The Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) technique opens a new landscape for mathematical processing which provides reliable results in the more extreme flows through hydraulic structures where many new hydraulic analysis can be explored.
In this case the bottom outlets of the dam are made up of two pipes that discharge into the still basin. The impact of the jets in the basin produces a swirl hampering the normal functioning of the structure, flooding a hydroelectric plant next to the dam. To solve this problem, we built a physical model 1:40 which was used to calibrate the SPH model. Jet impacts create depressions in the bottom of the basin so high that they have removed the basin concrete surface.
Thanks to the SPH simulations, solutions have been proposed such as the provision of a nozzle at the exit baffle of the outlet, to distribute the impact on the basin surface along the basin width and prevent the formation of eddies. SPH model has shown good results in representing swirl in the basin and pressure records of dam, and physical models present a very interesting agreement.
Roberto Marivela, Ph.D. 