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Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering

Research Article

Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software

Anwer Hazim Dawood 1,* , Dana Khider Mawlood 1,2


1
Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Salahaddin University-Erbil, Erbil, 44001, Iraq
2
Center of Environmental Studies, University of Kurdistan Hawler (UKH), Erbil, 44001, Iraq
*Corresponding Author: Anwer Hazim Dawood, E-mail: [email protected]

Article Info Abstract


Article History Erbil has been undergoing rapid urbanisation and population growth for the last ten years. The
Received Dec 06, 2023 impervious surface areas increased, so the volume of runoff generated from stormwater increased.
Revised Feb 19, 2024 For this reason, the storm sewer system is faced with additional runoff from the urban areas, and
Accepted Mar 23, 2024 the existing sewer system is inadequate. This study focuses on the storm sewer system design
Keywords using SewerGEMS and AutoCAD Software in Mass City, which is located in the east of Erbil.
Drainage System The topographic map of the study area was created using Civil 3D software and the total station
Runoff in surveying, and rainfall storm data were collected from Erbil Meteorology Station and the Gen-
Stormwater eral Directorate of Water and Sewage. Geometric design and hydraulic modelling were done us-
SewerGEMS ing AutoCAD and SewerGEMS, respectively. The results show hydraulic design parameters such

Sewer Design. as flow velocity, sewer pipe size, slopes, manholes, pipe profiles, hydraulic grade line, minimum
depth of excavation, and the minimum number of drops. Such a model allowed the project to be
accomplished in a short time, with high efficiency and low costs; the model effectively demon-
strated its ability to improve design and analysis by examining hydraulic performance.
Copyright: © 2024 Anwer Hazim Dawood and Dana Khider Mawlood. This article is an open-access article
distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) license.

1. Introduction

Designing a stormwater drainage network plays a crucial role in urban planning and management,

particularly in rapidly growing cities such as Erbil. Proper management of rainwater drainage not only

improves public safety but also helps mitigate the risk of flooding and minimises environmental and prop-

erty damage. In addition, climate change has emerged as a significant challenge faced by many regions.

Flooding, as one of the consequences of climate change, has severely impacted Erbil and its inhabitants.

For these reasons, the need for effective stormwater management has become even more pressing [1]. As

cities expand, municipalities must construct essential public infrastructure such as drinking water pipelines,

wastewater systems, street lighting, storm sewer systems, and roadways [2]. Expanding impervious land

cover results in an increase in stormwater runoff, which disrupts the balance of other components within

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 45

the hydrologic cycle. Moreover, stormwater transports hazardous pollutants from urban surfaces directly to

downstream storm sewer systems [3]. Nowadays, water management in urban areas presents significant

challenges due to population growth, urban development, and climate change. Consequently, water author-

ities must develop plans that consider economic, social, and environmental factors. This is achieved through

the analysis of scenarios involving these factors and their impact on the urban water cycle, using specialised

software [4]. A storm sewer system is an underground network infrastructure composed of manholes, inlets,

and sewers. Its primary function is to convey stormwater from catchments to an outfall location. To facili-

tate the construction of such a sewer system, conducting storm sewer modelling studies is essential. The

conventional design of stormwater networks is time-consuming and laborious and demands extensive geo-

spatial data to establish system flow loading. Any modifications to the design necessitate recalibrating all

loadings from scratch.

Numerous up-to-date numerical models are available for conducting stormwater network flow load-

ing. One of these widely used software programs is SewerGEMS, specifically tailored for analysing and

designing sewage systems. It offers built-in hydraulic tools and provides a streamlined environment for

experts to analyse, plan, design, and operate sewer systems [5]. Additionally, it is compatible with Auto-

CAD tools. SewerGEMS offers many unique benefits, including:

• Time and effort savings: The program allows hydraulic analyses to be conducted quickly and accurately,
reducing the need for redesigns and complete reloads from scratch.
• Accuracy in analyses: SewerGEMS allows users to analyse data accurately and reliably, aiding in crucial
decisions regarding network design and maintenance.
• Integration with GIS: Engineers can use available geographical data in the GIS system for network anal-
ysis and design, enhancing the accuracy of results and the efficiency of work.
• Ease of Use: The program features a simple and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for sewage
and stormwater engineers at various levels of expertise [6].
SewerGEMS can be used for the following applications:
1. Hydrologic modelling: This involves taking rain data and converting it to runoff flow.
2. Hydraulic analysis: SewerGEMS includes 1D/2D hydraulic analysis capabilities that allow a better un-
derstanding of surface flood depth and velocity, flood hazard, and inundation times.
3. Scenario management: SewerGEMS allows users to configure, evaluate, visualise, and compare an un-
limited number of scenarios within a single file.

