LARHYSS Journal
Volume 18, Numéro 3, Pages 147-157
2021-09-22

Dimensionless Equation Of The Radius Of Curvature Of The Downstream Toe Of A Spillway

Authors : Houichi Larbi . Achour Bachir .

Abstract

The exactness in determining the radius of curvature of the downstream toe of a spillway ensures a smooth hydraulic transit from the upstream to the downstream of the structure. The literature mentions that this radius takes half the height of the dam if the latter is less than 10 m. Beyond this value, the values of the connection radius are numerically tabulated as a function of the height of dam and the head of water over the crest. The purpose of this technical note is to transform the numeric values into multiple dimensional curves and then present them as a single curve with a unique dimensionless mathematical formulation that is easy to apply. The relation thus proposed avoids to the users any kind of interpolation and intermediate dubious calculation.

Keywords

Spillway ; discharge head ; radius of curvature ; dimensionless relation