Numerical unsteady flow model simulation during the sluice closure of Caruachi Dam

Caruachi Hydroelectric Project conforms together with Guri, Tocoma and, Macagua the Lower Caroni Hydroelectric Development. Second Stage of River Diversion at Caruachi included diverting the Caroni River through 18, 5.5 × 9m sluices in the spillway lower body that after being closed by gates permitted the reservoir filling. In order to define the precise timing for closure of the sluices and to program the reservoir filling, an Unsteady Flow Onedimensional Numerical model was set up based on the model FEQ. The mathematical model was validated under unsteady state conditions using field observations. This paper describes the different criteria used to program the sluice closure and reservoir filling, according to the requirements to ensure dam safety and stability during the filling, the criteria to meet the system energy supply, the numerical model set up, its calibration and operation during the sluice closure maneuvers and filling of the reservoir and, the model–prototype conformity obtained during these processes.