sluices

A sluice is a water-control structure or channel used to regulate, direct, or divert the flow of water. In civil engineering, sluices can consist of gates, chutes, or sluiceways that open or close to adjust discharge, stabilize levels, or convey water to downstream channels. The term is applied to devices in irrigation systems, dam spillways, flood-control schemes, and some mining operations.

Sluice gates are movable barriers installed within a channel or conduit. They may slide, lift, or rotate to vary the cross-section through which water passes, enabling precise control of flow rate and head. In many canals and reservoirs, multiple gates are coordinated to meet demand or respond to flood conditions.

A sluice box is a mining device used to separate heavy minerals from sediment. Water is directed over a bed containing riffles; the flow slows and particles with greater density, such as gold, settle behind the riffles while lighter material is washed away. The sluicing method also refers to the process of using such boxes to recover minerals.

Some sluices function as spillways or flood gates, named for their role in discharging excess water from rivers, canals, or reservoirs. They may be permanent structures or temporary installations, operated manually or automatically. Maintenance focuses on preventing silt buildup, debris blockages, and mechanical wear.