Abstract: Standard κ-ε turbulence model, VOF model and Eulerian model were employed to simulate the three dimensional hydraulic characteristics of aerator in sluice tunnel. Free water surface, hydraulic characteristics and cavity characteristics on the aerator, as well as aerated air concentration along the centerline of the bottom of the channel behind the aerator were obtained. Results reveal that the VOF model and Eulerian model can be used to simulate the hydraulic characteristics of aerator and the cavity shape of aeration. In general, Eulerian model is more precise than VOF in simulating the aerator of sluice tunnel. Numerical simulation could improve the efficiency of project design and save cost, and provide guidance for model test. Also the simulation results could be taken as the basis to improve and perfect the model test. The numerical method and research result is a reference for similar engineering.

Key words: Eulerian model, VOF model, step aerator, cavity shape of aeration