ABSTRACT
Due to turbulence reduction to wavelike motion, curvilinear flow paths could affect turbulence damping in bends. Recently, sophisticated velocimetry equipment facilitated observation of this bend-induced phenomenon. In this paper, two consecutive 180° open channel bends (part of an elliptical fish larvae habitat flume) were investigated experimentally. Three velocity components were measured using an Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter (ADV); the patterns of stream-wise mean velocity, mean flow and turbulent kinetic energy, Flux Richardson number and frequency of displaced fluid are presented. Based on the results of this paper and further investigations it should be analyzed whether in addition to the normal pattern and redistribution of the velocity profiles in bends, the straight reach which connects two consecutive bends also affects the flow features and characteristics. The results might be advantageous for further morphological investigations and river training practices.
