Prabhata K. Swamee

Normal depth equations for wide rectangular and triangular open channel sections involving Lambert's W function

Normal depth is a key parameter occurring in open-channel hydraulics. For all practical canal sections, open channel resistance equation involves an implicit form for normal depth. Therefore, determination of normal depth involves the tedious method of trial and error. Presented herein are the exact equations for normal depth in terms of Lamberts W function for triangular and wide rectangular open channel sections.

Design of a Pumping Main Considering Pipeline Failure

Cost and reliability are two diametrically opposite objectives in a pumping main design as the objective of an uninterrupted supply of water will increase the system cost. In this investigation, a methodology for pumping main design is presented by considering the costs of pumping main and pipeline breakage. Although it has been found that there is no clear-cut optimum point in such a design objective, there is however, a set of non-dominated points called Pareto-optimal front which can be used to optimize pipe diameter. It is hoped that this methodology will be useful to design engineers engaged in the design of pumping mains and will also result in the cost savings to water service providers.

Optimal design of a power tunnel

Estimation of optimal tunnel diameter is a challenging problem in the design of hydropower stations. Determination of tunnel diameter is a complex problem as it involves large numbers of variables. In this paper, a power tunnel design has been formulated as a geometric programming problem with a single degree of difficulty. Solution of the problem yields optimal tunnel diameter along with information regarding optimal contributions of various cost components in the total cost.