Abstract
Channel confluences are of the common structures in fluid transport channels. In this study, a series of numerical simulations were performed, utilizing a 3D code to investigate the reaction of the flow parameters and vortical structure to the variations in flow discharge and its Froude number from both main channel and tributary branch in a T-shape junction. The code was calibrated with the experimental data. Parameters, including the velocity, the turbulence energy, stream surface profile, head losses, and the transverse flow motions, were considered in different situations. It was concluded that increasing the ratio of discharge of flow from side-channel to the main channel (Q*) increased the area and power of the recirculation zone, as well as the width of separation plate downstream of the confluence, while it reduced the area of the stagnation zone (or the wake vortex) within the side-channel. It was also indicated that increasing the discharge ratio from side-channel resulted in an increase in the upstream water level in the main channels, which was dependent on the upstream discharge.
Highlights
A confluence is considered to be a point where two various flow characteristics join together and make a single flow, which causes significant turbulence characteristics
It was indicated that increasing the discharge ratio from side-channel resulted in an increase in the upstream water level in the main channels, which was dependent on the upstream discharge
The interaction between the main channel and the side inflow creates a 3D flow pattern with separation zones at both side and main channels. It causes a significant increase in flow speed along with a drop in flow surface, which leads to a large amount of scouring at the opposite side of junction point and sedimentation adjacent to the inner wall of the main channel [1]
Summary
A confluence is considered to be a point where two various flow characteristics join together and make a single flow, which causes significant turbulence characteristics. Confluences and diversions are the most common occurrences along both natural rivers and artificial channels Different parameters, such as geometrical properties (i.e., channel cross-section, the angle between the branch and the main channel), and hydraulic parameters (i.e., Froude number of the flows, the discharge ratio of the branch to the main channel), have been found to be effective on the flow behavior and its effect on the loose bed of earth channels. The interaction between the main channel and the side inflow creates a 3D flow pattern with separation zones at both side and main channels It causes a significant increase in flow speed along with a drop in flow surface, which leads to a large amount of scouring at the opposite side of junction point and sedimentation adjacent to the inner wall of the main channel [1].
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