Minimum Energy Loss Structures in Australia : Historical Development and Experience

Culverts and weirs are among the most common hydraulic structures. Modern designs do not differ much from ancient structures and are characterised by significant afflux at design flow conditions. A major advance in hydraulic engineering was the development of Minimum Energy Loss (MEL) structures by the late Professor Gordon McKAY in the late 1950s. The design technique allows a drastic reduction in afflux associated with lower costs. The successful operation of MEL culverts and weirs for more than 40 years demonstrate the design soundness while highlighting the importance of streamlining and near-critical flow conditions throughout the structure. The novelty of the MEL design should be acknowledged by the Australian engineering community and general public