Underflow of standard sluice gate

Abstract

 Gate flow is known to be subjected by scale effects. This experimental project adds to the understanding of effects of viscosity and surface tension. Minimum gate openings as a function of channel width are presented for water flow such that the Froude similarity law applies. Also, the upstream extension of the so-called Reynolds ridge is determined.

Further, results are provided to the pressure distributions on the channel bottom and the gate for inviscid flow conditions. The velocity distribution in the gate vicinity is also described. Then, the height and position of shock waves downstream of the gate section are determined. The corner vortices due to stagnation flow are investigated and means of reduction are evaluated. A novel anti-vortex element is described that reduces shock waves to about 50% as compared to untreated gate flow. The device can be simply added to existing gates.