Mainstay Debit

“Mainstay debit is the long term river flow data at

the site for planning purpose of Micro Hydro
power plants”
Mainstay Debit determined by using the flood
discharge plan (Q)
Q =0.278 C . I . A
Where, C=Coefficient of runoff(0.8 for hill area)
I=Intensity (0.66mm/h)
A=River basin Area(11.5km2)
 Features of Mainstay Debit
1. It is required to know the highest current limit at the lowest
current occurring in the channel.
2. To maintain performance and efficiency by designing
discharge at slightly above the minimum limit.
3. Better planning purpose need to have long term river flow
data throughout the year which is usually provided by
Mainstay debit.
4. The risk of failure as being calculated by Mainstay debit is as
small as possible.
5. Used to determine water supply in building intake.
6. Required for hydropower development planning.