This case is a 2D width-averaged simulation of a turbidity current located inside a flume. A time-dependent solution is used for the Navier-Stokes equations and the convection-diffusion equation for the sediment concentration. The maximum water velocity is around 1 m/s. The sediment concentration in the inflowing water is 13 volume %. The results from the numerial model correspond well with the measurements in a physical model.
Animation of the turbidity current seen as a longitudinal profile of the sediment concentration. The current is animated with 3 seconds between each picture. The part of the flume shown in the figure is 10 meters long.
Longitudinal profile showing velocity after 15 seconds.
Longitudinal profile showing sediment concentration after 15 seconds.
Longitudinal profile showing pressure (minus hydrostatic component) after 15 seconds.
Longitudinal profile showing eddy-viscosity after 15 seconds.
Longitudinal profile showing turbulent kinetic energy after 15 seconds.
Longitudinal profile showing vertical velocity after 15 seconds.
Olsen, N. R. B. and Tesaker, E. (1995) "Numerical and physical modeling of a turbidity current", IAHR 26th. Biennial Congress, London.
This page was last updated: 1. March 2010