Trench Drains and Hydraulic Performance by ACO

Left: V-shaped trench drains, and Right: ACO's v-shaped polycrete channels.

The Shape of a Trench Drain and How it Affects Hydraulic Performance

The inner shape of a trench drain has a significant influence on its hydraulic performance. The material from which this inner section is created also makes a difference; with smooth surfaces preferred over bumpy or rough concrete.

If trench drains are incorrectly designed, they will lack the ability to clear rainwater efficiently. When this happens, pavements are likely to cost developers in maintenance and repair. In our previous article, we described how the slope had a considerable impact on the performance of a trench drain's hydraulics. In particular, we discussed how it helps determine the velocity of the liquid that flows through it.

Water travels downhill, and if the pavement cannot assist in this endeavour, then the drainage must be configured to provide the necessary falls, preferably by implementing a slope in the base of a trench run. Factory manufactured sloped channels enable sufficient drainage, while a stepped configuration isn't as likely to have as great of an affect on a drain's hydraulic performance.

In this article, we're going to look at how the shape of a trench drain impacts hydraulic performance.

Hydraulic Properties of V Shaped Trench Drains

When considering hydraulic properties of trench drains, the ultimate piece of the puzzle is the internal shape of the drainage channel. Inspired by the shape of traditional egg (V) shaped sewers; ACO has transferred these benefits to its external drainage systems.