Large-eddy simulation of the turbulent structure in compound open-channel flows

A large-eddy simulation study has been undertaken to investigate the turbulent structure of open-channel flow in an asymmetric compound channel. The dynamic sub-grid scale model has been employed in the model, with the partial cell treatment being implemented using a Cartesian grid structure to deal with the floodplain. The numerical model was used to predict the: primary velocity and secondary currents, boundary shear stress, turbulence intensities, turbulent kinetic energy, and Reynolds stresses. These parameters were compared with experimental measurements published in the literature, with relatively close agreement being obtained between both sets of results. Furthermore, instantaneous flow fields and large-scale vortical structures were predicted and are presented herein. These vortical structures were found to be responsible for the significant lateral exchange of mass and momentum in compound channels.

► A LES with dynamic SGS model has been applied to compound open-channel flows.
► Mean flow and turbulence statistics are studied and compared with experimental data.
► The instantaneous flow fields and large-scale vortical structures are presented.
► The lateral exchange of mass and momentum are caused by the vortical structures.