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 46

4. Data integration: SewerGEMS allows users to use CAD drawings, GIS data, databases, and spreadsheets
to jumpstart the model-building process [7].
SewerGEMS has the following benefits:
1. Improved efficiency: SewerGEMS streamlines the modelling process, allowing users to spend more
time-solving storm and wastewater engineering problems.
2. Better decision-making: SewerGEMS permits users to analyse and evaluate multiple scenarios, allowing
for better decision-making.
3. Increased accuracy: SewerGEMS provides accurate modelling results, allowing for more precise design
and operation of sewer systems.
4. Improved communication: SewerGEMS allows users to easily share and communicate modelling results
with stakeholders.
5. Cost savings: SewerGEMS allows the identification of cost-effective solutions to stormwater engineer-
ing problems, potentially saving money on construction and operation costs.
SewerGEMS is a powerful software tool that allows the efficient and accurate modelling of sewer
systems, permitting users to make informed decisions and identify cost-effective solutions to wastewater
engineering problems [7].
Numerous research studies have investigated the capabilities and features of the SewerGEMS soft-
ware in sewerage network analysis and design. This software provides researchers and designers with an
efficient solution to tackle the complexities associated with sewerage network design. For instance, in 2020,
Manoj Tonde and his team employed Bentley SewerGEMS software to design and analyse the storm drain-
age system in the Bhilarewadi Village, India. The study involved a thorough examination and analysis of
the sewerage system in Bhilarewadi Village, located in the Pune District of Maharashtra. Hydraulic mod-
elling was used to calculate parameters such as total flow, pipe diameters, slopes, manholes, and outfalls.
The accuracy and efficiency of the SewerGEMS software proved to be an effective and time-saving ap-
proach for sewer network design. Consequently, the final results were presented in a DWG file format,
which can be easily accessed and read by various applications [8].
R. Chinmoy completed an MSc thesis in 2019 at Jadavpur University on the storm sewer water drain-
age system in Haldia, West Bengal. The thesis examines the challenges of urbanisation in India, specifically
the growing volume of stormwater runoff caused by impermeable surfaces in the study area. It highlights
the disparity between water supply and drainage development in Indian cities, resulting in inadequate drain-
age systems. The study assesses the drainage system in Rajarhat, using SewerGEMS software to identify
construction, management, and design issues. SewerGEMS software enables efficient and cost-effective
project completion. The thesis suggests appropriate measures to alleviate the negative impacts on the drain-
age system, ensuring sustainable service to the area and planning for future drainage infrastructure needs
[9].

