Desktop Reference Guide

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox
Version 4.2
Desktop Reference Guide
Reference Guide Version 4.2

Acknowledgement
The FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox and Desktop Reference Guide was developed as a collaboration between the Federal
Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Resource Center (RC) and Federal Lands Highway (FLH) offices. The methods and
techniques included in the soft.ware draws heavily from materials and documents published by the FHWA.
This software was developed for the FHWA by Aquaveo, Inc.. Work continues by Aquaveo to develop improved ver-
sions and furnish program updates. This manual was written by Bart S. Bergendahl, P.E., FHWA, Central Federal Lands
Highway Division, Lakewood, Colorado and Larry A. Arneson, Ph.D.,P.E., FHWA, Resource Center, Lakewood, Colora-
do.
FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
INTRODUCTION 1
INSTALLATION AND REGISTRATION 3
HYDRAULIC TOOLBOX INTERFACE 4

PROFILE SETUP TOOL 6
HYDRAULIC TOOLBOX CALCULATORS 9
Channel Analysis Calculator 10
Channel Lining Design Calculator 15
Rock Lining Design 18
Vegetative Lining Design 19
RECP Lining Design 20
Gabion Lining Design 21
Weir Analysis Calculator 22
Curb & Gutter Calculator 23
Median/Ditch Drop-Inlet Calculator 26
Rational Method Calculator 29
FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS—CONTINUED PAGE
Detention Basin Calculator 37

Riprap Design Calculator 42
Channel Revetment 45
Bridge Piers 47
Bridge Abutments or Guide Banks 48
Channel Spur 50
Embankment Overtopping 52
Culvert Outlet 54
Open Bottom Culvert 56
Wave Attack 57
Riprap Filter Design 59
Design Wave Calculator 63
Rock-Sediment Gradation Analysis Calculator 67
Culvert Assessment Analysis Calculator 73
FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox iv

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator 76

Abutment Scour 78
- Froehlich Method 78
- HIRE Method 79
- NCHRP Method 80
Contraction Scour 82
Long Term Degradation 85
Pier Scour 89
- HEC-18 Method 89
- Florida DOT Method 90
- Complex Pier Method 92
Special Scour Conditions 95
- Pier Scour in Course Bed Materials 95
- Pier Scour in Cohesive Bed Materials 97
- Contraction Scour for Pressure Flow Conditions 98
FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox v

Horizontal Grade Inlet Calculator 100

MAPPING MODULE 102
PROJECT NOTES 106
REPORT GENERATION 107
REFERENCES 108
FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox vi

Introduction
The purpose of this reference guide is to provide the user with helpful tips for utilizing FHWA’s Hydraulic Toolbox. Gen-
eral topics covered in this guide include the following:
 Understanding the graphical user interface (GUI), its various calculators, basic technical concepts, and report
capabilities
 Managing files and saving project data
 Governing equations
 Locating references where a more detailed description of the technical concepts can be found
This guide is not intended to be all-inclusive and some of the more advanced features of the software may be omitted or
covered only briefly.
This guide is published as a service of the Federal Highway Administration Resource Center, Geotechnical and Hydrau-
lics Technical Service Team (TST). For more information about the Geotechnical and Hydraulics TST, please visit the
following web link: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/resourcecenter/index.cfm
FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 1

Introduction
The FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox Program is a stand alone suite of calculators that performs
routine hydrologic and hydraulic computations. The Hydraulic Toolbox significantly ex-
tends the basic functionality of the historic version of the FHWA DOS Hydraulic Toolbox
and Visual Urban Programs. The program allows a user to perform and save hydraulic
calculations in one project file, analyze multiple scenarios, and create plots and reports of
these analyses. The computations can be carried out in either CU or SI units.
Twelve calculators are available for project development:
1. Channel Analysis
2. Channel Lining Design Analysis
3. Weir Analysis
4. Curb and Gutter Analysis
5. Median/Ditch Drop-Inlet Analysis
6. Rational Method Hydrologic Analysis
7. Detention Basin Analysis
8. Riprap Analysis
9. Rock—Sediment Gradation Analysis
10. Culvert Assessment Analysis Detention Basin Calculator
11. Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator
12. Horizontal Grade Inlet Calculator
There are modules that represent a project graphically and save notes and reports with
the analysis results. These results can be printed at the user’s discretion.

Installation and Registration
The FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox Program can be installed
on Windows based computers by executing the instal-
lation program. Running the installation again or run-
ning an updated installation for the same version of the
hydraulic toolbox will allow you to modify, repair, or re-
move the soft.ware on your computer. There is also an
optional registration component that allows users to
sign up to be notified of future program releases and
updates.
Hint: By default the Hydraulic
Toolbox installs to the Pro-
gram Files folder but can be
easily installed elsewhere on
your computer

Hydraulic Toolbox Interface
The FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox main program window contains five main fea-
tures.
 Menu Pull Down Options can be used to select the type of calculation to be
performed, open, save, save as, and rename files.
 File Operations, Help, & Units can be used to create a new file, open, save,
and access help documentation
 Calculator Macros, Edit, Notes, & Create Report icons can be used to quick-
ly select options similar to the Menu Pull Down options
 The Project Explorer Window shows the number and types of calculations
that are associated with a particular project. The type of calculation in the
Project Explorer Window is identified by the type of icon next to the calcula-
tion. The calculation is given a default name when created but can be re-
named so something more meaningful can be provided as a project is de-
veloped.

Menu Pull Down Options
Calculator Macros, Edit,
Notes, Create Report, & Mapping
File Operations, Help,
Module
& Units
Project Explorer Window
Graphics Window

Profile Setup Tool
The FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox contains a Profile Setup

Tool that allows the user to input custom riprap gradation
standards and/or culvert assessment criteria so they can be
used in the Riprap Analysis and Culvert Assessment Calcu-
lators, respectively. This tool is found in the profile toolbar.
The last profile used will be ‘active’ when the Toolbox is
opened; therefore, the user should always check this toolbar
before using the Riprap Analysis or Culvert Assessment Cal-
culators to ensure the desired profile is active.
The Toolbox is pre-loaded with the riprap standards and cul-

vert assessment criteria advocated by FHWA. These can-
not be edited; however, they can be viewed by selecting the
‘FHWA Profile (read only)’ option from the dropdown window
located in the toolbar at the top of the Toolbox opening
screen and clicking the “Edit Profile” icon adjacent to the
dropdown window. This will bring up the ‘profile window.’
The individual properties of the culvert assessment profile or
Example FHWA Read-Only Riprap Profile
the riprap classes can be viewed on the right side of the pro-
file window by simply clicking on the profile or class name
listed on the left. side of the window.

Profile Setup Tool
To change or customize these profiles, the user selects the
‘<new>’ option in the profile dropdown window and clicks the
“Edit Profile” icon. This will bring up the ‘profile window’
which contains option buttons for adding a culvert assess-
ment profile or a riprap class to the existing profiles, as well
as tools for duplicating, deleting, and editing the same. To
delete an entire profile option, the user selects the profile in
the dropdown window then clicks the “Delete Profile” icon
adjacent to the Edit Profile icon.
When a specific culvert assessment profile is selected from

the list on the left. side of the ‘profile window’ (other than the
FHWA ‘Standard (read only)’), the window on the right allows
all the control parameters to be edited by simply placing the
cursor in the desired field. The most frequently used culvert
assessment profile is typically designated as the ‘default.’
The default is always the active profile when a culvert as-
sessment file is created or when a previously selected profile New Culvert Assessment Profile
cannot be found in the local Toolbox data base. However,
any profile can be used to evaluate culverts by simply select-
ing it. An asterisk (*) is placed behind the default profile
name to help the user identify it.

Profile Setup Tool
As with the culvert assessment profiles, when a specific riprap class is selected on the left. side of the ‘profile win-
dow’ (other than those under ‘FHWA Profile (read only)’), the window on the right allows the user to edit the class name,
order, and size characteristics. It is important to note that riprap classes need to be ordered according to size,
with number ‘1’ being assigned to the smallest. This is required to ensure the correct class is chosen by the riprap
sizing calculators within the Toolbox. Consequently, if a riprap class is added and its size range falls between two exist-
ing classes, the classes need not be listed sequentially, but the ‘Class Order’ numbers must be assigned accordingly.
A plot of a specific riprap class can be viewed as a check on input accuracy by clicking ‘Plot’ after the class has been
selected. The entire set of riprap classes can be viewed by selecting the folder and clicking ‘Plot.’

Hydraulic Toolbox Calculators
Each calculator performs a specific type
of analysis and only one calculator can be
active at any given time. As the user
opens the calculator windows, data inputs
are displayed that are unique to the
opened calculator.
The eleven calculators are described on

the following pages.
Calculator Menu

Channel Analysis Calculator
The Channel Analysis Calculator offers five channel types to choose from:
 Trapezoidal
 Rectangular
 Triangular
 Circular
 User Defined Cross-Section
Each type of channel requires slightly different variables. When you select a channel type, an input window will appear.

