9 and 10,weir face and the
respectively. nappe 9a,
In Figure at Sa2 bottom
= 0.0, and rollair is entrained
backflow zone into
formsit simultaneously.
between the
The backflow
downstreamwill lift theface
weir nappe,
and resulting
the nappeinatthe S2 rise
= 0.0,ofand
downstream free surface
air is entrained into it profile, and reduce
simultaneously. The the
discharge capacity.
backflow will Moreover,
lift the nappe, theresulting
outline of backflow
in the zone roughly
rise of downstream forms
free an profile,
surface isosceles and triangle
reduce onthe the
discharge capacity. Moreover, the outline of backflow zone roughly forms
side view, which is identical to the test observation. In Figure 9b, the backflow zone disappears and an isosceles triangle on the
the side view, which is identical to the test observation. In Figure 9b, the backflow
downstream free surface profile falls after a rise at S2 = 0.8 compared with the weir at S2 = 0.0. In this zone disappears
andthe
situation thenappe
downstream
attached freeonsurface profile
the weir facefalls after a rise
perfectly, at S2 =improves
which 0.8 compared the with the weir
discharge at S2 = 0.0.
capacity. With
In this situation the nappe attached on the weir face perfectly, which improves the discharge
increasing S2 , the reattachment point produced by the combined action of inertial force and gravity
capacity. With increasing S2, the reattachment point produced by the combined action of inertial
is gradually covered by the downstream weir side, and the downstream free surface profile is lifted
force and gravity is gradually covered by the downstream weir side, and the downstream free
higher surface
by the profile
weir face thanhigher
is lifted the weir at S
by the 2 = face
weir 0.0 as shown
than in Figures
the weir at S2 = 0.09casand
shown10. in Figures 9c and 10.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 6. Cont.
Water 2018, 10, 204 10 of 18
WaterWater
2018,2018,
10, x10,
FOR PEER
x FOR REVIEW
PEER REVIEW 1010
ofof
1818
Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 18

(e) (f)
(e) (f)
(e) (f)
Figure 6. Variation of dimensionless parameters for different slope coefficients: (a) α; (b) β; (c) αmax; (d)
Figure6.6. Variation
Figure Variation of of dimensionless
dimensionless parameters
parameters for
for different
differentslope
slopecoefficients:
coefficients:(a)
(a)α;α;(b)
(b)β;β;(c)(c)αmax; (d)
αmax ;
Figureβmax;6.(e)
Variation
α′;0 (f) β′.0of dimensionless parameters for different slope coefficients: (a) α; (b) β; (c) αmax; (d)
(d) (e);α′;
βmaxβ;max (e)(f)
α ;β′.(f) β .
βmax; (e) α′; (f) β′.

Figure 7. Comparison between m′ and m.

Figure7.7.Comparison 0 andm.
Comparison betweenmm′ m.
Figure 7. Comparisonbetween
Figure between m′and
and m.

Figure 8. Comparison between m1 and m2.

Figure 8. Comparison between m1 and m2.

Figure8.8.Comparison
Figure Comparisonbetween
betweenmm 1 and m2.
1 and m2 .
 Water
Water 2018,
2018, 10,10,
204x FOR PEER REVIEW 11 of
1118
of 18