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 47

In 2021, Noori and Singh conducted a study in Kabul, Afghanistan, using ArcGIS and SewerGEMS
software tools to assess the feasibility of implementing a decentralised sewerage collection system in the
fifth district of the city. By using land-use and land-cover data, digital elevation models, and satellite im-
agery, the network's geometry was created within the ArcMap environment. Hydraulic simulation and mod-
elling were performed using SewerGEMS software, with variables adjusted in accordance with conven-
tional wastewater topology guidelines. The analysis of hydraulic outputs indicated that a decentralised
wastewater collection system would be the most appropriate option for the area. The successful develop-
ment and implementation of the hydraulic model suggest its potential applicability in future wastewater
master planning endeavours for the city. After conducting numerous simulations across various scenarios,
the hydraulic model design for two research zones within the fifth district, based on maximum discharge,
was finalised using the SewerGEMS program. The evaluation of control parameters such as flow rate,
pipeline diameters, slopes, and profiles confirmed the successful development and operation of the hydrau-
lic model [10].
Abhishek Pawar and others conducted a study in 2021 to design a sewer system using SewerGEMS
for Vake Village in the Malegaon Taluka, Dist-Nashik, Maharashtra, India. The findings are presented in a
tabular format, including details such as length, slope, section type, material, and diameter. The results
show that the software is user-friendly and provides visual and tabular results, thereby saving time [11].
Shraddha Tiwari and Mangesh Bhorkar conducted a study in 2020 on the design of an underground drainage
system in a rural area using SewerGEMS software. They discovered that SewerGEMS is equipped with the
capacity to generate drawings directly, which can subsequently be exported as AutoCAD drawings. More-
over, it allocates conduit attributes and uses distinct colours that correspond to different diameters, enhanc-
ing the visual presentation and facilitating effortless identification of elements within the sewer system.
SewerGEMS also touts superior accuracy in comparison to manual sewer design, thus minimising the ne-
cessity for manual adjustments to achieve desired outputs [12].
In 2022, Bassma and others conducted a study in Egypt titled "Comparison of Urbanization, Climate
Change, and Drainage Design Impacts on Urban Flashfloods in an Arid Region." The results indicate that
rapid urbanisation has significantly contributed to heightened surface runoff due to inadequate planning.
This oversight has neglected the incorporation of natural floodplains, resulting in the expansion of imper-
vious surfaces that exacerbate runoff volumes and strain the drainage infrastructure. Furthermore, recent
rainfall patterns have been influenced by climate change, leading to a 17% increase in the frequency of
extreme rainfall events between 2000 and 2020 compared to pre-1999 patterns [13]. In 2022, Hazem Ram-
adan and his team conducted a study on the increasing flood risk caused by climate change in Aswan,
Egypt, which recently experienced severe rainstorms that resulted in significant damage. The objective of
the study was to reduce the impact of flooding and improve flood resilience in Aswan. Cutting-edge mod-
elling tools such as WMS, ArcGIS, HEC-HMS, SewerGEMS, and HEC-RAS were used to analyse the

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 48

contributing watersheds, assess meteorological data, determine peak flows, and simulate flood events. The
study considered various flood protection measures, both external and internal. As for internal protection,
priority was given to implementing storm drainage networks to safeguard highly urbanised areas from
heavy rainfall, using SewerGEMS software [14].
In 2022, Rutuja Kendre and his team undertook a study to design a sewerage system for managing
storm and wastewater in Hyderabad, India. They used design software including Civil 3D, Power Civil,
and SewerGEMS to simulate the current flow of the catchment in the initial phase. In the second phase,
they assessed the capacity of the stormwater system. In the third phase, they designed and optimised the
sewer system to tap and redirect sewage flow, using SewerGEMS software. This optimised flow was then
directed to the sewage treatment plants for processing [15]. Murilo Camilo and his team conducted a study
on the computational modelling of urban drainage in Brazil in 2020. The study focused on modelling the
urban drainage network in the sub-basin formed by the intersection of Guaiapo and Palmares avenues in
Maringá. It aimed to evaluate the current state of the drainage system and explore the effectiveness of using
SewerGEMS software. The study conducted scenario simulations to assess the performance of the urban
drainage network. The findings revealed that the existing network, represented in Scenario 1, is insufficient
to effectively manage stormwater runoff. Therefore, the study proposed implementing compensatory
measures in Scenarios 2, 3, and 4. The results highlight the effectiveness of computational modelling in
evaluating different scenarios and suggest that such approaches can inform municipal urban management
strategies.
By providing insights into an adequate and efficient system of stormwater management, this study
offers valuable support for urban planning and infrastructure development in Maringá, Paraná. [16]. Pra-
jakta Wanjari and his team conducted a study on the analysis and design of the sewerage network in the
Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra, India in 2023. They used SewerGEMS and found that the use of software
for design significantly enhanced the efficiency of the entire process in terms of time and reliability. This
software enables designers to complete design tasks efficiently and at a low cost. It also facilitates the
redesign of existing network systems, particularly aiding in repair works that are frequently undertaken,
allowing users to differentiate between existing and proposed network elements. The evaluation of sewer-
age systems in the Gadchiroli district was based on the overall flow of the system. The cost savings achieved
in network design will have a significant impact on the overall cost of the network. By optimising network
redundancy, costs were reduced by 2-90 lakhs, depending on the length of the network. This optimisation
involved providing an optimal number of manholes to serve the entire network and selecting appropriate
channel diameters to significantly reduce costs. The software offers various tools for scheduling, optimisa-
tion, modification, visualisation, and evaluation. It facilitates calculations for different models and provides
longitudinal sections, reports, and cross-sections to understand the design of hydraulic networks for sewers

