Inundation test method for flooded houses with application

Abstract

A testing method for quantifying inundation resistance of flooded houses is developed and is applied to a housing wall furnished with a window. The testing apparatus is composed of a main frame for fixing the tested wall, a reservoir and piping for supplying the outdoor floodwater, and a collector for gathering the inflow of water. The water depths of outside inundation space and inside collector are continuously measured by level gauges. The inundation flows from outside to inside are through an opening for under-floor ventilation, a joint discontinuity at the bottom of wall, and gaps in and around the sash frame of the window. The dimensions and heights of these floodwater inlets are estimated from the test results by employing Torricelli's theorem. Such information will enable engineers to calculate the rate of indoor inundation, which is substantially important for evacuation of residents and valuables.