For several years, we have developed a collaboration with archaeologists in order to analyze ancient hydraulic systems. It is
commonly accepted that the Romans possessed a technical mastery of water supply. Nevertheless, few writings on this engineering
practice are available. Moreover, due to the scientific knowledge in the field of fluid mechanics during the Roman period, these
writings do not contain the usual modern information on the characterization of a hydraulic system. However, thanks to the current
knowledge in fluid mechanics, it is now possible to simulate the flow that was taking place in a hydraulic remains presenting a good
state of conservation. It is therefore possible to supplement the usual field information with data such as flow rates, velocity and
pressure fields, energy losses, yields...

In recent years, we were interested in fountains found in large houses in the
southern part of the ancient Roman city of Apamea (Byzantine times). We were able to characterize their functioning using classical fluid
mechanics approaches. The analysis of the results obtained clearly shows that these fountains were supplied with water by an
aqueduct and that this feed was technically feasible in view of the remains of the Byzantine aqueduct still present in the north of
the city.  We were also interested in a peculiar system that can be observed within the ruins of the city of Perge (Turkey). During
the Roman Imperial Period, at the middle of the main street of the city, a water channel was operated. This channel has peculiar
dimensions and blocks were positioned inside it at a regular interval. By using open surface flow theory, we have been able to
characterize the flow in this system and in diversions originating from it.

Selected publications :

Vekemans, O., & Haut, B.
Hydraulic analysis of the water supply system of the Roman city of Perge. Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 16,
322-329. 2017

Haut, B., Zheng, X.Y., Mays, L., Han, M., Passchier, C., & Angelakis, A.N. Evolution of rainwater harvesting in
urban areas through the millennia. A sustainable technology for increasing water availability. In W.J.H. Willems & H.P.J. van
Schaik (Eds.), Water and Heritage. The Netherlands: Sidestone Press. 2015

Vannesse, M., Haut, B., Debaste, F., & Viviers, D.
Analysis of three private hydraulic systems operated in Apamea during the Byzantine period. Journal of Archaeological Science, 46,
245-254. 2014


Web site: https://tips-ulb.be/research-topics/ancient-hydraulic-systems