U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
202-366-4000


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Bridges & Structures

FHWA 2D Hydraulic Modeling Review Training

Training Description

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the task of reviewing a 2D hydraulic modeling project? Do you lack the confidence, familiarity, or experience to evaluate the model’s quality, accuracy, and suitability? If so, you are not alone. Many engineers and reviewers face this challenge as 2D hydraulic modeling becomes more prevalent and complex. That’s why we designed this workshop to help you master the skills and knowledge you need to perform a preliminary 2D hydraulic model review or decide if a more in-depth review is warranted. You will learn how to assess the model’s inputs, outputs, assumptions, limitations, and results using various tools and resources. You will also gain insights into the best practices and common pitfalls of 2D hydraulic modeling. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your feet wet and dive into the world of 2D hydraulic models and become a more confident and competent reviewer. The workshop material has been developed to be applicable to all 2D models. The exercises currently use SRH-2D/SMS but could be modified later to include HEC-RAS 2D or other.

Training Objective

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:
  • Identify key aspects of a 2D hydraulic model review.
  • Request the relevant information required for conducting a thorough and accurate review of hydraulic models.
  • Conduct preliminary reviews of hydraulic models, depending on the purpose and scope of the project, and understand when a more in-depth review may be necessary.
  • Recognize acceptable or reasonable ranges for the key components of a 2D model.
  • Spot common modeling errors and other issues that warrant further investigation.

Length

9-hours over three sessions.

Topics to be covered

  • Project information/metadata
  • Model background data (Terrain, CAD, GIS, imagery, etc.)
  • 2D mesh (extents, resolution, quality, representation of terrain and hydraulic controls, etc.)
  • Boundary conditions (Steady state/hydrograph inflow, constant/varying exit boundary conditions, etc.)
  • Material roughness (Manning’s n values)
  • Hydraulic structures (bridges and culverts)
  • Simulation parameters (Initial conditions, time step, duration)
  • Reviewing results (mass conservation parameters, datasets, dataset comparisons, cross section and profile plots, etc.)

Training Exercises

Participants are directed to work on three exercises to review several model scenarios. The objective of the review is to identify and explain any critical errors or concerns in each scenario, and propose possible solutions if time permits. The review will be based on model data and information from SRH-2D that will be provided.
Updated: 01/23/2025
Federal Highway Administration | 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE | Washington, DC 20590 | 202-366-4000