About this previous year paper
This document is a B.Tech Semester IV Theory Examination Question Paper for the subject BCE403 – Hydraulic Engineering and Machines, conducted for the academic session 2023–2024. It is a 3-hour written exam with a total of 70 marks, structured to evaluate the student’s theoretical understanding, numerical problem-solving skills, and conceptual clarity in core hydraulic engineering topics.
The exam is divided into three major sections, each focusing on a different depth of learning:
SECTION A – Short Answer Questions (14 Marks)
This section requires brief yet precise answers to seven fundamental questions. The topics include:
Most economical channel section condition
Application of specific energy in open channel flow
Principle of hydraulic jump
Impact of water jets on plane & curved plates
Difference between deep-water and shallow-water waves
Classification of turbines based on flow direction
Difference between impulse & reaction turbines
These questions test the student’s basic conceptual understanding of fluid mechanics and hydraulic machinery.
SECTION B – Descriptive / Numerical Problems (21 Marks)
Students must attempt any three out of the given five detailed questions. This section includes numericals, derivations, sketches, and applied hydraulics problems such as:
Finding critical depth for triangular and trapezoidal channels
Deriving GVF equations using Manning’s and Chezy’s formulae
Classifications of hydraulic jumps using Froude number
Drawing velocity triangles and explaining turbine vane terminology
Pelton turbine numerical problem involving shaft power, jet ratio, wheel diameter, jet diameter, and number of jets
These questions evaluate analytical skills, engineering drawing ability, and theoretical derivation skills.
SECTION C – Advanced/Choice-Based Questions (28 Marks)
This section contains four multi-part questions where the student must attempt one part from each.
Topics include:
1. Flow Analysis in Channels
Computation of Chezy’s coefficient & velocity of flow
Design of most economical trapezoidal section using given slopes, N value, and discharge
2. Specific Energy & Alternate Depth Calculations
Determining specific energy for a given discharge and depth
Finding alternate depths in open channel flow
Drawing GVF profiles for mild, steeper, and mildest slopes with sluice gate & free overfall conditions
3. Hydraulic Jump & Surge Problems
Sequent depth ratio and energy loss analysis for hydraulic jumps
Surge velocity and new flow rate after sudden increase in upstream flow
4. Jet Forces, Pump Parameters & Turbine Concepts
Force exerted by a jet on a stationary vertical plate
Calculating vane angle at impeller periphery for a centrifugal pump
Deriving specific speed of turbines and its effect on runner geometry
Understanding model testing parameters for turbines
These questions demand deep knowledge of open channel hydraulics, fluid machinery, and practical engineering design applications.