# Determining depth of flow in open channel flow

Open channel flow in a circular pipe has a maximum flow $$Q_{max}$$ at a flow depth approximately 93.8% of the pipe diameter. Calculating flow Q from depths 92.5% and 94.9% both give the same value for Q.

So, if we know that the flow is Q, or if we are designing for a flow of Q, how do we determine which flow depth be correct in practice?

• Please show both give the same value for Q calculation. Feb 12 at 22:42
• The flow can transition between those two Manning's normal depths. What part of the design is critical to a specific value for depth? Feb 13 at 1:43
• @DavidJ Neither is critical in my case; I have a project building an open channel flow calculator. Depth to flow is deterministic but not the case in flow to depth? (Incomplete but you can get the idea here: eduk8r.org/fluids/calcs/openChannel ) Feb 22 at 0:34
• Open channel flow in a circular pipe, when has a circular pipe been considered an open passageway of fluids? Please review and revise your question so there is no misunderstanding.
– r13
Jul 26 at 21:23
• The water level in the pipe is determined by Q but also, crucially, by the slope of the pipe and by the water level at the downstream end. Water level will in most cases vary along the length of the pipe (water flows downhill, if the pipe has no slope the free surface will). You need to wrap your head around these things before you can build a channel flow calculator.
– mart
Jul 27 at 7:23