A 2D numerical model using finite volume method for sediment transport in rivers

Abstract

[Abstract] The study of rivers as ecosystems has many fields of research, like the resolution and comprehension of flow and sediment transport phenomena. In this communication a 2D numerical model using the Finite Volume Method is presented, throughout a Fortran code including both hydrodynamic and morphological processes. Water depth and the two components of velocity are obtained in the hydrodynamic block. Then, the code enters the morphological block and evolution of bed surface due to erosion and deposition is estimated. A specific tolerance in morphological changes is introduced and, if exceeded, the numerical model turns to the hydrodynamic block to evaluate again the new conditions, and so on. The model is tested and validated with data from PIV and 3D Scanning Technologies in laboratory works at the Civil Engineering School and the CITEEC of the University of A Coruña, Spain.