Flow Erosion Research Articles

Numerical Investigation of Flow Around Partially and Fully Vegetated Submerged Spur Dike

This study investigates the role of emerged vegetation in enhancing the performance of submerged spur dikes for better flow control and bank protection in river systems. The research utilizes a numerical model based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), validated with experimental data. After validation, the study explores various configurations of vegetated spur dike, adjusting the submergence heights of the impermeable spur dike to achieve porosity ranging from fully impermeable to highly porous. Porosity levels of 24%, 48%, and 72% were chosen based on the spur dike height and the effectiveness of staggered vegetation arrangements in maximizing drag and reducing velocity. This approach aims to determine their impact on flow structure, velocity, and turbulence characteristics. The results reveal that impermeable dikes create strong recirculation zones downstream, increasing the potential for bank erosion. Introducing vegetation on the dike, particularly at moderate porosities (24% and 48%), effectively disrupts this behavior by reducing downstream velocity and mitigating mass and momentum exchange concentration between the spur dike field and the mainstream. However, the highest porosity case (72%) offered reduced flow resistance, limiting its protective effectiveness. Analysis of velocity and stress distributions showed that vegetation porosity significantly impacts normal and shear stresses, influencing flow stability at critical points around the spur dike. The findings signify the potential of integrating vegetation into spur dike designs to achieve a balance between effective flow conveyance and erosion control even in the spur dike submergence condition. This approach can outperform conventional emerged impermeable spur dikes, as supported by previous studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of porous and vegetated structures in reducing flow resistance, minimizing stagnation zones, and improving sediment deposition compared to impermeable designs.

Intelligent terminal structure response on anchorage foundation stability of Undersea Data Cabins affected by turbidity flow

The construction of Undersea Data Center (UDC) infrastructure will be a crucial choice for countries worldwide in developing the numerical economy. The support structure foundation of Undersea Data Cabins serves as the safety bedrock of the entire underwater infrastructure project, This paper proposes a monitoring method that combines the support structure foundation and anchoring of UDC, develops an anchorage foundation and its intelligent terminal structure (ITS) for the UDC support structure, and conducts a physical similarity model experiment on the ITS perception of the UDC support structure anchorage foundation under extreme turbidity flow erosion. The results verify the adaptability of the ITS components installed on the UDC anchorage foundation in monitoring axial load loss. It was discovered that the axial load of the UDC anchorage foundation and the evolution of turbidity flow density under turbidity flow erosion exhibit a cubic polynomial function relationship, which can provide a quantitative relational criterion for the stability monitoring and early warning of the UDC anchorage foundation. This has significant safety implications for the development of UDC industrial clusters and commercial promotion.

Influence of Gravel Coverage on Hydraulic Characteristics and Sediment Transport Capacity of Runoff on Steep Slopes

Gravel coverage on slopes influences overland flow and soil erosion. However, the effect of different gravel sizes on the soil erosion process remains underexplored. In this study, a runoff scour test was performed to examine the effects of gravel coverage on the hydrodynamic characteristics of slope runoff and sediment transport capacity (Tc). The slope gradient varied from 18% to 84%, the unit flow discharge ranged from 0.27 × 10−3 to 1.11 × 10−3 m2 s−1, and gravel coverage was adjusted from 0% to 90%. The results reveal that water depth, shear stress, and stream power increased with gravel coverage. However, once coverage exceeded 20%, flow velocity and unit stream power decreased and stabilized. As gravel coverage increased, the hydraulic regimes transitioned from laminar to turbulent flow and shifted from supercritical to subcritical. Consequently, Tc first increased and then decreased with the increase in gravel coverage, reaching a peak at 20% coverage (1.66 kg m−1 s−1). Moreover, the degree of coverage indirectly influenced Tc through grain shear stress. The new equations, based on the Box–Lucas function, incorporated slope, grain shear stress, and flow velocity, thereby effectively simulating Tc for runoff on gravel-covered slopes (R2 = 0.94, NSE = 0.94). These findings provide a basis for modeling soil erosion on gravel-covered slopes.

Synergistic mechanism of the energy dissipation and sediment erosion in pump turbine under sand-laden water based on entropy production theory

Sediment erosion of hydraulic machinery can cause a lot of energy loss, thereby affecting their operational stability. Herein, solid–liquid two-phase flow simulations are conducted on a pump turbine using the Euler–Lagrangian model to predict the sediment-laden flow and sediment erosion. The predicted results are verified through experiments. The correlation between the energy loss characteristics and sediment erosion in hydraulic turbines is analysed using the entropy production and vorticity theories. Results show that the total vorticity in the runner area increases with the guide vane opening. The entropy production corresponds to a high-vorticity region. Energy dissipation is positively correlated with the degree of turbulence in the flow regime. Certain phenomena, such as vortex flow, impact, and friction in the runner area, are important causes of energy loss. Vortices can also cause local sediment erosion on runner blade walls. Severe wall sediment erosion typically occurs at locations with high entropy production. The total entropy production along the particle flow path is consistent with the variation law of the wall sediment erosion rate.

