Transverse Dispersion Caused by Secondary Flow in Curved Channels

A new theoretical equation is proposed to describe the streamwise variations of the transverse velocity along a curved channel with a constant curvature. Furthermore, based on this theoretical equation for the transverse velocity, a new equation for the transverse dispersion coefficient is developed to incorporate the effect of the secondary flow on the transverse dispersion in curved channels. The new equations for the transverse velocity and dispersion coefficient are verified with experimental data sets that were obtained from laboratory experiments conducted in two different channels. The results show that the proposed velocity equation properly describes the streamwise variations of the secondary flow developed in the curved channels. The reach-averaged values of the transverse dispersion coefficient calculated by the new equation are in relatively good agreement with the observed values from the laboratory channels. Sensitivity analysis reveals that both the secondary flow and the transverse dispersion coefficient are proportional to the roughness factor, and in inverse proportion to the aspect ratio of the channel.