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Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 49

and storm sewers. Economies are achieved by reducing conduit length by 15% and decreasing the number
of manholes by 5.09% as per proposed requirements. The overall savings from optimising the number of
manholes and conduit diameters amount to 89.67 lakhs. The design in this case study prioritises economical
gravity-assisted flow, eliminating the need for pumps [17].
In 2024, Aly and her team conducted a study at Ain Shams University on the management of sewage
networks in the Zamalek area of Egypt. The study proposed hydraulic modelling using SewerGEMS soft-
ware to analyse and enhance the management of the sewage network, addressing the limitations of manual
design methods. Hydraulic modelling with SewerGEMS provides valuable information about the condition
and performance of the network, supported by surveillance cameras that record its performance. Cracks
and fractures were detected in certain sections of the network, totalling approximately 6,451 metres. The
hydraulic study also identified some reversed branches (manual design errors) that necessitated corrective
re-excavation. Geographic information systems, in conjunction with SewerGEMS, were employed to offer
comprehensive data on the network in the area, including the number of manholes, lengths of sewer lines,
and calculation of the actual network behaviour. This approach significantly enhanced the design capacity
of the project. The study successfully demonstrated the potential of an integrated engineering framework
for the effective management and analysis of sewage networks [18].
In Erbil, traditional methods have been used for designing infrastructure, without the use of analysis
software. This has resulted in design errors such as overlapping lines and blockages. The city's diverse
terrain, which includes streets with varying levels and significant slopes, further complicates the design
process. Additionally, the combined rainwater drainage and sewerage system in Erbil exacerbates these
issues, leading to road floods, blockages, and traffic accidents. To address these concerns, this research
aims to develop and identify a network plan for a reliable storm sewer system in the study area, using
SewerGEMS software for design purposes. This software allows the design and analysis of the network's
parameters, enabling the formulation of an effective rain network design. By determining crucial design
parameters such as pipe diameters, flow velocities, and excavation depths, this research will assist in the
construction of a successful rainwater drainage system. The goal is to mitigate flooding and improve road
safety in Erbil's urban landscape. The study project uses SewerGEMS and AutoCAD software to design a
storm sewer system in Mass City, Erbil. Unlike traditional manual design processes, these tools save time
and ensure performance based on climatic data. The study aims to deliver an efficient storm sewer system
using modern design software, thereby contributing to the resilience of the urban infrastructure in Mass
City. The objectives of this study include conducting a primary survey of the study area, performing a
literature review, and designing a sewer system using the hydraulic and hydrology tools provided by the
SewerGEMS software.

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 50

1.1 Description of Study Area

Erbil is the capital of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region; its population is estimated at two million. After
2014, a large number of displaced people were forced to come to Erbil from inside and outside Iraq (Syria);
as refugees. Also, a large number of people came to Erbil from other cities looking for jobs. Therefore, the
urban expansion caused an increased ratio of land cover by concrete and asphalt, and Erbil was frequently
exposed to flash floods. The study area of Mass City, which is located in the east of Erbil, consists of four
zones: A, B, C, and D. The storm sewer design for Zone C is used in the current research. The study area
of Zone C shown in Figure 1 is about 22 hectares.

Figure 1. Location of the study area of Mass City

Figure 2. Site plan of the study area and catchment area of sewers

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 51

The study area covers the plain and undulating area, according to the site plan, shown in Figure 2, and
the design study model has been developed for storm sewer system design for the first alignment line as a
case study. The total area for the case coverage case study is about 14,719.58 m²; see Table 3.

2. Materials and Methods

The rainfall data required to carry out the current study were collected from the General Directorate
of Meteorology and Seismic Monitoring [19]. Table I shows the maximum daily rainfall data for the Erbil
station, and the intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) curve for Erbil derived by Dawood and Mawlood [20]
is shown in Figure 3. Topographic surveying for the study area was done by the total station to get contour
maps and drawing profiles by Civil 3D software. The site plan design was obtained from Mass Company
[21], and the geometric design of the sewer alignments was performed in coordination with the road de-
signer for the road design formation profile and sections in each road line. The next step was using
SewerGEMS and AutoCAD to design a rainfall storm drainage network through geometry creation (adding
alignment of sewer, distribution of manholes and inlets according to road design, catchment area estimation
from the site plan for each manhole, and connection with outfall). The simulation of the model and drawing
of the design profile were done according to standard criteria for infrastructures of storm drainage network
design [22].