Table 5. Values of α and β in different combinations of upstream and downstream slope coefficients.
Table 5. Values of α and β in different combinations of upstream and downstream slope coefficients.
Downstream Slope Coefficient
Upstream Slope
Parameter S1 = S1 = S1 = S1 = S1 = S1 = S1 =
Coefficient
Upstream Slope Downstream Slope Coefficient
Parameter 0.0 0.3 0.5 0.8 1.0 1.5 2.0
Coefficient S1 = 0.0 S1 = 0.3 S1 = 0.5 S1 = 0.8 S1 = 1.0 S1 = 1.5 S1 = 2.0
S2 = 0.0 0.0619 0.0596 0.0586 0.0546 0.0524 0.0468 0.0421
S2 =S20.0
= 0.4 0.06190.06790.05960.06780.0586
0.06570.0546
0.0626 0.0524
0.0588 0.0468
0.0529 0.0421
0.0481
S2 =S20.4
= 0.8 0.06790.07940.06780.07740.0657 0.0626 0.0588
0.0751 0.0719 0.0682 0.06090.0529 0.0481
0.0546
S2 = 0.8 0.0794 0.0774 0.0751 0.0719 0.0682 0.0609 0.0546
S2 = 1.0 0.0770 0.0746 0.0734 0.0694 0.0663 0.0594 0.0540
S2 = 1.0 0.0770 0.0746 0.0734 0.0694 0.0663 0.0594 0.0540
αα S2 =S21.3
= 1.3 0.07120.07120.06930.0693 0.06760.0647
0.0676 0.0647 0.0620
0.0620 0.0559
0.0559 0.0499
0.0499
S
S2 = 1.5
2 = 1.5 0.0676 0.0676
0.06580.0658 0.0649
0.0649 0.0615
0.0615 0.0591
0.0591 0.0529
0.0529 0.0477
0.0477
S2 =S21.8
= 1.8 0.05940.05940.06060.0606 0.05730.0576
0.0573 0.0576 0.0525
0.0525 0.0469
0.0469 0.0426
0.0426
S2 =S22.0
= 2.0 0.05930.05930.05840.05840.0574 0.0551 0.0529
0.0574 0.0551 0.0529 0.04800.0480 0.0439
0.0439
S2 =S3.0
2 = 3.0
0.04580.04580.04760.04760.0466
0.04660.0456
0.0456 0.0421
0.0421 0.0381
0.0381 0.0339
0.0339
S2 =S20.0
= 0.0 0.46970.46970.47250.47250.4740
0.47400.4727
0.4727 0.4716
0.4716 0.4656
0.4656 0.4591
0.4591
S2 =S20.4
= 0.4 0.47860.47860.48450.48450.4852
0.48520.4845
0.4845 0.4814
0.4814 0.4750
0.4750 0.4692
0.4692
S2 = 0.8 0.4925 0.4957 0.4959 0.4955 0.4920 0.4843 0.4757
S2 = 0.8 0.4925 0.4957 0.4959 0.4955 0.4920 0.4843 0.4757
S2 = 1.0 0.4883 0.4913 0.4929 0.4913 0.4894 0.4817 0.4743
β S2
S2 = 1.0
= 1.3 0.47980.48830.48280.4913 0.49290.4839
0.4849 0.4913 0.4832
0.4894 0.4767
0.4817 0.4743
0.4689
β S2 =S21.5
= 1.3 0.4736 0.4798
0.47760.4828 0.4849
0.4798 0.4839
0.4791 0.4832
0.4780 0.4767
0.4715 0.4689
0.4650
S2 =S21.8
= 1.5 0.46060.47360.46920.4776 0.47980.4723
0.4674 0.4791 0.4669
0.4780 0.4617
0.4715 0.4650
0.4562
S2 =S22.0
= 1.8 0.46020.46060.46520.46920.4676
0.46740.4683
0.4723 0.4676
0.4669 0.4630
0.4617 0.4578
0.4562
S2 =S23.0
= 2.0 0.43770.46020.44670.46520.4490 0.4516 0.4486
0.4676 0.4683 0.4676 0.46300.4460 0.4407
0.4578
S2 = 3.0 0.4377 0.4467 0.4490 0.4516 0.4486 0.4460 0.4407

Figure 9. Comparison of flow regimes over weirs at S1 = 1.0 with H/δ = 1.41 for S2 = 0.0, 0.8 and 2.0.
Figure 9. Comparison of flow regimes over weirs at S1 = 1.0 with H/δ = 1.41 for S2 = 0.0, 0.8 and 2.0.
Water 2018, 10, 204 12 of 18
Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 18

1.1

0.9

0.7

0.5

(h-P)/H 0.3

0.1 S₂=0.0
S₂=0.8
-0.1
S₂=2.0
-0.3
-5.0 -4.0 -3.0 -2.0 -1.0 0.0 1.0 2.0
x/δ
Figure10.
Figure 10.Comparison
Comparisonofoffree
freesurface
surfaceprofiles
profilesover
overweirs
weirswith
withH/δ
H/δ==1.41
1.41atatSS1 1==1.0
1.0for
forSS2 2==0.0,
0.0,0.8
0.8
and 2.0.
and 2.0.

