Inputs
Enter project data
Choose units, then estimate annual trapped sediment volume and storage loss across the design life.
Quick checks
- Use consistent sediment source data.
- Keep trap efficiency between 0 and 100.
- Bulk density typically ranges 1.1–1.6 t/m³.
Example
Example data table
Use this sample to confirm your workflow and unit selections.
| Scenario | Initial capacity (m³) | Dead storage (m³) | Annual sediment (tonnes/yr) | Trap efficiency (%) | Bulk density (t/m³) | Design life (yr) | Projected loss (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baseline | 250,000 | 30,000 | 12,000 | 75 | 1.25 | 25 | 180,000 |
| Higher trapping | 250,000 | 30,000 | 12,000 | 90 | 1.25 | 25 | 216,000 |
| Denser sediment | 250,000 | 30,000 | 12,000 | 75 | 1.50 | 25 | 150,000 |
Example values are illustrative. Your results depend on site monitoring, watershed conditions, and sediment properties.
Method
Formula used
- Trapped mass (t/yr) = Annual sediment mass × (Trap efficiency ÷ 100)
- Annual volume (m³/yr) = Trapped mass ÷ Bulk density
- Adjusted volume = Annual volume × (1 − Compaction% ÷ 100)
- Final annual deposit = Adjusted volume × (1 + Safety% ÷ 100)
- Cumulative loss = Final annual deposit × Design life (years)
- Remaining total = Initial capacity − Cumulative loss
- Remaining live = (Initial − Dead storage) − Cumulative loss
Practical notes
- Density varies by grain size and water content.
- Trap efficiency can change with operations and floods.
- Use safety margin for uncertainty and future land-use change.
Guide
How to use this calculator
- Select your preferred capacity and sediment mass units.
- Enter initial capacity and any dead storage allocation.
- Provide design life, annual sediment mass, and trap efficiency.
- Set bulk density, then optional compaction and safety margin.
- Press Calculate to view results above the form.
- Download CSV or PDF for record keeping and reporting.