Table 1. Maximum daily rainfall data at the Erbil station [19].

Max daily rain- Max daily rain- Max daily rainfall Max daily rainfall
Year Year Year Year
fall mm fall mm mm mm

1980 57.6 1991 62.4 2002 32.3 2013 71.8


1981 40.9 1992 15.7 2003 59.2 2014 51
1982 38.1 1993 79 2004 41.4 2015 37.6
1983 32.9 1994 41.7 2005 34 2016 55.8
1984 42.7 1995 75.7 2006 103.9 2017 36.4
1985 72.7 1996 22.3 2007 38 2018 51.1
1986 73.6 1997 35.8 2008 37.8 2019 59.5
1987 31.8 1998 36.8 2009 41 2020 36.8
1988 37.2 1999 25.8 2010 33.8 2021 16
1989 48.4 2000 46.4 2011 67
1990 35.8 2001 48.3 2012 21

Then, for estimating rainfall design, depth, intensity, and duration, the IDF curve of Erbil derived by
[20] was used, as shown in Figure 3.

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 52

Erbil Station IDF Curves (1980-2021)

1000 2 Year
Rainfall Intensity mm/hr
5 Year
10 Year
100
25 Year
50 Year
10
100 Year
200 Year
1
1 10 100
Time in minutes

Figure 3. Intensity-duration-frequency curves for the Erbil station

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Design Criteria


The design approaches described here involve non-uniform flow inside each segment of a storm
sewer. This means that the velocity and flow depth are independent of both time and distance. The flow at
each inlet varies in actual storm sewer systems according to the sub-catchment area and surface slope. the
typical hydrologic method used in the design discharge of storm sewer drains is a rational formula [23].
The rational formula is shown below:

𝑄 = 𝐶 ∗ 𝐼 ∗ 𝐴/3.6 (1)
3
Where: Q = water flow (m /s)
C = coefficient of runoff
I = design intensity (mm/hr)
A = area (km²) [23]
The hydrologist uses his experience to choose the proper runoff coefficient C. Table 2 shows the
runoff coefficient according to the drainage area [24].

Table 2. Coefficient of runoff

Type of Drainage Area Runoff Coefficient C

Downtown areas 0.7-0.95


Residential 0.3-0.5

Heavy areas 0.6-0.9

Because the land surface of the catchment area for each manhole is built of concrete and asphalt, the
estimated C value is 0.87.

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Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 53

For the design, the storm intensity used the data adopted by the General Directorate of Water and
Sewage, Kurdistan Regional Government [19] and according to the IDF curve 80mm/hr for the storm sewer
system design, at a return period of 50 years and duration of 30 minutes, and from Table 1. The maximum
daily rainfall depth is 103.9 mm/d, which means 103.9 mm for 24 hours, so the intensity of 80mm/hr is
more acceptable for design. For the calculation of the flow, we used a rational formula. Then the data were
used in a hydraulic model by SewerGEMS to design the storm drainage network.

3.2. Catchment Area


The small catchment area contributing to the stormwater collection for each manhole in the sewer
system was measured from topographic maps and field surveys. The selected design sample in the current
research is the first alignment as shown in Figure 2 and Table 3. The area distribution for each manhole in
the first alignment is calculated by SewerGEMS as the contributing area for each manhole.

Table 3. Catchment area distribution for each manhole in the first alignment
Scaled Use Scaled Time of Runoff Coeffi- Outflow
Label Runoff Method
Area (m²) Area? Concentration (min) cient (Rational) Element
CA-01 Rational Method 1,868.57 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL9
CA-02 Rational Method 1,879.41 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL2
CA-03 Rational Method 1,579.97 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL5

CA-04 Rational Method 1,618.00 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL7


CA-05 Rational Method 1,301.00 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL6
CA-06 Rational Method 1,548.00 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL3
CA-07 Rational Method 1,981.13 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL8