4.3.Effects
4.3. EffectsofofSlope
SlopeCoefficients
Coefficientson
onDischarge
DischargeCoefficient
Coefficient
WhenSS2 == 0.0,
When 0.0, Equation
Equation (11)
(11) would
would be
be simplified
simplified as:
as:
2

mhU ′ = ( −0.9991S1 + 6.2172 ) ln ξ − 0.82342S12 +0.7563S1 +47.2477  ×i10−2 −2 (19)

mU 0 = (−0.9991S 1 + 6.2172) ln ξ − 0.8234S1 + 0.7563S1 + 47.2477 × 10 (19)
where mU′ is the fitted discharge coefficient for S2 = 0.0. Analyzing the fitted equation indicates that
where mU 0 islnξ,
for a given themfitted discharge
U′ firstly increases coefficient for S2 =the
until it reaches 0.0.maximum
Analyzingatthe S1 =fitted equation
0.5822 indicates
− 0.7055lnξ, and that
then
for a given lnξ, m 0 firstly increases until it reaches the maximum at S = 0.5822 − 0.7055lnξ, and then
decreases with SU1. 1
decreases with 11,
In Figure S1 . the difference in discharge coefficients for different values of S1 shows a decreasing
trend In with
Figure 11, the difference
increasing lnξ. In view in discharge
of energy coefficients
conservation for different
law, thevalues of S1 shows
difference is produceda decreasing
by the
trend with increasing lnξ. In view of energy conservation
frictional head loss of hf and local head loss of hj in the progress of free overflow. When lnξ holds law, the difference is produced by
the frictional
constant, the head
gradually of hf and
loss slowing local head
upstream slope loss of hj inthe
increases theflow
progress
run and of free
reducesoverflow. When
the streamline
lnξ holds constant, the gradually slowing upstream slope increases
curvature of inflow, accordingly hf is increasing and hj is decreasing. In this progress, the increment the flow run and reduces the
streamline
of the former curvature
is less thanof inflow, accordingly
the decrement of hthe f islatter,
increasing
so mUand hj is decreasing.
′ continues increasingIn tillthis
S1 =progress,
0.5822 −
the increment
0.7055lnξ. When of the
the former
upstream is less
slope than the decrement
continued slowing,ofthe theincrement
latter, so ofmUh0f exceeds
continues theincreasing
decrementtill of
Sh1j,=so0.5822 − 0.7055lnξ. When the upstream slope continued
the discharge coefficient is gradually decreasing. With increasing total energy head of slowing, the increment of h exceeds
f H0 over
the
thedecrement of hj , so the
crest the difference in discharge
the total head coefficient
loss ofishgradually
w where hdecreasing.
w = hf + hj is With increasing
gradually total energy
decreasing, so the
head of H0 in
difference over the crest
discharge the difference
coefficients in the total
is gradually head loss
decreasing forof hw where
different hw =ofhSf 1+. hj is gradually
values
decreasing,
When so S1 the
= 0.0,difference
Equationin(11) discharge
would coefficients
be simplified is gradually
as: decreasing for different values of S1 .
When S1 = 0.0, Equation (11) would be simplified as:
 ( 2.315ln ξ + 2.63) S2 + 6.195ln ξ + 47.248 × 10−2 0.0 ≤ S2 ≤ 0.8
( mD ' =   (20)
  − (ln ) S6.195 −−
[(2.315 1.454 ξ + )2.09
ξ +ln2.63 S2 + 2 + 9.186ln ξ + 50.969 
ln ξ + 47.248]× × 10 2 2
10 0.8 0.0 < S2≤ ≤ 3.0
S2 ≤ 0.8
mD 0 = (20)
[−(1.454 ln ξ + 2.09)S2 + 9.186 ln ξ + 50.969] × 10−2 0.8 < S2 ≤ 3.0
where mD′ is the fitted discharge coefficient for S1 = 0.0. It reveals that the maximum of discharge
where mD 0 ismthe
coefficient D′maxfitted
dependsdischarge on both of S2 and
coefficient forξ.S1In= the 0.0. range
It reveals−1.29 < lnξ
that the ≤maximum
−0.51, mDof ′ reaches
discharge the
maximumm
coefficient ofDm0 D′max = (7.85lnξ
depends on + 49.17)
both of× S10 −2 at S2 = 0.8; while in the range −1.61 ≤ lnξ ≤ −1.29
and ξ. In the range − 1.29 < lnξ ≤ − 0.51, m 0 reaches
it reaches
the
max 2 D
the maximum
maximum of mD of0 max
mD′=max(7.85lnξ
= (6.101lnξ × 10×−10
+ 46.89)
+ 49.17) 2 at−2 at S2 = 0.0.
S2 = 0.8; while in the range −1.61 ≤ lnξ ≤ −1.29 it
reaches the maximum of mD 0 max = (6.101lnξ + 46.89) × 10−2 at S2 = 0.0.
Water 2018, 10, 204 13 of 18
Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 18
Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 18

