Review study and assessment for sedimentation models applied to impounding reservoirs

Abstract

Sedimentation of impounding reservoirs is a complex phenomenon and it is governed by many factors and these factors are related to river morphology and hydraulics, hydrology of the catchment, catchment characteristics and landuse. Sedimentation of a reservoir is important, because it may affect storage capacity, production of hydropower, navigation, water supply and turbine operation and dam safety. The monitoring of reservoir sedimentation can help to take the precautionary measures for effective maintenance. But, the lack in modern instrumentations, manpower and financial allocations are the main obstacles encountered to implement such monitoring plan. The advancement in mathematical modeling and computer technology can help to overcome these obstacles. There are many mathematical models used to predict the sedimentation in an impounding reservoir. The models can be divided to 1 Dimensional (ID), 2 Dimensional (2D) and 3 Dimensional (3D). In the present study, evaluation of these models is presented with special emphasis on ID model. The weakness and strength is highlighted and models with accurate prediction are recommended. © Medwell Journals, 2009.