(SEM IV) THEORY EXAMINATION 2018-19 HYDRAULICS & HYDRAULIC MACHINES

HYDRAULICS & HYDRAULIC MACHINES – B.Tech (Semester IV), RCE-401

This is a 3-hour, 70-mark theory examination designed to assess engineering students on the core principles of open-channel flow, uniform & varied flow, hydraulic jumps, pumps, turbines, cavitation, and hydraulic forces.
The paper is divided into three structured sections testing both conceptual understanding and numerical problem-solving ability.
 

SECTION A — Short Answer Questions (2 × 7 = 14 Marks)

This section covers 7 brief, fundamental questions to test basic hydraulic concepts.

Topics include:

Manning’s constant & Chezy’s constant relationship   GVF (Gradually Varied Flow) & RVF (Rapid Varied Flow)

Flow profile classifications                                             Most economical vs most efficient channels

Velocity distribution in channels                                    Speed ratio, flow ratio & jet ratio

Specific speed ranges of Kaplan, Francis & Pelton turbines

This section checks definitions, basic formulas, and conceptual clarity.
 

SECTION B — Descriptive Questions (7 × 3 = 21 Marks)

Students must attempt any 3 out of 5.
This section requires diagrams, derivations, and numerical applications.

Topics include:

Draft tube: definition, types, and sketch                       Most efficient trapezoidal channel – derivation

Finding economical channel dimensions (numerical)   Specific energy concept & critical flow derivation

Single-stage vs multi-stage pumps

This section evaluates applied hydraulics and problem-solving.
 

SECTION C — Long Answer Questions (7 marks each)

Each question offers choice (a or b) and involves deeper analysis, calculations, or diagrams.

Major topics include:

Q3 – Pumps (Centrifugal & Reciprocating)

Centrifugal pump velocity triangles, vane angles, power & efficiency (numerical)

Working principle & diagram of reciprocating pump

Q4 – Open Channel Flow

Hydraulic jump depth derivation

GVF depth computation using Manning’s equation

Q5 – Hydraulic Forces & Spillway Flow

Discharge formula derivation for spillways

Jet impact on plates (numerical)

Q6 – Cavitation & Channel Flow

Cavitation: causes, effects & prevention in turbines

Trapezoidal channel discharge calculation

Q7 – Flow Profiles & Similitude

GVF profiles on steep and critical slopes

Model/prototype scaling of fluid flow using viscosity similarity

This section tests analytical ability, engineering reasoning, and conceptual depth.
 

OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE EXAM

This question paper evaluates a student’s ability to:

Apply open-channel flow principles

Understand GVF, RVF, energy-depth relationships & hydraulic jumps

Analyze pump and turbine working with performance parameters

Calculate flow parameters using Manning, Chezy & energy equations

Understand cavitation & hydraulic design challenges

Apply fluid mechanics to real engineering systems

It ensures students gain strong, practical knowledge of hydraulics and hydraulic machinery, essential for civil engineering applications.