Figure 11. mU vs. lnξ at S2 = 0.0 for S1 = 0.0–2.0.

Figure 11.mmUU vs.
Figure11. vs. lnξ at SS22 =
lnξ at 0.0 for
= 0.0 S11 ==0.0–2.0.
for S 0.0–2.0.

In Figure 12, the difference in discharge coefficients for different values of S2 shows an
In Figure
Figure12,12,thethe differencedischarge
difference in discharge coefficients for different values
S2 shows of S shows an
increasinginlnξ. coefficients for different valuesby hof an
2 increasing
increasing trend with Similarly, the difference is caused f and hj, in which the local
increasing
trend withistrend with lnξ.
increasing increasing lnξ.the
Similarly, Similarly,
difference theisdifference
caused byishcaused
f and hby inhfwhich
j ,with and hj,the in which the local
localbottom
head loss
head loss mainly produced by inflow dropping into the downstream forming the roll
head
is loss produced
mainly is mainly produced
by inflow by inflow dropping
dropping into the into the downstream
downstream with forming withthe forming
bottom the bottom
roll backflowroll
backflow zone between the downstream weir face and the nappe. Moreover, the size of the backflow
backflow
zone zonethebetween the downstream faceweir facenappe.
and theMoreover,
nappe. Moreover, thethe
size of the backflow
zone between
is proportionate downstream weir head
to the local and
loss.the
In the range −1.29 < the lnξsize of
≤ −0.51, backflow
increasing zone
S2 willis
zone is proportionate
proportionate to the to head
local the local
loss. head
In the loss. In −
range the range
1.29 < lnξ−1.29
≤ − < lnξincreasing
0.51, ≤ −0.51, increasing
S 2 will S2 will
gradually
gradually decrease the size of the backflow zone until it disappears at S2 =0.8, and the local head loss
graduallythe
decrease decrease
size of the size of thezone
backflow zone until it disappears
at S2 =0.8,S2at S2 =0.8, andheadthe local
loss head loss
plays the decisive rolebackflow
in this progress.untilContinuing
it disappears increasing and
, hf the tends localto be dominant playswith
the
plays the decisive role in this progress. Continuing increasing S , h tends to be dominant with
decisive role in this
run.progress. Continuing lnξ ≤ −1.29,S2although
−1.61 ≤ increasing , hf tendsthe to be dominant with increasing flow
2 f
increasing flow In the range backflow zone cannot be formed
increasing
run. In the flow run.
range − In ≤
1.61 the range
lnξ ≤ − −1.61although
1.29, ≤ lnξ ≤ −1.29,
the although
backflow zonethecannot
backflow be zone cannot
formed due to be
theformed
lower
due to the lower crest depth, the subpressure zone is formed around the downstream weir face.
due to
crest the lower
depth, crest depth,zone the is
subpressure zone theis formed aroundweir the face.
downstream weir face.
Smaller the the subpressure
value of S2 is, larger the formed
maximum around downstream
of subpressure zone is. Although Smaller the value
it increases the
Smaller
of the value
S2 is, larger of S2 is, larger
the maximum the maximum
of subpressure zoneof is. subpressure
Although zone is. Although it increases the
discharge coefficient, the instability of subpressure zone can it increases
lead to the the discharge
instability of coefficient,
weir flow.
discharge
the instabilitycoefficient, the instability of lead
subpressure zone canoflead weirtoflow. the instability of
theweir flow.
Therefore, the of subpressure
design zone can
of short-crested to the take
weir should instability
the downstream slopeTherefore,
into consideration. design of
Therefore, the design of short-crested weir should
short-crested weir should take the downstream slope into consideration.take the downstream slope into consideration.

