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PROBLEM #1
NCEES SPECIFICATION: DRINKING WATER DISTRIBUTION & TREATMENT
TOPIC: UV DISINFECTION - BANKS OF LAMPS

The manufacturer of a UV disinfection unit has provided the following constants for the RED equation: a
= -0.80, b = -2.0, c = 0.18, d = 0.50, and e = 0.85. The following values apply to the water being
treated: maximum UVA = 0.100 cm-1, minimum S/So = 0.8, maximum flow = 5 MGD. The validation
factor for the model calibration with respect to Cryptosporidium is 1.8. How many banks of lamps will
be required to disinfect this water to meet the requirements of the Long-Term 2 Enhanced Surface
Water Treatment Rule?

A. 2
B. 4
C. 6
D. 8
 Kamata
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PROBLEM #2
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDROLOGY
TOPIC: MULTI-OUTLET POND RISER

Two rectangular orifices mounted in a concrete riser (shown below) are used to control flow from a
stormwater detention facility. What is the flow (cfs) through the riser box if the water elevation in the
pond is 104.5 feet? Assume orifices have 0.6 discharge coefficients and flow discharges without
experiencing any submergence.

105.00 ft

1.0 ft W x 1.0 ft H

103.00 ft

1.20 ft W x 1.0 ft

Basin bottom 100.00 ft

2-ft dia. outlet culvert

A. 12.5
B. 14.7
C. 16.4
D. 18.9
 Baobabs
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PROBLEM #2 ANSWER: C

This is a practical problem, and not hard to solve. Since the problem statement only asks for the flow at
104.5 ft pond elevation, you don’t need to worry about pond elevation decreasing over time, as outflow
through the orifices occurs. This said, we need to solve for the flow out of each orifice, and add our
results. Additionally, you can ignore the 2-ft diameter pipe in this problem, is it won’t impact the above-
pond head analysis required to solve this problem.

Step 1: Use the submerged orifice equation for the top orifice.

Q = C A 2gh = (0.6)(1) (2)(32.2)(104.5 − 103.5) = 4.82c fs

Note that h is measured from the center of the orifice opening.

Step 2: Use the submerged orifice equation for the bottom orifice.

Q = C A 2gh = (0.6)(1.2) (2)(32.2)(104.5 − 100.5) = 11.56c fs

Step 3: Add the flows together to solve the problem.

Answer is 4.82 cfs + 11.56 cfs = 16.38 cfs

 septate
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PROBLEM #3
NCEES SPECIFICATION: ANALYSIS & DESIGN
TOPIC: FORCE ON A SPILLWAY CURVE

Flow occurs over a spillway of constant section as shown below. What is the horizontal force
(lb/ft) on the spillway per foot of spillway width (perpendicular to the spillway section)? Assume
ideal flow.

A. 267
B. 300
C. 321
D. 365
 Snatched
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PROBLEM #3 ANSWER: A

Force on a curve problems shows up regularly on the PM WRE portion of the exam, so you
should expect to encounter it. This problem is tricky because the application is a spillway, and
the problem is asking for a force per foot.

Step 1: Conduct an energy balance analysis between points 1 and 2.

P1 v12 P v2
! + + z1 = 2 + 2 + z2
γ 2g γ 2g
v12 v2 2
0! + +4=0+ + 0.6
(2)(32.2) (2)(32.2)

Step 2: Use the principle of continuity to solve for v1 in terms of v2.

v1A1 = v2A2

Since we’re analyzing per foot of width, the area will be equal to the height of flow, in both
cases, therefore

v1(4) = v2(0.6), and therefore, v1 = 0.15v2 ft/s

Step 3: Back to the energy analysis equation of step 1.

(0.15v2 )2 v2 2
0+ +4=0+ + 0.6 → v2 = 14.97f t /s and v1 = 2.25 ft/s.
(2)(32.2) (2)(32.2)

Step 4: Determine the horizontal force per foot width on spillway.

γh1(h1 /2) − γh 2(h 2 /2) − Fx = ρQ1(v1 − v2 ), where Q1 = whv1 = (1)(4)(2.25)

(62.4)(4)(4/2)
! − (62.4)(0.6)(0.6/2) − Fx = (1.94)(1)(4)(2.25)(14.97 − 2.25) → Fx = 267.4lb /f t (r ight war d )
 gotta
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PROBLEM #4
NCEES SPECIFICATION - WASTEWATER COLLECTION & TREATMENT
TOPIC - INFILTRATION & INFLOW

A city has the following sewer rates during the wet season:

Day Hour Flowrate (MGD) Storm Occurrence?

1 Midnight 3.7

4AM 2.5

8AM 7.1

Noon 6.8

4PM 6.3

8PM 7.0

2 Midnight 5.5 Yes

4AM 15.5 Yes

8AM 12.3 Yes

Noon 9.2

4PM 8.8

8PM 7.0

3 Midnight 4.5

4AM 4.9

8AM 8.3

Noon 8.6

4PM 9.3

8PM 9.1

4 Midnight 6.4

The dry weather flow averages 3.4 MGD. Excessive infiltration is defined as exceeding 4,500
gal/d-in-mi. If the collection system consists of 60 miles of 12-inch and 125 miles of 24-inch
sewer, what is the total combined infiltration and inflow (MGD).

