While the hydraulics of open channel flows are relatively well understood and can be predicted using standard fluid dynamics equations, the shape and behavior of the free surface when complex geometries or flow fields are encountered cannot be predicted using the same techniques. Some free surface applications include:

  • Flows through flow splitter boxes
  • Flows over weirs
  • Wave motion applications
  • Predicting sloshing forces
  • Dam break events
  • Air assisted nozzles

PMI has analyzed situations related to each of the topics listed above.