Simulation of dam-break problem by a robust flux-vector splitting approach in Cartesian grid

Abstract

A robust and effective flux-vector splitting method is utilized to simulate dam-break problems based on a finite-volume method on a Cartesian grid. The method combines the effectiveness of Flux-Difference Splitting (FDS) methods and the robustness of Flux-Vector Splitting (FVS) methods to precisely estimate the numerical flux at each cell interface. A nonlinear second-order term, which is evaluated in local characteristics field, is added to decomposed fluxes to enhance the accuracy of the scheme. Several classical dam-break problems including 1D dam-break problem, hypothetical 2D dam-break problem with non-symmetric breach, circular dam-break problem and 2D dam-break problem with a baffle in the floodplain have been tested by the model. The results show very satisfactory agreement with analytical solutions and other numerical methods. The paper shows the accuracy, effectiveness and robustness of the hybrid FVS and FDS methods, both over wet and dry bed.