Introduction - Sediment Transport in Irrigation Canals: A New Approach - page 7

From the previous studies followed that the SETRIC model still has
some limitations and the results obtained need careful and thorough veri-
fication. Paudel (2010) has used the model for a detailed analysis of field
data and updated the design processes. The analysis and field measure-
ments resulted in the necessary modifications and improvements, which
has made the model more compatible with specific field conditions. The
research of Mendez and Paudel has been mainly focussed on the water flow
and sediment transport in irrigation networks with upstream flow controls.
Munir (2011) has studied and investigated the role of sediment transport
in the operation and maintenance of supply and demand based irrigation
canals, which are operated under downstream control. A specific mod-
ule for the sediment transport in downstream controlled canals has been
included in SETRIC. The starting point of the model is the transport of
non-cohesive sediment in the irrigation canal. A study has been initiated
to investigate the behaviour of cohesive (colloidal) sediment in irrigation
canals, which in the future might result in an extra module in SETRIC
that handles the sediment transport of this type of sediment in irrigation
networks.
A description and analysis of sediment transport concepts under the
specific conditions of irrigation canals will contribute to an improved
understanding of the behaviour of sediments in irrigation canals. It will
also help to decide on improved water delivery plans in view of the oper-
ation and maintenance concepts. Finally it will help to evaluate design
alternatives for minimal sedimentation and erosion, to maintain a fair,
adequate and reliable water supply to the farmers, and to decide on
the applicability of these concepts for the simulation of the sediment
transport processes under the particular conditions of water flow and
sediment inputs.