Spatial variation of mean flow and turbulence characteristics within channel contraction–an experimental approach

The influence of three different channel contractions on the mean flow and turbulent characteristics has been measured experimentally in a recirculating flume. The velocity deficit, turbulence intensity, Reynolds stress, and turbulence scales data within the channel contractions were obtained from three-dimensional velocity fluctuations measurements using Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter. The mean flow profile shows undulation towards the free surface for all the contraction ratios, indicating the presence of the velocity-dip phenomenon due to the secondary currents. These currents changed the pattern of turbulence intensities and Reynolds shear stresses significantly within the channel contraction compared to the without contraction case. The results reveal that with the increase of channel contraction ratio, the strength of the secondary current increased considerably and resulted in a significant change in flow patterns close to the free surface compared to the bottom. The length scales of turbulent flow indicate eddy sizes in different ranges to be smaller at near-bed region within the contraction zone due to the breakdown of larger eddies.