Hydraulic Performances of Minimum Energy Loss Culverts in Australia
Publication: Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 21, Issue 4
Abstract
Culverts are among the most common hydraulic structures. Modern designs do not differ from ancient structures and are often characterized by significant afflux at the design flows. A significant advance was the development of the minimum energy loss (MEL) culverts in the late 1950s. The design technique allows a drastic reduction in the upstream flooding associated with lower costs. The development and operational performances of this type of structure is presented. The successful operation of MEL culverts for more than 40 years is documented with first-hand records during and after floods. The experiences demonstrate the design soundness, while highlighting the importance of the hydraulic expertise of the design engineers.
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Acknowledgments
The writer thanks Professor Colin J. Apelt (University of Queensland) for his valuable advice. He acknowledges the assistance of numerous students who surveyed the structures and Dr. M. R. Gourlay (The University of Queensland) and Dr. J. H. Loveless (University of Bristol) who provided him with relevant information.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities
Volume 21 • Issue 4 • August 2007
Pages: 264 - 272
Copyright
© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Apr 19, 2006
Accepted: Sep 8, 2006
Published online: Aug 1, 2007
Published in print: Aug 2007
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