Evaluation of reserves and injection-production capacity of underground gas storage under multi-cycle operation

In order to more accurately estimate the reserves of underground gas storage under the complex operation mode of multi-period strong injection and strong production, and design a reasonable allocation scheme of injection and production gas volume. In this paper, the material balance equation is improved according to the “hollow square” shape characteristics of apparent bottom hole flow pressure and cumulative production of multi-cycle injection-production wells in gas storage. Combined with the node analysis method, a new evaluation method of multi-period reserves and injection-production capacity of underground gas storage is established by using the vertical pipe flow equation, erosion flow equation, critical liquid carrying flow equation and critical sand flow equation to constrain the gas inflow and outflow equations respectively. Then, taking the gas storage as a case, the method is compared with the field data. The results show that this method avoids the inconsistency of the existing methods in solving the reserves of underground gas storage, and provides a more scientific and relatively reliable method for reserves and capacity prediction.

ECVT imaging and CFD simulation of particle flow in a 90° bend

Gas-solid two-phase flow characteristics in a 90° bend within a pneumatic conveying system are critical for design and performance optimization, impacting conveying efficiency and system safety. Electrical Capacitance Volumetric Tomography (ECVT) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed in this study to investigate the flow characteristics in the bend. The ECVT system for bends was validated through static tests. A setup with a 36 mm inner diameter was constructed for high-speed 3D imaging of 0.9 mm quartz particles. Flow patterns, solid-phase concentration, particle velocity spectra, and mass flow rate were analyzed under various gas velocities. The Euler-Lagrange method and SST K-ω model were used to simulate particle flow and pipe wall erosion numerically. Results indicate diverse flow patterns across different gas velocities, where moderate turbulence enhances efficiency and limits erosion. This study offers an experimental basis for predicting and controlling particle motion, providing scientific guidance for optimizing pneumatic systems.

A SWMM-based evaluation of the impacts of LID and detention basin retrofits on urban flooding

ABSTRACT Different stormwater management practices have been used to mitigate the impacts of urbanization and attenuate urban flooding risk. However, there is a lack of studies on the comparison between conventional stormwater control measures such as detention basins, their retrofits, and low impact development (LID) practices, especially from the perspective of their impacts on erosive flow attenuation and flood control. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of two detention basins and their outlet retrofits with LID, in an urbanized catchment under designed storm events with different return periods, using a Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) modeling approach. The results show that detention basins are effective in decreasing peak flow and delaying peak time. Detention basin retrofits could significantly reduce the frequency and duration of erosive flows in Sub A detention basin compared with LID, especially in smaller rainfall events. LID outperforms the detention basin retrofits in reducing peak flow from larger storms.

In Situ Testing and Finite Element Analysis of a Discontinuous Mortise and Tenon Stone Bridge Under Natural Excitation

To study the dynamic response of multi-span mortise and tenon stone bridges under natural excitation, a bluestone multi-span stone bridge with a main span of 2.56 m in southern China was taken as the research object. Based on the collected pulsating signals of bridge piers and slabs, the natural frequencies and damping ratios of the main span bridge slab and pier were analyzed using the half-power broadband method (HPBM) and random decrement technique (RDT). Modal analysis was conducted using ANSYS, and the results were compared with those obtained from on-site experiments for further performance analysis. The research results of this article indicate that the natural frequency range of the 2.56-m bridge slab identified by measured signals is 48–49 Hz, and the damping ratio range is 33.33–36.61%. The natural frequency of the central pier is 75–76 Hz, and the damping ratio range is 26.39–27.83%. Through finite element modal analysis, the natural frequency of the bridge slab is 54.401 Hz, with an error of 10.5%. The natural frequency of the overall stone bridge is about 82.2 Hz, with an error of about 8.2%. The validated finite element model was subjected to normal water flow impact and erosion simulation. The results indicate that under erosion with fewer particles and lower flow rates, the upstream pier bottom at the center receives the highest relative erosion mass and displacement per unit area. The bridge deck near the main span also experienced relative displacement. Therefore, in the subsequent protection work, special attention should be paid to these components.

