hydro-automatic water level regulator, float-gate, opening time, mathematical model, pipe diameter, drainage–irrigation system, acceleration sensor, response speed
Abstract
The article presents the results of theoretical studies on the opening process of a float-gate of a hydro-automatic water level regulator. A mathematical model has been developed that describes the change in the volume of water in the float-gate over time and makes it possible to determine the duration of the opening process. The main attention is focused on the influence of the inlet pipe diameter, the initial immersion depth of the float, and the material of its manufacture. Based on the simulation results, an analytical equation was derived to determine the gate opening time t₁, which represents the interval from the moment the acceleration sensor is triggered to the beginning of the float-gate’s rise. A comparative analysis of the characteristics of plastic and metal float-gates was carried out for different initial immersion depths (h₂) and inlet pipe diameters (d₁). The study established patterns of how the inlet pipe diameter and immersion depth affect the regulator’s response speed. The comparison between metal and plastic floats showed that the plastic one has a shorter response time due to its lower weight and greater buoyancy. The obtained dependencies can be used to improve the design of water level regulators and increase their efficiency in drainage–irrigation systems.
Author Biographies
O.O. Bohush, National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Rivne
PhD Candidate
M. M. Khlapuk, National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Rivne
