Storage calculator with visual representation?

[michaelv976]

Hi all,

Still an absolute novice at C3D and finding my own way through when I get the time to use the software.

In years gone by I've used a platform called 12d for calculating the storage from a nominated RL down to selected surface model, within a designated boundary string (which prevents false storage far away from being reported). The nice thing about using that functionality was that it would shade out to the RL, so you got an understanding of the extent of flooding.

Does Civil 3D have similar capability and if so what should I be searching on YT or these forums for an explanation of how it works? EDIT: I am using v2020

Much thanks,

Mike

[Civil3DReminders_com]

Civil 3D sucks for hydrology. I'd suggest looking at 3rd party software. I hear 12d has this feature, you may want to use that instead. 

You can try the stage storage tool:

https://help.autodesk.com/view/CIV3D/2022/ENU/index.html?guid=GUID-9D5C80FA-EF92-4102-BCDC-37F0E04F5...

Unfortunately, it was programmed by a person who was solving the "dumb" problem and the command is stupid when it comes to getting accurate numbers for complex basins and will report garbage numbers. Hopefully, your situation is the "dumb" one.

[fcernst]

Yes, create a Volume surface comparing your WSEL surface vs your Ground surface .. then do an Elevation surface analysis for elevations >= 0 to get the flood inundation extent 

[pperales2]

If this is a detention pond you can:

- extract the stage storage table using the stage storage found under the analyze tab >design drop down
-then import that into SSA reservoir node to develop a stage storage plot or a stage area plot

[michaelv976]

Thanks for the reply.

Yes I've used 12d in the past, hence why I alluded to it in the OP. Though I have access to it, I've sort of committed to working with C3D for now and don't get a lot of time to explore new software. The 'basin' in this case is natural storage in a very informal shape, so sounds like your link may not work. 

I'll explore the other suggestions first and possibly return to this if I have no luck.

Thanks again.

[michaelv976]

Thanks for the reply. It's not a formal basin as such, rather natural storage formed by the topography. Sounds like the second reply may be my best bet?

Cheers,

Mike

[michaelv976]

Thanks,

I'll give this a try when I find some quiet time to explore how this works - all new to me.

[arodriguezDQBHW]

Do not use SSA detention storage calculation from the chart. It is flat out blatantly incorrect. See below:

The volume calculated to limit the flow to 162000 gpm is being reported at about 11 million cu ft. The correct answer should be around 250k. The total volume of the storm is 7.7 million and that is reported correctly in the model.  statistical report. 

[jM9NS3]

Hi there,

Civil 3D can do similar storage calculations using Volume Surfaces and Surface Analysis. For visuals, try using elevation banding or water level contours. Search for "Civil 3D flood analysis" or "volume surface visualization" on YouTube — there are some good tutorials out there.

Also, for quick external checks, I’ve used tools from TaxCal — helpful for rough volume estimates outside of CAD.

Hope that helps!