Geometrical and roughness effects on compound channel resistance

This paper presents an analysis of resistance coefficients derived from measurements taken in phases A, B and C of the research programme of the UK Flood Channel Facility (FCF). The FCF is a large-scale compound channel facility and the programme has included straight and meandering planforms, smooth and mobile main channel roughnesses and smooth and rod-roughened floodplain boundaries. Floodplain roughness consisted of 25 mm surface-penetrating dowel rods. Data were also obtained for straight trapezoidal channels for comparison by confining flow to the main channels. Stage-discharge relationships were derived which enabled calculation of Manning's roughness coefficient values for a range of selected relative depths for each geometry, planform and roughness case. Graphs are presented of the variation with depth of Manning's coefficient for each geometry and roughness expressed as a ratio of smooth straight compound, or straight trapezoidal channel data, These presentations quantify the increase or decrease of roughness coefficient resulting form cross-sectional geometry, planform and boundary roughness. It is suggested that this represents a possible valid approach to the estimation of Manning's roughness coefficient in compound channels and rivers.