Quick Method for Open-Channel Discharge Measurements Using Air Bubbles
Publication: Journal of Hydraulic Engineering
Volume 134, Issue 6
Abstract
An economical methodology is proposed by which distinct air bubbles released at the bottom of a channel may be utilized for determining the local flow discharge per unit width. Simple theoretical analysis shows that is linearly dependent on the rise length of bubbles released at the bottom. This length is the horizontal displacement of the bubbles between the release cross section and the cross section where they emerge. The theoretical findings were compared with measurements in three laboratory flumes and in an irrigation canal. Based on the above, a relationship between and has been established. The empirically proposed relationship is very useful for fast discharge measurements in channels and natural streams.
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Acknowledgments
The writers acknowledge G. Kostaras, G. Doulas, S. Gika, and C. Tzoumaka for their participation in the laboratory experiments. Furthermore, the writers wish to thank the three anonymous reviewers who contributed significantly towards the improvement of this technical note through their knowledgeable and insightful comments.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering
Volume 134 • Issue 6 • June 2008
Pages: 843 - 846
Copyright
© 2008 ASCE.
History
Received: May 12, 2006
Accepted: Apr 11, 2007
Published online: Jun 1, 2008
Published in print: Jun 2008
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