Browsing by Author "Surajpal, Tarryn"

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    Near-field dispersion modelling of discharged effluents under various hydrodynamic conditions.
    (2022-11) Surajpal, Tarryn; Diedericks, Gerhardus; Smit, Francois; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Science. Dept. of Mathematical Sciences. Applied Mathematics Division.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The discharging of effluent into the ocean cannot be done without prior consideration of the effects of the effluent on the surrounding marine environment. Particularly, the effects of salinity and temperature changes are considered. Near-field and far-field models are designed to capture the spreading and recirculation of discharge plumes at various mixing stages. Near-field models vary in complexity from empirical models to highly advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models. The capabilities of a CFD model is explored in this study, by making use of a selected CFD model. Specifically, the ability of the selected (near-field) CFD model to include far-field hydrodynamics is considered. It is found that whilst the CFD model is able to simulate a range of scenarios, in great detail, and capture the far-field hydrodynamics pertaining to the velocity of ambient seawater, the CFD model requires a trained user to design and carry out simulations. It is also found that situations to be simulated should be accompanied by a comprehensive sensitivity analysis. Furthermore, simulations are accompanied by high computational time. It is established that far-field hydrodynamics can be included in the CFD model to some degree. Depending on the required outcomes expected of a simulation (hydrodynamic detail and/or mean discharge dispersion values), CFD models may be considered.