A. 10.1
B. 14.5
C. 15.2
D. 16.3
 STALAG
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PROBLEM #4 ANSWER: C

Inflow and infiltration (I/I) is a topic you’re likely to experience on your exam. You must know the
difference between the two, and how to solve for each, given data (table or chart).

Step 1: Calculate inflow.

Inflow is the difference between the peak flow caused by a storm, and the flow during the same
period without a storm. This said, from the chart, the peak storm-related flow is on the second
day at 4AM, at 15.5 MGD. Let’s compare that to the day before at the same time (4AM), and
we get 2.5 MGD. We use the day before, as we can assume that a storm did not impact that
flowrate; the following day may include some latency, which we don’t want to consider in this
analysis. So, the inflow for this system is 15.5 MGD - 2.5 MDG = 13.0 MGD.

Step 2: Calculate infiltration.

Infiltration is the difference between the average daily non-storm-influenced wet-weather and
dry-weather flows. The problem statement provides the average for the dry season as 3.4
MGD. Now, we need to use the above wet season table to average a dry period (during the wet
season) — we can use the first day again, as we know it isn’t storm-influenced. Averaging the
first day’s flows, we get:

3.7 + 2.5 + 7.1 + 6.8 + 6.3 + 7.0

! avg =
Q = 5.6MGD
6

Therefore, the infiltration is 5.6 MGD - 3.4 MGD = 2.2 MGD. Adding, both inflow and infiltration,
we get 13.0 MGD + 2.2 MGD = 15.2 MGD.

*** BONUS MATERIAL ***

What if the problem indicated that “excessive infiltration” is defined as exceeding 4,500 gal/d-in-
mi, and asked you to determine if this system’s infiltration is excessive? First, you need to
compute the composite diameter-length of the collection system = (60 mi)(12-in)+(125 mi)(24-in)
= 3,720 inch-miles. Next, we divide our wet-weather infiltration rate by the composite diameter-
length = (2.2 x 106 gal)/(3,720 inch-mi) = 591.4 gal/day-in-mi. Since it is less than the 4,500 gal/
day-in-mi threshold, it is not considered “excessive.”
 eigg
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PROBLEM #5
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDRAULICS - CLOSED CONDUIT
TOPIC: BRANCHED RESERVOIR SYSTEM

In the figure below, the valve F is partly closed, creating a head loss of 3.60 ft when the flow
through the valve is 1 cfs. What is the length (feet) of the 10-inch pipe between reservoir A and
junction B?

A. 645
B. 882
C. 1119
D. 1258
 DIED
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PROBLEM #5 ANSWER: B

Expect a branched (likely three) reservoir problem on the PE exam. Yes, some of these
problems can be extremely difficult, but they can also be designed to be solved well-within 6
minutes. Note: in branched reservoir problems, velocity head can be considered negligible
when compared to elevation and pressure heads, and therefore, can be considered equal to
zero. Also, minor losses can be considered zero, unless otherwise stated in the problem.
Another note: we offer more branched reservoir problems in some of our other problem sets.
So if you want to master this topic, be sure to check them out.

Step 1: Use the information you have to begin. “C” values were given in the problem figure, and
by considering the Hazen-Williams equation, we can solve for the energy gradient (s). Start by
analyzing pipeline DB.

! = 0.432CD 2.63s 0.54 = (0.432)(80)(1)0.63s 0.54 = 1c fs

Q

Therefore, s = 0.0014 ft/ft.

Step 2: Determine the head loss in pipeline DB (pipe friction + valve loss).

(h
! L )DB = (0.0014f t /f t)(1000f t) + 3.60f t = 5.01f t

Step 3: Compute the elevation at junction B, then use that to determine the energy gradient and
flow in pipeline BE.

If ELE=0, the grade line elevation at B = 20 - 5.01 = 14.99ft. From there

s! BE = (14.99 − 0)/5000 = 0.0030

2.63
! BE = (0.432)(120)(1)
Q (0.003)0.54 = 2.25c fs
 STATE
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PROBLEM #5 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 4: Now we can solve QAB, sAB, and finally, LAB.

Q
! AB = QBE − QBD = 2.25 − 1 = 1.25c fs

1.25
! = (0.432)(100)(10/12)2.63(sAB )0.54

(hf ) (20 − 15 − 2)
AB
∴ sAB = 0.0034 = = , and LAB = 882 feet.
LAB LAB
 STATES
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PROBLEM #6
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDRAULICS - OPEN CHANNEL FLOW
TOPIC - FLOWRATE THROUGH CULVERT

The figure below shows the elevations of high water marks from a recent flood event. What was
the discharge (cfs) through the culvert, if the culvert is a 54-inch reinforced concrete pipe with a
Manning’s roughness coefficient of 0.013 and the inlet has a groove end, projecting (ke=0.02).

A. 190
B. 205
C. 220
D. 245
 tody
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PROBLEM #6 ANSWER: A

A culvert problem is likely to appear on your exam. The math is simple, but there are many
culvert scenarios (submerged vs. unsubmerged, full-flow vs. partial flow, inlet vs. outlet control)
and equally as many nomographs that you can use to solve each type of scenario. The go-to
design manual for culverts is “Hydraulic Design of Culverts”, third edition, by the U.S.
Department Transportation Federal Highway Administration. It’s a large document, but covers
both theory and technical details. Even more important, it provides you with the many
nomographs you’ll need to solve these problems. This will be the first of many culvert problems
we cover in our problem sets, so if you want more experience, be sure to check out our other
problem sets. Here’s a link to the culvert design document: https://drive.google.com/file/d/
1hKuuZzTZ9ujM4ee0bfD3lMkli4NT9aCn/view?usp=sharing

Step 1: Ultimately, we’ll need to solve for the discharge rate twice, assuming both inlet and
outlet control, then select the lower of the two flowrates. In both cases, we’ll need the value of
HW, so we’ll start there.