CA-08 Rational Method 2,943.50 TRUE 10 0.87 MANHOL4

Sum 14,719.58

3.3. Assumptions Used in Storm Sewer Design Practice


The following assumptions were used in the design:
1. The flow in the sewer system is designed to flow freely due to gravity.
2. The pipes are concrete, the diameter equals or is greater than 300 mm, and the Manning roughness
coefficient is 0.013.
3. The selected diameter of the sewer pipe has a flow capacity equal to or greater than the design flow.
4. The sewer pipe must be placed at a depth of at least 1.2 m.
5. The connection of sewers at junctions in manholes is crown to crown.
6. The minimum permissible flow velocity is 0.75 m/s and the maximum permissible flow velocity is
5 m/s, to prevent scouring.

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 54

7. At the downstream manhole, the sewer cannot be smaller than any of the upstream sewers at that
junction because of the accumulation of discharge from catchments.
For sewer design, we used the first alignment, which has a length of 440 m, consists of eight man-
holes, and is connected to an outfall, as shown in Figure 4. Manning n = 0.013, I = 80 mm/hr, storm duration
= one hour, time of concentration = 10 minutes, as appropriate to the urban nature of the catchment area,
and slopes are considered to obtain minimum velocity [22].

3.4. Modelling
In the geometric model, the location of the manholes, inlets, and main network paths are done in a
sewer network in the first alignment of the study area.
For the determination of the cross-sectional area, the hydraulic radius and wetted perimeter for each
sewer segment in the sewer system used Manning’s equation, as shown in Figure 4. Using SewerGEMS:

𝑄 = 𝐴 ∗ 𝑅 0.67 ∗ 𝑆 0.5 /𝑛 (2)


Where: Q = flow in m³/sec
A = the cross-sectional area of pipe or channel in m²
S = the bottom slope of the channel or pipe in m/m (dimensionless)
n = Manning roughness coefficient
R = the hydraulic radius = A/P
P = the wetted perimeter in metres [23]

3.5. Results
Water velocity in sewer pipes is a control parameter controlled through SewerGEMS. The velocity
limitation in the sewer design range is 0.75 – 5.0 m/sec. Figure 4 shows the design size, length, and slope
for the storm sewer system.
SewerGEMS plays a pivotal role in overseeing specific control parameters. Table 4 and Figure 5
visually depict the inverted elevation of the design and the top elevation of the ground surface. The com-
ponents of invert level, manholes, drops, inlets, and pipe diameter collectively shape both the physical
arrangement and hydraulic performance of the sewer system. In this framework, invert levels are instru-
mental in determining pipe slopes, guaranteeing smooth flow dynamics, and averting sediment accumula-
tion. Manholes facilitate maintenance and inspection access, with their placement strategically orchestrated
for effective system management. Drops serve as mechanisms to navigate shifts in elevation, thereby curb-
ing excessive water velocities. Inlets serve as reservoirs for runoff capture, with accurate sizing pivotal in
forestalling localised inundation. The diameter of pipes directly influences the flow capacity and velocity,
necessitating a delicate equilibrium for optimal operational efficiency.

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 55

Table 4. Controlling the design parameters by SewerGEMS


Invert Elevation Length Slope (Cal-
Invert Diame-
Start Node Stop Node Material (Stop) Ground (Scaled) culated) Size
(Start) (m) ter (mm)
(m) (Stop) (m) (m) (m/m)

MANHOL (Point)-1 MANHOL (Point)-9 Concrete 516.35 515.95 517.45 46 300 0.009 300

MANHOL (Point)-9 MANHOL (Point)-2 Concrete 515.95 515.54 517.04 53.9 300 0.008 300

MANHOL (Point)-2 MANHOL (Point)-5 Concrete 515.44 515 516.6 48.9 400 0.009 400

MANHOL (Point)-5 MANHOL (Point)-7 Concrete 515 514.08 515.68 54.5 400 0.017 400

MANHOL (Point)-7 MANHOL (Point)-6 Concrete 514.08 512.55 514.15 48.3 400 0.032 400

MANHOL (Point)-6 MANHOL (Point)-3 Concrete 512.55 510.44 512.04 48.3 400 0.044 400

MANHOL (Point)-3 MANHOL (Point)-8 Concrete 510.44 508.42 510.02 65.6 500 0.031 500

MANHOL (Point)-8 MANHOL (Point)-4 Concrete 508.32 507.55 509.25 70 600 0.011 600

O-1 MANHOL (Point)-4 Concrete 507.05 507.55 509.25 35.4 600 -0.014 600

Slope (Max- Slope (Min- Velocity Velocity Capacity Flow / Ca- Cover
Manning's
Velocity (m/s) Depth/Rise (%) imum) imum) (Maximum) (Minimum) (Full Flow) pacity (De- (Average)
n
(m/m) (m/m) (m/s) (m/s) (L/s) sign) (%) (m)

0 31.8 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 90.14 0 1.2

1.3 63 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 84.37 69.2 1.2

1.64 67.9 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 197.60 58 1.2

2.26 78.4 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 270.47 59.3 1.2

3.05 85.8 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 370.66 55.7 1.2

3.59 90.8 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 435.28 55.9 1.2

3.24 64.5 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 662.64 43.3 1.1

2.28 70.5 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 643.91 53 1.1

2.60 69.6 0.1 0.005 2.50 0.75 0.013 729.75 57.5 1.1

Velocity, slope, total flow, and Manning's coefficient wield significant influence. Velocity impacts
sediment transport, while slope delineates flow velocity and direction. For concrete sewers, Manning's co-
efficient typically rests at 0.013. The introduction of these parameters into SewerGEMS permits engineers
to model flow patterns, discern zones characterised by excessive velocity, pinpoint potential sediment ac-
cumulation zones, and unravel capacity-related challenges.
The selection of appropriate sewer material, particularly concrete, demands an intricate assessment
of durability, resistance to corrosion, and financial implications. This choice exerts a profound impact on
the system's longevity and the prerequisites for its maintenance.
Within this design, stop nodes emerge as pivotal players, orchestrating the flow direction. These
nodes can be strategically positioned at intersections, drop structures, or diversion points to thwart over-
loading and exercise command over water movement throughout the system.
Considering ground elevation, maximum and minimum depth of excavation, and soil cover is para-
mount. Ground elevation influences the layout of pipes and the calculations for slope. Determining the
upper and lower limits of excavation depths necessitates a contemplation of factors like gradient mandates,

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 56

utility depths, and groundwater levels. This meticulous consideration ensures the functional integrity of the
pipes, facilitates maintenance access, and buffers against external pressures. Adequate soil cover assumes
a protective mantle, warding off external stresses and environmental elements. Achieving this balance
among cover depth, pipe dimensions, and diameter is pivotal for sustaining structural integrity.
Table 5. Ground and inverted elevation of manholes
Elevation Elevation (In- Flow (Total Flow (Total Depth Hydraulic Grade Hydraulic Grade
Label ID
(Rim) (m) vert) (m) In) (L/s) Out) (L/s) (Out) (m) Line (Out) (m) Line (In) (m)

