Experiments to dambreak wave: Horizontal channel

Abstract

Dambreak waves in a smooth rectangular and horizontal channel are described. Based on a literature review, the conditions required for Froude similarity are first derived. Then, the positive and negative wave fronts are analytically determined, based on the characteristic equations. Further, the effect of the relative reservoir length on the wave maximum is specified and a novel dimensionless coordinate X is introduced, that accounts for both relative reservoir length and non-dimensional tailwater location. Detailed results refer to the definition of wave profiles and distributions of velocity and discharge in the wave body. A similarity plot defines a single wave profile. The results so obtained are discussed and allow a deeper insight into the mechanics of dambreak waves. The results are readily available for applications, and a significant modification regarding the initial flow conditions is described.