The user has the option of plotting velocity distribution output from the cross section viewer. Velocity distributions can only be plotted at locations in which the user has specified that flow distribution output be calculated during the computations. To view the velocity distribution plot, first bring up a cross section plot (select "Cross Sections" from the view menu of the main HEC-RAS window). Next, select the cross section in which you would like to see the velocity distribution output. Select Velocity Distribution from the Options menu of the cross section window. This will bring up a pop up window (Figure 8-5) that will allow you to set the minimum velocity, maximum velocity, and velocity increment for plotting. In general, it is better to let the program use the maximum velocity range for plotting. Next, the user selects Plot Velocity Distribution, then press the "OK" button and the velocity distribution plot will appear as shown in Figure 8-6.

For details on how to select the locations for computing the velocity distribution, see Chapter 7 and 8 of the User's Manual. For information on how the velocity distribution is actually calculated, see Chapter 4 of the Hydraulic Reference Manual.

Figure 8 5 Velocity Distribution Options


Figure 8 6 Velocity Distribution Plot