Date of Award:
5-2025
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Science (MS)
Department:
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Committee Chair(s)
Steven L. Barfuss
Committee
Steven L. Barfuss
Committee
Michael C. Johnson
Committee
James Bay
Abstract
Surface vortices at submerged intakes entrain air, convey debris, and reduce efficiency. This research investigates the effect of lid geometry on mitigation of surface vortices at submerged intakes in the context of still reservoirs. Six lid geometries were evaluated: three solid lids of increasing diameter, two lids with perforations, and one lid fitted with a downward curtain. Vortex severity was measured by Alden’s vortex type rating scale, surface-dimple diameter, and qualitative video analysis.
The perforated lid extension and the curtain configurations were most effective at mitigating vortices. The curtain configuration negated all surface swirling by redirecting a portion of the flow to the subsurface and spreading out streamlines, effectively thickening the shear layer. This introduced trade-offs including reduced discharge capacity, subsurface vortex formation, and potential sediment uptake. The perforated lid extension and curtain both forced streamline convergence which introduced turbulence, effectively weakening vortex strength.
Checksum
13213e6fa54640dd6a405b15d1b77886
Recommended Citation
Todd, Camren, "Surface Vortex Mitigation at Submerged Intakes" (2025). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Fall 2023 to Present. 490.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd2023/490
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