Figure 12. mD vs. lnξ at S1 = 0.0 for S2 = 0.0–3.0.

Figure12.
Figure 12. m
mD vs.
D lnξξ at
vs. ln at SS1 == 0.0 for S2 = 0.0–3.0.
1 0.0 for S2 = 0.0–3.0.
4.4. Effects of Slope Coefficients on Free Surface Profiles
4.4. Effects
4.4. Effects of
of Slope
Slope Coefficients
Coefficients on
on Free
Free Surface
Surface Profiles
Profiles
In this numerical study, the variations of free surface profiles and Froude numbers over the
In this
thisnumerical
numericalstudy,
study,the the variations of
freefree surface profiles
and and Froude numbers
over over the
crestInwith various slope variations
coefficients are of surface
investigated profiles
in overflow Froude numbers
conditions. In Figure the
13,crest
the
crest various
with with various
slope slope coefficients
coefficients are investigated
are investigated in conditions.
overflow conditions. In the
Figure 13, the
normalized free surface elevation of (h − P)/H in overflow
is plotted against x/δ forIndifferent
Figure 13, valuesnormalized
of H/δ. As
normalized free surface
of elevation
(h − P)/H of (hplotted
− P)/H against
is plottedx/δagainst x/δ for different values As
of H/δ. As
free
shown,surface elevation
the free surface profiles are is
self-similar. The range for
of different showsofa H/δ.
(h − P)/Hvalues decreasingshown,
trend
shown,
the free the free surface
surface profiles profiles
arecases. are
self-similar. self-similar.
Thesurface The range
(h − P)/H
range ofprofile of (h − P)/H shows a decreasing trend
with growing x/δ in all The free can shows a decreasing
be divided into two trend with
parts growing
due to the
with
x/δ growing
in all acases. x/δ in all cases.
The free surface The free
profile surface profile can be divided into two parts due atoslow
the
gradient: slow descending segment andcan be divided
a sharp into two
descending parts For
segment. duetheto former
the gradient:
the curvature
gradient: a slow descending segment and a sharp descending segment. For the former the curvature
is nearly 0, but for the latter it descends quickly with hydraulic drop happening. The flow
is nearly 0, but for the latter it descends quickly with hydraulic drop happening. The flow
separation phenomenon happening around x/δ = 0.0 (at the entrance of weir crest) produces large
separation phenomenon happening around x/δ = 0.0 (at the entrance of weir crest) produces large
 curved surface profile. When Fr > 1, the value of Fr for the same x/δ increases as H/δ decreases,
indicating that for a smaller flow rate, the ratio of inertial force to gravity is so large it can keep the
higher profile gradient. Moreover, for a given weir model, the position where supercritical flow
takes place is relatively rearward as H/δ decreases.
Comparisons of free surface profiles and Fr over the weirs at S2 = 0.8 for S1 = 0.0, 1.0 and 2.0 are
Water 2018, 10, 204 14 of 18
shown in Figure 13a–c and Figure 14a–c. The plots reveal that increasing S1 leads to the increase of
surface curvature before the crest entrance and the decrease over the crest. When H/δ holds
descending segment and
constant, increasing a sharp
S1 will descending
accelerate segment. flow
supercritical For the former
taking the curvature
place. Analyzing is nearly 0, but
the effect of
for the latter
different it descends
S2 on quickly
free surface withover
profiles hydraulic drop
crest at S1 =happening.
1.0 in FigureThe13b,d,e
flow separation phenomenon
and the corresponding
happening aroundin
Froude numbers x/δ = 0.0 (at
Figure 14, the entrance
it can of weir crest)
be concluded that produces
increasinglarge energy
S2 leads to losses and results
the decrease in
of free
free surface
surface profile over
curvature descending
the crestsharply.
and it Moreover, the range
has no obvious of the on
influence curvature of free surface
the curvature of free profile
surface
profileabefore
shows the crest
decreasing with growing H/δ in all cases.
entrance.
trend

(a) (b)

Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 18

(c) (d)

(e)
Figure 13. (h − P)/H vs. various x/δ for H/δ = 0.49–1.42 at: (a) S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.8; (b) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.8; (c) S1
Figure 13. (h − P)/H vs. various x/δ for H/δ = 0.49–1.42 at: (a) S1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.8; (b) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.8;
= 2.0, S2 = 0.8; (d) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.0; (e) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 2.0.
(c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8; (d) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.0; (e) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 2.0.

