Hydrodynamic pressures on a stepped spillway with an aerator system subjected to different air flow rates

ABSTRACT Aerator systems promote additional insertion of air into the flow and can reduce risk cavitation consequent damage to hydraulic structures. This work analyzes hydrodynamic pressures on steps a physical model (with chute inclination 53.13º) subjected different aeration conditions. When comparing results with intake coefficients in flow, it was concluded that incorporation does not change generalized way all statistical parameters associated steps. However, there an increase minimum pressure values measured region jet impact downstream. Empirical equations for predicting distribution under induced conditions were proposed, valid structures whose ratio between height deflector is equal 0.167, aerator system installed at beginning stepped chute.