UCL - Hydraulics of open irrigation channels

[BRES2104]

[30h + 22.5h] 5 credits

This course is taught in the 2d semester.

Teacher(s): Mathieu Javaux

Language: French

Level: Second

Aims
Main themes
Content and teaching methods
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Aims

Upon completion of the course and practicals, the student will be able to :
- to characterize different flow regimes in open channels ;
- to apply the principle of energy conservation and momentum on flow in open channels ;
- to characterize a velocity profile in an open channel;
- to understand the functioning of discharge measurements;
- to understand theory of uniform flow, gradually varying flow and rapid varying flow;
- master the theory of flow in pipes;
- describe the principles that underlie the various irrigation techniques;
- be able to design an irrigation management scheme and to evaluate its functioning;
- master the theoretical concepts that underlie water flow towards subsurface drains and the design techniques for drainage networks;

Main themes

- Theory of open channel hydraulics
- Classification of flow : uniform and non-uniform flow ; steady state and gradually varied flow
- Properties of open channels : energy and momentum principles
- Velocity profiles. Specific energy, specific force
- Hydrometrology : Venturi, Parshall, gauging,
- Uniform flow theory
- Gradually varied flow theory. Classification of hydraulic axes. Integration methods
- Rapidly varied flow : hydraulic jump, fall, weirs
- Types of irrigation systems : gravity, pressure or drip irrigation
- Theory of water flow in pipes
- Pressure irrigation networks : pumps, pipes, sprinklers; design of a network
- Irrigation and salinity.

Content and teaching methods

A general introduction to open-channel hydraulics and fluid flow in pipes will be given. We will then address the plant needs for irrigation. A brief description of the various irrigation techniques will follow. The course will focus on the different components of irrigation networks (water uptake, water transport sprinklers/drippers, ). The practicals will be used to perform experiments on the laboratory experimental channel, some field tests on irrigation and uniformity and to design an irrigation network.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Evaluation The students will be evaluated on the basis of their reports on the practicals as well as through a final exam. The final exam will be oral with a written preparation, and will include problem solving as well as comprehension questions.

Support lecture notes, practicals on I-campus

Teaching team Mathieu Javaux