What Is the Sediment Settling Velocity Rubey Formula Calculator?
The terminal fall velocity of sediment particles in water governs sedimentation basin design, bedload transport, and dredging mechanics.
While fine particles obey Stokes’ law and large gravel obeys Newton’s quadratic drag law, natural sands fall into the intermediate transitional regime.
This calculator computes water kinematic viscosity as a function of temperature and evaluates Rubey’s universal formulation across all hydrodynamic regimes.
How Does the Sediment Settling Velocity Rubey Formula Calculator Work?
The calculation evaluates user-provided measurements using recognized domain equations, converts between measurement units, and adjusts for real-world efficiency factors.
Sediment Settling Velocity Rubey Formula Calculator Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
ws is terminal settling velocity, g is gravity, s is specific gravity (rho_s/rho_w), d is particle diameter, and nu is water kinematic viscosity.
How to Use the Sediment Settling Velocity Rubey Formula Calculator
- Enter your primary measurements in the input fields above.
- Select your preferred units (e.g. metric or imperial) if applicable.
- Review or adjust operational assumptions such as field efficiency.
- Click Calculate to instantly generate the full results breakdown and visual chart.
- Use the Reset button at any time to clear the form and test a new scenario.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
Medium Quartz Sand in River Water
Input Values:
Understanding Your Result
Your calculated result represents the realistic operational capacity or baseline output under the specified conditions. Comparing theoretical and effective outputs reveals the direct impact of turns, overlap, and practical downtime.
Factors That Affect the Result
Field terrain, operator experience, equipment maintenance, overlap margin, and weather conditions can significantly influence real-world output.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
Use this calculator whenever you need quick, verified estimates for job planning, budgeting, equipment sizing, or project timelines.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Rubey (1933) formulation provides a continuous analytical function from Stokes laminar to Newton turbulent drag.
- Water kinematic viscosity ν is calculated via Poiseuille’s temperature approximation.
- Particle Reynolds number Re_p classifies the hydrodynamic regime (laminar, transitional, or turbulent).
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
This calculator implements verified, deterministic mathematical equations based on published standards. Results should be treated as professional engineering estimates; always verify critical operations with local equipment manuals and site inspections.