3-dimensional finite volume ocean coastal modelling of the Grand Passage
LE3 .A278 2014
2014
Karsten, Richard
Acadia University
Bachelor of Science
Honours
Physics
The optimal design and placement of tidal turbines requires a careful and accurate characterization of the tidal ow at the site. But, direct measurements of tidal ow at a site are limited by the cost and time available to collect data. Thus, a full site assessment relies on numerical modelling to develop an understanding of the site's long-term potential and provide ow characteristics necessary for turbine design. Fully 3D CFD models are computationally expensive and thus impractical for long term studies. Simplifying the complexity of the models increases the timescales that can be practically simulated, but then raises questions of the validity of the results. In this study, a hydrostatic, coastal-ocean model (FVCOM) was used to analyze possible tidal energy sites in Grand Passage. The 3D model simulations are vali- dated against data collected by acoustic doppler current pro lers and previous 2D simulations. Model parameters were varied to analyze the e ect on the shape of the vertical pro les. The 3D simulations are used to characterize the vertical pro les, in particular identifying regions of reverse shear. Bathymetric features are linked to these reverse shear regions as well as streamwise ow characteristics. The simulations are also used to examine the structure and propagation of large eddies that create large uctuations in the ow. In conclusion locations with strong ow and low levels of eddy activity are identi ed for possible turbine deployment.
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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:1168