Velocity distributions within an undular hydraulic jump

Abstract

The investigation of undular hydraulic jumps is a relatively new field of study. The phenomenon is characterised by three-dimensional flow patterns, non-hydrostatic pressures and cross channel shock waves. To date, few detailed studies of the velocity profiles have been undertaken. The aim of this project was to give some insight into the flow regime by measuring and analysing velocity profiles on the centre-line of the jump. It was discovered that the velocity profiles followed the accepted theories of turbulent boundary layer flow with respect to the law of the wall and Coles' law of the wake. Many similarities were found between the wake term for this work and other recorded studies of flows with high longitudinal pressure gradients.