An Investigation into the Exploratory Use of Additive Manufacturing in Drum Gate Design for Open Channel Flow

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing (AM) offers itself as a valuable tool for exploring a range of possibilities through design and development of complex shapes in fluid flow research. itself as a valuable tool for exploring. In this research, the limitations of existing components in a 2.5 m open channel fluid flow experiment, which are characterized by their standard basic shapes, are examined. Specifically, this research focuses on investigating flow control in hydraulic systems by introducing gates with more intricate geometries. However, these complex design shapes are typically expensive and time-consuming to acquire from equipment suppliers. To circumvent these challenges, AM technology allow a cost-effective solution to implement progressive design modifications throughout the investigation. This paper presents a comparative analysis between a range of positions of an AM produced curved drum gate in terms of flow rate, fluid velocity profile, water level height and related fluid flow parameters. To analyse and validate the results, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling, analysis, and simulation techniques are employed. Based on the experimental findings and verification, this paper discusses the suitability and applicability of AM techniques in fluid flow analysis. The ability to manufacture customized components through AM offers a promising avenue for enhancing fluid flow research, allowing for cost-effective and time-efficient design modifications. The key concept associated with this study is the importance of utilizing AM and specific materials for advancing fluid flow analysis.