Author(s): James Yang; Mats Billstein; Shicheng Li; Alejandro Renau Rubio
Linked Author(s): James Yang
Keywords: Dam safety; Flap gate; Flow discharge; Ice floe; Floating debris; CFD
Abstract: In Swedish dam‑rehabilitation projects, flap gates are often used to pass ice floes and other floating debris. Using CFD modeling, this study addresses the associated flow phenomena and evaluates the resulting aeration requirements. Without artificial aeration, the plunging jet formed downstream of the gate can seal the underlying air cavity, generating substantial sub‑atmospheric pressures that may induce structural vibrations. When air is supplied, even in modest amounts, the flow becomes stable, although some negative pressure may persist. Proper dimensioning of the air vents is essential and must account for varying gate openings.
Year: 2026