Transient Hydraulic Modeling For Improved Canal System Operation

Abstract

A hydraulic model was developed to stimulate and help manage branching canal systems. Gate scheduling, one of the three operational modes available in the model, determines control structure and turnout settings with the objective of quickly stabilizing transient flow conditions, while maintaining flow levels at or near target values. Gate scheduling can be used to accurately match planned turnout deliveries and eliminate operational uncertainties. This can be accomplished through manual control structure operation, without infrastructure changes or automation equipment. Following field calibration, the model was applied to the scheduling of canal operations at an irrigation project in northeast Thailand. Field and model-generated data showed that significant operational improvements for canal networks can be achieved with the model. The model is implemented on IBM PC/AT or PS/2-type microcomputers with a five-minute simulation time step.