Hybrid physical–numerical study on the performance of clear-water flow through vertical multi-holes suction (VMHS) systems

Abstract

ABSTRACT Different features of the hydro-suction systems were used for reservoir sediment removal so far. The Vertical Multi-Hole Suction (VMHS) system, investigated during the last decade, indicated promising results as an environmentally friendly method since it: (i) uses the available head difference between reservoir and downstream river, (ii) do not interfere with the regular dam operation, and (iii) is regarded as cost-effective method. Many aspects of such system need in-depth investigation and, in this research, the performance of the VMHS system was experimentally and numerically investigated with clear water flow to evaluate the whole system and individual hole efficiencies. The numerical model was calibrated against experimental data and used to determine discharge through holes, flow pattern and pressure distribution along the suction pipe. Different arrangements of hole sizes, numbers, and locations, on the hydro-suction pipe were thoroughly studied by this method. Some efficiency indicators were proposed and based on the compiled experimental data and numerical results the most efficient hole diameter and arrangements were determined.