Heated Discharge in an Estuary: Case Study

Two physical model studies were conducted to evaluate the thermal patterns produced in the Hudson River by the condenser cooling water discharge from the Indian Point Nuclear Generating Station. Model similitude criteria are developed and applied to the Indian Point site to determine model scale ratios. Model construction, verification, and operation techniques are described. Typical results show surface temperature rise patterns near the plant discharge and within a 15 mile reach of the river. Sensitivity of thermal patterns to variations in freshwater runoff, plant load, and discharge structure geometry are illustrated. Model results are evaluated with respect to scale effects, and limitations due to inability to simulate certain phenomena occurring in the field. Model results are compared to an extensive field survey program and one-dimensional time averaged mathematical model.