H
! W = 286.88 − (250)(0.01) − 275.83 = 10.8f t

Step 2: Let’s first assume the inlet controls the flowrate. This said, we can go to the “Chart 1B”
nomograph (see next page), as it specifically was designed for circular concrete pipe inlet
control, and we will solve for Q once we know D and HW/D. Before using the nomograph, let’s
solve for HW/D.

HW 10.8
! = = 2.4
D 4.5

Step 3: Use the “Chart 1B” nomograph to solve for Q. See the image on the next page. Enter
the chart from the right where the third column is equal to 2.4. Use the third column, as the
chart indicates that the entrance type for that column is “groove and projecting” — just like in our
problem statement. Continue to draw the line to the left to the first column, then connect the line
to the pipe diameter. Where it intercepts the Q-value column is your answer for flowrate. So, in
this example, the flowrate is approximately 245 cfs.
 added
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PROBLEM #6 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 4: Next, determine the discharge assuming outlet control. In order to solve for Q, first
compute the tailwater depth and the head loss.

T
! W = 282.3 − 275.82 = 6.47f t
H
! = H W − T W + S0 L = 10.8 − 6.47 = (250)(0.001) = 4.58f t
 Tattooed
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PROBLEM #6 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 5: Now we can solve for velocity of flow, which we’ll convert into a flowrate.

29n 2 L v 2 (29)(0.013)2(250) v2
[ R 1.33 ] 2g
H
! = 1 + Ke + = 1 + 0.02 + = 4.58
( 4 )
4.5
1.33 (2)(32.2)

Solving for v, we get 11.94 ft/s, which we can easily convert into a flowrate.

π (4.5)2
( 4 )
! = (11.94)
Q = 190c fs

Step 6: Determine the correct flowrate — inlet our outlet control.

Use the lower value of the inlet and outlet control flowrates for the same headwater depth;
therefore, the flowrate through the culvert is 190 cfs, since 190 < 245.
 engaged
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PROBLEM #7
NCEES SPECIFICATION: GROUNDWATER & WELLS
TOPIC: UNCONFINED AQUIFER - GROUNDWATER FLOW CHARACTERISTICS BETWEEN 2 CHANNELS

A canal was constructed running parallel to a river 1500 ft away. Both fully penetrate an unconfined
sand aquifer with a hydraulic conductivity of 1.2 feet per day. The area is subject to rainfall of 1.8 feet
per year and evaporation of 1.3 feet per year. The elevations of water in the river and canal are 31 ft
and 27 ft, respectively. What is the maximum water table elevation (ft)?

A. 25
B. 28
C. 35
D. 39
 ESTATES
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PROBLEM #7 ANSWER: D

This is a classic groundwater problem, and something very similar to it can show up on your exam. It’s
often helpful to visualize groundwater questions. In this case, the following image depicts the scenario.

In this image, d represents the distance to the “water divide” (the inflection point of the water table
height curve, and location of the maximum height. W represents the net addition or loss of water
through infiltration, evaporation, and evapotranspiration. This said, the problem statement is asking us
to solve for d first, then hmax.

Step 1: Solve for W.

W = 1.8 ft/yr infiltration - 1.3 ft/yr evaporation = 0.5 ft/yr = 0.0014 ft/d accretion.

Step 2: Solve for d (for unconfined aquifer between 2 channels).

L K(h12 − h 2 2 ) 1500 (1.2)(312 − 272 )

d= − = − = 684f t from the river.
2 w 2L 2 (0.0.0014)(2)(1500)
SQUAREAGATA
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PROBLEM #7 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 3: Solve for the corresponding hmax.

2 (h12 − h 2 2 )x w (312 − 272 )(684) 0.0014

hma x = h1 − + (L − x)x = 312 − + (1500 − 684)684 = 38.8f t
L K 1500 1.2

Note that this elevation is greater than either the river or channel, which is expected and represented in
the illustration above.

*** BONUS MATERIAL ***

Daily flow into River (x = 0):

( ) ( )
K(h12 − h 2 2 ) L (1.2)(312 − 272 ) 1500
Q
! width = −w −x = − (0.0014) − 0 = − 0.957f t 3 /d /f t
2L 2 (2)(1500) 2

The negative value indicates it’s flowing from right to left, into the river.

Daily flow into canal (x = 1500):

( ) ( )
K(h12 − h 2 2 ) L (1.2)(312 − 272 ) 1500
Q
! width = −w −x = − (0.0014) − 1500 = 1.143f t 3 /d /f t
2L 2 (2)(1500) 2

The positive value indicates it’s flowing from left to right, into the canal.
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PROBLEM #8
NCEES SPECIFICATION: ANALYSIS & DESIGN
TOPIC: SPILLWAY DISCHARGE WITH COEFFICIENT CORRECTION

A spillway has been designed for a head of 2.80 m with a length of 200 m and a discharge
coefficient equal to 0.49. What is the maximum discharge that can be passed over this spillway
without cavitation, assuming Hmax = 1.65HD? Use the figure below, as necessary.

