Author(s): Alemu Tezera Dessie; Saeed Hashemikia; Pedro Ramos; Greet Deruyter; Tom De Mulder
Linked Author(s): Tom De Mulder, Alemu Tezera Dessie
Keywords: Open-channel confluence Rigid-lid SPTV VOF
Abstract: In a T-shaped, lab-scale open-channel confluence, surface velocities are acquired with Surface Particle Tracking Velocimetry (SPTV) in a Froude-scaled experiment of the dataset by Weber et al. (2001). The performance of two 3D numerical models, adopting a distinct free surface treatment, is assessed against these experimental data and available free surface elevation measurements. The model adopting the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method overestimates the length and width of the water level depression zone, while the model adopting a curved rigid-lid reproduces the extent well. Both models agree well with the measured surface velocities when these are relatively large, but show discrepancies, also mutually, in zones with a small transversal velocity component. The model adopting the VOF produces wider and longer zones with reverse flow at the surface and recirculating motions near the surface, in comparison to the rigid-lid-based model.
Year: 2025