Mean flow and turbulence variation due to invert abrasion

Abstract

Due to high bedload sediment transport, many sediment bypass tunnels (SBT) are prone to severe invert abrasion. However, there is little information about the flow characteristics in SBTs after invert abrasion initiated and progresses with time. In the present study, laboratory flume experiments were performed to investigate how the hydraulic conditions change after abrasion patterns developed on the invert. A typical invert abrasion pattern was produced using 3D-printing technique and implemented in the laboratory flume. Flow depths were measured to compare the initial with the abraded state. Furthermore, turbulence measurements using 2D-laser Doppler anemometry technique were performed to obtain the mean and turbulence flow characteristics. This paper describes results of these measurements focusing on the streamwise and vertical flow velocities, turbulence intensities and Reynolds shear stress.