Hydrodynamic Flow Modeling at Confluence of Two Streams

Abstract

A pseudo three-dimensional (3D), time-dependent hydrodynamic flow model is developed to simulate flood flows at the confluence of Buffalo and White Oak Bayous in Houston, Texas. This model solves Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations in a curvilinear coordinate system. A simplified moving-boundary algorithm was also incorporated in the model to determine the moving-fluid domain. The 3D velocity field and free-surface elevation at this interconnected bayou system were computed. Numerical simulations were conducted for both existing and proposed channel geometries. Evaluation of the velocity change due to the proposed channel improvements was studied. The effects of the bayou bathymetry and existing structures on the flow field are also discussed.