ABSTRACT
The construction of hydraulic gates was closely related with the development of irrigation, water supply and river navigation systems. In the early days of hydraulic engineering, water was backed up by small dams and conveyed to side irrigation canals. The excess water was discharged over the dam. As a natural evolution, ‘movable dams’ were built. These movable dams could be removed from their normal position to provide passage for excess water, thus permitting greater safety and flexibility in the operation of hydraulic works.
