Discharge Coefficients of a Specific Vertical Slot Fishway Geometry—New Fitting Parameters

Abstract

Fishways are essential hydraulic structures to ensure the migration of fish and other aquatic organisms in the area of cross structures in river systems. In this context, the present study focuses on vertical slot fishways with specific geometries and their discharge coefficients. A comprehensive data analysis was performed, aiming on the development of new fitting parameters in conjunction with their respective approaches for practical design procedures. In addition, validity ranges and parameter dependencies were defined. Using the new fitting equations, it is possible to determine accurate discharge coefficients to design functional strutures for a defined validity range. Results show that discharge coefficients are highly dependent on the basin geometry. Comparing newly developed fitting parameters have shown that investigated fitting equations can be used to determine discharge coefficients. However, it should be noted that newly developed fittings can only be applied in practice for the defined range of validity for investigated exemplary geometries.