Numerical Simulation of Air-Core Vortex at Intake

Abstract

In order to study the features of vortex at horizontal intakes, numerical investigations have been performed. The tangential, radial, and axial distributions, and water surface profile were simulated to evaluate the flow behaviour and existence of an air-core vortex. The numerical results agree with existing experimental data. The correlation of vortex characteristics between numerical and experimental results was good. Regarding formed funnel profile of flow in the basin towards horizontal intake, its limits at the existence of an air-core vortex were analysed. The spiral flow pattern from surface towards intake was identified around the air-core vortex. This numerical simulation may help to get a deeper understanding in determining the submergence required to avoid air-entraining vortices in a reservoir.