Effects of Submergence Ratio and Undersurface Roughness on Flow Separation Beneath Simulated Ice Covers

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The operation of hydraulic systems of many hydro companies across Canada are directly affected by river ice processes for approximately 6 months each year. One of the net effects of these complex river ice processes is a decrease in conveyance and operational efficiency of hydraulic systems at a time that coincides with the peak annual energy demand, resulting in lost generation revenue and exposure to varying levels of operational risk. These processes will likely increase in complexity and severity with climate change, necessitating the need for developing accurate numerical models. In close collaboration with Manitoba Hydro, researchers at University of Manitoba will experimentally investigate how changes in hydraulic conditions affect the unsteady flow characteristics and turbulent transport processes beneath ice covers. The experiments will be performed using a state-of-the-art particle image velocimetry in a recirculating open water channel. The research will advance the scientific knowledge of turbulent flow separation beneath simulated ice covers of varying submergence ratio and undersurface roughness, and provide comprehensive datasets that will enable researchers in the hydraulic research community to develop and validate reliable numerical models for predicting complex turbulent flow beneath ice covers. These numerical models will enable hydraulic engineers to reliably predict flow resistance and discharge, and their potential impact on formation of ice jam, flooding, sediment transport and erosion of river beds.