Flow patterns in an open channel confluence with a small ratio of main channel to tributary discharge

摘要

Although many parameters are known to influence the flow patterns at an open-channel confluence, key variables are the junction angle and the discharge ratio. In literature, there are indications that small discharge ratios lead to a distinct flow behaviour, yet knowledge about the underlying processes is scarce. Therefore, this study aims at exploring the time-averaged flow patterns in a 90°-confluence with concordant, non-movable bed, when tributary discharge largely exceeds the main channel discharge, i.e. with a small ratio of main channel to tributary incoming discharge.