Modelación numérica (CFD) del lavado de sedimentos en el embalse de la presa Toachi. Programa FLOW-3D

Abstract

This dissertation project has as a main objective to study the reservoir sediment management through the “Flushing” process in the Toachi Dam reservoir, applying tridimensional numerical modeling for fluid dynamics.

The numerical model is solved by using the CFD FLOW-3D commercial code and it is based on the physical model developed by the Escuela Politécnica Nacional, for the Toachi-Pilatón hydroelectric project. From the physical model results, the numerical model was calibrated on its hydraulic parameters and sediment scour process according to the “Flushing” test data. The results of this project define a methodology for numerical modelling of dam reservoirs with similar characteristics, so that could be replicated and used for practical purposes. Most relevant variables in the modelling process are analyzed. General parameters are also defined for the flushing process according to the sediment flushed rate obtained, and a maintenance operation plan is proposed. Empirical methods and the results of the numerical modeling are compared, as a final part of this document, complementary studies focused on improving the understanding of this hydraulic phenomena are proposed.