The Channel Analysis Calculator can compute
the full range of hydraulic parameters for trapezoi-
dal, rectangular, triangular, circular, or user defined
(irregular) channel shapes for a given depth or dis-
charge. For a selected cross section, the user is
prompted for necessary input including channel
side slopes, bottom width, diameter, channel slope,
and Manning’s n value. Hydraulic parameters are
computed using the Manning Equation shown be-
low.
Manning Equation
1.486
Q AR 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
n
Q = Discharge
n = Manning Roughness Coefficient
A = Area
R = Hydraulic Radius, A/P
P = Wetted Perimeter
Channel Types

Channel Analysis Calculator—Channel Linings
If a channel lining is present, the user can check
the “Use lining” box and a drop down menu un-
der “Lining type” will appear. If a “Vegetative
channel lining” is selected, the Manning’s “n” val-
ue will be computed along with the other hydrau-
lic parameters using an internal iterative routine.
If another type of lining is selected a default Man-
ning’s “n” value will appear. To change the de-
fault “n” value, check the “Override default” box
and insert the desired “n” value in the box.
Channel Lining Menu

The Channel Analysis Calculator requires the
user to insert either a known flow value or a depth
of flow. The program will calculate the unknown
variable and a table will appear showing calculat-
ed variables for the selected channel configuration
and depth or flow.
Calculated Channel Analysis Results

Select the “Plot” button to bring up a plot of the channel geometry and water surface elevation. The “Compute Curves”
button will plot depth or discharge against a user defined variable selected from nine available options. Double clicking
on the plot graph brings up a new window that will allow the user to change the look of the graph. There are tabs for
General, Plot, Axis, Font, Color and Style. The “Plot” and “Compute Curves” options are the same for all channel types.
Plot Windows

Channel Lining Design Calculator
The Channel Lining Design Calculator offers four channel lining types to choose from for designing stable roadside
channels:
 Rock (Small Riprap, Cobble, Gravel)
 Vegetation
 Rolled Erosion Control Product (RECP)
 Gabion (Mattress)
The acceptability of a given lining type is typically determined by comparing the maximum applied shear
stress, imparted by the flow, to the permissible shear stress of the lining. The general equation for maximum
applied shear stress in open-channel flow is:
 d   dS o (See HEC-15, Eqn. 3.1)
The equation for permissible shear stress is different for each lining material. The appropriate equation will be shown
and defined below as part of the description of each lining type.
Each lining type requires different Input Parameters. When you select a lining type, the associated data input screen will
open. After selecting the desired lining type, the initial, normal-depth hydraulic parameters required for lining design
must be provided. These parameters can be provided by either selecting a previously defined Channel Calculator file
that appears in the ‘Select Channel’ window or inputting new hydrologic and channel characteristic data locally using the

Channel Calculator. (The use of the Channel Calculator is described earlier in this document.) Note that an initial Man-
ning’s n-value must also be provided. Since the final n-value is determined by the program through an iterative
computational routine, only an initial guess of this value is required. The program will transfer the results of the selected
Channel Calculator to the input screen.
Once the hydraulic parameters are provided for the channel, the Input Parameters unique to the selected lining type
must be provided. Upon entering all input data, the program will immediately determine the adequacy of the selected
lining type for the given channel hydraulics. If the lining type is satisfactory for the given channel characteristics, a green
highlighted message stating such will appear. If the lining is not satisfactory, a red message will appear.
The above operations and requirements are common to all four lining types. The unique Input Parameters and Results
will be described below for each lining type.


Channel Lining Design Calculator — Rock Lining
The equation for permissible shear stress of a loose rock lining is:
 p  F*  s    D50 (See HEC-15, Eqn. 6.7)
The following unique Input Parameters are required for Rock-lined channels:
 D50 size-fraction for the proposed rock, ft.
 Rock specific weight, lbs./ft.3 (typically 150 – 170)
 Water specific weight, lbs./ft.3 (fresh water: 62.4; salt water: 64.4)
 Shape of the rock (Crushed, Angular, Round)
 Safety Factor desired
The following unique Results are generated for Rock-lined channels:
 Angle of Repose
 Manning’s n-value
 Permissible and Applied Shears for channel bottom, side slopes, and any bend
 Length of Protection required beyond any bend
 Additional Freeboard due to super-elevation at any bend
Typically the rock size (D50) is incrementally adjusted according to the computed results until a satisfactory size is identi-
fied.

Channel Lining Design Calculator—Vegetative Lining
The equation for permissible shear stress of a vegetative lining is:
2
 p , soil  n 
p   
1  C   n
f s 
(See HEC-15, Eqn. 4.7)
The following unique input parameters are required for vegetation-lined channels:
 Water Specific Weight, lbs./ft.3 (fresh water: 62.4; salt water 64.4)
 Height of Vegetation
 Condition of Vegetation
 Form of Vegetation
 Soil Type (Non-Cohesive or Cohesive)
 Soil Class characteristics (Non-Cohesive: D75; Cohesive: PI, Porosity, etc.)
The following unique Results are generated for Vegetation-lined channels:
 Permissible and applied shears for channel bottom and any bend
 Length of protection required beyond any bend
 Additional freeboard due to super-elevation at any bend
Typically, the vegetation characteristics are adjusted until a satisfactory combination is identified. If no satisfactory com-
bination of vegetative characteristics can be identified, a more robust lining type must be selected and tested.

Channel Lining Design Calculator—RECP Lining
The equation for permissible shear stress of RECP lining is:
l   
p   p , soil   (See HEC-15, Eqn. 5.5)
 4 .3 
The following unique Input Parameters are required for RECP-lined channels:
 RECP Type (Open-weave textile, Erosion control blanket, Turf reinforcing mat)
 Shear Stress that causes 0.5 inches of erosion for selected RECP
 Manning’s n-value for selected RECP
 Water specific weight, lbs./ft.3 (fresh water: 62.4; salt water 64.4)
 Soil Type (Non-Cohesive or Cohesive)
 Soil Class characteristics (Non-Cohesive: D75; Cohesive: PI, Porosity)
The following unique Results are generated for RECP-lined channels:

 Permissible and Applied Shears for channel bottom and any bend
Typically, the RECP selection is changed until a satisfactory type is identified. If no satisfactory type can be identified, a
more robust lining must be selected and tested.

Channel Lining Design Calculator—Gabion Lining
The equation for permissible shear stress of gabion mattress lining is:
 p  0 .0091  s   MT  MTc  (See HEC-15, Eqn. 7.2)
The following unique Input Parameters are required for Gabion-lined channels:
 D50 size-fraction for the proposed rock, ft.
 Gabion mattress thickness, ft. (limited to 1.5 ft. maximum)
 Rock specific weight, lbs./ft.3 (typically 150 – 170)
The following unique Results are generated for Gabion-lined channels:
 Permissible and Applied Shears for channel bottom and any bend
 Minimum Extensions upstream and downstream from protected area
 Minimum Freeboard for flow type
Typically the rock size and/or mattress thickness is incrementally adjusted according to the computed results until a sat-
isfactory combination is identified.

Weir Analysis Calculator
Weir Equation
3
Q  CLH 2
Where:
Q = Discharge
C = Weir Discharge Coefficient
L = Weir Length
H = Head
Weir Analysis Calculator Menu

The Weir Analysis Calculator offers 7 types of weir for analysis: rectangular, cipolleti (trapezoidal), v-notch
(90 degrees) v-notch (60 degrees), v-notch (45 degrees), v-notch (22.5 degrees), and v-notch (user defined
coefficient). The weir analysis window requires the user to enter the type of weir, weir length, the weir coef-
ficient (if the default value is not acceptable) and either the head or the amount of flow. The toolbox will
then calculate the missing variable.

Curb And Gutter Calculator
The Curb and Gutter Calculator can

handle uniform or compound gutters.
The curb and gutter analysis allows the
user to calculate the design flow or the
width of spread. If the gutter cross
slope, Sw, is different than that of the
pavement cross slope, Sx, the user de-
fines the gutter cross section slope, Sw,
by selecting the “Define cross-slope of
gutter” box and entering the slope.
Once the governing discharge or width
of spread is entered and the compute
unknown button is selected, the gutter
depression value (“a” for compound gut-
ter) along with the area of flow, percent
of flow in the gutter, Eo, and depth of
flow at the curb face will automatically be Compound Gutter Cross Slope
calculated and displayed.

Curb and Gutter Calculator
The Curb and Gutter Calculator also has a
separate inlet capacity calculator on the right
hand side of the screen. It allows the user to
define the inlet location, type, size, and wheth-
er there is an added local depression at the
inlet. In sag locations the user can also speci-
fy percent clogging which will reduce the inlet
perimeter and open area accordingly. Once
the variables are entered, the “Calculate” but-
ton is selected and the results are shown in a
table in the bottom window.

The inlet capacity calculator contains five inlet types:
 Grate Only (P-1-7/8, P-1-7/8-4, P-1-1/8, Curved
Vane, 45 Degree Tilt Bar 2-1/4”, 45 Degree Tilt Bar
3-1/4”, 30 Degree Tilt bar, Reticuline)
 Curb Opening
 Slotted Drain
 Sweeper Combination
 Equal Length Combination
Typical computed results for on-grade inlets include:
 Area of Flow
 Intercepted Flow
 Bypass Flow
 Velocity
 Splash-over Velocity
(limited to grate lengths of 5 ft. or less)
 Efficiency
Typical computed results for inlets in sags include:
 Flow Type
 Effective Perimeter (accounting for clogging)
 Effective Area (accounting for clogging)
 Depth at Curb Face
 Width of Spread Gutter and Inlet

Median/Ditch Drop-Inlet Calculator
The Median/Ditch Drop-Inlet Calculator computes the
amount of flow captured and by-passed by a typical drop-inlet
placed in the bottom of median, roadside, or similar ditch.
Upon opening the calculator the user is asked to select a
channel in the upper left. window. Once a channel selection
is made, the “Edit Channel Data” button is selected to open
the Channel Analysis Calculator and enter new data or re-
view previously input data. Upon closing the Channel Analy-
sis Calculator, the design discharge, depth, and velocity for
the channel are reported in the upper left. channel window. If
the user is satisfied with the configuration of the chosen
channel, the input discharge or depth can be edited directly
from the channel window without re-opening the Channel
Analysis Calculator.
The specific inlet configuration is selected using the options
presented in the upper right window. Similar to the Curb and
Gutter Calculator, the user must first specify whether the
inlet is located on-grade, or in a sag. If on-grade, the user
can further specify whether a ‘channel block’ is desired down-
stream of the inlet. If on-grade with a block or a sag location
is specified, the user has the option to enter a “percent
clogged” for the grate. If a percentage is entered, both the
open area and the perimeter of the selected grate is reduced Median/Ditch Drop Inlet Calculator
accordingly.

