A review of hydraulic performance and design methods of labyrinth weirs

Abstract

Abstract Labyrinth weirs are complex hydraulic structures. They have been widely used as a water regulator and to increase discharge in channels and spillway dams. Labyrinth weirs are an economical and effective method to pass large floods. In addition, they are used to reduce the requirements of the structural footprint. These features make them an interesting and appropriate choice to increase the capacity of discharge. Several factors affect the discharge capacity and the hydraulic performance of labyrinth weirs, including water level to crest height ratio, angle of sidewalls, apex width, conveyance channel conditions, and vertical aspect ratio. The present paper aims to summarise the most relevant knowledge of the hydraulic characteristics of the labyrinth weirs reported in previous articles. The importance of the present study is to provide a better understanding of how these weirs operate, in addition to which future studies deserve further investigation. The results demonstrated that some parameters still need further investigation. Also, energy dissipation over the labyrinth weir needs further investigation with different weir geometry. Furthermore, the results showed that common design equations did not take into account all parameters affecting labyrinth weir performance, including geometries, flow conditions, site conditions, and scale effect. In addition, machine learning techniques need further study.