Digital Flow in a Pool Induced by a Vertical Jet

Abstract

Turbulent water jets remain a critical study area, particularly the relation of the water flow with air entrainment and its role in energy dissipation at different hydraulic structures. Plunge pools, formed by the impact of jets on water cushions, play a pivotal role in energy dissipation. Understanding the complex flow dynamics within these pools is essential for designing efficient hydraulic structures. In this research, we present a comprehensive investigation of different numerical simulations, defining two-phase (air-water) in different ways, and them compare with experimental measurements. The primary objective is to analyze the pressure distribution at the bottom of a plunge pool induced by a vertical jet and understand the importance of accurately defining air-water flow in the dynamics of the jet into the pool. Our study bridges the gap between empirical data and computational modeling, shedding light on the intricate behavior of such flows with different method-based solvers: VOF, sub-grid, and multi-phase Euler. Various computational domains, mesh configurations, and analyses spanning different time periods, frequencies, and scales were considered.