A. 3,108
B. 4,663
C. 5,741
D. 6,009
 Idgaf
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PROBLEM #8 ANSWER: A
Less-than-simple spillway problems appear on the exam regularly. Many of the problems
require using discharge coefficient and coefficient correction factor charts to solve the problem.
These charts will be provided during the exam. We offer many example problems both involving
and not involving charts (see other problem sets for more spillway problems). This is a chart-
dependent problem. Note: when a weir discharges at a head different from the design head,
the flow differs from ideal, and the discharge coefficient changes — therefore, it must be
corrected.

Step 1: Solve for Hmax then use the given chart to determine the corrected C-value for the new
maximum head.

! ma x = 1.65HD = (1.65)(2.80) = 4.62m (greater than the design head, so correction needed)
H

Hma x 4.62 C
For
! = = 1.65 → = 1.08
HD 2.8 CD

From the given chart we can assume the curve approaches 1.08 once the head ratio reaches
1.65.

! corrected = (CD )(cor r ect ion

C fa ctor) = (0.49)(1.08) = 0.53

Step 2: Solve for discharge over the crest.

(3) (3)
2 2
Q
! ma x = C 2gL H 3/2 = (0.53)( (2)(9.81)(200)(4.62)3/2 = 3,108m 3 /s
 TATGE
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PROBLEM #9
NCEES SPECIFICATION: DRINKING WATER DISTRIBUTION & TREATMENT
TOPIC: HARDNESS & SOFTENING SPLIT SYSTEM DESIGN

Determine the chemical dosages (lime and soda, respectively, as CaCO3) for a split treatment system
to soften the following water. The finished water shall have maximum magnesium hardness of 40 mg/L
as CaCO3 and a total hardness of 80 mg/L as CaCO3. Assume excess lime is not necessary.

Constituent mg/L as CaCO3

CO2 20

Ca2+ 240

Mg2+ 60

HCO3- 198

Cl- 75

SO42- 75

Na+ 55

A. 240, 39
B. 282. 75
C. 282, 39
D. 240, 75
 TAKE
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PROBLEM #9 ANSWER: A

All softening problems require strict adherence to a process, and split problems aren’t any different.
Will all softening problems, we turn to Davis and Cornwell’s Introduction to Environmental Engineering
book for the process. First let’s imagine the split system at-hand.

A portion of the flow is treated, another is bypassed, and then they are both mixed to meet the final
hardness requirements. Next, let’s take a look at the Davis and Cornwell process:
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PROBLEM #9 SOLUTION CONTINUED

These aforementioned dosage schemes are for when Mg2+ concentration is less than 40 mg/L as
CaCO3 and no split treatment is required. So, these dosage schemes are only appropriate when the
question asks you to solve for lime and soda dosages for softening water to a practical solubility
limit. These don’t work for our problem statement, since the Mg2+ concentration is not less than 40 mg/
L as CaCO3, and we do need to design a split system. However, keep the aforementioned dosage
schemes handy for your exam. Now, the dosing schemes we need are

These dosage schemes are for when the Mg2+ concentration is greater than or equal to 40 mg/L as
CaCO3, and a split treatment design is required. Note that these schemes require softening to the
practical limits in the first stage of the split-flow scheme.

So, let us use these dosing schemes to proceed with the problem.
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PROBLEM #9 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 1: Draw the bar chart (only necessary constituents).

20 0 235 295

Ca2+ Mg2+
CO2
HCO3- Cl-

198 273

Step 2: Solve for TH, CH, and NCH.

TH = 295
CH = 273
NCH = 295 - 273 = 22 mg/L as CaCO3

Step 3: Solve for lime and soda for the first stage, to the theoretical solubility limits.

We now need to compare are bar chart to those in the second set of dosing schemes. Our bar chart
looks most like case (a) where Ca2+ overshadows HCO3-, so we’ll use that process for this portion of
the flow.

1. add lime equal to CO2 = 20

2. add lime equal to HCO3- = 198
3. add lime equal to Mg2+ = 60
4. add soda equal to (Ca2+ + Mg2+) - HCO3- = (235 + 60) - 198 = 97 mg/L as CaCO3.
5. add excess lime = 0 (problem statement indicated excess lime is not necessary)

Total lime: 278 as CaOH3

Total soda: 97 as CaOH3

It is important to note that this process provides a finished water with a Mg2+ concentration of
10 mg/L as CaCO3. This will be necessary to know in the next step.
 GABE
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PROBLEM #9 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 4: Calculate the split

Mgf − Mgi
X=
Mgr − Mgi

Where

Mgf = final (post-mix) Mg concentration mg/L as CaCO3 (40 mg/L as CaCO3, unless specified otherwise)
Mgi = Mg concentration from first stage mg/L as CaCO3 (10 mg/L as CaCO3, unless specified otherwise)
Mgr = raw water Mg conc. mg/L as CaCO3 (this was provided in the problem statement table)

Mgf − Mgi 40 − 10
X= = = 0.60
Mgr − Mgi 60 − 10

Looking back at our schematic, this means that 60 percent of the flow is bypassed with 40 percent of
the flow being treated in the first stage.

Step 5: Determine the final overall hardness.

Raw Water Hardness + Treated Water Hardness = (0.6)(295) + (0.4)(40) = 193 mg/L as CaCO3. This
mixed-water total hardness is higher than the 80 mg/L as CaCO3 specified in the problem statement.
Since the Mg2+ hardness is already accurate (40 mg/L as CaCO3), we’ll have to reduce the Ca2+
hardness down to 40 mg/L as CaCO3 — this will give us a total of 80 (40 + 40) mg/L as CaCO3.

