Abstract
This work investigates mixing phenomena in a pressurized pipe system with two sequential Tee junctions and experiments are conducted for a range of different inlet flow ratios, varying distances between Tee junctions and two pipe branching configurations. Additionally, obtained experimental results are compared with results from previous studies by different authors and are used to validate the numerical model using the open source computational fluid dynamics toolbox OpenFOAM. Two different numerical approaches are used—Passive scalar model and Multiphase model. It is found that both numerical models produce similar results and that they are both greatly dependent on the turbulent Schmidt number. After the calibration procedure, both models provided good results for all investigated flow ratios, double-Tee junction distances, and pipe branching configurations, therefore both numerical models can be applied for a wide range of pipe networks configurations, but passive scalar model is the viable choice due to its much higher computational efficiency. Obtained results also describe the relationship between the double-Tee distances and complete mixing occurrence.
Highlights
IntroductionTo predict and prevent such scenarios, a number of water-quality models were developed that help in modeling of such complex systems
Water distribution networks are complex systems that are of great concern due to the possibility of accidental or deliberate water contamination that can affect a great number of network users.To predict and prevent such scenarios, a number of water-quality models were developed that help in modeling of such complex systems
computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a necessary tool in mixing phenomena modeling
Summary
To predict and prevent such scenarios, a number of water-quality models were developed that help in modeling of such complex systems. Most widely used simulation software is EPANET developed by the Environmental Protection Agency [1] which provides quick results of hydraulic and water-quality analysis of complex networks. A proper mixing model must be known to correctly predict contamination spreading in a pipe network. EPANET assumes complete mixing at every junction, which makes the concentration in the fluid at the outlet pipes the same and its value is defined by the inlet pipe flow-weighted concentrations. While complete mixing model is formulated in accordance with the law of conservation of mass, it can be considered correct only if there is a single outlet at a junction as it does not accurately describe the physical process of mixing.
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