Pushing The Limits Of Tangential Vortex Intakes: Is Higher Capacity And Flow Measurement Possible In A Smaller Footprint?

The Tideway project is deep tunnel system for CSO control in London, UK featuring 22 tangential vortex drops conveying flows from the existing network to the tunnel. The vortex intake designs are required to provide flow measurement and high capacity in highly constrained arrangements. Tideway vortex designs build on guidance from earlier publications to develop new standards meeting specific project objectives. Key findings from Tideway’s research and analysis are presented through a number of case studies including one dimensional calculations, CFD modelling and physical modelling. Results demonstrate that the Tideway vortex intake designs achieve their key performance objectives of flow measurement and operationally robust performance in small footprints, defining new design standards and proving the expanded capabilities of tangential vortex drops. The work identifies strengths, best practice and limitations in analytical methods, along with areas for future research to refine vortex intake design techniques and analysis.