4th International Conference on Rain Water Cistern Systems
Manila , Philipines - August, 1989

Section H: Delivery And Diversion Systems

Paper H.2

Hydraulics Of Rainwater Catchment Gutters

Richard J. Heggen
University of New Mexico, U.S.A.

Abstract

In the author's observation, a frequent weak link in rainwater cistern system performance is the catchment gutter. Collected rainwater is spilled before reaching the cistern. In some instances, gutter maintenance is neglected. In some instances, gutter construction is faulty. In some instances, gutter design is fundamentally inadequate. This paper addresses design issues, the relation of precipitation intensity and roof area to gutter cross-sectional shape, size, slope and length. A spatially varied hydraulic profile solution is reduced to a general statistical rule for design. Consideration is given to aspects of gutter technology in developing regions.

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