For on-grade applications, if the ‘Compute required channel block height’ box is checked, the user is asked to specify the
distance from the downstream end of the grate to the block “base.” (The default value of ‘0’ indicates that the base of
the block is located immediately at the downstream end of the grate.) This is an important input since the height of the
channel block required to capture 100% of the flow increases with distance downstream when the grate is operating un-
der either weir or orifice control. Furthermore, the computed “Minimum Block Height” is the greater of weir or orifice flow
depth at the block, and the specific energy of the approach flow. Specific energy is an important check when the grate is
narrower than the channel bottom and the channel slope is steep.
The user is next asked to specify the grate type and dimensions. Once specified, the user selects the “Compute Inlet
Data” button located above the bottom window and the calculator will report the analysis results. For on-grade applica-
tions without a channel block, the calculator reports the following results:
 Intercepted Flow
 Bypass Flow Note: Many times a chan-
 Approach Velocity nel block is used to help
 Splash-over Velocity capture flow in a channel
 Efficiency and keep it from continu-
ing past a median/ditch
For in-sag applications, the following results are reported: drop-inlet. The calculator
can help you determine
 Effective Perimeter (accounts for clogging)
the proper block height.
 Effective Area (accounts for clogging)
 Depth at center of grate
 Top width at center of grate
 Flow Type (Weir or Orifice)
 Efficiency

Note: For on-grade applications with

a channel block, the following are
reported in addition to the above
output for in-sag applications:
 Velocity Head of Approach Flow
Block  Depth at Block (Greater of Weir
vs. Orifice Control)
 Specific Energy
 Minimum Block Height
Adapted from HEC-22 Figure 4.23.

Median/Ditch Drop-Inlet

Rational Method Calculator
The Rational Method Calculator can
be used to enter the variables required
to compute discharge rate by the Ration-
al Method. The calculator can also com-
pute the total time of concentration, tc,
and plot the intensity-duration-frequency
(IDF) curves. Once discharge has been
determined, a hydrograph can be com-
puted by various methods and dis-
played.
Rational Method
Q  CIA
Where:
Q = Discharge
C = Rational Method Runoff Coefficient
I = Rainfall Intensity
A = Area Rational Method Analysis

Rational Method Calculator—IDF Curve Computation
To compute the Intensity-Duration-Frequency
(IDF) curves the user must select the precipita-
tion data source that will be used to compute
the curves. The source is dependent on where
the project is located and what type of precipita-
tion data is available. Depending on the source
selected, a new window will open that will re-
quire the user to input applicable variables or in
the case of user defined storm data, precipita-
tion information for the 2- through 100-year
storms and the 5-min to 60-min durations.
Once the precipitation data is entered, the

“Compute Intensity” button is selected and the
IDF curves are calculated and displayed. The
curves can be exported and saved for future
use.
IDF Computation Window

Rational Method Calculator—IDF Curve Generator
The Rational Method Calculator allows the input of precipita-
tion information from a variety of sources. Hydro-35 for the
Eastern United States, NOAA Atlas 2 for the Western United
States, and user defined precipitation values from other sources
such as NOAA Atlas 14 (various regions of the United States).
Remember: Precipitation input

values for NOAA Atlas 2 are state
and region specific. Therefore it is
necessary to select the correct
state and the NOAA Atlas 2 region
for the area where your project is
located.
IDF Curve Input Variables

Rational Method Calculator—IDF Computations
Once the precipitation values have been en-

tered, the Rational Method Calculator gen-
erates IDF Curves for 2 year, 5 year, 10 year,
25 year, 50 year, and 100 year recurrence
intervals. The recurrence interval to be ana-
lyzed is selected before determination of the
time of concentration, tc, and peak discharge.
Selected
Recurrence Internal
Rational Method Analysis—Precipitation

Time Of Concentration—Overview
The total time of concentration, tc, is a function
of three potential flow types; sheet flow, shal-
low concentrated flow, and channel flow along
a single flow path to a point of interest. The
overland/sheet flow and shallow concentrated
flow components are fairly straight forward but
the channel flow component is solved through
an iterative process using the Manning Equa-
tion.
One of the inputs to the Manning Equation is
the hydraulic radius, R, which is a function of
discharge, Q. Since the determination of Q is
the desired outcome, an initial estimate of Q
must be provided so that the program can
make an initial determination of R and the
channel travel time. The Rational Method
Calculator will then make a second estimate of
the discharge using this travel time. This itera-
tive process is automatically carried out (when
the “optimize” button is selected in the opening
screen) until the resulting discharge matches Time Of Concentration
the previous estimate within an acceptable tol-
erance.

Time Of Concentration—Overland and Sheet Flow
The basin characteristics input for
the sheet flow component of time of
concentrated are the top elevation,
the bottom elevation, length, Man-
ning “n”, and 2-year 24-hour precipi-
tation depth. Slope is computed
from the top elevation, bottom ele-
vation, and length.
Time Of Concentration—Sheet Flow

0 .8 Hint: If the 2-year 24-hour pre-
  nL  cipitation depth is already pro-
tc = 0 .5
 
P2  S vided, it is automatically carried
forward into this entry field.
where,
P2 = 2-year, 24-hour rainfall depth, in (mm)
 = unit conversion constant equal to 5.5 in SI
units and 0.42 in CU units.
n = roughness coefficient (see Table 2.1)
L = flow length, ft. (m)
S = slope of the surface, ft./ft. (m/m)

Time Of Concentration—Shallow Concentrated Flow
The basin characteristics
needed for the shallow con-
centrated flow component of
time of concentration are the
top elevation, bottom eleva-
tion, length, and a value for k,
that describes the type of land
cover. Slope is computed
from the top elevation, bottom
elevation, and length.
Time Of Concentration—Shallow Concentrated Flow
Hint: The value of top ele-
V=  k S
vation is automatically car- 0 .5
ried forward from the over-
land and sheet flow calcu- where,
lator (if used).
V = velocity, m/s (ft./s)
S = slope, m/m (ft./ft.)
k = dimensionless function of land cover (see HDS-2,
Table 2.2)
α = unit conversion constant equal to 10 in SI and 33 in
CU units.

Time Of Concentration—Channel Flow
The basin characteristics for the Channel
Flow component of time of concentration,
tc, are the Top Elevation, Bottom Eleva-
tion, Length, and Manning’s “n.” The ve-
locity is computed using either the Chan-
nel Calculator or Curb and Gutter Calcu-
lator which can be selected from this win-
dow. You can also select an already de-
fined channel or curb and gutter analysis
from the Project Explorer Window.
Time Of Concentration—Pipe And Channel Flow

Hint: There is no need to enter
 2/3 1/ 2
Manning “n” values or slope in this
V= R S window since they are carried for-
n
ward from the either the Channel
where,
Calculator or the Curb and Gutter
V = velocity, ft./s (m/s)
Calculator.
n = Manning’s roughness coefficient
R = hydraulic radius, ft. (m)
 = unit conversion constant equal (1.0 SI units, 1.49 CU units)
S = slope, ft./ft. (m/m)

Detention Basin Calculator
One of the fundamental objectives of storm water manage-
ment is to maintain the peak runoff rate in a developed area
at or below the predevelopment rate. The Detention Basin
Calculator uses the basin storage, the inflow hydrograph and
the outflow discharge to achieve this goal.
The volume of storage must be estimated to reduce the basin

peak discharge. The calculator subtracts the volume of water
that can be stored in the basin from the volume of water en-
tering the basin based on the inflow hydrograph. When the
entering volume of water exceeds the storage volume of the
basin, the excess water is discharged through the user de-
fined structure.
The detention basin analysis begins by selecting the “Define

Storage” button and entering the volume, geometry, or area
of the basin. By selecting the “Define” button for the known
volume, a new window opens and the user enters the acre-ft.
of storage below its corresponding elevation. If the “Known
area” option is selected, the user enters the elevation and
area of the surface in acres. Up to 200 data pairs are al-
lowed. If the geometry is known, the user enters the dimen-
Detention Basin Storage Capacity sions of the basin bottom.

The next step is to specify how outflow discharges from the
basin. This can be done by selecting “Define Outflow Discharg-
es” button and either entering a known discharge or adding a
structure such as a weir, riser, or standpipe.
Hint: The type, size, and elevation of the

outflow structure will determine the outflow
hydrograph and the basin size. Therefore,
several trials may be needed to determine
the most cost effective detention basin size,
configuration, and outflow structure type.
Discharge Structure Assignment

The final step in the detention basin analysis is to
define the inflow hydrograph. There are a number
of methods to determine the hydrograph such as the
Triangular Hydrograph Method and the SCS Proce-
dure. For more information on these Methods refer
to HEC-22, Urban Drainage Design Manual, Chap-
ter 8. Once the hydrograph has been generated it
can be entered by clicking on the “Define Inflow hy-
drograph”, selecting the number of “Time”, “Inflow”
points and entering the data.
Once all the input data is provided, the “Route Hy-

drograph” button is selected to perform the compu-
tations. The routed outflow hydrograph and required
storage results are reported in tabular format. Stor-
age curves, inflow hydrographs, and routed outflow
hydrographs can also be plotted.
Inflow Hydrograph

The Detention Basin Calculator can plot
the inflow and outflow hydrographs and the
storage-discharge curves. The storage-
discharge curves define the relationship
between the storage volume in the basin,
and the discharge for a given water eleva-
tion. The red line defines the storage
curve and the blue line defines the dis-
charge. The discharge will remain at 0
cubic feet per second until the elevation of
the outflow structure is reached then the
discharge curve will climb.
Storage Discharge Curves

The Detention Basin Calculator can produce a number of use- Storage Curve
ful plots. The Inflow and Outflow Hydrographs figure shows an
inflow and routed outflow hydrograph while the Storage Curve
figure shows the detention basin storage curve.
The blue line in the Inflow and Outflow Hydrographs figure shows the
inflow hydrograph to have a peak discharge of 31 ft.3/sec and the red
line shows the routed hydrograph to have a discharge of 19 ft.3/sec for
a reduction of 12 ft.3/sec . The Storage Curve figure shows the maxi-
Inflow and Outflow Hydrographs mum storage volume for the detention basin to be approximately 0.66

Riprap Design Calculator
The Riprap Design Calculator offers eight applications for designing rock riprap armor protection / scour countermeas-
ures:
 Channel Revetment
 Bridge Piers
 Bridge Abutments / Guide Banks
 Channel Spurs
 Embankment Overtopping
 Culvert Outlets
 Open-bottom Culverts
 Wave Attack
In addition, a Riprap Filter Design Calculator is available for each of the above riprap applications. The Filter Calculator
will design both granular or geotextile filters; with multiple layers available for the granular filter design, if needed. The
Filter Design Calculator will be described in more detail below. Detailed descriptions of all the above methods are con-
tained in FHWA publication HEC 23.
Each of the above riprap applications requires different Input Parameters. When you select an application, the associat-
ed data input screen will open.
After selecting the desired application, the hydraulic parameters required for the specific riprap design must be provided.
These parameters can be input directly, or computed by either selecting a previously defined Channel Calculator file that
appears in the ‘Select Channel’ window or inputting new hydrologic and channel characteristic data locally using the
Channel Calculator. (The use of the Channel Calculator is described earlier in this document.) If a Channel Calculator
option is chosen, the calculator output will only be transferred to the appropriate Input Parameter fields if the “Transfer
Values From Channel Calculator” button is selected.

