Effect of T-shaped spur dike length on mean flow characteristics along a 180-degree sharp bend

Abstract

An open channel flume with a central 180-degree bend with a rigid bed is designed to obtain a better understanding of the complex flow pattern around a T-shaped spur dike located in a sharp bend. The 3-dimensional velocities are measured by using an acoustic Doppler velocimetry under clear-water conditions. This study's primary objective is to compare variations of the mean flow pattern along a 180-degree bend with a variety of T-shaped spur dike lengths. In order to do so, parameters such as streamlines, the maximum velocity distribution, and the secondary flow strength under the influence of three T-shaped spur dike lengths will be analyzed and then compared with the case where no spur dikes are implemented. The results show that with the spur dike placed at the bend apex, the mean secondary flow strength at that range increases by approximately 2.5 times. In addition, a 67% increase in the length of the wing and web of the spur dike leads to a 27% growth in the mean secondary flow strength along the bend.