This structure is for studying hydrology principles, including rainfall, through flow and movement of water over land and rivers.

Learning Outcomes

• Investigation of rainfall/run-off relationships for dry, saturated and impermeable catchments of various slopes (surface run-off only)
• Effect of interflow on outflow hydrograph surface run-off (plus groundwater flow)
• Simulation of multiple and moving storms
• Measurement of cone of depression for a single well, and comparison with theory interaction of cones of depression for two adjacent wells
• De-watering of excavation sites by use of wells
• Flow from a well in a confined aquifer
• Demonstration of watersheds for a simulated island with rainfall and well flows
• Sediment transport and meanders in simulated rivers
• Studies of scour around simulated bridge piers

Key Features

• Permeable catchment area fed with ‘rain’ from overhead spray nozzles and/or by groundwater fl ow from ends of tank
• Spray nozzles to supply half or all of catchment area
• Piezometer tappings to measure water table profile
• Can measure ‘drawdown’ due to single or two interacting wells
• Adjustable inclination of catchment area angle
• Includes flow meter to measure flow to the catchment area
• Run-off and well flows measured by calibrated rectangular weir
• Self-contained – requires only an electrical supply