Modeling of flows between two consecutive reverse curves

The objective of this paper is to model the behavior of secondary flows between two successive and reverse curves. The influence of different hydraulic and geometric parameters on the secondary current damping was also analysed. A three-dimensional finite element model has been developed based on Navier-Stokes equations assuming fluid incompressibility and hydrostatic pressure. An eddy viscosity formulation based on the mixing length concept has been introduced to correctly reproduce velocity profiles of turbulent flows. To validate the numerical model, velocity measurements have been conducted in the laboratory using two identical 90 degrees curves separated by a straight reach. The predicted velocities have been compared with the experimental velocities measured at different channel sections. The validity of the numerical model formulation was confirmed by the laboratory work.