Numerous methods exist for estimating the hydraulic impact of bridge openings on water surface profiles. TxDOT recommends that computer programs be employed to perform such estimates. Generally, the documentation of the specific computer program should be referred to for the theory employed.

Note

. Previously, TxDOT employed a single energy loss equation, (h =

△

v

2

/2g), to estimate the backwater effect of bridge openings. It is no longer used as the basis for design of TxDOT bridges.