Quasi-2D Model for Unsteady Flow in Pipe Networks

Abstract

A quasi-two-dimensional model for unsteady-flow analysis in pipes and pipe networks is presented. The turbulence model is based on the mixing length hypothesis in the turbulent zone and on Newton’s law in the viscous sublayer. An expression of the mixing length in terms of the Reynolds number and an expression of the parameter of logarithmic law of the wall in terms of the friction Reynolds number are found from Nikuradse’s experimental data. An implicit numerical scheme for the integration of the equations is proposed to overcome the limitations of the explicit schemes. Uniqueness of the head and continuity of discharge are considered at the junctions. The results of both a quasi-steady 1D model and a quasi-2D model are compared with results from a laboratory network. For these experimental runs, the comparisons show that the average relative errors on the maximum head oscillations are 19.1% with the 1D model and 8.6% with the quasi-2D model; those on the minimum oscillations are 19.2% with the 1D model and 5.3% with the quasi-2D model. The latter model is in better agreement because it takes into account the velocity profile, thus allowing for a more accurate evaluation of the shear stress.