Project ID: 2006KY60B
Title: Feasibility of using 3D CFD Models in Simulating Hydrodynamics in Dam Design/Rehabilitation
Project Type: Research
Start Date: 03/01/2006
End Date: 02/28/2007
Congressional District: KY 6th
Focus Categories: Hydrology, Model, Methods
Keywords: computational fluid dynamics, numerical modeling, dam design
Principal Investigator: Yost, Scott
Federal Funds: $5,000
Non-Federal Matching Funds: $10,182
Abstract: This work is a feasibility study using advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models to simulate the hydrodynamics of flow around structures. This approach is a much less expensive alternative to traditional methods of analysis using physical models. Ensuring new structures perform consistently with the old structure will help provide continuity in regulation, oversight and operation. Using an existing dam structure on the Kentucky River, a 3D computational mesh will be generated by using GAMBIT or TGrid grid generator. Local modification of grids will be made in FLUENT to adequately represent the geometry near the dam site and improve numerical accuracy. The 3D hydrodynamics will be simulated with FLUENT 6.0 and used to generate water surface elevation - discharge relationships. Preliminary calibration procedures will be investigated.
Progress/Completion Report, PDF