Once the hydraulic parameters are provided, the Input Parameters unique to the selected riprap application must be pro-
vided. Upon entering all required input data, the program will immediately output the necessary riprap rock size for the
given channel hydraulics.
With a couple of variations, the above operations and requirements are common to all eight riprap applications. The var-
iations occur in the Embankment Overtopping and Wave Attack applications. The Embankment Overtopping application
includes the Weir Calculator, in addition to the Channel Calculator, and the option to transfer the results of the Weir Cal-
culator to the appropriate Input Parameter fields, if desired. (The use of the Weir Calculator is described earlier in this
document.) The Wave Attack application is for shoreline protection and includes a Design Wave Calculator rather than a
Channel Calculator. The computed or edited results in the Design Wave Calculator are transferred to the Wave Attack
riprap calculator.
The unique Input Parameters, governing equation, and Results for each riprap application, as well as the Filter Design
and Design Wave Calculators, will be described below.


Channel Revetment
The governing equation for computing riprap size for Channel Revetment is:
2.5
 
d 30  y S f CS CV CT 
(Vdes )
 (See HEC-23, Eqn. 4.1)
 K1 ( S g  1) gy 
The following unique input parameters are required for Channel Revetment riprap design:
 Channel Type (Natural or Trapezoidal)

 Local Flow Depth, ft.
 Riprap Shape (Angular or Rounded)
 Channel Cross-sectional Average Velocity
 Centerline Radius of any Channel Bend
 Width of Water Surface Upstream
 Bank Angle
 Protection Location (straight channel, outside bend, inside bend, downstream of concrete channel, end of dike)
 Specific Gravity of Rock (typically 2.65)

Channel Revetment
The following unique Results are generated for
Channel Revetment riprap:
Minimum freeboard 2 ft (0.6 m)
 Side Slope Correction Factor
 Velocity Distribution Coefficient Design high water
 Design Velocity, ft./sec. Geotextile or
M
granular filter
ax
 D30 and D50 Rock Size-Fractions, in.
im
um
 Riprap Gradation Minimum riprap
sl
op
thickness = larger of (1.5d50 or d100)

e
Minimum Riprap Thickness, in.
1V
:1
.5
Ambient bed elevation
H
Maximum scour depth = Toe down riprap to
(Contraction scour) maximum scour depth
+ (Long-term degradation)
+ (Toe scour)
HEC-23 Figure 4.2. Riprap Revetment with Buried Toe.

Bridge Piers
The governing equation for computing riprap size for Bridge Pier protection is:
0.692( Vdes ) 2
d 50  (See HEC-23, Eqn. 11.1)
(S g  1)2g
The following unique input parameters are required for Bridge Pier riprap design:
 Velocity Input Type (Average Channel Velocity at Bridge or Local Velocity at Pier)
 Average Channel Velocity at Bridge or Local Velocity at Pier, ft./sec.
 Pier Shape (Round-nose or Square-faced)
 Pier Width (normal to flow), ft.
 Contraction Scour Depth, if applicable, ft.
 Bed Form Depth, if applicable, ft.
The following unique results are generated for Bridge Pier riprap design:
 Design Velocity, ft./sec.
 D50 Rock Size-Fractions, in.
 Riprap Gradation
 Depth of Riprap Below Streambed, ft.
 Minimum Riprap Extent, ft.
 Filter Placement Extent, ft.

Bridge Abutments or Guide Banks
The general equation for computing riprap size for Bridge Abutment or Guide Bank protection is:
D 50 K  V2 
   (See HEC-23, Eqn. 14.1)
y (S s  1)  gy 
The following unique input parameters are required for Bridge Abutment or Guide Bank riprap design:
 Structure Type (Abutment or Guide Bank)
 Abutment Type (Spill-thru or Vertical-wall)
 Setback Length from main channel, ft.
 Main Channel Average Flow Depth, ft.
 Flow Depth at Toe, ft.
 Total Discharge, ft.3/sec
 Overbank Discharge, ft.3/sec
 Total Bridge Flow Area, ft.2
 Setback Flow Area, ft.2
 Maximum Channel Velocity, ft./sec.

Bridge Abutments or Guide Banks
The following unique results are generated for
Bridge Abutment or Guide Bank riprap:
 Setback Ratio
 Characteristic Velocity, ft./sec. 2 ft (0.6 m) Freeboard
Abutment
 Froude Number at Toe
 Abutment Coefficient Design High Water
 D50 Rock Size-Fractions, in.
 Riprap Gradation Riprap Thickness = 1.5D50 or D100
 Riprap Thickness, in.
 Minimum Horizontal Extent from Toe, ft. 1V
 Minimum Extent of Wrap-Around, ft. :2
H
Apron Existing Grade

Geotextile or
Granular Filter
HEC-23 Figure 14.8. Typical Cross-Section for Abutment Riprap

Channel Spur
The governing equation for computing riprap size for Channel Spurs is:
2 .5
 
 y S f C S CV CT 
(Vdes )
d 30  (See HEC-23, Eqn. 4.1)
 K 1 ( S g  1) gy 
The following unique Input Parameters are required for Channel Spur riprap design:
 Channel Type (Natural or Trapezoidal)
 Local Flow Depth at end of Spur, ft.
 Riprap Shape (Angular or Rounded)
 Channel Cross-sectional Average Velocity
 Centerline Radius of any Channel Bend
 Width of Water Surface Upstream
 Bank Angle

Channel Spur
The following unique Results are generated for Channel Spur riprap:
 Side Slope Correction Factor
 Local Velocity at Spur Nose, ft./sec.
 D30 and D50 Rock Size-Fractions, in.
 Riprap Gradation Minimum freeboard 2 ft (0.6 m)
 Minimum Riprap Thickness, in.
Design high water
1V
:1
Geotextile or .5
H
granular filter m
ax
im
um Riprap mound height =
sl desired toe down depth
op
e
Riprap mound thickness =
2x layer thickness on slope Ambient bed elevation
HEC-23 Figure 4.3. Riprap Revetment with Mounded Toe

Embankment Overtopping
The general equation for computing riprap size for Embankment Overtopping protection is:
1 .11
K u q 0f .52  sin  
d 50  0.25 0.75   (See HEC-23, DG5, Eqn. 5.2)
Cu S  
 gS cos   1cos  tan   sin   

The following unique Input Parameters are required for Embankment Overtopping riprap design:
 Embankment Side Slope
 Total Discharge, ft.3/sec
 Overtopping Length, ft.
 Weir Coefficient
 Coefficient of Uniformity for riprap, D60/D10
 Porosity of riprap
 Specific Gravity of rock (typically 2.65)

Embankment Overtopping
The following unique results are generated for Embankment Overtopping riprap:
 Overtopping Depth, ft.

 Unit Discharge, ft.3/sec /ft.
 Median Rock Size, D50, in.
 Interstitial Velocity, ft./sec.
 Average Velocity, ft./sec.
 Minimum Riprap Thickness, in.
 Unit Discharge over riprap, ft.3/sec /ft.
 Unit Discharge through riprap, ft.3/sec /ft.
HEC-23 DG5 Figure 5.2. Typical Embankment Erosion Pattern with Free Flow.

Culvert Outlet
The governing equation for computing riprap size for Culvert Outlet protection is:
4
 Q  3 D 
D50  0.2 D   (See HEC-14, Eqn. 10.4)
 g D 2.5   TW 
 
The following unique Input Parameters are required for Culvert Outlet Protection riprap apron design:
 Flow, ft.3/sec
 Culvert Diameter, ft.
 Normal Depth in Culvert, ft.
 Tailwater Depth, ft.
 Flow Type (Subcritical or Supercritical)

Culvert Outlet
The following unique Results are generated for Culvert Outlet Protection riprap:

 Apron Length, ft.
 Apron Width, ft.
 Apron Thickness, ft.
 Tailwater Depth used in calcula-
tions, ft.
 Culvert Diameter used in calcu-
lations, ft.

Open-Bottom Culvert
The governing equation for computing riprap size for open-bottom culverts is:
0.33
K r y0  V AC
2

d 50    (HEC-23, DG18, Eqn. 18.1)
( S g  1)  gy 0 
The following unique Input Parameters are required for Open-Bottom Culvert Protection riprap design:
 Design Curve (Envelope or Best-Fit)
 Average Velocity at entrance, ft./sec.
 Average Flow Depth at entrance, ft.
 Invert Elevation, ft.
 Contraction Scour + Long-Term Degradation, ft.
The following unique Results are generated for Open-Bottom Culvert riprap:
 Top of Footing Elevation, ft.
 Riprap Thickness, ft.
 Riprap Layout Dimensions, ft.

