Discharge Coefficient of Triangular and Asymmetric Labyrinth Side Weirs Using the Nonlinear PLS Method

Side weirs are hydraulic control structures widely used in irrigation and drainage systems as well as wastewater treatment plants. These structures also serve as adjusting/diverting flow structures with a minimum head loss. In the present study, by applying experimental data of more than 400 laboratory tests and using the multivariable nonlinear partial least-squares (PLS) method, three nonlinear equations are proposed for discharge coefficient, CM, of triangular and asymmetric labyrinth side weirs. These equations relate the discharge coefficient to the relevant geometrical and hydraulic dimensionless characteristics of flow. Results indicate that the new proposed equations are more accurate compared to those of former studies, being the best tools to estimate the diverted flow discharge over the side weirs. (C) 2016 American Society of Civil Engineers.