Andrew Muir
BC Hydro decided to install a low-level outlet (LLO) at the Strathcona Dam (which impounds Upper Campbell Lake reservoir) with the capacity to (1) draw down Upper Campbell Lake following a seismic event or related dam safety emergency and (2) supplement the refurbished spillway in passing the design flood. The project comprised conceptual, feasibility, preliminary and detailed design. This paper focusses on the hydraulic design, and particularly how the issue of vortex activity upstream of the intake was identified and resolved.
During early design stages, empirical formula and CFD analysis suggested the potential for vortex formation at high flows. Adjustments in the approach channel were made based on testing with CFD. The design was tested using physical modeling, which found strong & persistent vortices forming at frequent (potentially operational) flows. A rigorous process of testing approach channel and inlet configurations followed, using CFD modelling. The proposed solution was retested in a new expanded physical model, resulting in far more favourable conditions.
The paper concludes by summarizing the lessons learned in vortex prevention using CFD analysis and physical modelling.
$15.00
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