3D CFD modelling of overflow dredging plumes

3D CFD simulations, lab experiments and field measurements are used to get more understanding of the turbulent near field overflow dredging plume mixing. The focus has been on the most often used dredging vessel: a trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD). Near field overflow dredging plume mixing is important because it determines the far field dredging plume characteristics and deposition which are essential to know in order to be able to assess the environmental impact of a dredging project. The most important near field mixing processes have been identified in this study. The insights are translated to be usable in every day dredging engineering practise and used in the IMPROVE (IMPact Reducing OVerflow Extension) concept to reduce the environmental impact.