Evaluate the capability of the structure to pass flood flows as well as normal discharges
Rate the spillway crest
Determine the effect of approach flow conditions on the theoretical discharge rating of the crest
Measure discharge chute, discharge channel, and stilling basin performance
Determine water depths and wave patterns (to ensure that wall heights are sufficient to contain the flow)
Identify local pressures at the surface of structures (to determine the potential for cavitation)
Develop optimum stilling basin design and heights of baffle blocks and sills
Discharge structures with regulating gates are modeled to:
Measure headloss
Identify flow patterns
Determine local pressures (often approaching cavitation pressure)
Structures discharging into a tunnel are modeled to:
Identify free surface flows and hydraulic jumps
Measure the air demand of the jump to ensure stability and prevent fluctuations in the flow
Models can also be used to:
Determine the need for erosion control to prevent damage to a discharge structure (e.g., spillway)
Confirm that the capacity of a critical discharge structure is equal to the required design flows so that the integrity of the structure is maintained.
Below are two videos of a physical spillway model durring testing:
