Flow conditions in a closed conduit can occur as open-channel flow, gravity full flow or pressure flow. In open-channel flow the water surface is exposed to the atmosphere. Gravity full flow occurs at that condition where the conduit is flowing full, but not yet under any pressure. Pressure flow occurs when the conduit is flowing full and under pressure.

Due to the additional wetted perimeter and increased friction that occurs in a gravity full pipe, a partially full pipe will actually carry greater flow. For a circular conduit the peak flow occurs at 93 percent of the height of the pipe, and the average velocity flowing one-half full is the same as gravity full flow (See figure below).

Part-full flow relationships for circular pipes.

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