In Figure 14, Fr is plotted against x/δ for different values of H/δ. The range of Fr shows an
increasing trend with growing x/δ in all cases. When Fr < 1, the value of Fr for the same x/δ decreases
Water 2018, 10, 204 15 of 18

as H/δ decreases, which indicates that for a smaller flow rate, the inertial force on the flow is smaller.
Under the action of gravity, the free surface profile is easier to bend, resulting in a more curved surface
profile. When Fr > 1, the value of Fr for the same (e) x/δ increases as H/δ decreases, indicating that
for a Figure
smaller13.flow rate,vs.
(h − P)/H thevarious
ratio ofx/δinertial
for H/δ =force to gravity
0.49–1.42 at: (a) Sis so large it can keep the higher profile
1 = 0.0, S2 = 0.8; (b) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.8; (c) S1
gradient. Moreover, for a given weir model, the position
= 2.0, S2 = 0.8; (d) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.0; (e) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 2.0. where supercritical flow takes place is
relatively rearward as H/δ decreases.

(a) (b)

Water 2018, 10, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 18

(c) (d)

(e)
Figure 14.
Figure 14. Froude
Froude numbers
numbers alongalong streamwise
streamwise direction
directionon ondifferent
differentinflow
inflowconditions:
conditions:(a)(a)S1S=1 0.0, S2
= 0.0,
= 0.8; (b) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.8; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8; (d) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.0; (e) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 2.0.
S2 = 0.8; (b) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.8; (c) S1 = 2.0, S2 = 0.8; (d) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 0.0; (e) S1 = 1.0, S2 = 2.0.

5. Conclusions
The effects of varying upstream and downstream slope coefficients on discharge coefficients of
rectangular short-crested weirs were studied systemically by the combination of laboratory
experiments and numerical simulation. A calculation formula was proposed by using the
dimensional analysis between hydraulic parameters and geometrical parameters: height of weir,
length of weir, upstream overflow total energy head, and upstream and downstream slope
Water 2018, 10, 204 16 of 18

Comparisons of free surface profiles and Fr over the weirs at S2 = 0.8 for S1 = 0.0, 1.0 and 2.0
are shown in Figures 13a–c and 14a–c. The plots reveal that increasing S1 leads to the increase of
surface curvature before the crest entrance and the decrease over the crest. When H/δ holds constant,
increasing S1 will accelerate supercritical flow taking place. Analyzing the effect of different S2 on
free surface profiles over crest at S1 = 1.0 in Figure 13b,d,e and the corresponding Froude numbers in
Figure 14, it can be concluded that increasing S2 leads to the decrease of free surface curvature over the
crest and it has no obvious influence on the curvature of free surface profile before the crest entrance.

5. Conclusions
The effects of varying upstream and downstream slope coefficients on discharge coefficients
of rectangular short-crested weirs were studied systemically by the combination of laboratory
experiments and numerical simulation. A calculation formula was proposed by using the dimensional
analysis between hydraulic parameters and geometrical parameters: height of weir, length of weir,
upstream overflow total energy head, and upstream and downstream slope coefficients. Moreover,
the free surface profiles over the weirs were numerically investigated.
The upstream overflow total energy head played a decisive role on the discharge coefficient of
rectangular short-crested weirs. For a certain configuration of a short-crested weir, the discharge
coefficient is slightly increased as the total energy head H0 increases. As H0 increases, the difference in
discharge coefficients for different values of S1 shows a decreasing trend with increasing lnξ, while the
trend is opposite for different values of S1 . For a given total energy head over the crest, the rectangular
short-crested weir with varying upstream slope has a convex parabolic relation between S1 and the
discharge coefficient, while the weir with varying downstream slope has a relation of piecewise
linearity between the S2 and the discharge coefficient. For a higher H0 , the maximum discharge
coefficient is always obtained at 0.8H:1V of downstream slope.
Increasing the upstream slope coefficients leads to the free surface curvature increasing before the
crest entrance and decreasing over the crest, while increasing the downstream slope coefficients leads
to the decrease of free surface curvature on the crest. In addition, the structural design for short-crested
weirs should take the downstream slope into consideration.
The calculation formula of the discharge coefficient was derived by the nonlinear regression. It is
a function of the upstream slope coefficient (S1 ), the downstream slope coefficient (S2 ), and the ratio of
total energy head to the sum of crest length and crest height (H0 /(P + δ)). The RMSE, MAPE and R2
for the proposed equation are calculated, and the values are 0.36%, 0.02% and 0.977, respectively.

