Numerical Modeling Investigations of Hydraulic Jump Characteristics over a Chute Spillway

A chute spillway is a hydraulic structure designed to convey water from a higher level to a lower level with a steep slope, typically used in dam structures. Flow enters through the inlet at a higher level and passes down the lined channel to outlet at the floor level. As water flows down the chute spillway, it gains kinetic energy attaining super critical velocity creating a hydraulic jump at the foot of the chute. In this study, a hydraulic jump forming in the chute spillway, with an expanding stilling basin, chute blocks, floor blocks and end sill, is simulated using SST K-omega turbulence model. Characteristics and energy dissipation of hydraulic jump are investigated by means of simulations using the finite element method. Free surface of the flow is determined by the volume of fluid method. Effects of different mesh sizes are compared. Velocities and subsequent depths are obtained.