Investigation of venting turbidity currents in the Rudbar-Lorestan reservoir in Iran

Venting of turbidity currents is known as an efficient measure to prevent reservoir sedimentation and is applied in many reservoirs globally. It has several economic and ecological advantages compared with other evacuation methods. In the literature, numerous researchers mentioned the importance of venting, but mostly qualitatively. Given the complexity of the phenomenon and the presence of many parameters affecting the efficiency of venting, case studies offer good insight into solutions for specific reservoirs where there is a high probability of occurrence of turbidity currents. In the present study, the efficiency of venting turbidity currents is investigated for Lorestan Reservoir in Iran. For that purpose, 3D numerical simulations of turbidity currents over 11 km and venting operation are performed using ANSYS Inc. software. The results of the present research allow to optimize venting operations in the Lorestan Reservoir and reservoirs having similar general characteristics. Recommendations are drawn on outlet opening timing and discharge allowing to vent the greater amount of sediments while minimizing the water release.