Acknowledgments: The authors would like to acknowledge the support of the laboratory of Engineering
Hydraulics at Hohai University. The research work presented herein is also supported by the National Natural
Science Foundation of China (Grants No. 51279048), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities
(Grants No. 2017B625X14), the Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province (Grants
No. KYCX17_0439), and the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
(PAPD) (Grants No. YS11001).
Author Contributions: Zongfu Fu carried out the design of the experiment scheme and analysis of the
methodology, analyzed the results, and participated in the writing. Yuejun Chen carried out the laboratory
measurements and numerical simulations, the data treatment and analyses, and participated in the writing.
Qingsheng Chen carried out the analysis of the methodology and participated in the writing. Zhen Cui carried
out the numerical simulations and participated in the writing. All four authors reviewed and contributed to the
final manuscript.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Water 2018, 10, 204 17 of 18

Abbreviations
The following symbols are used in this paper:
B width of weir
Fr Froude number
g acceleration of gravity
hf frictional head loss
hj local head loss
hw total head loss
H overflow piezometric head upstream of weir
H0 upstream overflow total energy head, H0 = H + U2 /2g
m discharge coefficient
m0 fitting discharge coefficient
P height of weir
Q inflow discharge
R correlation coefficient
S1 upstream slope coefficient (the ratio of horizontal to vertical)
S2 downstream slope coefficient (the ratio of horizontal to vertical)
U approaching velocity
α nondimensional coefficient
β nondimensional coefficient
δ length of weir
ξ relative total energy head over the crest, ξ = H0 /(P + δ)
ρ mass density of water
σ surface tension of water
µ dynamic viscosity of water

References
1. Govinda Rao, N.S.; Muralidhar, D. Discharge characteristics of weirs of finite-crest width. La Houille Blanche
1963, 5, 537–545. [CrossRef]
2. Li, J.X.; Zhao, Z.X. Hydraulics; Hohai University Press: Nanjing, China, 2001. (In Chinese)
3. Inozemtsev, Y.P. Cavitation destruction of concrete and protective facings under natural conditions.
Power Technol. Eng. 1969, 3, 35–42. [CrossRef]
4. Bos, M.G. Discharge Measurement Structures; NASA Sti/recon Technical Report N; National Aeronautics and
Space Administration: Washington, DC, USA, 1989; Volume 78, pp. 120–122.
5. Ramamurthy, A.; Tim, U.; Rao, M. Characteristics of square-edged and round-nosed broad-crested weirs.
J. Irrig. Drain. Eng. 1988, 114, 61–73. [CrossRef]
6. Tong, H.H.; Lan, F.R. Analysis of the effect of weir height on discharge capacity of low weirs. Yangtze River
2002, 11, 20–21. (In Chinese)
7. Singer, J. Square-edged broad-crested weir as a flow measurement device. Water Water Eng. 1964, 68, 229–235.
8. Kiselef, P.G.; Zhou, P.; Hua, Z. Hydraulics: Principle of Fluid Mechanics; China Water & Power Press: Beijing,
China, 1983. (In Chinese)
9. Li, W. Hydraulic Reckoner; China Water & Power Press: Beijing, China, 2006. (In Chinese)
10. Tong, H.H.; Ai, K.M.; Ding, X.Q. Discharge capacity of broken-line practical weir. J. Yangtze River Sci. Res. Inst.
2002, 19, 19–22. (In Chinese)
11. Farhoudi, J.; Shokri, N. Flow from Broad Crested Rectangular Weirs with Sloped Downstream Face, 32nd ed.;
IAHR Congress: Venice, Italy, 2007.
12. Badr, K.; Mowla, D. Development of rectangular broad-crested weirs for flow characteristics and discharge
measurement. KSCE J. Civ. Eng. 2015, 19, 136–141. [CrossRef]
13. Azimi, A.H.; Rajaratnam, N. Discharge characteristics of weirs of finite crest length. J. Irrig. Drain. Eng. 2009,
139, 1081–1085. [CrossRef]
14. Goodarzi, E.; Farhoudi, J.; Shokri, N. Flow Characteristics of rectangular broad-crested weirs with sloped
upstream face. J. Hydrol. Hydromech 2012, 60, 87. [CrossRef]
Water 2018, 10, 204 18 of 18