Step 6: Reduce the Ca2+ hardness in the mixed water.

How much calcium will we need to remove to be left with 40 mg/L as CaCO3? Well, (235 - x) = 40, or x
= 195. This level of removal can be done with removing most of the bicarbonate (HCO3-). This said,
we’ll need to add more lime:

1. add lime to remove CO2 (to raise pH): 20

2. add lime to remove HCO3-: 195

So, an additional 20 + 195 = 215 mg/L as CaCO3 is added to the mixed water. No soda needed.
 SWAG
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PROBLEM #9 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 7: Summarize total chemical additions in proportion.

Lime: (0.4)(278) + (0.6)(215) = 240.2 mg/L as CaCO3

Soda: (0.4)(97) + (0.6)(0) = 38.8 mg/L as CaCO3

 GEET
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PROBLEM #10
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDRAULICS - CLOSED CONDUIT
TOPIC: PIPE NETWORK HARDY CROSS

The pipe network below shows known flowrates and flow direction for all flows in and out of the
network, along with estimated flowrates and flow direction for all flows within pipes 1 through 7.
Using the figure (below) and table (next page), and applying the Hardy Cross Method, what is
the estimated flowrate (cfs) in pipe 2 after one iteration?

Q = 14cfs
Q = 6.64cfs

Pipe 1
Pipe 5

L = 2000ft, D = 18in, Q = 7cfs

L = 2200ft, D = 12in, Q = 3.5cfs

Pipe 4
Pipe 2
Pipe 6

L = 1100ft
L = 900ft
L = 750ft

D = 24in
Loop 1 D = 24in
Loop 2 D = 18in

Q = 7cfs
Q = 3.5cfs
Q = 3.14cfs

Pipe 3
Pipe 7

L = 2800ft, D = 12in, Q = 2.19cfs

L = 2600ft, D = 24in, Q = 5.69cfs

Q = 4.81cfs
Q = 2.55cfs

A. 3.50
B. 4.73
C. 5.18
D. 6.08
 TITEL
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PROBLEM STATEMENT #10 CONTINUED

 GET
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PROBLEM #10 ANSWER: C

Whether quantitative or qualitative, you need to be prepared for a pipe network problem on your
exam. This happens to be quantitative, and although it’s a Hardy Cross analysis problem, it is
not requiring you to perform multiple iterations to solve the proposed problem. Rather, you’ll
need to only perform one single iteration. This said, the key to the Hardy Cross Method is
establishing and maintaining a process. In answering this problem, we’ll share our process. It’s
straight-forward, and we’re sure it will help you through the exam. Note: we offer many more
pipe network problems in our other problem sets. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with
those problems so you can be versatile in solving these type of problems.

Step 1: Create tables for each loop that generate information used to compute a estimated flow
correction.

Before we construct our tables, we need to first assume a clockwise or counterclockwise

direction in each loop. We’ll assume clockwise. This means that all flows within the loop that
are clockwise will be expressed in the table with a positive flow value, whereas those that flow
opposite the clockwise direction will be expressed in our tables with a negative flow value (see
column 4 in our tables). Note: pipe 2 is part of both loops, and flows clockwise (positive flow
value) in loop 1, and flows counterclockwise (negative flow value) in loop 2.

Loop 1

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

Pipe L (ft) D (ft) Q (cfs) Unit hf (ft/ft) hf (ft) hf/Q (s/ft2)

Given Given Given Given From pipe diagram (2) x (5) (6) / (4)

1 2000 18 7.00 0.0034 6.80 0.971

2 900 24 3.50 0.000235 0.212 0.061

3 2800 12 -2.19 -0.0029 -8.120 3.708

4 1100 24 -7.00 -0.00085 -0.935 0.134

Sum = -2.043 Sum = 4.874

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PROBLEM #10 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Loop 2

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

Pipe L (ft) D (ft) Q (cfs) Unit hf (ft/ft) hf (ft) hf/Q (s/ft2)

Given Given Given Given From pipe diagram (2) x (5) (6) / (4)

5 2200 12 3.50 0.007 15.400 4.400

6 750 18 -3.14 -0.00078 -0.585 0.186

7 2600 24 -5.69 -0.00057 -1.482 0.260

2 900 24 -3.50 -0.00023 -0.207 0.059

Sum = 13.126 Sum = 4.905

Note: In this problem you were provided with a unit head loss chart to ultimately solve for the
headloss in each pipe; however, if this table isn’t provided, you may be provided with Darcy-
Weisbach friction factors or Hazen-Willams “C” values. In any case, you will need to solve for
the headloss. It’s also important to note that the positive or negative will carry over to hf from
Q, in the tables.

Step 2: Solve for the flow correction factor in each loop.

Σhf
! ΔQ =− (n=1.85 for Hazen-Williams, and n=2 for Darcy-Weisbach)

[ ( Q )]
hf
nΣ

−2.043
! ΔQloop1 = − = 0.23c fs
(1.85)(4.874)

13.126
ΔQ
! loop2 = − = − 1.45c fs
(1.85)(4.905)
 GET
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PROBLEM #10 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 3: Apply the correction factors to pipe 2 to solve the problem.

