Operating Force Characteristics of Sector Gates Based on Prototype Testing

With the widespread use of sector gates in tidal river locks, there is a growing interest in the operating force during the gate operation. This study investigates the characteristics of operating forces in a sector gate hydraulic cylinder system using prototype testing and focuses on the effects of different heads and flow velocities under the operating forces. The results reveal significant differences in the opening processes between normal and reverse heads, with head differentials and direction playing crucial roles in determining the operating force under flowing conditions. In still water, both gate opening and closing processes are divided into four and three stages, respectively, with the operating force remaining stable during the low-force operation stage. In particular, during gate closure under flowing conditions, flow velocity emerges as a key factor influencing the operating force, with the force during the small gate opening stage exhibiting a parabolic relationship with flow velocity. These findings provide valuable insights for the design and selection of hydraulic gate control systems, contributing to the safe operation of gates and efficient navigation of waterways.