Flow Control and Transients in the California Aqueduct

Abstract

From initial operation of the California Aqueduct of the California State Water Project in 1967 to the present, the method of gate operation for flow control has been modified to keep up with the changing operational demands. Initially, serial gate operation was employed. Then as operating demands increased a new method called simultaneous gate operation, using the controlled volume concept, was implemented. As flow changes increased still another method known as timed gate operation, another variation of the controlled volume concept, was initiated. This latest method satisfies all present operating requirements and is expected to meet all future operating requirements. Recent flow change tests indicate that timed gate operation will control the fluctuations within the allowable for flow changes up to and including designed flow quantities in the range of 13,100 cfs (370 m³/sec). Refinement to the timed gate operation can further reduce the magnitudes of hydraulic transients during major flow changes.