Effects of model configuration, flow conditions and scale in modelling spillway aeration grooves

Abstract

The hydraulic design of spillways, with high specific discharge usually requires model investigations. Whereas standard small-scale models are sufficient for the assessment of the general flow pattern, studies on cavitation control by means of aeration have to be conducted in detail models at considerably larger scales. Detail models of aeration grooves are studied in order to optimize the geometry and to determine the air entrainment of the grooves. The large model scale necessitates the use of models which represents only a small fraction of the width and length of the spillway. Such sectional models allow only an investigation of a single aeration groove in a given approach flow. This paper presents a hydraulic model study of the spillway of Laiban Dam on the Philippines, which is part of the Manila Water Supply Project III.