Author(s): Robert Feurich; Bernhard Mayrhofer; Heiko Tebben

Linked Author(s): Robert Feurich, Heiko Tebben

Keywords: Fish Passage; Energy Dissipation; 3D-Numerical Investigation; Volume of Fluid (VOF) method

Abstract: Even today, problems in hydraulic engineering are often investigated using 1D and 2D applications. These approaches enable swift identification of solutions, thereby facilitating accelerated project progression. However, it is important to acknowledge that the practical limitations of these numerical methods are often exceeded. The steadily increasing capabilities of hardware make 3D-CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations increasingly attractive in hydraulic engineering, in terms of both complexity and mesh resolution. These simulations solve the full 3D Navier-Stokes equations and can be applied to complex scenarios where simplified 1D and 2D hydraulic modeling tools are not applicable. Common applications of 3D-CFD simulations include designing and analyzing dams, spillways, fish passages, rivers, conduits, and coastal defenses, as well as studying fluid/structure interaction. This work demonstrates the application of 3D simulations to an innovative fish migration solution. The numerical results show a high degree of agreement with the performance of the fish lock and provide deeper insight into the flow situation and energy con version during operation of the structure.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/iahr.proc.ise2026.abs.204

Year: 2026