Calculating Force & Pressure of Dam Spillway Water

[Epeters8888]

I am a mechanical builder planning to build a structure around the spillway of a dam. I know the average flow rate of the water going over the spillway. What I want to figure out is how much force or pressure will the water apply to the structure in its normal flow condition and in a flood condition. Is this Bernoulli's equation or is there a better formula to use ?

Thanks

 

[Naty1]

As a first approximation, water pressure is height times density...lateral movement would not seem to make much difference...for example the pressure of six feet of water would seem fairly constant...however, it would seem that friction/wear would be a major concern as would any change in direction/momentum as the water picks up speed...and as the spillway changes shape, inclination angle,etc changes.

My guess, without knowing just what you are trying to do, is that this kind of problem is very complex, has likely been modeled and field tested over the years...Hoover dam, for example, was not a "hit or miss" construction effort...
good luck...

 

[sir-pinski]

for reaching out! Calculating the force and pressure of the water on your structure is an important step in the design process. You are correct that Bernoulli's equation can be used to calculate the pressure exerted by the water in its normal flow condition. This equation takes into account the velocity of the water and the height of the spillway. However, in a flood condition, the pressure will be significantly higher due to the increased flow rate and potential for turbulence. In this case, it may be more accurate to use the Euler equations or the Navier-Stokes equations, which take into account factors such as the viscosity and density of the water. It is also important to consider the shape and design of your structure, as well as any external factors such as wind or debris. I would recommend consulting with a structural engineer or utilizing computer simulations to accurately calculate the force and pressure on your structure in both normal and flood conditions. Good luck with your project!