Regime Theory Design of Canals with Sand Beds

The paper outlines recent regime theory design equations for duned sand-bed canals and indicates limits of applicability. A simple problem is presented and compared with original Lacey equations. Reference to worked problems and extensions is given. The advantages of the method described include: (1) equations derived from data of self-adjusting channels of the type and size for which design is required; (2) provision of the three necessary and sufficient independent equations for finding equilibrium values of flow area, depth, and slope; (3) consolidation of the unmeasureables of the water-sediment complex and of the cohesive erodible-depositable sides into two overall bed and side factors that can be calculated from the running conditions of existing channels in equilibrium and used by engineers with field experience; and (4) simplicity.