Numerical simulation of free surface flows on a fish bypass

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed to better understand the complex flow field inside a free surface fish bypass constructed at Rocky Reach Dam. This facility consists of two identical parallel channels, with fish screens on the side walls of each channel, and a pump station recirculating 96% of incoming flows into the forebay. The model is based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations, with a standard κ–ε turbulence model. The volume of fluid (VOF) method is used to predict free surface elevations. A proportional controller is implemented in the model to achieve a target flow rate at the pump exits. The pressure drop in the fish screens is modeled using porous media. Quantitative validation and visualization of the flow field characteristics indicate that CFD modeling may be a useful tool for fish passage design.