Expertise

Physical Modelling

Physical hydraulic modelling is a hands-on, practical approach to developing effective engineering designs and conducting applied hydraulic research. Physical models can be applied to all types of hydraulic analysis but are often key tools for assessing unique and hydraulically complex facilities or settings that stretch the boundaries of empirical and numerical analysis techniques. Through an interactive and collaborative physical modelling approach, our clients are able to take part in the design process, which gives them confidence in the future performance of their projects. This up-front collaboration often results in significant construction and operation cost savings, as well as expedited project schedules.

Our physical modelling professionals have assisted clients around the world in developing innovative solutions to complex hydraulic problems. We have earned a reputation for excellence through our work on a broad range of project types throughout North America and around the world, including dams and reservoirs, power generation, water supply and water treatment, municipal infrastructure, river processes, fish passage, natural hazards, and coastal developments.

We have one of the largest commercial physical hydraulic modelling operations in North America, with permanent facilities in both the US and Canada.

Hydraulics Laboratory

Our laboratories include fully equipped workshops for model fabrication, electronics and instrumentation shops for development of model control and data acquisition systems, and facilities for velocity probe calibration.Instrumentation includes 1D, 2D, and 3D velocity probes, video-imaging systems for detailed characterization of flow fields, capacitance water-level probes, point gages, laser-scan bed profilers, accelerometers, total dissolved gas (TDG) meters, fluorometers, anemometers, and computer-based data acquisition systems. Our services include: 

Development, refinement, and verification of hydraulic designs

Witness testing and demonstrations for project stakeholders

Hydraulic performance rating

Simulation of hydraulic structures and natural systems

Experimental research and development of hydraulic devices and processes

Key Contacts

Ken Christison

North Vancouver, British Columbia
604.980.6011
kchristison@nhcwater.com

Wael Taha

Montréal, Québec
514.366.2970
wtaha@lasallenhc.com

Kara Hurtig

Squamish, British Columbia
604.980.6011
khurtig@nhcwater.com

Ed Zapel

Seattle, Washington
206.241.6000
ezapel@nhcwater.com