Author(s): A. Schmidt; C. Huhta; J. Sloat
Linked Author(s): Arthur Schmidt
Keywords: Irrigation; Flow; Measurement; Water; Velocity; Modelling
Abstract: Accurate metering of agricultural water is becoming increasingly important world wide. Surprisingly, the dynamics of water in small irrigation canals are not well understood and this limits the accuracy of flow measurements in these channels. To help improve the accuracy of flow data, we performed detailed measurements of the velocity distribution for a variety of flow conditions in a several small irrigation canals. The data collected represent one of the most detailed velocity distribution studies ever undertaken in field conditions for this type of channel. The data were compared with different theoretical velocity distribution models. The results of these comparisons will be presented, along with conclusions about which models are most appropriate for predicting the velocity distribution in these channels. The goal of this project is to support the development of new flow sensors for small irrigation canals that provide improved measurement accuracy.
Year: 2011