Numerical Modeling of turbidity currents with Ansys CFX and Telemac 3D

Abstract

Turbidity currents may be a relevant lever to manage the accumulation of fine sediments in reservoirs. In this paper, we propose to show how two different numerical codes simulate the propagation of turbidity currents. Telemac 3D and Ansys CFX 17.1 solver were chosen as they are commonly used by many research and engineering teams. The simulations are performed on two configurations. The first case aims at modeling the plunging of a turbidity current. The second model is validated based on an experimental work performed at EPFL. The latter consisted on testing turbidity current venting as a solution to manage reservoir sedimentation. A long and narrow flume was used to simulate the reservoir where a turbidity current was triggered. The advantages and limits of both approaches are discussed in order to supply guidelines for the modeling of turbidity currents in real reservoirs.

Toward an operational approach for the characterization and modelling of fine sediments dynamics in reservoirs

“…The different examples presented in this paper show that 1D, 2D or 3D numerical modelling can simulate accurately sediment transport (and in particular the evolution of sediment deposits) in reservoirs, for a wide range of processes and configurations. This paper described three examples of continuous moderate concentrations, recent works also show that Telemac3D simulate turbidity currents correctly [14]. It is therefore a powerful tool in order to devise and evaluate strategies for the management of the different issues associated with sediment transport in reservoirs.…”

A Comprehensive Review on Sediment Transport, Flow Dynamics, and Hazards in Steep Channels

“…Kadia et al (2020) studied numerical modeling considering high sediment content in a hydraulic turbine in two-phase flow, and wear prediction was also carried out. However, Jodeau et al (2018) carried out a numerical simulation based on turbidity currents using ANSYS CFX and Telemac 3D. They noticed that ANSYS CFX provided advanced tools for mesh generation and post-processing, allowing users to create detailed models for the channel geometry, and analyzed the results of the simulations.…”