Wave Attack
Two equations are made available for computing riprap size for Wave Attack protection:
 r H 3 (tan  )
W50  Hudson Method (See HEC-23, DG17, Eqn. 17.8)
K d (S r  S w )3
Hs cos 
  u Pilarczyk Method (See HEC-23, DG17, Eqn. 17.11)
D b
The following unique Input Parameters are required for Wave Attack Protection riprap design:
 Angle of Slope Inclination
 Freeboard, ft.
 Sizing Method (Hudson or Pilarczyk)
 Specific Gravity of Rock (2.4 – 2.7)
 Specific Gravity of Water (Fresh=1.0; Salt=1.03)
 Significant Wave Height, ft. (via Design Wave Calculator)
 Hudson Method
 Design Wave Height, ft.
 Pilarczyk Method
 Stability Factor

Wave Attack
The following unique Results are generated for Wave Attack riprap:
 Riprap Thickness, ft. Waves
 Dimensionless Breaker Parameter
 Wave Run-up, ft. Design still water level
M
 Height of Riprap above Toe, ft. ax
im
 Hudson Method um
sl Normal water level
- Weight of D50 Rock Size, lbs. o pe
1V
: 1.
5H
Hint: Riprap Design for Wave
Attack can be complicated and
a Coastal Engineering expert Geotextile or
may need to be consulted. granular filter

Riprap Filter Design
The Riprap Filter Design procedure is available as an optional routine within each of the riprap design calculators de-
scribed above. (Note the button at the top right corner of the riprap calculator opening window.) The filter design proce-
dure determines the need for and compatibility of proposed filters by successively comparing coarser materials to under-
lying finer materials using the Cisten-Ziems criteria for granular filters and the fabric characteristics for geotextile filters. If
the materials are compatible, a highlighted green message will appear stating that the proposed filter is suitable. If not
compatible, a highlighted red message will appear stating the filter is not suitable. If the filter is not suitable, it must be
revised to something suitable, or an additional granular filter(s) must be designed as a transition layer(s) to attain suitabil-
ity. As in the riprap calculators, all requested input data must be supplied before the Filter Design calculator will provide
results.
The procedure begins by comparing the proposed riprap gradation with the base soil characteristics. Therefore, the re-
quired base soil characteristics and proposed riprap gradation must be known and input as a first step. The required in-
put parameters for the soil include:
 Gradation (Include D10 and D60 for best results) Important: Filters are a neces-
 Hydraulic Conductivity, in/sec sary part of a proper riprap
 Plastic Index (for soils with more than 20% clay content) installation. If an adequate
 Undrained Shear Strength (for geotextiles only), lbs./ft.2 filter is not provided the poten-
tial for failure is greatly in-
 Computed Results for the soil are: creased.
 Coefficient of Uniformity, D60/D10
 Median Particle Size, D50, in.
 The input parameters required for the riprap are:
 Gradation
 Fine Soil Type (select soil or proposed filter from drop-down window)

The gradation from the results of an associated riprap design will be transferred automatically to the filter design routine,
but can be manually changed to any desired gradation. (consequently the filter design routine within any riprap calculator
can be used to accomplish an ‘off-line’ filter design for any soil/riprap combination.)
Computed Results for the Riprap include:

 Maximum D50 of the underlying finer material (soil or filter), in.
 Maximum Cisten-Ziems ratio, A50
If the proposed riprap is compatible with the base soil (green message), no filter is needed and the procedure is com-
plete. If not, either a granular or geotextile filter must be selected.
The required input parameters for a Granular Filter include:
 Gradation
 Fine Soil Type (select soil or other filter from drop-down window)
 Hydraulic Conductivity, in/sec
Computed Results for a Granular Filter are:
 Maximum D50 of the underlying finer material, in.
 Maximum Cisten-Ziems ratio, A50
 Conductivity Ratio

The required input parameters for a Geotextile Filter include:

 Fine Soil Type (select soil from drop-down window)
 Hydraulic Conductivity, in/sec
 Geotextile Apparent Opening Size (AOS), O95
 Flow Type (select open channel or wave attack from drop-down window)
Computed Results for a Geotextile Filter are:

 Maximum O95 of the Geotextile, in.
 Minimum O95 of the Geotextile, in.
 Conductivity Ratio
If the proposed filter is compatible with the underlying base soil or other granular filter (a green message is received), the
procedure ends here. If the filter is not suitable, it must be revised to something suitable, or an additional granular filter(s)
must be designed as a transition layer(s) and the procedure is repeated until suitability is attained.
Note that the Filter Design calculator includes a ‘Plot Gradations’ button that will display all input gradations on one plot.
This is very useful for identifying the appropriate gradation needed for intermediate filters when multiple granular filters are
used. Also, when evaluating the suitability of a selected layer (i.e. either the riprap or a filter is highlighted in the top win-
dow) with the underlying material (filter or soil) of a multiple layer granular system, be sure that the correct underlying ma-
terial is selected in the drop-down window of the Finer Soil Type input parameter.


Design Wave Calculator
As mentioned earlier, the Design Wave Calculator is used to compute the basic input wave parameters (i.e. Significant
Wave Height and Wave Period) required for designing riprap Wave Attack Protection when those basic parameters are
not known. The results from the Design Wave Calculator are transferred to the Wave Attack Protection Calculator upon
closing the Design Wave window. The values of these basic parameters can be changed manually, if necessary.
The required input parameters for the Design Wave Calculator include:
 Wind Speed, ft./sec.
 Fetch Length, ft.
 Still Water Depth, ft.
Computed Results include: Wind

 Coefficient of Drag
 Friction Velocity, ft./sec.
 Dimensionless Fetch Length
 Dimensionless Wave Height Fetch
 10% Wave Height, ft.
 Dimensionless Wave Period
 Significant Wave Height, ft.
 Wave Period, sec
HEC-23 DG17 Figure 17.4. Definition Sketch for Wave Calculations
at Channels and Floodplains.

Rock-Sediment Gradation Analysis Calculator
The Rock Sediment Gradation Analysis Calculator is a tool that will compute gradation information from pebbles
counts conducted in the field (in accordance with the Wolman Count procedure) or from high resolution digital imag-
es (photographs) of any surface composed of discrete particles. The tool will compare those field gradations to con-
trol gradations by viewing them together on standard, semi-log gradation plots. The calculator is primarily intended
to produce gradation plots for riprap and stream bed sediments.
The digital imaging tool is quick and can be very accurate. However, because of the potential impacts of
shadows and color variations, the resulting gradations should be considered approximate. Therefore, the
current technology should not be used to reject manufactured rock. If gradation results are questionable, a
manual pebble count (e.g. Wolman procedure) is recommended for final rock acceptance testing.
When the calculator is opened, the user chooses whether to enter field count information (Add Gradation), a digital
image (Add Image Gradation) or a control gradation (Add Standard Riprap Gradation). Upon selecting the ‘Add
Gradation’ button and highlighting “Gradation #” in the top window, the user is prompted to enter the following data:
 Gradation Name
 Gradation Type (Riprap or Stream Bed from drop-down window)
 Particle Count (‘Define Particle Count’ button)
(The Riprap gradation type uses ‘all particles less than 3 inches’ as the smallest size interval; while the Stream Bed
gradation uses the smallest particle measured as the smallest size interval.)

The ‘Define Particle Count’ button is then select-
ed, and the user is presented with another win-
dow prompting them to “Add Transect” data.
This is the actual field count data, or portion
thereof. (The field count data can be entered via
one or several named ‘transects.’) Upon select-
ing the ‘Add Transect’ button and highlighting
“Transect #” in the top window, the user is pre-
sented with the summary table associated with
the selected transect. At this point, the user se-
lects the “Edit Transect” button, which brings up
the count input screen where the user inputs (or
edits) the measured intermediate axis dimen-
sions of the individual particles. (Note the num-
ber of particles measured in the transect must be
entered at the bottom of the screen in order to
get a complete input table to appear.)
Define Particle Count Button

The user can now view the individual transect plot
by selecting the “Plot Gradation” button or press
‘OK’ and back out to the previous screen where
the gradation Results (D5, D15, D50, D85, D100) for
the associated transects can be viewed in tabular
form, or all available gradation information
(previously input counts and/or controls) can be
viewed on a single plot by selecting the “Plot All
Gradation Curves” button.
Upon selecting the ‘Add Image Gradation’ button

and highlighting “Image Gradation #” in the top
window, the user is prompted to enter a “Image
Gradation Name” and proceed to the ‘Define Im-
age Gradations’ button. Upon selecting the
‘Define Image Gradations’ button, the user is pre-
sented with the next window for specifying the
number of digital images that will be used, as well
as browsing and importing those images.
Image Information

Once the image(s) has been imported, the user must select the ‘Setup’ button for each image. The Setup button will
open the image with a superimposed scaling tool. Simply click the ends of this tool, one at a time, and drop them
(click again) on reference points within the image that define a known dimension. For best results, the known di-
mension within the image should be a long line that spans the image diagonally. The length of this diagonal is then
entered into the designated input field in the lower left. corner of the window.
Important: Care must be taken when photographing the rock. The length of the scaling diagonal will vary with the
image size needed to clearly identify a large number of individual particles, which, in turn, will depend on the size of
the particles being photographed. Therefore, locating the scaling reference points and measuring the distance be-
tween them is done in the field once the required size of photo is determined. Also, Image Gradations yield the most
accurate results when the photos are of ‘clean, easily distinguishable rock,’ (i.e. no vegetative growth or debris is
present) and ‘no shadows’ appear in the image.
Once the scaling distance has been identified, the user should select ‘Set Cropping Extents’ from the list of ‘views’
located at the top left. corner of the window (second view on list). This view allows the image to be cropped in order
to exclude portions that do not represent the particles to be graded. Cropping is accomplished by clicking and hold-
ing any of the 8 tabs around the perimeter of the image, moving them as required eliminating unwanted portions of
the image, and releasing. Once cropping is completed, the user can ‘click’ on “Results” at the bottom of the listed
views located at the top left. of the window. Alternately, if the user would like to the walk through each of the filtering
mechanisms employed to get the final gradation results, they can click on the individual view labels and observe the
resulting changes to the image.

The above procedure must be repeated for each image being used to define the gradation. The gradation results for
each image will be automatically combined into an overall final gradation and can be viewed in tabular format in the
‘Define Image Gradation’ window or in graphical form by selecting the “Plot Combined Gradation” button at the bot-
tom of the window. Gradation plots for the individual images can be view by selecting the “Plot All Gradation” button.
The primary analysis parameters needed to process digital images and their default values can be viewed at the top
of the ‘Define Image Gradation’ window (Correction Factor) and the lower left. corner of the ‘Setup’ window. The
default values can be changed by checking the ‘Advanced Controls’ box located at the top of the ‘Digital Image Gra-
dation’ window. This will allow the Correction Factor to be changed, as well as other advanced controls in the lower
left. corner of the ‘Setup’ window. In addition, checking the ‘Advanced Controls’ box will allow the user to access
and edit other ‘Advanced Settings’ in the ‘Setup’ window. If a parameter value is changed, all computations can be
repeated automatically for all images by clicking the “Recompute” button at the bottom of the ‘Define Image Grada-
tion’ window.
Caution: Unless calibrating to a known gradation or the user is familiar with the computational algorithms
used in this tool and the effects of each parameter, it is recommended that the parameter default values not
be changed.