The next step in the Hardy Cross Method is to apply the flow correction factors to the initial
estimates. In the case of pipe 2, since it is part of both loops, we need to apply both correction
factors to it. From the loop 1 perspective, 3.50cfs + 0.23cfs - (-1.45cfs) = 5.18cfs. Since the
loop 1 correction factor is positive, it backs-up our assumption that flow is moving clockwise.
This said, we’ve added it to the initial flow estimate. Since the loop 2 assumption of clockwise is
actually counter clockwise from the loop 1 perspective, we subtract the loop 2 correction factor
from our initial flow estimate.

If we apply both correction factors to pipe two from the loop 2 perspective, the flow should be
equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. This said, we get -3.50cfs - (+0.23cfs) + (-1.45cfs)
= -5.18cfs. The answer checks. Therefore, 5.18 cfs is the next flow estimate.
 Eddy
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PROBLEM #11
NCEES SPECIFICATION: WATER QUALITY
TOPIC: CRITICAL OXYGEN DEFICIT (WITH ALGAL & BENTHIC OXYGEN DEMANDS)

An outfall discharges wastewater into a slow-moving river that the has a mean velocity of 3 cm/s
and average depth of 3 m. After initial mixing, the DO concentration of the river is 9.5 mg/L, the
saturation of oxygen is 10.1 mg/L, the ultimate BOD of the mixed river water is 20 mg/L, the
reaeration rate constant is 0.48 day-1, and the deaeration rate constant is 0.72 day-1. During the
night, algal respiration exerts an oxygen demand of 2 g/m2-day and sludge deposits
downstream of the outfall exert a benthic oxygen demand of 4 g/m2-day. What is the critical
oxygen deficit of the river?

A. 7.2
B. 8.1
C. 8.6
D. 9.2
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PROBLEM #11 ANSWER: B

This is an oxygen dynamics problem. It’s tricky because the problem statement introduced the
volumetric oxygen demand rates for algal respiration Sr and benthic consumption Sb. This said,
traditional equations for critical distance and critical oxygen demand need to be revised.

Step 1: Solve for the distance to the critical oxygen sag point.

kr − kd [ kd ]
v k k D (k − kd ) + (Sr + Sb )(kr − kd )
x! c = ln r − r a r
kd 2 La

Before we can plug and chug, we must find the values for each variable.

kr = 0.48 day-1
kd = 0.72 day-1
Da = 10.1 mg/L - 9.5 mg/L = 0.60 mg/L (initial oxygen deficit after mixing)
La = 20 mg/L (initial ultimate BOD after mixing)
Sr = -(2 g/m2-day)/(3 m) = -0.667 g/m3-day
Sb = -(4 g/m2-day)/(3 m) = -1.33 g/m3-day
v = 3 cm/s = 2,592 m/d

Therefore,

0.72 − 0.48 [ 0.48 ]

2592 0.72 (0.72)(0.60)(0.72 − 0.48) + (−0.667 − 1.33)(0.72 − 0.48)
x! c = ln − = 4,951m
(0.48)2(20)

Step 2: Solve for the critical oxygen deficit at distance xc.

( V ) ( )
kr k x S + Sb 0.48 (0.48)(4951) −0.667 − 1.33
D
! c= La ex p − d c − r = (20)ex p − − = 8.1mg /L
kd kr 0.72 2592 0.72
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PROBLEM #12
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDROLOGY
TOPIC: UNCONNECTED IMPERVIOUS SURFACE RUNOFF

A 3-acre development site is comprised of 1 acre of impervious surface (NRCS CN = 98) and 2 acres of
lawn and woods (NRCS CN = 65). Runoff from the entire impervious surface sheet flows onto the
pervious portion of the site before entering the site’s drainage system. What is the total runoff volume
(cf) to the drainage system for a 1.25-inch runoff event.

A. 274
B. 444
C. 521
D. 581
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PROBLEM #12 ANSWER: D

There are mainly two NRCS-based ways to solve runoff problems that involve unconnected impervious
surface areas that are upstream of pervious area: (1) NRCS TR-55 Methodology (see manual), which
are applicable only to sites with less than 30 percent total impervious coverage and the downstream
pervious area must be at least twice as large as the unconnected impervious area; and, (2) the two-
step technique, which involves using the NRCS runoff equation, but treats resultant runoff from the
upstream impervious unconnected area as additional rainfall on the downstream pervious area.

Since the impervious area is 33 percent of the total area, and greater than 30 percent, we must use the
two-step technique. Let’s look at a picture of the circumstances.

Step 1: Compute the runoff volume from the impervious area.

1000 1000
Impervious area S = − 10 = − 10 = 0.20in
CN 98

(P − 0.2S )2 (1.25 − (0.2)(0.2))2

Impervious area runoff = Q = = = 1.04in
P + 0.8S 1.25 + (0.8)(0.2)

( 12in )
43,560f t 2
( 1a cr e )
1f t
Runoff volume = (1.04in) (1a cr e) = 3,775f t 3

3,775f t 3
( 2a cr es ) ( 43,560f t 2 )
1a cr e
Equivalent rainfall on downstream pervious area: = 0.043f t = 0.52in
 JETT
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PROBLEM #12 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 2: Compute the total runoff volume from the pervious area, including runoff from impervious
upstream area.

