Assessment of CFD Model Performance for Flows around a Hydraulic Structure of Complex Geometry

Abstract

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling has become a widely used research tool in the hydraulic engineering community, however, for many problems the numerical model setup and even the selection of the suitable hydrodynamic solver is still a challenging task. This is the case for fine scale analysis of flow features around hydraulic structures of complex geometry, where generation of the 3D grid, application of the correct turbulence modeling approach, or modeling of the free surface all require extensive experience and knowledge. The aim of this paper is to perform a numerical hydrodynamic experiment for a hydraulic structure with complex geometry to assess the model performance, in terms of grid resolution, grid refinement methods as well as turbulence modeling. The open source modeling environment of OpenFOAM is tested and validated against laboratory measurements, moreover, practical recommendations are made for future applications of the numerical solver.

Modelling and Numerical Simulation Approaches to the Stage–Discharge Relationships of the Lansheng Bridge

“…Due to the huge calculation time, the 3D hydraulic model is usually used in small areas. It is also often analyzed in areas with apparent vertical flow, such as density current flow, water conservancy facilities, and bridge pier scour [13]. Hu et al [14] evaluated the applicability of flow models with different spatial dimensions in hydraulic characterization solutions with parameters such as free liquid surface, water depth variation, and average velocity in dam breaks under wet and dry conditions, among others.…”