MODEL-PROTOTYPE COMPARISION OF FREE SURFACE VORTICES

Abstract

A Comparison between model and prototype observations of vortex intensity is used to investigate potential scale effects of modeling free surface vortices. Due to the inherent difficulty with field observations, a reasonably large number of such comparisons are needed prior to reaching conclusions. To this end, a survey of available model-prototype data is made and presented in summary form for a variety of intake types. Based on this comparison summary, and referring to previously published research on this subject, some scale effects may exist when modeling air core vortices, and some increase in model flow may compensate for such effects. Little or no scale effect is evident for weak vortices or dimples. Recommendations are made for conducting model tests.