Water Supply (Jul 2024)
Numerical study of the effects of vegetation stem thickness on the flow characteristics of curved channels
Abstract
A curved channel is a common flow form in nature, often hosting aquatic vegetation along rivers. The stem thickness of this vegetation affects its resistance to flow and subsequently influences flow characteristics. To explore the impact of stem thickness on river flow in curved channels, we developed a Reynolds stress model based on real river flow conditions and vegetation data. The flow characteristics were analyzed in terms of flow velocity, Reynolds stress and turbulence intensity by varying the stem thickness of the vegetation in the vegetated area. The results of the study reveal that: (1) Water velocity in the vegetated area is significantly reduced compared to the non-vegetated area, with a greater reduction observed for thicker stems. Increasing the vegetation diameter by 3 mm resulted in a velocity decrease of 2.31–26.55%. (2) Thicker vegetation stems lead to more intense energy exchange in water flow. A 3 mm increase in vegetation diameter increased Reynolds stress by 91.81–139.70%. (3) Turbulent kinetic energy in the vegetated area is significantly higher than in the non-vegetated area, with greater turbulence intensity observed for thicker vegetation stems. Increasing the vegetation diameter by 3 mm resulted in a turbulent kinetic energy increase of 115.19–218.55%. HIGHLIGHTS Less research has been done on the effect of vegetation stem thickness on water flow in curved channels.; The feasibility of studying the flow characteristics of curved river channels through simulation is verified.; Analysis of sedimentation by comparing concave and convex shores.; The results can guide the construction of river channels and the design of aquatic systems.; It can provide relevant data for the subsequent research on the influence of vegetation stem coarseness on water flow characteristics.;
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