An Analysis of Deep Submerged Multiple-Port Buoyant Discharges

The results of an experimental study of deep submerged multiple-port thermal discharges are compared to the predictions of a theory treating the dilution of merging multiple-port buoyant jets discharge from a row of equally spaced ports. The paper summarizes the considerable alteration of the Hirst [11] model necessary to adequately treat merging multiple jets. The essential features of the analysis are: (1) the gradual transition of the profiles from simple axisymmetric profiles to merging profiles and finally to fully merged, pseudo-slot, two-dimensional profiles, and (2) an entrainment based on the available entrainment surface. Results indicate that the overprediction of plume characteristics associated with certain other models as compared to experimental data may be overcome using such an analysis and that suitable prediction may be obtained.