Assessing the pressure variation in the plunge pool of Yusufeli dam

In dam engineering, plunge pools are critical terminal structures, often causing substantial scour that poses risks at the foot of the dam. Scouring near dams is a nationwide concern, as it has led to more dam failures than any other cause. Thus, evaluating hydrodynamic pressures from impinging jets is crucial for pool floor stability design. This study utilised physical models, experimental facilities and computational fluid dynamics models to assess hydrodynamic pressures at Yusufeli dam. Results indicate that Flow-3D analysis and empirical equations yield similar pressure readings on the bottom of the plunge pool, one-third of the free fall pressures of the physical model. The physical studies using Froude similitude revealed drastically lower Reynolds numbers compared to prototype flows, affecting turbulence and air entrance simulation. Consequently, model-scale resistance issues dominate physical model calculations, introducing uncertainty. This study underscores the importance of carefully assessing hydrodynamic pressures on plunge pool floors, as modelling approaches significantly impact results. Findings from this study can enhance plunge pool design and stability in dam engineering, promoting safer structures.