Trash rack (or screen) losses

By Ahmad Suhendra

A screen is always required at the entrance of a pressure pipe . The function of screen (trash rack) is :

• keep debris away from the entrance to the outlet works where the debris will not clog the critical portions of the structure;
  
• capture debris in such a way that relatively easy removal is possible;

The flow of water through the rack also gives rise to a head loss. Though usually small, it can be calculated by a formula due to Kirchmer .

ht = [Kt * (t / b)^(4 / 3) * (Vo ^2 * Sin α )] / (2 * g)

ht = Screen head loss (m)
Kt = Resistance coefficient
t = Bar thickness (mm)
b = Width between bars (mm)
Vo= Approach velocity (m/s)
g = Gravitational constant (9.8 m/s^2)
α = Angle of inclination from horizontal


Ref :
ESHA (European Small Hydropower Association),”Layman’s Handbook on How To Develop a Small Hydro Site,”2nd ed, 1998 http://www.scribd.com/doc/8885765/Layman-Handbook-for-hydro-electric-power-plants

http://www.knoxcounty.org/stormwater/pdfs/vol2/3-3-5%20Trash%20Racks%20and%20Safety%20Grates.pdf