Author(s): Tapas Pradhan; Sabal Bista; Vesselina Roussinova; Ram Balachandar

Linked Author(s):

Keywords: Spur dike; Numerical simulation; Reynolds stress model; Horseshoe vortex; Bed shear stress

Abstract: A comprehensive understanding of flow patterns around spur dikes is essential for predicting erosion and deposition process. In the current study, numerical simulations were carried out to compare the flow characteristics around straight and T-head dikes using the unsteady Reynolds Stress Model (RSM). After determining the optimal mesh resolution, the simulation results were validated against experimental data, demonstrating that the RSM accurately captures the flow pattern around the dikes. The results of the present study show a decrease in streamwise velocity and turbulent kinetic energy for the T-head dike compared to the straight dike. The horseshoe vortex in front of the T-head dike was significantly weaker than in the case of the straight dike due to the horizontal recirculation upstream of the T-head dike. Furthermore, the bed shear stress was found to be lower for the T-head dike compared to the straight dike, suggesting reduced potential for scour.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/978-90-835589-7-4_41WC-P1627-cd

Year: 2025