Detailed Research on the Turbulent Kinetic Energy’s Distribution in Fishways in Reference to the Bolt Fishway

Abstract

Turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and its distribution and volume remain—with the exception of flow velocity—the most important cause of the low efficiency of fish passes. Thus, it is important to define the reasons and mechanisms that explain the distribution of characteristic features of this parameter, as presented in the paper. This publication presents the spatial distribution of TKE for two models of bolt-type fishways. The paper shows details related to characteristic features of TKE distribution and intensity scale in a bolt fishway. The presented research results for the bolt fishway were obtained from laboratory tests using a physical model. Measurements were taken of three temporary components of flow velocity in the indicated measurement sections. It was established that differences in the TKE volume and distribution are a consequence of the state of the stream that leaves the slot’s section or the orifice’s section. This state is defined by the determination of the stream’s potential. A low potential results in high TKE values in the area of the main flow. Thus, considering various structural features of fish passes, one can assert that the potential remains a characteristic feature attributable to a particular type of facility.