ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses similitude and experiment planning, focusing on core similitude aspects common to hydraulic experiments, and their implications for experiment planning. Dimensional analysis is a key aspect of similitude, as it helps in identifying non-dimensional parameters pertinent to interpreting general trends an experiment may reflect. Because civil engineering hydraulics involves water movement and flow, similitude of single-phase (liquid) water flow is at the core of hydraulic experiments. Similitude considerations for more complex, multi-phase hydraulic processes build upon similitude of liquid water flow. For many experiments it is useful to begin with a dimensional analysis of the variables involved. This step helps to ensure that similitude conditions are appropriately considered, and may reduce the required number of experiments. Flow over a loose boundary and bed sediment transport are frequent topics of laboratory experiments, and need additional similitude considerations related to sediment movement in water.