Upon selecting the ‘Add Standard Gradation’ button
and highlighting “Riprap #” in the top window, the user is
prompted to do the following:
 Enter a Standard Gradation name

 Select a default Riprap Class or the User-
Defined Class from drop-down window
Upon selecting a Riprap Class from the drop-down win-

dow, the standard gradation information for that class
can be viewed as Results. Results include the upper
and lower limits of D15, D50, D85, and D100 associated
with the selected class. Note the calculator is pre-
loaded with the 10 FHWA standard riprap classes.
These standards can be changed by using the Profile
Setup tool on the Toolbox main menu bar. However, the
user can create custom control gradations by selecting
the User-Defined option which will allow gradation data
to be entered and edited.
The user can now view the individual standard class plot
by selecting the “Plot Gradation” button, or all available
gradation information (previously input counts and/or
controls) can be viewed on a single plot by selecting the Gradation Plot
“Plot All Gradation Curves” button.

“Count Input” Screen

“Plot All Gradations” Screen
“Results” Screen

Culvert Assessment Analysis Calculator
The Culvert Assessment Analysis Calculator is a project-level tool that identifies suggested culvert rehabilitation,
repair, and replacement methods based on the findings of field assessments conducted in accordance with FHWA’s
Culvert Assessment and Decision-Making Procedures. The methods included range from various types of linings to
various replacement techniques. The assessment parameters and rating criteria, as well as the criteria governing
rehabilitation, repair, or replacement are fully defined in publication FHWA-CFL/TD-10-005, dated September, 2010.
When the calculator is opened, the user is presented with a wizard that contains a list of 10 data types along the left.
side of the window that must be completed in order to generate final recommendation(s) for a culvert rehabilitation,
repair, or replacement. Upon selecting (clicking) an item in the list, a window containing a number of input fields will
open. Typically, all fields must be filled in order to generate final results.
Above this list is a drop down window that contains the Replacement Profiles that are available for use in determin-
ing whether a culvert replacement is the most appropriate choice. The specific criteria for each profile can be
viewed by selecting the profile name in the drop down window and clicking the view button. The number of profiles
and their specific criteria can be changed by using the ‘Profile Setup’ tool on the Toolbox main menu bar.

The first data type in the wizard list is labeled Investi-
gators. The associated input window allows the user
to record their name as the person performing the
analysis, as well as enter the name of the person
who conducted the culvert field assessment. The
analysis date and project identification information
should also be entered in their respective fields.
The second data type is culvert Site Information,

and the associated window asks for location metada-
ta for the specific culvert being analyzed. All request-
ed information should be entered to provide a com-
plete record.
Culvert Assessment Analysis Input Screen

The third data type is specific Culvert Information for
the culvert being analyzed. The input window is sep-
arated into two parts. The first part contains the
‘Culvert Parameters,’ or the physical characteristics of
the culvert, such as number of barrels, shape, size,
material, etc. The second part contains information
on ‘Appurtenances Parameters,’ such as end treat-
ments present, aquatic organism passage features,
historic features, utilities, etc. All parameters with
limited choices have associated drop-down windows
from which a selection is made.
The fourth data type covers the field assessment re-

sults on Culvert Condition of the barrel and appurte-
nant structures, such as headwalls and end sections.
Example barrel parameters include condition of the
invert and pipe joints. All parameters have limited
rating choices consistent with those described in the
FHWA procedures manual, i.e. Good, Fair, Poor, Crit-
ical, Unknown, or Not Applicable. The available
choices are contained in drop-down windows for each
parameter.

The fift.h data type requires the field assessment results on Culvert Performance to be entered. The two main perfor-
mance categories are covered: those requiring a Level 1 action, and those requiring a Level 2 action. (A Level 1 action
is routine, while a Level 2 action requires some sort of special assistance.) Each category identifies the specific perfor-
mance problems that would trigger an associated action. Each performance problem is checked, if it is present at the
site, or left. unchecked if it is not present. The listed performance categories and problems are described in detail in the
FHWA procedures manual.
Data Types 6 and 7 allow applicable Photos to be imported into the Toolbox file and appropriate Notes to be made, re-
spectively. These two data types are not required to generate final recommendations, but should be completed, as
needed, to provide a complete record.
Data Type 8 is labeled Further Information. The further information is gathered by additional questions that must be
answered to generate final recommendations. The number and specific nature of the questions depend upon all previ-
ous input. All questions have limited responses that are provided via drop-down windows. If further information is not
required, a ‘Results Complete’ message will appear.
Data Type 9 is labeled Results. When applicable, a list of important notes related to the recommended rehab or repair
will be listed. These notes can be read by clicking the associated ‘View’ button.

Data Type 10 is labeled Detailed Results / Matri-
ces. When selected, a window appears that reveals
a summary of previous input questions, along with
the responses provided and any applicable notes.
In addition, the name(s) of matrices containing the
specific recommended rehabilitation, repair, or re-
placement method(s) appear as a ‘sub-list’ below
the data type label on the left. side of the window.
Upon clicking on a specific matrix name in the sub-
list, that matrix will appear and the recommended
method(s) will be highlighted in bold font, along with
applicable facts, limitations, and cautions that will
assist the user in making a final decision regarding
the rehabilitation, repair, or replacement.

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator
The Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator provides analysis methods for evaluating 5 scour components that are common-
ly applicable to bridge foundation design. The 5 scour components are:
 Abutment Scour
 Contraction Scour
 Long-Term Degradation
 Pier Scour
 Special Conditions
As will be described below, multiple methods are available for evaluating each of the above scour components. It is left.
to the user to decide which methodology is most appropriate for a given application. Detailed descriptions of all the meth-
ods used to evaluate the above 5 scour components are contained in FHWA publications HEC 18 and 20.
Upon selecting a specific scour component and methodology from the two drop-down windows at the top of the opening
dialogue, the associated data screen will appear below. The user must then fill all required data fields. Once all data is
entered, the program will immediately output the scour depth, along with other useful data, for the selected methodology.
For comparison and when appropriate, the Toolbox provides an option to view the results of all methodologies simultane-
ously for a particular scour component. When available, this option is provided in the ‘Computation Method’ drop-down
window.
The governing equation, unique Input Parameters, and Results for each scour methodology will be described below by
scour component category.

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator—Abutment Scour
The available Abutment Scour methodologies are Froehlich, HIRE, and the NCHRP approach.
Froehlich Method
The equation for computing abutment scour via the Froehlich method is:
0.43
ys  L 
 2.27 K 1 K 2   Fr 0.61  1 (See HEC-18, Eqn. 8.1)
ya  ya 
The following Input Parameters are required for the Froehlich method:
 Abutment type (Spill Thru, Vertical Wall, or Vertical Wall w/wing walls)
 Angle of approach embankment to Flow, degrees
 Centerline length of embankment, ft.
 Flow obstructed by embankment, ft.3/sec
 Area of obstructed flow, ft.2
 ‘Active’ flow length, ft.
The following Results are generated for the Froehlich method:
 Length of embankment normal to flow, ft.
 Average flow depth, ft.
 Embankment length to flow depth ratio
 Average velocity, ft./sec.
 Froude Number
 Scour depth, ft.

HIRE Method
The equation for computing abutment scour via the HIRE method is:
ys K
 4 Fr 0.33 1 K 2 (See HEC-18, Eqn. 8.2)
y1 0.55
The following Input Parameters are required for the HIRE method:
 Abutment type (Spill Thru, Vertical Wall, or Vertical Wall w/wing walls)
 Velocity at toe of abutment, ft./sec.
 Depth at toe of abutment, ft.
The following Results are generated for the HIRE method:

 Embankment length to flow depth ratio

NCHRP Method
The equations for computing flow depth including maximum abutment scour, ymax , via the NCHRP method is:
y max   A y c or y max   B y c (See HEC-18, Eqn. 8.3)
The NCHRP equation for computing flow depth including contraction scour for live-bed conditions is:
6/7
q 
yc  y1  2 c  (See HEC-18, Eqn. 8.5)
 q1 
The NCHRP equation for computing flow depth including contraction scour using D50 for clear-water conditions is:
6/ 7
 q2 f 
yc   
1/ 3  (See HEC-18, Eqn. 8.6)
K D
 u 50 

In addition to the input required to determine whether live-bed or clear-water transport conditions prevail (see Contraction
Scour section below), the following Input Parameters are required for the NCHRP Method:
 Abutment type (Spill Through, Vertical Wall, or Vertical Wall With Wing Walls)
 Centerline width of floodplain, ft.
 Unit discharge at upstream section, ft.3/sec /ft.
 Unit discharge in contracted section, ft.3/sec /ft.
 Flow depth in contracted section prior to scour, ft.
The following Results are generated for the NCHRP method:
 Width of floodplain normal to flow, ft.
 Embankment length to floodplain width ratio
 Flow depth including contraction scour, ft.
 Unit discharge ratio
 Amplification factor
 Maximum flow depth including abutment scour, ft.
Note that the armoring potential is checked for any live-bed condition by comparing the contraction scour estimate for
live-bed conditions with the contraction scour estimate for clear-water conditions. The lesser of these two estimates
is used to compute the NCHRP abutment scour estimate for live-bed conditions.

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator—Contraction Scour
The available methodologies for estimating bridge Contraction Scour are Laursen’s live-bed and
clear-water approaches. Upon inputting the average flow depth and velocity at the approach cross
section, and the D50 of the bed material, the calculator will indicate whether live-bed or clear-water con-
ditions prevail by comparing Laursen’s critical velocity with the average approach velocity. Laursen’s
equation for critical velocity follows:
Vc  K u y1/ 6 D1/ 3
Subsequent to this determination, the user will be prompted for additional input depending upon the
transport condition.
Live-bed Method
The equation for computing depth in the contracted section after scour for live-bed conditions is:
6 /7 k1
y2  Q2   W1 
    (See HEC-18, Eqn. 6.2)
y1  Q 1   W2 

The following additional Input Parameters are required to compute live-bed contraction scour:
 Water temperature, degrees Fahrenheit
 Unit weight of water, lbs./ft.3
 Unit weight of sediment, lbs./ft.3
 Energy gradient at approach section, ft./ft.
 Upstream discharge transporting sediment, ft.3/sec
 Upstream bottom width transporting sediment, ft.
 Discharge transporting sediment in contracted section, ft.3/sec
 Bottom width transporting sediment in contracted section (less piers widths), ft.
 Depth in contracted section prior to scour, ft.
The following Results are reported for live-bed contraction scour:
 Shear velocity, ft./sec.
 Fall velocity, ft./sec.
 Shear on bed at live-bed scour depth, lbs./ft.2
 Shear required to move D50 sediment, lbs./ft.2
 Average flow depth in contracted section after scour, ft.
Note that the armoring potential is checked for any live-bed condition by comparing the contraction scour estimate for
live-bed conditions with the contraction scour estimate for clear-water conditions. The lesser of these two estimates
is used to compute the final contraction scour estimate for live-bed conditions.

