Research on the Development of a Dispatching Scheme for Maneuvering the Filling and Drawdown Water Intake Gates of the Kaparas Reservoir

Abstract

Purpose: The research aims to explore the laboratory hydraulic characteristics of the "Kapa-ras" water intake facility, specifically focusing on devising a control strategy for maneuvering gates amidst fluctuating flow rates and water levels in both the upstream and downstream ar-eas. Methods: Laboratory experiments were conducted to assess the performance of the water in-take facility under different gate opening schemes. These experiments included determining the capacity of the "Kaparas" reservoir intake for various gate configurations and establishing the discharge coefficient dependencies on the relative gate openings. Additionally, a series of experiments were conducted to ascertain the maximum allowable downstream depth without causing erosion to the attachment bottom, considering all potential gate opening scenarios. Results and conclusion: The main results yielded insights into the hydraulic behavior of the "Kaparas" water intake facility, enabling the determination of optimal gate control strategies for maintaining efficient water intake operations. Results indicated varying capacities for the reservoir intake under different gate configurations, and the dependence of discharge coeffi-cient on gate opening relative to the flow rates. Moreover, permissible downstream depths were identified to prevent erosion, ensuring the structural integrity of the attachment bottom. Consequently, these findings contribute to the effective management of water resources at the "Kaparas" facility. Research implications: The research outcomes provide valuable insights for enhancing the operational efficiency and sustainability of water intake facilities similar to "Kaparas." The findings can inform decision-making processes regarding gate control strategies and down-stream depth management, ultimately optimizing water resource utilization and mitigating po-tential environmental risks. Originality/value: This study contributes novel empirical data and analytical insights into the hydraulic behavior of water intake facilities, particularly in the context of gate maneuvering and downstream depth management. The research fills a gap in understanding the operational dynamics of such facilities and offers practical implications for hydroelectric complex man-agement, facilitating informed decision-making and resource optimization.