Sediment Transport Demonstration Channel

Sediment Transport Demonstration Channel

This improved version of the sediment transport teaching facility allows demonstration of the full range of bed forms that arise in a mobile bed as the flow and/or slope are increased.

The channel can be used to perform most of the experiments and demonstrations usually undertaken in much larger laboratory flumes, but at much lower cost and without the need for technician back-up. The equipment is portable, and therefore may be used in the classroom as well as in the laboratory. Although too small for research applications, this demonstration flume can play a useful role in any course concerning the mechanics of open channel flow and sediment transport, including those in Departments of Civil Engineering, Geology and Physical Geography.

Specification
A transparent, inclinable flow channel through which water can be re-circulated by a pump over a mobile bed to demonstrate the whole range of bed forms from incipient particle movement to bed wash-out.
Three different discharge rates can be selected (and measured) within the range 0.2 to 0.6 litres/sec.
The channel slope can be adjusted within the range 0-10%.
The working section of the channel is 1.55m long, 78mm wide and 110mm deep.
The equipment is self-contained and may be bench-mounted in either the classroom or laboratory by virtue of its portability.
A model undershot weir and bridge pier are included for local erosion demonstrations.
A water level gauge is supplied to calibrate the overshot weir.
Technical specification :
Channel working section:
Length: 1.55m
Width: 78mm
Depth: 110mm
Discharge rate:
3 fixed flow rates between 0.2 and 0.6 litres/sec, selected by switch on pump

Slope: 0 to 10%

Sediment diameter: 0.1 to 0.3mm