Numerical and Experimental Study of Dividing Open-Channel Flows
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Volume 133, Issue 10
Abstract
Dividing flows in open channels are commonly encountered in hydraulic engineering systems. They are inherently three-dimensional (3D) in character. Past experimental studies were mostly limited to the collection of test data on the assumption that the flow was 1D or 2D. In the present experimental study, the flow is treated as 3D and test results are obtained for the flow characteristics of dividing flows in a , sharp-edged, rectangular open-channel junction formed by channels of equal width. Depth measurements are made using point gauges, while velocity measurements are obtained using a Dantec laser Doppler anemometer over grids defined throughout the junction region. A 3D turbulence model is also developed to investigate the dividing open-channel flow characteristics. The predicted flow characteristics are validated using experimental data. Following proper model validation, the numerical model developed can yield design data pertaining to flow characteristics for different discharge and area ratios for other dividing flow configurations encountered in engineering practice. Energy and momentum coefficients based on the present 3D model yield more realistic energy losses and momentum transfers for dividing flow configurations. Data related to secondary flows provide information vital to bank stability, if the branch channel sides are erodible.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering
Volume 133 • Issue 10 • October 2007
Pages: 1135 - 1144
Copyright
© 2007 ASCE.
History
Received: Jun 20, 2005
Accepted: Nov 30, 2006
Published online: Oct 1, 2007
Published in print: Oct 2007
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