Clear-water Method
The equation for computing depth in the contracted section after scour for clear-water conditions is:
3 /7
 K Q2 
y 2   2 /u3 2
Dm W 
The following additional Input Parameters are required to compute clear-water contraction scour:
 Discharge in contracted section, ft.3/sec
 Bottom width in contracted section (less pier widths), ft.
 Depth in contracted section prior to scour, ft.
The following Results are reported for clear-water contraction scour:

 Size of smallest non-transportable sediment, ft.
 Average flow depth in contracted section after scour, ft.

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator—Long-Term Degradation
The limit of long-term degradation at a given channel location is typically the lesser of depth-to-armoring and depth-to-
equilibrium slope for the dominate discharge. If this discharge is unknown, the bank full discharge is commonly used as a
reasonable estimate.
Armoring
The Toolbox uses the Shield’s criterion for incipient motion to identify the sediment size that will not be transported
(critical sediment size), and the US Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) armoring equation to estimate the depth-to-armoring
for that critical sediment size. The Shield’s criterion for incipient motion is expressed by the following equation:
o
Dc  (See HEC-20, Eqn. 6.13)
K s ( s   )
The USBR equation for estimating depth-to-armoring is as follows:
 1 
Ys  y a   1 (See HEC-20, Eqn. 6.16)
 Pc 
These equations represent clear-water conditions, i.e. no sediment supplied from upstream.

The following Input Parameters are required to compute depth-to-armoring:
 Unit weight of water, lbs./ft.3

 Unit weight of sediment, lbs./ft.3
 Shields’ parameter
 Flow depth or hydraulic radius
 Channel velocity
 For sand bed – Manning’s ‘n’
 For coarse bed – D84
 Armor Thickness Factor
 Percentage of gradation coarser than the critical size
The following Results are reported for depth-to-armoring:
 Critical sediment size, ft.

 Depth to armoring, ft.
 Armoring thickness, ft.

Equilibrium Slope
The Toolbox contains 4 methods for estimating equilibrium slope. Two of them are for no upstream sediment supply
(Shields’ criterion for incipient motion and Meyer-Peter, Muller equation for the beginning of transport); one is for
transport capacity being equal to sediment supply; and one is for a reduction in sediment supply. The latter two methods
are based on are based on a power function fitted to Yang’s transport equation for sand-bed streams. The equation for
Shields’ criterion and no sediment supply is provided below:
(10 / 7 ) ( 6 /7 )
       Ku 
Seq  K sD c  s    (See HEC-20, Eqn. 6.17)
     qn 
Note that D90 is to be used for Dc in the above equation. Reference HEC 20 for more detailed information on these
methods.
Once the equilibrium slope has been computed, the following equation is used to determine the degradation at a given
location relative to a downstream control point (i.e. location of erosion resistant material or a reach that is in equilibrium):
Ys  L(Sex  Seq ) (See HEC-20, Eqn. 6.25)

As an example, the following Input Parameters are required to compute long-term degradation using the Shields’ criteri-
on for equilibrium slope:
 Shields’ parameter
 D90 sediment particle size, ft.
 Unit discharge, ft.3/sec /ft.
 Current slope, ft./ft.
 Distance from base level control to point of interest, ft.
The following are example Results reported for computing long-term degradation using the Shields’ criterion for equilibri-
um slope:
 Equilibrium slope, ft./ft.

 Amount of degradation at point of interest, ft.

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator—Pier Scour
The available pier scour methodologies are HEC-18, Florida DOT, and the Complex Pier Method.
HEC-18 Method
The HEC-18 method is appropriate for estimating pier scour for simple pier configurations. The equation for computing
pier scour via the HEC-18 method is:
0.65
ys a
 2.0 K1 K2 K3   Fr10.43 (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.1)
y1  y1 
The following Input Parameters are required for the HEC-18 method:
 Pier shape
 Pier width and length
 Angle of attack, degrees
 Channel bed condition (transport type, bed form)
 Flow depth upstream of pier, ft.
 Flow velocity upstream of pier, ft./sec.
The following Results are generated for the HEC-18 method:
 Correction factors K1, K2, and K3

Florida DOT Method
The FDOT method is appropriate to use for the full range of common pier geometries, particularly for wide piers with
shallow flow depths. The equations for computing pier scour via the Florida DOT method are:
ys V1
 2 .5 f1 f 2 f 3 for 0 .4   1 .0
a* Vc (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.5)
  V1   V lp V1 
  1     V lp
ys  V   V Vc  V1
 f1  2 .2  for 1 .0   (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.6)
  2 . 5 f 3  V lp
c c
a*  V lp  Vc Vc
  1  1 
  Vc   Vc 
ys V1 Vlp
 2.2 f1 for  (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.7)
a* Vc Vc

Florida DOT Method
The following Input Parameters are required for the Florida DOT method:
 Pier shape
 Pier width and length, ft.
 D50 of bed material, ft.
The following Results are generated for the Florida DOT method:
 Critical velocity for movement of D50

 Velocity at live-bed peak scour, ft./sec.
 Projected pier width, ft.
 Effective pier width, ft.

Complex Pier Method
The Complex Pier method is a ‘component approach’ that estimates scour attributable to the following substructure con-
figurations being in the flow field: 1) pile groups (multiple rows of piles), 2) pile groups and a pile cap, 3) pile groups, a
pile cap, and a pier stem, and 4) large pile cap or footing and pier stem. The equations for computing pier scour via the
Complex Pier method are:
.
0
4
3
Ysy
a y
*p 3
0
.
6
5
V3g
 
K
2
.
0
K
K1
 
p
g
 
g
   
y3

h
p
g
  (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.31)

   
3
 
 
.
0
4
3
y y
apy
.
0
6
5
Vfg
2
.
0
K
K1
K2
K3
 
s
p f
c
 
c
 
yf
 (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.26)
w
 
 
f
 
.
0
4
3
y y
a y
*
0
.
6
5
V2g
2
.
0
K
K1
K
K
 
s
p
c
p
c
 
 
y
 (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.24)

2
3
w
 
 
2
 
.
0
4
3
ys
apy
0
.
6
5
V1g
 
K
2
.
0
K
K1
K2
 
p
i 1
e
r
 
i
e
r
 
y
 
y1

h
p
i
e
r
  (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.23)

   
1
 
 

Complex Pier Method
The following are the minimum Input Parameters required for the Complex Pier method:
 Pier shape
 Channel bed condition (transport type, bed form)
 D50 and D84 of bed material, ft.
 Thickness of pile cap or footing, ft.
 Height of pile cap or footing above bed before scour, ft.
 Distance from front of pile cap or footing to pier stem, ft.

More detailed input is required as the estimated scour exposes additional pier components. The additional input fields
will appear, as needed. Reference HEC-18 for details.
The following Results are generated for the Complex Pier method as they apply:
 Total scour depth, ys, ft.
 Scour attributable to pier stem, ys pier, ft.
 Scour attributable to pile cap or footing, ys pc, ft.
 Scour attributable to pile group, ys pg, ft.
pier stem pile cap pile group

f = f + +
y1 T
h1 y2 y3
h0 FLOW h2 h3
ys = ys pier + ys pc + ys pg

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator—Special Scour Conditions
The Toolbox contains methods for evaluating scour for three special conditions. These are:
 Pier Scour in Coarse Bed Materials
 Pier Scour in Cohesive Bed Materials
 Contraction Scour for Pressure Flow Conditions
Pier Scour in Coarse Bed Materials
When flow conditions are clear-water and bed material is characterized by non-cohesive sediments with a D50 greater
than or equal to 20 mm and a gradation coefficient greater than or equal to 1.5, armoring can be expected to limit pier
scour depths. If these conditions are met, the following equation can be used to estimate pier scour:
 H2 
ys  1.1K1K 2a 0.62 y10.38 tanh 
1.5 
(See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.34)
 1.97 
The following Input Parameters are required to determine coarse-bed pier scour:
 Pier shape
 D50 and D84of bed material, ft.
 Unit weight of sediment and water, lbs./ft.3

The following Results are generated for coarse-bed
pier scour:
 Correction factors K1 and K2

 Specific gravity of sediment
 Densimetric particle Froude number

Pier Scour in Cohesive Bed Materials
When bed material is cohesive and the critical velocity required to initiate erosion of the cohesive material is known, pref-
erably through material testing, the following equation can be used to estimate maximum pier scour (equation assumes
flow duration is sufficiently long):
0 .7
 2.6V1  Vc 
y s  2 .2 K1 K 2 a 0.65   (See HEC-18, Eqn. 7.35)
 g 
 
The following Input Parameters are required for estimating pier scour in cohesive material:
 Pier shape
 Critical velocity for initiation of erosion, ft./sec.
 Initial erosion rate, ft./hr.
 Flow duration, hrs.
The following Results are generated for pier scour in cohesive material:
 Maximum scour depth (Eq. 7.35), ft.
 Time dependent scour depth, ft.

Contraction Scour for Pressure Flow Conditions
When the water-surface makes contact with the bridge superstructure, pressure flow conditions begin to develop and the
bridge opening will begin acting like an orifice. The resulting contraction can dramatically change the potential contrac-
tion scour depth since the flow can be contracted in both the horizontal and vertical directions.
The depth in the contracted section after scour for pressure flow conditions is computed using the same live-bed and
clear-water contraction scour equations presented above and the actual discharge passing through the bridge. To com-
pute the scour depth, the thickness of the separation zone beneath the bridge superstructure is also required and is
computed using the following equation:
0 .2  0 .1
t  h .h   hw 
 0.5  b 2 t  1   (See HEC-18, Eqn. 6.16)
hb  hu   ht 

Also, for live-bed conditions with bridge and/or roadway overtopping, the upstream discharge must be modified to reflect
the effective discharge using the following equation:
8/7
h  (See HEC-18, Eqn. 6.15)
Que  Q1  ue 
 hu 
In addition to the Input Parameters required to

compute contraction scour without pressure flow
conditions, the following Input is needed:
 Vertical size of bridge opening before scour, ft.

