Center Sluice Investigation, Libby Dam, Kootenai River, Montana: Hydraulic Model Investigation

Abstract

Source: https://erdc-library.erdc.dren.mil/jspui/The model study of the center sluice, Libby Dam, was conducted to determine the causes of and to develop means for preventing the cavitation damage experienced in the sluices. The study was conducted in a 1:20- scale model of the center sluice which reproduced the "as-built" geometry of the bell-mouthed intake, emergency gate slot, regulating gate and gate well, and parabolic trajectory of the sluiceway. The model helped to define undesirable hydraulic conditions that have caused cavitation damage in the prototype structure. Through the use of the model, an aeration device was developed to ventilate the jet and prevent cavitation damage. The recommended aerator (type 7) provided a high degree of aeration without adversely altering flow conditions in the sluice. A certain roof modification was suggested to prevent unstable flow and cavitation damage in the sluice intake