Inferences of the cycle ratio-time surged flow infiltration function

Abstract

Researchers have found that changes in infiltration characteristics that result from surged flow, often inferred from advance trajectories, vary considerably with site and management practices. Previously developed methods for adjusting the infiltration function for the surged effect are examined to better understand these effects. The easily implemented cycle ratio-time (CRT) surged flow infiltration function indicates that soil and management factors can impact surged flow effectiveness. If changes in flow rate result in changes in the on/off pulse patterns, the CRT function will reflect this with changes in infiltration characteristics; otherwise the model is insensitive to changes in flow rate. The duration of the first surge has a more pronounced effect than later surges, and soils that reach steady state infiltration quickly are less likely to exhibit decreased infiltration rates as a result of surged flow. Surged flow simulation runs are used to show that the CRT function predicts differences in performance on opposite sides of tee-type surge valves; the result of uneven off-times associated with expanding cycle times.