Land-Use-Change-Driven Erosion and Sediment Transport in the Yaqui River Sub-Basin (Mexico): Insights from Satellite Imagery and Hydraulic Simulations

Soil erosion and sediment transport are significant concerns in the Yaqui River sub-basin in northwest Mexico, driven by land use changes and environmental degradation. This study aims to evaluate erosion processes between 2000 and 2020 using a combination of satellite imagery and numerical simulations with Iber software (Version 2.5.2). The primary objective is to assess the impacts of land use changes, particularly the conversion of forest to grassland, on erosion rates and sediment transport. Satellite images from 2000 and 2020 were analyzed to detect land cover changes, while Iber’s sediment transport module was used to simulate erosion patterns based on the Meyer–Peter and Müller equation for bedload transport. Hydrological and topographical data were incorporated to provide accurate simulations of flow velocity, depth, and erosion potential. The results reveal a 35.3% reduction in forest cover, leading to increased erosion and sediment transport in steep areas. Simulation predictions highlighted areas with high future erosion potential, which are at risk of further soil loss if current trends continue. Flow velocity increased, contributing to riverbank destabilization and higher sediment yield, posing a risk to infrastructure such as the Álvaro Obregón Dam. This study underscores the need for targeted erosion control measures and sustainable land management practices to mitigate future risks and protect vital infrastructure in the Yaqui River Basin.

Impact of the Draft Plate on the Wall Erosion and Flow Field Stability of a Cyclone Separator

Cyclone separators are commonly employed in the mining, metallurgy and chemical industries due to their simple structure, easy maintenance and high recovery efficiency. However, with the wide application of cyclone separators, many problems have become exposed in their practical operation, restricting their development. Among these, wall erosion is becoming a significant problem. In this study, to resolve the problem of severe erosion on the walls, the Eulerian–Lagrangian framework was employed to investigate a cyclone separator with a draft plate at the inlet and to evaluate the effect of a draft plate with angles of 0°, 45° and 90° on the degree of erosion and the stabilization of flow fields. Moreover, after verifying the reliability of the numerical model via data from experiments, the characteristics of gas–solid flow were analyzed and the effects of the new structure on the degree of wear were investigated. The results demonstrated that unfavorable phenomena such as secondary flow and wall erosion generated during the operation could be mitigated by the draft plate. When the plate angle was 90°, the wall erosion was the lightest and the range of influence of the secondary flow was the smallest. When the plate angle was 45°, the comprehensive performance was the best, and there was a better balance between the energy loss and the degree of wall erosion. Therefore, the presence of the draft plate has a significant impact on the interaction of gas–solid phases in a cyclone separator.

Numerical study of flow phenomena and erosion in three guide vane cascade rig

Abstract The rivers in certain geological regions like South Asia have sediment particles in them. These particles cause erosion in turbine components which is a major cause of deterioration of turbine and hampers efficient energy production. Out of different modes of erosion in Francis turbines, past studies have shown that erosion is prominent in its guide vanes. Its criticality stems from the ability of eroded guide vane can disturb the flow that reaches the runner and cause erosion in the runner inlet. Numerical study is widely used to study erosion. However, their inability to evolve the geometry with the advent of erosion limits their use. The study uses a three-guide vane cascade geometry, modeled after Jhimruk HPP, to conduct the flow analysis and erosion study. In this study, a RANS-based SST turbulence model has been applied for the flow along with sediments modelled as particles carried by the fluid. The erosion study used the Finnie erosion model to visualize how the erosion occurs in the guide vane. A new framework has been developed that interprets the mathematical values of erosion into the corresponding geometrical changes. Additionally, the study has observed the flow-patterns disruption due to the erosion of the guide vane. This offers a comprehensive overview of the flow in guide vanes cascade and erosion in the guide vanes.

Integration of CFD analysis and artificial neural networks for estimation of erosion rate in oil and gas pipelines

Transporting oil and gas via pipelines has been creating countless challenges; sand particles deposit and erode the pipelines wall. Generally, conventional erosion rate prediction models are conservative due to numerous generalizations and theories. Finite Element Analysis via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach has proven to be useful to solve sand deposition problems and to estimate the eroded pipe due to its capability to precisely determine erosion deficiencies and make predictions with great precision. In this study, a CFD model was developed to calculate sand erosion rates in a 2-inch, 90° elbow pipe. Effects of particle sizes, sand flowrates, fluids velocities and pipe diameters on erosion rates were studied. The model was validated against literature data, and it was then used to generate data via sensitivity analysis simulations. The data became the basis for developing artificial neural network (ANN) models, which were then deployed in the environment of a process simulation software called Symmetry. Based on this approach, a variety of pipelines can be modelled, and maximum erosion rates of pipelines are calculated using deployed ANN models. Hence, a comprehensive study on the fluid flow dynamics and erosion rates of the pipelines can be evaluated simultaneously.

