Analysis of the hydraulic effects associated to the location of an inflatable rubber weir over a spillway profile through experimental and numerical (CFD) model

Abstract

The ease of rubber weirs to adapt themselves to different flow conditions makes them interesting for placement over spillway profiles, allowing to increase the stored volume in ordinary operation without compromising the dam’s response in case of flooding. The objective of this study is to analyze the effect of locating an inflatable weir over a spillway profile in what regards its hydraulic response. With this purpose, an experimental and a numerical CFD model of a WES original spillway profile are developed, to then include an EPDM weir whose effect is analyzed for different inflation levels. Numerical and experimental results are close and highlight significant variations in the pressure distribution along the spillway, with aeration playing a significant role. This study concludes that the placement of this particular inflatable weir has an overall positive result if conveniently undertaken, but additional studies with different geometries are required to delve in the topic.

Keywords

• compuerta inflable
• aliviadero
• CFD
• modelación experimental
• aireación bajo chorro