LES and PANS simulations of turbulent dam-break flow: Potential – kinetic energy interactions and flow features

The dam-break problem is a classical benchmark case for studying fluid dynamics aspects of flood management, coastal protection system and wave-energy conversion. The flow is initiated by a sudden release of water from a reservoir. The potential energy of the water in the reservoir is converted into kinetic energy as the water column collapses under the influence of gravity. The air-water interface deforms as the wavefront propagates downstream. The rushing waters exert force on any structures or obstacles along its path. Turbulence is generated during the potential-kinetic energy conversion initially and from shear at later times. We perform large eddy simulations (LES) and partially averaged Navier Stokes (PANS) simulations to investigate various aspects of the dam-break flow. By analyzing the flow patterns, pressure distribution, and forces acting on the dam and surrounding structures, we gain valuable insights into the underlying physics. This understanding can lead to reduced-order models of practical utility.