WGAN-Based Realization Process of Gravel Soil for Hydraulic Property Simulation

Gravel soil faces significant engineering challenges such as leakage erosion and soil flow due to its complex composition and susceptibility to groundwater effects. This study integrates the entire machine learning process, including pre- and post-processing of images, WGAN implementation, and validation of hydraulic and morphological properties. Obtaining intact gravel soil samples is difficult and costly due to their erodible nature in the Li River, China. A μ-CT scanning series is employed to capture detailed images with three microstructural characteristics of gravel soil, forming the basis for training datasets using WGANs. This approach allows the generation of similar 3D realizations that replicate the microstructural characteristics and hydraulic behaviors of a prototype of gravel soils. Through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, the effectiveness of the realizations in hydraulic behavior within reconstructed porous structures is verified. This process indirectly validates the consistency between the realization′s microstructure and the prototype. This integrated methodology not only enhances understanding but also aids in the optimization of engineering designs and applications in geotechnical and materials science disciplines.

Water erosion processes: Mechanisms, impact, and management strategies

This study rigorously explores water erosion, a critical environmental challenge diminishing land productivity and ecosystem stability worldwide. Addressing a notable gap in comprehensive, region-specific erosion assessments, this research underscores innovative strategies integrating traditional practices with modern technologies. It assesses the interplay between splash erosion, surface runoff, and subsurface flow, which collectively drive significant landscape changes and soil fertility loss. The influence of key factors such as rainfall intensity, soil type, topography, and vegetation is analyzed through case studies from the Loess Plateau, the Mississippi River Basin, and the Ethiopian Highlands, illustrating varying erosion dynamics. Importantly, this work evaluates the implementation of nanotechnology and biotechnological advances in soil stabilization, supported by robust policy frameworks, and demonstrates these technologies in context, ensuring relevancy to the observed erosion processes. By combining empirical research with cutting-edge science and active community participation, this paper champions adaptive and inclusive strategies to effectively manage water erosion, aiming to bolster environmental sustainability and resilience globally.

Failure analysis of additively manufactured PLA with different morphological arrangements in erosive flow

This study investigated the impact of water-sand slurry on Polylactic Acid (PLA) in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), exploring different morphologies and variables using Taguchi design. Variables included three designs (D1: Flat, D2: Groove, D3: Square groove), slurry concentrations (1%, 3%, 5% by weight), and impact angles (60°, 75°, 90°). Surface damage observed on PLA included cracks, micro-cutting, flakes, and craters due to erosion. The Groove design (D2) showed superior erosion resistance compared to Flat (D1) and square groove (D3). Analysis identified slurry concentration (64.68%) as the primary influencer of erosion, followed by design (23.80%) and impact angle (10.56%). These findings highlight the importance of optimizing FDM parameters to enhance PLA durability against abrasive conditions.

DDPM investigation on centrifugal slurry pump with inlet and sideline configuration retrofit

The inlet and sideline configuration modifications are widely investigated to alter regional particle fluid flow conditions, considering pressure, turbulence and erosion, therefore to improve energy saving and compartment longevity of centrifugal slurry pump. This paper aims to analyse pump hydraulic and erosion characteristics with proposed pump sideline and inlet configuration retrofit by the DDPM method. Specifically, the inlet guide vane number () and angle (), and sidelining vane (SDV) curvature are investigated in quantitative manner. Accordingly, by adjusting inlet vane configuration and placement, a trade-off between wall erosion and hydraulic performance is observed. The sidelining vane (SDV) design is suggested to avoid resultant counter-current flow formulation, therefore, to mitigate turbulence induced erosion in impeller and volute. However, the SDV modification effect on pump hydraulic head and efficiency is found marginal. In general, this study offers realistic guideline for performance improvement and device upgrading of centrifugal slurry pumps.