MANHOL (Point)-1 30 517.85 516.35 0 0 0 516.35 516.35

MANHOL (Point)-9 38 517.45 515.95 60.13 60.13 0.19 516.14 516.14

MANHOL (Point)-2 31 517.04 515.44 120.61 118.1 0.25 515.69 515.69

MANHOL (Point)-5 34 516.6 515 168.94 165.34 0.3 515.3 515.3

MANHOL (Point)-7 36 515.68 514.08 217.4 212.85 0.33 514.41 514.41

MANHOL (Point)-6 35 514.15 512.55 254.71 250.61 0.35 512.9 512.9

MANHOL (Point)-3 32 512.04 510.44 300.43 295.53 0.37 510.81 510.81

MANHOL (Point)-8 37 510.02 508.32 359.28 351.47 0.4 508.72 508.72

MANHOL (Point)-4 33 509.25 507.55 446.19 432.04 0.44 507.99 507.99

3.6. Implementation of Storm Sewer System


Designing a storm sewer system is a complex process that requires careful consideration of multiple
factors to ensure effective stormwater management and minimise the risk of flooding and infrastructure
damage. Using tools like SewerGEMS, engineers can simulate and analyse various design parameters to
create an optimised storm sewer network. The design profile and results by Bentley SewerGEMS in Figure
4 show the pipe size, length, minimum depth, minimum number of drops, slope, manholes, energy grade
line (EGL), and HGL hydraulic grade line (HGL).
Local regulations, environmental concerns, and site-specific conditions also influence design deci-
sions. Collaborating with experienced professionals, using advanced software for sustainable design, and
adhering to engineering standards are essential to creating a robust storm sewer system that effectively
manages stormwater runoff and contributes to resilient urban infrastructure. We therefore used
SewerGEMS in the study.
Figure 4 shows the design profile of the critical path with parameters. Also, the result of the design
can be displayed from separate tables and program reports. The HGL and total EGL in the manholes and
sewer show the best hydraulic performance.
3.7. Validation of the Results
The validation process typically comprises several steps, including comparing model parameters such
as pipe roughness coefficients and HGL. Assessing the storm sewer system behaviour performance evalu-
ation entails analysing various criteria such as flow capacity, pipe size, slope, velocity, invert level, and
surcharge levels to identify potential issues such as high velocities, excessive pressures, or inadequate ca-
pacity. The results are depicted in Table 6.

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 57

Figure 4. Profile design of storm sewer by SewerGEMS

Journal of Studies in Science and Engineering. 2024, 4(1), 44-60. https://doi.org/10.53898/josse2024414 https://engiscience.com/index.php/josse
A. Dawood and D. Mawlood, 2024 58

Table 6. Validation of storm sewer system results with past research studies
Research Location Methodology Comparison

Abhishek et al [11] Vake Village, Malegaon Taluka, Design and analysis using Good match at testing HGL
Dist-Nashik, Maharashtra, India SewerGEMS and ArcGIS
Shraddha Tiwari and Rural area, India Design and analysis using Good match at flow capac-
Mangesh Bhorkar [12] SewerGEMS ity, velocity, pipe size, and
surcharge levels
Mohammad Alhumaid Buraydah, a city in the Saudi Design and analysis using Good match at flow capac-
et al [25] Arabian Kingdom SewerGEMS and actual sur- ity, velocity, pipe size, and
vey surcharge levels
Murugesh et al [26] Municipal area, India Design and analysis using Good match at table for
SewerGEMS and AutoCAD manhole and conduit

4. Conclusion
The design of the storm sewer system was done for study area Zone C in Mass City. The hydraulic
design was done by SewerGEMS software. Hydraulic analysis of the system was done, and analysis control
parameters pipe size, velocity, slope, and profile were then performed by SewerGEMS to check the results,
as shown in Table 4 and 5. As is obvious from the control parameters, HGL, and total EGL, the water
velocity in sewers is in the range of permissible velocity. The hydraulic model of the design drainage system
has succeeded and such models are applicable in the study area. SewerGEMS software makes it easy to
accurately design and modelling storm sewer systems and saves time, so this sustainable design is now
under construction in the study area.
In comparison, the traditional design method by hand with the use of Bentley SewerGEMS software
in the design of a storm sewer system for Mass City offers several benefits. The software streamlines the
modelling process, facilitates optimal urban sewer planning, provides advanced hydraulic analysis capabil-
ities, supports scenario management, and integrates existing data sources. These features contribute to ef-
ficient and effective stormwater engineering, enabling engineers to design and operate storm sewer systems
that are sustainable, resilient, and capable of mitigating flood risks. The use of Bentley SewerGEMS soft-
ware has been demonstrated in the case study, where engineers were able to recommend the optimal system
for future use, resulting in considerable capital cost savings and environmental benefits. The use of Bentley
SewerGEMS software in the design of a storm sewer system for Mass City is a valuable tool for stormwater
engineers, providing a comprehensive solution for designing and operating storm sewer systems that are
sustainable, efficient, and effective.
Table 6 offers a concise overview of the validation process and helps to establish the credibility and
reliability of the storm sewer system design by comparing it to previous research findings.
Even if the implementation and capacity of the rain drainage sewer network are excellent, not clean-
ing the storm drainage system regularly and not performing maintenance work lead to blockage, overflow,

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Design of Storm Sewer System for Mass City Using Bentley SewerGEMS Software 59

and floods at low points in cities and towns. Therefore, the storm drainage system should be cleaned and
maintained periodically.

Acknowledgments: The authors would like to thank Mr. Varoujan Sissakian, Komar University of Science
and Technology, Sulamania, Iraq, for the English grammar review, for which their support is highly appre-
ciated.

Declaration of competing interest: The authors declare they have no known competing interests.

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