Experimental and Numerical Study at Parallel Open Channels Confluence

Flow near the confluence of two channels is complex and need investigation. The ratio of momentum of flow in the channels and confluent angle are important parameters affecting the flow structures and development of the mixing layers downstream of the confluence. Numerical modelling constitutes an essential tool for studying these complex flow phenomena. The main objective of this study is to investigate flow structure for different momentum in the channels. To achieve this, a Computational Fluid Dynamics model of the parallel open channel confluence was simulated with the help of ANSYS FLUENT and validated with an experimental study. 3D velocities were measured in the confluence region using Acoustic Doppler Velocimetry (ADV). These velocities were compared with the velocities obtained numerically and found to be in good agreement. Transverse development of the turbulent mixing layers in the post confluence region was affected by transverse distribution of the streamwise velocity.