15. Farhoudi, J.; Shah Alami, H. Slope effect on discharge efficiency in rectangular broad crested weir with
sloped upstream face. Int. J. Civ. Eng. 2005, 3, 58–65.
16. Sargison, J.E.; Percy, A. Hydraulics of broad-crested weirs with varying slopes. J. Irrig. Drain. Eng. ASCE
2009, 135, 115–118. [CrossRef]
17. Tong, H.H.; Li, M.C.; Ding, X.Q. Relation between low weir shape and discharge capacity. J. Yangtze River
Sci. Res. Inst. 2011, 28, 25–28. (In Chinese)
18. Chen, Y.J.; Gu, X.F.; Fu, Z.F.; Cui, Z. Effects of varying upstream side slope coefficients on discharge coefficient
of broken-line practical weirs. J. Hohai Univ. (Nat. Sci.) 2018. in press (In Chinese)
19. Chen, Y.J.; Fu, Z.F.; Cui, Z. Effects of varying upstream side slopes on discharge coefficient of rectangular
profile short-crested weirs. In Proceedings of the 37th IAHR World Congress, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
13–18 August 2017.
20. Li, W. Hydraulic Calculation Mannual; China Water & Power Press: Beijing, China, 2006. (In Chinese)
21. Haun, S.; Olsen, N.R.B.; Feurich, R. Numerical modeling of flow over trapezoidal broad-crested weir.
Eng. Appl. Comp. Fluid 2011, 5, 397–405. [CrossRef]
22. Flow Science Inc. Flow-3D User Manual Version 11.0.3; Flow Science Inc.: Santa Fe, NM, USA, 2015.
23. Paik, J.; Lee, N.J. Numerical modeling of free surface flow over a broad-crested rectangular weir.
J. Korea Water Resour. Assoc. 2015, 48, 281–290. (In Korean) [CrossRef]
24. Vaccine, D.V.; Wang, S.X. Model scale and discharge coefficient. Adv. Sci. Technol. Water Resour. 1981, 2,
37–44. (In Chinese)
25. Isaacs, L.T. Effects of Laminar Boundary Layer on a Model Broad-Crested Weir; NASA Sti/recon Technical Report
N; National Aeronautics and Space Administration: Washington, DC, USA, 1981; Volume 83, pp. 1–20.
26. Ranga Raju, K.G.; Srivastava, R.; Porey, P.D. Scale effects in modelling flow over broad-crested weirs.
Irrig. Power 1990, 47, 101–106.
27. Yakhot, V.; Orszag, S.A. Renormalization group analysis of turbulence. I. Basic theory. J. Sci. Comput. 1986, 1,
3–51. [CrossRef]
28. Wang, F.J. Analysis of Computational Fluid Dynamics: Theory and Application of CFD Software; Tsinghua
University Press: Beijing, China, 2004. (In Chinese)
29. Azimi, H.; Shabanlou, S.; Ebtehaj, I.; Bonakdari, H. Discharge Coefficient of rectangular side weirs on circular
channels. Int. J. Nonlinear Sci. Numer. Simul. 2016, 17. [CrossRef]
30. Hirt, C.W.; Nichols, B.D. Volume of fluid (VOF) method for the dynamics of free boundaries. J. Comput. Phys.
1981, 39, 201–225. [CrossRef]

© 2018 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access
article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution
(CC BY) license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).