Modeling Inline

Structures using
HEC-RAS
Version 3.1
 In Line Structures
 Can be used to model in-line gated spillways,
overflow weirs, drop structures, and dams.
 Modeling method is very similar to bridges and culverts.
 Weir shapes are either ogee or broad crested.
 Gates are either radial (tainter) or vertical lift (sluice).
 Up to 10 groups of gates with up to 25 identical gates per
group are allowed for each in line weir.
 Identical gates must have same type, size, elevation,
and coefficient.
 Uncontrolled overflow area is also an option.
In Line Structures
 Cross-Section Locations

Suggested cross-
section locations
are the same as
for bridges and
culverts.
 In Line Structure
Typical
Cross-
Section 2
with
ineffective
flow areas
defined.
 In Line Structure

Typical
Cross-Section
Uncontrolled Spillway
3 with
ineffective
flow areas
defined.
 In Line Structure
Begin by selecting
InLine Structure button
from Cross-Section
Editor.

Select Lateral Structure

button from Cross-
Section Editor for lateral
weirs.
 In Line Structure

Brings up window
similar to culvert and
bridge windows.
 In Line Structure

Must add structure as

first step.
 In Line Structure

Brings up window to
input cross-section
location of the
structure (weir)
 In Line structure
Adds a plot of the
upstream cross-
section to the
window.

Note you can edit

the upstream cross-
section from this
button.
 In Line Structure
Click on the
Weir/Embankment
button...

Which brings up the

Weir Editor Window
 In Line Structure
After filling in the
data...
 In Line Structure
… the plot is updated
to show the
embankment.
 In Line Structure
Click on the Gate
button...

Which brings up the

Gate Editor Window
 In Line Structure
After filling in the
data ...
Default values shown
Free Flow Condition C

TE
BE
HE
C

Under free flow conditions the orifice

cofficient is not used. Orifice flow
occurs with the submerged condition.
 In Line Structure
… the plot is updated
showing the gates.
Chapter 8 of the Hydraulic Reference
Manual describes the hydraulic
computations through gated spillways.

Chapter 6 of the User’s Manual

provides explanation for the various
fields of the Inline Gate Editor.
Gate openings are input through the
Steady Flow Data editor
Each profile modeled
separately 2 gate groups

All gates opened same height

The End