Numerical and Regression-Based Modeling of Leakage in Lined Trapezoidal Channels

Document Type : Original Article

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Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Horus University-Egypt, New Damietta 34517, Egypt

Abstract

Leakage losses in unlined and lined trapezoidal canals are critical factors influencing water conservation and infrastructure efficiency. This study employs the Slide2 numerical model to estimate leakage losses and develop multiple-nonlinear-regression (MNR) models for predictive analysis. A validation process was conducted by comparing the analytical solution with the Slide2 model, showing excellent agreement with a minimal deviation of 3%–6% across different canal geometries. The simulation results highlight the significant effects of channel bed width-to-water depth ratio (b*=b/y), liner-to-soil hydraulic conductivity ratio (k*=kL/k), liner thickness-to-water depth ratio (t*=tL/y), and side slope (z) on leakage losses. It was observed that increasing tL led to a reduction in leakage by as much as 68%, while lowering kL substantially decreased losses, with almost complete elimination occurring when k* was less than or equal to 0.01. A set of MNR equations was developed for different side slopes, achieving R² values exceeding 0.89, confirming high predictive performance. A generalized equation applicable to all side slopes was also formulated, achieving a determination coefficient (R²) of 0.899 with a root-mean-squared-error (RMSE) of 1.448. The accuracy of the model was additionally confirmed through scatter plots, which showed that the predicted values closely aligned with the actual leakage losses. Finally, the findings confirmed the reliability of the Slide2 model for leakage loss estimation and underscore the importance of liner properties in water conservation. The developed regression models provided a practical tool for predicting leakage losses, aiding in the design and optimization of lined canals.

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