Total effective rainfall = direct rainfall + unconnected impervious area runoff = 1.25 in + 0.52 in = 1.77 in

1000 1000
Pervious area S = − 10 = − 10 = 5.38in
CN 65

(P − 0.2S )2 (1.77 − (0.2)(5.38))2

Pervious area runoff = Q = = = 0.08in
P + 0.8S 1.77 + (0.8)(5.38)

( 12in )
43,560f t 2
( 1a cr e )
1f t
Pervious area runoff volume = (0.08in) (2a cr es) = 581f t 3
 Liddy
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PROBLEM #13
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDRAULICS - OPEN CHANNEL
TOPIC: COMBINED EFFECTS OF CHANNEL CONSTRICTION AND DEPRESSION ON WATER SURFACE ELEVATION

If 1.4 m3/s of water flows uniformly in a channel of width 1.8 m at a depth of 0.75 m, what is the change
in water surface elevation (m) at a section that is contracted to 1.2 m width and simultaneously
experiences a 6-cm depression in the bottom of the channel?

A. 0.073
B. 0.377
C. 0.737
D. 0.808
 GET
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PROBLEM #13 ANSWER: A

This problem is unique. Normally, open channel problems add a hump to the channel bottom or
constrict the channel width, and ask that you perform energy balance analyses; however, this problem
combines width constriction with channel bottom adjustment. Furthermore, the channel bottom
adjustment isn’t the addition of a hump, rather, a depression. This is the level of difficulty you should
expect in the PM portion of the WRE exam.

Step 1: Conduct an energy balance analysis at points 1 (upstream) and 2 (point of constriction and
depression).

v12 v2
y1 + + z1 = y2 + 2 + (−z2 ) → E1 + z1 = E2 − z2
2g 2g

If we assume that our datum is the upstream channel bottom, then z1 = 0, and therefore we get

E1 + z2 = E2

we already know the value for z2 (depression value), and we can solve for E1, leaving us with solving
for E2 as a function of y2. Afterwards, we can plug everything into the above equation to solve for y2,
then use that to determine the drop in surface water elevation.

Step 2: Solve for E1, where the channel width is 1.8 m.

[ (0.75m)(1.8m) ]
2
1.4m 3 /s
v12
E1 = y1 + = 0.75m + = 0.8048m
2g (2)(9.81)

Step 3: Solve for E2 as a function of y2. Remember the channel width at point 2 has been constricted to
1.2 m.

[ ( y2 )(1.2) ]
2
1.4
v2 2 0.0694
E2 = y2 + = y2 + = y2 +
2g (2)(9.81) y2 2
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PROBLEM #13 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 4: Substitute the results from steps 2 and 3 into the equation established in step 1. Make sure the
6-cm depression is converted to m.

6 0.0694
0.8048 + = y2 +
100 y2 2

There are two roots to this equation, y2 = 0.737 and y2 = 0.377. In order to figure out which one is the
correct answer, we can compare each to the critical depth at point 2.

Step 5: Determine the critical depth at point 2.

3 ( 1.2 )
2
1.4
2 2
2 3 Q 3 q
yc = Ec = = = = 0.517m (where q is the flow per unit width, w)
3 g w2 g 9.8

If we compare our roots from step 4 to the critical depth, we see that one is less (supercritical) and the
other is greater (subcritical). Since this is a channel depression (rather than a hump), we know that the
depth cannot be less than the critical depth. Therefore, the depth of flow at point 2 is 0.737m, and the
change in water surface elevation is 0.75 - (0.737 - 6/100) = 0.073 m (drop).
 AGE
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PROBLEM #14
NCEES SPECIFICATION: WASTEWATER COLLECTION & TREATMENT
TOPIC: LENGTH OF COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOW SIDE WEIR

What is the length of a weir (m) that must be placed in an existing 1200-mm pipe, which will be
used as a combined sewer, if the maximum wet-weather flow is 1.9 m3/s and maximum
allowable wet-weather flow to the treatment plant is not to exceed 0.7 m3/s. The pipe slope is
0.003, the Manning’s n is 0.013, and the maximum dry-weather flow is 0.14 m3/s. Assume a
ratio of incoming to outgoing head at the weir to be 20. Use the charts below, as necessary.

A. 5.5
B. 12.5
C. 15.7
D. 18.2
 Toddy
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PROBLEM STATEMENT #14 CONTINUED

 SEE
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PROBLEM #14 ANSWER: B

During wet-weather events, combined sewers may need to overflow some volume, in order to
deliver a flowrate to the treatment plant that is equal to or under treatment capacity. A side weir
is a weir that is parallel to the wastewater flow, and located in the side of the sewer pipe. The
weir should be high-enough to prevent dry-weather discharge. Flow over the weir depends
primarily on the depth of flow above the weir in the adjacent channel. The rate of discharge
over the weir varies along the crest because of the change in depth resulting from the diversion
of water without an appreciable loss of energy.

This problem will require you to analyze dry- and wet-weather flow conditions, using a hydraulic
elements chart. From there, you’ll use side-weir specific formulae to answer this question. The
math is easy, the process is tedious — this is a great example of PM WRE problem.

Step 1: Compute maximum capacity of 1200-mm pipeline.

0.312 8/3 1/2 0.312

! full =
Q D S = (1.2)8/30.0031/2 = 2.1m 3s
n 0.013

The corresponding velocity (flowing full) is 1.89 m/s.

Step 2: Compute the flow characteristics at 1.9 m3/s (given in problem statement).

