Differences between Open-Channel and Culvert Hydraulics: Implications for Design

摘要

Sediment transport through culverts is poorly understood. Current design methods for culverts are generally based on the characteristics of open channel flow. A careful analysis of previous studies reveals significant differences between open channel flow and flow through a culvert. The purpose of this paper is to identify and categorize the main differences between open channel flow conditions and flow through a culvert embedded in native substrate. The differences in flow characteristics are most easily identified when separated into four categories: geometry, sediment/debris, bed integrity and aquatic life.