Numerical Investigation of Fluid Flow Characteristics Around Slide Gates Using Multi-Zonal Method

One method of solving the governing equations of fluid flow about complex geometries is to use multi-zonal method. In this method the overall domain is divided into small number of simpler domains. In each zone, the flow field is solved independently of other zones. The boundary conditions for connecting zones are enforced to convey the necessary linkage. This multi – zonal procedure has been applied into a finite- volume body – fitted code. This code employs collocated variable arrangement and Cartesian velocity components. The accuracy of the method was also established by comparing the calculated results with the numerical and experimental results available in the open literature of cavity flow and flow over a backward – facing step. The flow field around Alavian sliding gate is investigated using the present method. The velocity vectors, streamlines and pressure contours are plotted for various opening ratios of the gate. The drag forces induced due to the pressure field around the gate were calculated and compared with the experimental data.