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Towards a Problem-Oriented Library for the Computer Analysis of Stratified Flow Phenomena

<p> Flows in channels or estuaries may exhibit variations in density
arising· from differences in temperature, salinity or suspended solids.
In the absence of significant vertical mixing, stable, discrete layers
may form with distinct density interfaces. </p> <p> This thesis presents a computational approach for the analysis of
two-layer, vertically stratified, one-dimensional horizontal flows in
open channels. A variety of such problems are identified and a critical
survey of the existing literature is presented. A framework is defined
against which these problems are classified and decomposed into
analytical problems of the simplest possible scope. Based on the
conditions that lead to changes in flow characteristics, four research
areas are examined. These are energy balance, interfacial hydraulic
jump, lock exchange flows, and long transitions. Although restricted to
essentially one-dimensional flows, the analytical study of these four
areas is extended to allow for non-uniform velocity distribution the
introduction of boundary-layer displacement thicknesses and correction
factors for kinetic energy and momentum. Also, a significant feature of
the study is the ability to handle channels of arbitrary cross-sectional
geometry. </p> <p> The basic philosophy of the approach followed in this study is to
develop a relatively simple and computationally econaoical procedure
which is applicable to a wide variety of problems involving channels systems of arbitrary geometry and boundary conditions. A library of
computer subroutines provides a convenient means of developing an
open-ended system of computational techniques for the solution of a wide
range of problems. Such a library of computational algorithms may also
promote. cooperation and collaboration among researchers and engineers
concerned with stratified flow hydraulics. Such algorithms should
provide solutions for frequently recurring problems, should be mutually
compatible and allow the construction of relatively complex analytical
models in a modular fashion. A comprehensive library of routines is
developed which consists of fourty-four subroutines and functions. This
evolves as a well-defined hierarchy of algorithms in which the most
basic algorithms are nested within the more sophisticated ones to the
sixth or seventh level. </p> <p> The computational algorithms are tested for theoretical and computational performance. Numerical predictions are compared with
available experimental and field data. Moreover, an experimental
program is described which is designed and carried ·out to verify the
numerical predictions obtained for the first of the above-mentioned four
topics. </p> <p> An important aspect of the study is the illustration of the
application of the routines in the solution of typical practical
problems such as selective withdrawal from stratified water bodies and
recirculation of cooling water from power plants. In addition, to
facilitate utilization of the programs by others, complete documentation
and listings are provided. </p> / Thesis / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:mcmaster.ca/oai:macsphere.mcmaster.ca:11375/19806
Date07 1900
CreatorsElsayed, E.M.
ContributorsSmith, A.A., Civil Engineering
Source SetsMcMaster University
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish

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