The impact of Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) on sand internal erosion resistance: A microfluidic study

Fine particle internal erosion involves the detachment, transport, and deposition of fine particles within soil, significantly impacting agriculture, engineering, and environmental protection. Microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) has proven to be an effective method for controlling internal erosion. To optimize MICP protocols for effective erosion control, understanding the microscopic mechanisms by which MICP reduces fine particle erosion is essential but remains unclear. In this study, microfluidic chip experiments were conducted to observe the characteristics of calcium carbonate crystals and fine particles before and after MICP reinforcement and erosion. Through quantitative analysis of the calcium carbonate produced by MICP and eroded fine particles, the effects of bacterial density, concentration of cementation solution, and flow rate on the efficiency of MICP in resisting soil internal erosion were investigated. In addition, three primary mechanisms by which MICP reduces fine particle erosion were identified. Firstly, in situ sand stabilization occurs when calcium carbonate generated by MICP bonds and encapsulates fine particles, forming larger particles that remain stable under erosive flow conditions. Secondly, regional sand stabilization is achieved as MICP-produced calcium carbonate crystals narrow or block the flow channels, preventing extensive migration of fine particles. Lastly, adjacent particle stabilization is facilitated by calcium carbonate crystals, which remain stable during water flow erosion and alter the erosion flow lines, creating zones adjacent to the crystals where fine particle movement is minimized. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the role of MICP in erosion control and can inform the development of more effective erosion mitigation strategies.

Insights into the relationship between particulate flow characteristics and local erosion behaviour under waterjet: The role of particle-fluid-surface interaction

In this study, the erosion characteristics of eutectic high entropy alloy under the liquid–solid two-phase flow is investigated by a coupled numerical-experimental method, in order to reveal the intrinsic relationship between microscopic erosion mechanism (experimental test) and the related particle-fluid-surface interaction (CFD modelling). Furthermore, instead of the common relation between average erosion rate and mainstream flow velocity, the relationship between local erosion distribution and local particulate flow characteristics is clarified. The erosion rate and erosion pattern match well between the experiment and simulation. The results demonstrate that NiCoCrFeNb0.45 exhibits superior anti-erosion performance when compared to other widely used equipment metals. The erosion profile agrees well with the shape of surface velocity distribution, indicating a close relationship between surface erosion behaviour and flow characteristics. In particular, the erosion pattern at a normal angle appears as a symmetric ring due to the flow stagnation phenomenon, with slight erosion damage in the centre area and severe erosion in the surrounding, whereas the erosion profile at an oblique angle displays an elliptic shape, with severe erosion damage in centre. Notably, the primary erosion mechanism varies dramatically in different surface regions, induced by the various impact velocities and angles associated with the corresponding changes in the flow field. This study provides a deeper understanding of erosion behaviour in terms of the interrelationship among the material mechanical properties, particulate flow field and particle-surface impingement behaviour.

Study on gas–liquid–solid multiphase flow and erosion in ball valves

In industrial processes involving ball valves, gas–liquid–solid multiphase flows with continuous carrier and discrete particle phases are characterised by erosion challenges. These challenges reduce sealing performance and can lead to leakage and valve failure. To explore the characteristics of gas–liquid–solid multiphase flow and flow-induced erosion in ball valves, we conducted a combination of computational fluid dynamics numerical simulations and experimental testing. Results indicate that an increase in the gas content increases the flow coefficient, accelerates both liquid flow and particle movement and exacerbates erosion. In addition, particles are less concentrated in regions with higher gas concentrations. Erosion is primarily observed on the upstream surface and rear wall of the valve core as well as the upper side of the downstream pipeline. Severe erosion occurs more at smaller valve openings, and affected regions expand as the valve opening increases.

Numerical analysis of gas-solid flow erosion in different geometries as alternatives to a standard pipe elbow

This study was conducted with the aim of replacing different geometric fittings instead of the standard 90° elbow and trying to change the flow pattern to reduce erosion damage. Among fittings, the elbows are at a more serious risk. Numerical investigation of the present erosion with the novelty of research on non-spherical particles and changes in the impact angle of particles along with fluid flow using eight new proposed fittings, including two miter fittings, three blinded fittings, one reducer elbow fitting, and two spherical elbows fittings in comparison with the standard 90° elbow was controlled. The numerical simulation of the gas-solid two-phase flow of non-spherical particles was studied using the Euler-Lagrange approach. To carry out the study numerical, first, the gas flow was modeled by the Navier-Stokes equations and the turbulent Reynolds stress model, and then the solid particles were injected using Newton's equation. Finally, the erosion was calculated using Grant and Tabakoff model of the restitution of particles of after hitting the wall and the erosion model of Oka. The amount of erosion caused by changes in the flow pattern was investigated to evaluate the performance of the new proposed fittings. Numerical results for the most critical mode (Vin = 27 m/s and DP = 300 μm) showed that the new proposed fittings increase the erosion resistance by 22.5 % to 39.6 % compared to the standard 90° elbow. Also, in this research, the effect of different parameters including flow velocity, particle diameter size, particle input rate, and particle rotation on erosion were investigated.