Three-dimensional structure of flow at a confluence of river channels withdiscordant beds

This paper presents three-dimensional data of the mean and turbulent struct ure of flow collected at a natural confluence of rivers with discordant bed s to (1) describe the three-dimensional flow field of a natural junction of channels; (2) assess the role of changes in bed morphology occurring durin g transport-effective events on the structure of flow at a confluence; and (3) examine how the three-dimensional structure of flow varies with changes in the ratio of momentum flux between the two confluent streams. Three-dim ensional measurements of velocity were reconstructed from the measurements obtained with an array of four, two-component electromagnetic current meter s. Six detailed velocity profiles were taken at five cross-sections in a wi de range of flow conditions. The mean field of flow is characterised by (1) the acceleration of flow in the downstream portion of the post-confluence channel, but by lower velocities upstream in the mixing layer area; (2) a s tagnation zone at the apex of the junction; (3) a zone of flow deviation, a nd strong fluid upwelling, close to the avalanche face and at the margin of the tributary mouth bar; and (4) reduced velocities over the depositional bar at the downstream junction corner. The position and extent of these zon es vary with changes in the ratio of momentum flux. Very high intensity of turbulence (peaks up to 50%) and turbulent kinetic energy were observed in the mixing layer region. Distortion of the mixing layer, characteristic of flow where bed discordance is present between the two tributary channels, w as evident from mean and turbulent flow data. This field study suggests tha t the effects of bed discordance on flow, sediment transport, and the resul tant bed morphology must be incorporated into conceptual and numeric models of these sites of complex flow. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.