Vertex base unstructured finite volume solution of depth averaged turbulent tidal currents on 3D bed

Abstract

In the present paper, simulations of tidal currents in the Persian Gulf using depth average flow solver version of NASIR (Numerical Analyzer for Scientific and Industrial Requirements) software are verified. The hydrodynamic equations utilized in this work consist of depth integrated equations of continuity and motion in two dimensional horizontal planes (SWE). The effects of rainfall-evaporation are considered in the continuity equation and the effects of bed slope and friction, as well as the Coriolis effects are considered in two equations of motion. The vertex base finite volume method is applied for solving the governing equations on triangular unstructured meshes. Due to the complexity of the coastal boundaries and the existence of irregularly shaped islands, turbulent flow circulations may play an effective role in the formation of flow field parameters. Therefore, the effect of turbulent modelling on the accuracy of the depth averaged circulating flow simulation is investigated. The performance of the computer model to simulate tidal flow in the Persian Gulf domain is examined by imposing tidal fluctuations to the main flow boundary during a limited period of time. In addition, in order to illustrate the computed tidal flow characteristics in the Persian Gulf, an S2 tidal constituents chart is presented.