Structural Types of Hydraulic Gates

Abstract Hydraulic gates can be classified with respect to various aspects, like the gate structural type, direction of movement, construction material, type of drive mechanism, and operation profile. Structural engineers most frequently use the first of these classifications. The distinguished gate structural types include then more than 30 options, such as miter gates, vertical lift gates, radial gates, rolling gates, and sector gates. This classification should not be confused with the one of structural systems, like horizontally framed or vertically framed gates. The latter may lead to a further subdivision of each gate type. This chapter gives a detailed description of all particular types of hydraulic gates, their historical roots, their structural systems, applications in diverse projects, and advantages and disadvantages. It is the most elaborate chapter of the book, comprising the discussions of many structures and projects, including their drawings, photos, calculation models, and other characteristic data. The reader will find a detailed, practically orientated presentation of diverse gate type performances in various projects. Some examples are from the authors’ engineering practice, but there has also been an effort to present a representative selection of gate engineering practices from all over the world.