 Thickness of bridge superstructure, ft.
In addition to the Results reported for contraction

scour without pressure flow conditions, the follow-
ing Results are provided:
 Flow separation thickness, ft.
(See HEC-18, Figure 6.18, Vertical Contraction and Definition for Geometric Parameters)

Horizontal Grade Inlet Calculator
The Horizontal Grade Inlet Calculator computes the minimum inlet perimeter and maximum allowable spacing be-
tween inlets required to capture runoff from roadways or bridge decks with curbing and a ‘zero’ or ‘near-zero’ longitudinal
slope. The resulting minimum perimeter is that required to capture flow approaching the inlet from three directions; up-
station, down-station, and from the roadway centerline. The resulting maximum spacing is measured from inlet center to
inlet center.
The equations used to compute the inlet perimeter and spacing are derived assuming weir flow will occur at the inlet.
(Their derivation can be found in Appendix B of FHWA publication HEC 21.) Also, the perimeter and spacing are inde-
pendent of one another, so it is not possible to vary these parameters to determine the impact on the other.
Upon opening the calculator, the user is required to input the following information:
 Runoff coefficient for Rational Equation, C
 5-minute design rainfall intensity (typically 10-yr event), i (in/hr)
 Width of roadway draining to curb (ft.)
 Cross slope of roadway draining to curb (ft./ft.)
 Manning’s roughness value for roadway surface, n
 Allowable top width of drainage against curb (ft.)

Horizontal Grade Inlet Calculator
After all required data is input, the calculator will provide the following results:
 Minimum inlet perimeter, P (ft.)

 Maximum inlet spacing, Lc (ft.)
 Discharge (cfs)
 Approximate travel time (min)

Mapping Module
The Mapping Module allows users to identify the
location(s) of any analyses conducted within the
Hydraulic Toolbox software on a user supplied im- Mapping Module Toolbar
age or an image taken from current aerial photog-
raphy (internet connection required). It also allows
ground photos to be attached to each analysis lo-
cation, as needed or desired.
Hint: In addition to accessing

the Mapping Module by us-
ing the toolbar you can also
access it by right clicking in
the graphics window.
Mapping Module Toolbar

Mapping Module
Upon opening the Toolbox, one can ei-
ther “right click” as directed in the display
window or select the desired icon from
the set provided for this module to ac-
cess the mapping options. The “globe”
icon will provide a drop-down window
that allows the acquisition and manipula-
tion of an aerial image from the internet
by specifying the latitude and longitude
for the desired location. If the latitude
and longitude are unknown, there is an
option to acquire the mapping by using a
site name and location under the “Map
Options” tool. Additional map navigation
tools are also available under “Map Op-
tions.” The “Map Styles” tool allows the
user to select from one of three map
styles: Aerial only, Roads only, or Aerial
and Roads (Hybrid). The Aerial only op-
tion is the default.
Mapping Module Project Location

Mapping Module
The ‘globe with folder’ icon allows the user to browse and locate an image or photo file already saved within the com-
puter. Once an image is selected it can be sized, as desired, to fit the available window space, which is also adjustable
by ‘grabbing and pulling’ the borders. Upon selecting the ‘Ok’ button, the desired image will be ‘set’ within the display
window. (The image will be saved as a separate file associated with the Toolbox file.) The ‘trash can’ icon allows the
user to delete a previously selected image and start over.
Once the image is set, the user selects the ‘Add’ icon button in the mapping toolbar for a dialogue box that allows the
user to select the analysis label(s) of interest, as well as attach desired ground photos. The photos will be saved in a
separate folder associated with the Toolbox file. Once the label of interest is selected, the user simply ‘clicks’ on the
image at the desired location and the label will appear on the image. This process is repeated as many times as neces-
sary/desired. If a label is incorrect or mis-located, the user can choose the ‘Select’ icon on the mapping toolbar to move
the label by clicking, holding, and dragging. If the user ‘right clicks’ on the label an ‘edit’ option appears that will allow
the node content to be changed or deleted altogether.
When creating a report for an analysis or group of analyses, selecting “Node Data” in the report dialogue will capture
the image, labels, and repeat the input and output data of the associated analyses. This information can then be edited
as desired once the report is created and saved.

Mapping Module
This image shows how a
project may be docu-
mented by using an Node Properties Dialog Box
overhead image to show
the locations of the indi-
vidual calculations that
are made to complete a
project. The node prop-
erties dialog box is used
to assign ground photos
to the individual “nodes”
or calculations in the pro-
ject. This graphic illus-
trates how an overhead
image can be used to
show the locations of the
calculations in the project
as well as a photograph
taken one of the nodes of
an existing drop inlet.
Photograph Taken At 3+25 Curb

And Gutter Analysis Station

Project Notes
Hint: It’s useful to use the Notes dialog to

describe the project’s location and any as-
sumptions or special considerations that
were made for a given analysis.
Notes describing a project can be added using the notes fea-

ture. The notes feature can be accessed from “Calculators” pull
down menu or from the notes icon on the macro bar. A window
will open where information can be provided that describes an
analysis. The notes are saved with the data file and also show
up in the project report.

Report Generation
The Report Generator, is used to create a report summa-
rizing the hydraulic computations in your project. To create
a report you click on “Calculators” and select “Create Re-
port” from the drop down menu. Alternatively, you can se-
lect the “Create Report” icon located on the macro bar.
You will be asked to save the report, give it a name and
specify which analyses will be used to create the report.
Select the analysis, the file type, and the location to save
the report. You may save the report as a Rich Text File,
RTF, or as a Adobe Acrobat PDF file. The Rich Text File
format is easily imported in word processing soft.ware.

References
Arneson, L.A., Zevenbergen, L.W., Lagasse, P.F., Clopper, P.E., April 2012, “Evaluating Scour At
Bridges, Fifth Edition”, FHWA-HIF-12-003, HEC-18.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/engineering/hydraulics/library_arc.cfm?pub_number=17&id=151
Brown, S.A., Schall, J.D., Morris, J.L., Doherty, C.L., Stein, S.M., Warner, J.C., September 2009,
“Urban Drainage Design Manual, Hydraulic Engineering Circular No. 22, Third Edition”, FHWA-NHI-
10-009, HEC-22.
Kilgore, R.T., and Cotton, G.K., September 2005, "Design of Roadside Channels with Flexible Lin-
ings Hydraulic Engineering Circular No. 15, Third Edition , FHWA-NHI-05-114, HEC-15.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/engineering/hydraulics/pubs/05114/index.cfm
McCuen, R.H., Johnson, P.A., Ragan, R.M., October 2002, “Highway Hydrology.” Hydraulic Design
Series No. 2, FHWA-NHI-02-001.
http://isddc.dot.gov/OLPFiles/FHWA/013248.pdf
Miller, J.F., Frederick, F.H., Tracey, R.J., 1973. “Precipitation-Frequency Atlas of the Western Unit-
ed States.” NOAA Atlas 2, National Weather Service.
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/oh/hdsc/currentpf.htm

References (Continued)
Lagasse, P.F., et. al., 2009, “ Bridge Scour and Stream Instability Countermeasures—Experience,
Selection, and Design Guidance.” Hydraulic Design Series No. 23, FHWA Publication No. FHWA-
NHI-09-111 & 112.
Lagassee, P.F., Zevenbergn, L.W., Spitz, W.J., Arneson, L.A., April 2012, “Stream Stability at
Highway Structures, Fourth Edition, FHWA-HIF-12-004, HEC-20.
Strom, K.B.; Kuhns, R.D.; Lucas, H.J.; “Comparison of Automated Image-Based Grain Sizing to
Standard Pebble-Count Methods.” ASCE Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, August 2010, pp. 461-
473.
Thompson, P.L., Kilgore, R.T., July, 2006, “Hydraulic Design of Energy Dissipators for Culverts
and Channels, Third Edition”, FHWA-NHI-06-086, HEC-14.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/engineering/hydraulics/pubs/06086/
Wolman, M.G. (1954), “A Method of Sampling Coarse Bed Material.” American Geophysical Un-
ion, Transactions, 35: pp. 951-956.
Hunt, J.H., Zerges, S.M., Roberts, B.C., Bergendahl, B., “Culvert Assessment Decision Making
Procedures, FHWA-CFL/TD-10-005, September 2010.
http://www.cflhd.gov/programs/techDevelopment/hydraulics/culvert-assessment/index.cfm

References (Continued)
Young, G.K., Walker, S.E., Chang, F., 1993, “Design of Bridge Deck Drainage”, Hydraulic Engi-
neering Circular No. 21., FHWA Publication No. FHWA-SA-92-010.

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FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox

Reference Guide Version 4.2

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox ii

INSTALLATION AND REGISTRATION 3

HYDRAULIC TOOLBOX INTERFACE 4

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox iii

Detention Basin Calculator 37

Culvert Assessment Analysis Calculator 73

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox iv

Bridge Scour Analysis Calculator 76

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox v

Horizontal Grade Inlet Calculator 100

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox vi

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 1

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 2

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 3

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 4

Project Explorer Window

Hydraulic Toolbox Interface

The FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox contains a Profile Setup

The Toolbox is pre-loaded with the riprap standards and cul-

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 6

When a specific culvert assessment profile is selected from

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 7

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 8

The eleven calculators are described on

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 9

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 10

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 11

Channel Lining Menu

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 12

Calculated Channel Analysis Results

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 13

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 14

 d   dS o (See HEC-15, Eqn. 3.1)

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 15

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 16

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 17

 p  F*  s    D50 (See HEC-15, Eqn. 6.7)

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 18

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 19

The following unique Results are generated for RECP-lined channels:

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 20

 p  0 .0091  s   MT  MTc  (See HEC-15, Eqn. 7.2)

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 21

Weir Analysis Calculator Menu

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 22

The Curb and Gutter Calculator can

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 23

Curb and Gutter Calculator

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 24

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 25

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 26

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 27

Note: For on-grade applications with

Adapted from HEC-22 Figure 4.23.

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 28

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 29

Once the precipitation data is entered, the

IDF Computation Window

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 30

Remember: Precipitation input

IDF Curve Input Variables

FHWA Hydraulic Toolbox 31