Channel Design to Minimize Lining Material Costs

Abstract

A direct algebraic technique is developed to determine open channel cross-sectional designs which minimize lining material costs when base and side wall unit costs are different. Solution graphs, which indicate both the optimal parameter combination and the costs of deviating from the optimal design, are presented. The graphs or analytical technique are also effective in designing any trapezoidal channels. Use of the technique shows that moderate deviations from optimal designs are not costly.