Calibration of a Two-Dimensional Hydrodynamic Model for Simulating Flow around Partially Submerged Structures

The objective of this paper is to calibrate a depth-averaged two-dimensional hydrodynamic model for simulating flows over and around partially submerged structures. The model calibration is part of a larger case study using the two-dimensional model FESWMS to predict the effectiveness of a bendway weir design at mitigating bank erosion on a mild-gradient sand bed river. The calibration is based on flow measurements observed around constructed bendway weirs using Large Scale Particle Image Velocimetry (LSPIV), Acoustic Doppler Velocimetry (ADV), and sonar. The two part methodology used in the calibration produced simulation results consistent with both the measured data as well as other findings reported in literature. Results from the study show that a depth-averaged parabolic eddy viscosity and increased bed shear values are ideal for matching the reach scale flow properties. However, accurate representation of the flow processes occurring near the structure required refined material properties with minimal bed roughness values. These findings compare favorably with other reported studies and are discussed in depth.