Ice processes modeling during reverse water transfer of open canals: A case study

An artificial open canal was used to understand possible ice problems during reverse transfer in winter. A numerical ice-water modeling system using gates and pumps as inner boundaries has been established. A simplified equivalent transformation method for dealing with inner boundaries and a method for continuous simulation of the ice cover progression are presented in the modeling system. Using meteorological observation data and design conditions in the winter-to-spring period to calibrate the model, the water level and ice thickness along the canal have been simulated. The results indicate that the simulated results agree reasonably well with the limited measured data available at several different sites. As a case study, the validated model has been applied to the Jingmi diversion project to investigate ice characteristics, such as hydraulic control conditions and water conveyance during future ice cover formation, development, and melting stages. The results revealed that the safe regulation of reverse transfer can be ensured by controlling the Fr ahead of the ice boom. Ice thickness along the canals during reverse transfer is smaller than that under forward conditions. The maximum water level fluctuation during the ice forming stage is only 0.35 m. Finally, the beginning of December was proposed as the starting time for winter operation of the project.