Storage effect of dam reservoirs: evaluation of three nonlinear reservoir models

Abstract

Three different nonlinear models – an exponential function model, a logarithmic function model, and a power function model – were evaluated as possible candidates for the storage–outflow relationship of a reservoir. Also, the storage coefficient was derived by analyzing the impulse response function of the reservoir. Additionally, by applying the theoretical results, the storage coefficients of four dam reservoirs in the Han River Basin, Korea, were estimated and evaluated with respect to the dam reservoir and basin characteristics. Summarizing the results, first, only the exponential function model was found to provide a realistic storage coefficient for a reservoir. Second, the storage coefficient was found to be strongly and linearly proportional to the flood control volume divided by the channel length.