MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF WATER MOVEMENT DURING A DAM BREAK USING THE VOF METHOD

Abstract

River valleys in mountainous areas are often subject to heavy rains and melting glaciers, resulting in the risk of mudflows and the destruction of hydraulic protective structures. In order to minimize the potential risk and negative outcomes of a disaster, both on an individual and environmental scale, it is crucial to possess essential information. This includes understanding the timing, location, and extent of flooding, as well as comprehending the force of water flow impact on protective structures. In the research, the numerical process of the movement of the water flow caused by the breakthrough of the dam is investigated. A two-dimensional numerical model of water flow during a dam break was constructed using the VOF method to describe the described process. With the help of the VOF method, the movement of the water surface is captured, while maintaining the law of conservation of mass. The mathematical model consists of Reynolds-averaged incompressible Navier-Stokes equations and includes the interphase equation. The turbulent k-e model was used to close the system of equations. The numerical algorithm used is PISO (Pressure-Implicit with Splitting of Operators). The obtained numerical results agree with the experimental data, indicating the developed algorithm’s reliability and accuracy. The results are presented as comparative graphs and images showing the contour of the free surface movement along the experimental reservoir. A numerical model that has been tested in this way can provide significant support in preventing the devastating consequences of a dam break and providing timely assistance during the evacuation of the population.