Effect of combined water-jet inlets on the hydrodynamic performances in square arc-corner aquaculture tanks

To enhance the energy utilization and waste collection efficiency in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), this study investigates the hydrodynamic performance of a square arc-corner aquaculture tank using various combined water-jet inlets. An experimental verification system was developed for the recirculating aquaculture tank (RAT) to validate the accuracy of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. This was achieved by comparing flow velocities at various monitoring points. A comprehensive analysis of the tank's hydrodynamic performance was conducted, encompassing velocity distribution, vorticity strength, flow uniformity index, resistance coefficient, Froude number, energy utilization efficiency, and particle removal rate. The results clearly showed that incorporating combined water-jet inlets greatly improved the hydrodynamic performance of the tank compared to traditional one-way inflow patterns. The combined injection method ensured a more uniform flow velocity both longitudinally and radially throughout the RAT, effectively reducing the concentration of water flow in a single direction. Additionally, the tangential injection of water flow along the tank wall promoted a more even flow rate, enhancing water mixing and maintaining a homogeneous distribution of dissolved oxygen. By arranging and spacing the injection holes appropriately, the fluidity and mixing of water were enhanced, leading to increased energy utilization and improved efficiency in pollutant collection.