Depth of flow: Q/Qfull = 1.9/2.1 = 0.905. The corresponding d/D value is 0.73, therefore the
depth of flow dn = (0.73)(1200 mm) = 876 mm = 0.876 m.

Velocity: When d/D = 0.73, V/Vfull = 1.14. Therefore, Vn = (1.14)(1.89) = 2.15 m/s.

Step 3: Compute the flow characteristics at 0.14 m3/s (given in problem statement).

Depth of flow: Q/Qfull = 0.14/2.1 = 0.07. The corresponding d/D value is 0.20, therefore the
depth of flow dn = (0.20)(1200 mm) = 240 mm = 0.240. Since all of the dry weather flow must
be retained, the weir height must be at least 0.240 m above the bottom of the pipe.

Velocity: When d/D = 0.20, V/Vfull = 0.56. Therefore, Vn = (0.56)(1.89) = 1.06 m/s.
 aged
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PROBLEM #14 SOLUTION CONTINUED

Step 4: Compute the specific energy at the upstream end of the weir, with the Ackers’ equation.

1.2vn 2
E
! w= + (dn − c)
2g

where:

Ew = specific energy of flow relative to crest of weir (m,ft)

Vn = normal velocity in approach channel during wet-weather event (m/s, ft/s)
dn = normal depth in approach channel during wet-weather event (m, ft)
c = height of weir above channel invert (m, ft)

Therefore,

1.2vn 2 (1.2)(2.15)2
E
! w= + (dn − c) = + (0.876 − 0.240) = 0.92m
2g (2)(9.81)

Step 5: Compute the required weir length with the chart given in the problem statement.

The problems statement gave us a n2 value of 20, therefore, if we solve for c/Ew, we can then
use the chart to solve for L/B, which will get us to the length (L).

c/Ew = 0.24/0.92 = 0.26. Using the chart, L/B is approximately equal to 15. Therefore, 15 = L/
(1.2 m), or L = 12.5 m.
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PROBLEM #15
NCEES SPECIFICATION: HYDRAULICS - CLOSED CONDUIT
TOPIC: PUMP PLACEMENT TO AVOID CAVITATION (WITH SAFETY FACTOR)

A pump supplies 10 cfs of water at 90oF from a pit with a constant water elevation experiencing
12 psi of atmospheric pressure. Suction friction loss is 4.0 ft at the operating point. The net
positive suction head required (NPSHR) is 11.1 ft. What is the maximum height (feet) the pump
centerline can be installed above the pit water level to provide a safety factor of 1.25 against
cavitation?

A. 6.5
B. 7.3
C. 8.2
D. 8.9
 GARRETT
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PROBLEM #15 ANSWER: C

There are many types of pump questions that can make it to the exam (note: we cover each
type of pump question in our many problem sets). This is a classic NPSHA-HPSHR problem of
avoiding cavitation through pump placement. The major trick in this question is the safety
factor. We will use the following equation to solve this problem:

NPSH
! A = hatm + hz(s) − hf (s) − h vp

Step 1: Solve for the atmospheric head.

(12psi )(12in /f t)2

h! atm = = 27.7f t
62.4lb /f t 3

Step 2: Solve for the pressure head, based on the vapor pressure of water at 90-degrees F.
Hint, you’ll need to have a table to determine the vapor pressure of 100.7 psf.

100.7ps f
h! vp = = 1.61f t
62.4lb /f t 3

Step 3: Determine the NPSHA.

NPSHA = (safety factor)(NPSHR) = (1.25)(11.1ft) = 13.88 ft

Step 4: solve for the elevation difference.

h! z(s) = NPSH A − hatm + hf (s) + h vp = 13.86 − 27.7 + 4.0 + 1.61 = − 8.21f t

Therefore, the pump centerline must be no more that 8.2 feet above the water level in the pit.
 Iffy
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PROBLEM #1 ANSWER: A

Expect a UV disinfection problem on your exam. This problem assumes that you’re familiar with RED
and it’s associated formulae. Per the EPA, RED is "the UV dose derived by entering the log inactivation
measured during full-scale reactor testing into the UV dose-response curve that was derived through
collimated beam testing. RED values are always specific to the challenge microorganism used during
experimental testing and the validation test conditions for full-scale reactor testing.” Because RED is
based on the actual disinfection performance of the UV system, it is the most accurate and reliable
manner in sizing UV systems. This problem also expects that you know that a 2-log (99%) inactivation
of Cryptosporidium requires a dose of 5.8 mW/cm2. Here’s a handy UV dosage table:

UV Dose Values (mW/cm2)

Log Inactivation 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0

Cryptosporidium 1.6 2.5 3.9 5.8 8.5 12 15 22

Giardia 1.5 2.1 3.0 5.2 7.7 11 15 22

Virus 39 58 79 100 121 143 163 186

Step 1: Compute RED (reduction equivalent dosage).

RED = (Validation Factor)(Required Dosage) = (1.8)(5.8) = 10.44 mW/cm2

Step 2: Use RED to determine the number of lamp banks.

( S0 ) f l o w )
(
d
a S b 1
R E D = (10 )(U VA ) (B e )

( S0 ) f lo w )
( (5)
d 0.50
S 1 1
a
R ED = (10 )(U VA ) b
(B e ) → 10.44 = (10−0.80 )(0.100−2.0 )(0.80)0.18 (B 0.85) → B = 1.65

Since we need a whole number to represent the amount of banks (B), we must round up to 2.
Therefore, the design will require two banks of UV lamps.