IS 6512:2018 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for criteria for design of cross-section for canals. IS 6512 covers hydraulic design of irrigation canals — geometry, velocity limits, freeboard, and lining. Used by irrigation departments across India.
Criteria for hydraulic design of lined and unlined canal cross-sections for irrigation.
Overview
Status Current
Usage level Frequently Used
Domain Water Resources — Irrigation and Canal Structures
Type Code of Practice International equivalents
Also on InfraLens for IS 6512
Practical Notes
! Lined canals save 30-40% water loss.
! Manning's n=0.015 for concrete, n=0.025 for earth channels.
Frequently referenced clauses
Cl. 3 — Design discharge
Cl. 4 — Side slopes by soil type
Cl. 5 — Max permissible velocities
Cl. 6 — Freeboard
Cl. 7 — Lining thickness
canal design irrigation canal hydraulic design lined canal
International Equivalents Similar International Standards
USBR Design Standards USBR (US)
Medium Current
Canals Design Standards
Both use Manning's formula and similar criteria.
Key Similarities
≈ Both use Manning's formula and similar velocity/freeboard criteria.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter IS Value International Source
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use Report Error
Key Values4 Quick Reference Values
Max velocity (unlined) 0.6-0.9 m/s
Max velocity (lined) 2.0-2.5 m/s
Side slope (earth) 1.5H:1V to 2H:1V
Lining thickness 75-100mm concrete
Key Formulas
V = (1/n) × R^(2/3) × S^(1/2) (Manning's formula)
Tables & Referenced Sections Key Tables
Table 1 — Side slopes
Table 2 — Max velocity
Table 3 — Freeboard
Frequently Asked Questions1 Why line canals? + Reduce seepage (30-40% savings), increase velocity, reduce maintenance, prevent waterlogging.
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