(SEM IV) THEORY EXAMINATION 2023-24 HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING AND MACHINES

This document is a B.Tech Semester IV Theory Examination Question Paper for the subject BCE403 – Hydraulic Engineering and Machines, conducted for the academic session 2023–2024. It is a 3-hour written exam with a total of 70 marks, structured to evaluate the student’s theoretical understanding, numerical problem-solving skills, and conceptual clarity in core hydraulic engineering topics.

The exam is divided into three major sections, each focusing on a different depth of learning:

SECTION A – Short Answer Questions (14 Marks)

This section requires brief yet precise answers to seven fundamental questions. The topics include:

Most economical channel section condition

Application of specific energy in open channel flow

Principle of hydraulic jump

Impact of water jets on plane & curved plates

Difference between deep-water and shallow-water waves

Classification of turbines based on flow direction

Difference between impulse & reaction turbines

These questions test the student’s basic conceptual understanding of fluid mechanics and hydraulic machinery.
 

SECTION B – Descriptive / Numerical Problems (21 Marks)

Students must attempt any three out of the given five detailed questions. This section includes numericals, derivations, sketches, and applied hydraulics problems such as:

Finding critical depth for triangular and trapezoidal channels

Deriving GVF equations using Manning’s and Chezy’s formulae

Classifications of hydraulic jumps using Froude number

Drawing velocity triangles and explaining turbine vane terminology

Pelton turbine numerical problem involving shaft power, jet ratio, wheel diameter, jet diameter, and number of jets

These questions evaluate analytical skills, engineering drawing ability, and theoretical derivation skills.
 

SECTION C – Advanced/Choice-Based Questions (28 Marks)

This section contains four multi-part questions where the student must attempt one part from each.
Topics include:

1. Flow Analysis in Channels

Computation of Chezy’s coefficient & velocity of flow

Design of most economical trapezoidal section using given slopes, N value, and discharge
 

2. Specific Energy & Alternate Depth Calculations

Determining specific energy for a given discharge and depth

Finding alternate depths in open channel flow

Drawing GVF profiles for mild, steeper, and mildest slopes with sluice gate & free overfall conditions

3. Hydraulic Jump & Surge Problems

Sequent depth ratio and energy loss analysis for hydraulic jumps

Surge velocity and new flow rate after sudden increase in upstream flow
 

4. Jet Forces, Pump Parameters & Turbine Concepts

Force exerted by a jet on a stationary vertical plate

Calculating vane angle at impeller periphery for a centrifugal pump

Deriving specific speed of turbines and its effect on runner geometry

Understanding model testing parameters for turbines

These questions demand deep knowledge of open channel hydraulics, fluid machinery, and practical engineering design applications.