NUMERICAL STUDY OF THE WATER SURFACE MOVEMENT DURING A DAM BREAK ON A REAL TERRAIN OF THE TASOTKEL RESERVOIR, ZHAMBYL REGION, KAZAKHSTAN

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37943/25IQAH4178

Keywords:

numerical simulation, dam break, computational fluid dynamics, flooding, free surface, 3D terrain, Navier-Stokes equation, water resource, mathematical modelling

Abstract

This work presents a comprehensive numerical simulation of the dam-break process at the Tasotkel reservoir, located in real terrain conditions in the Zhambyl region. The study focuses on understanding how the released water mass propagates over complex topography and how terrain irregularities influence wave dynamics and inundation patterns. A Volume of Fluid method was employed to model the free‐surface evolution of dam-break flows and their subsequent impact on flooding within the downstream valley. This approach allows accurate tracking of interface deformation and the movement of water over uneven ground. To validate the numerical model and ensure the reliability of the applied methodology, a set of controlled dam break simulations was carried out. These include dam-break tests in a channel with a trapezoidal recess and scenarios in an inclined channel. The outcomes of these simulations were compared against known reference data, demonstrating strong agreement and confirming the capability and accuracy of the proposed computational approach. The results reveal that the developed numerical model captures key flow features, such as wave arrival time, flow depths, and velocity variations over different terrain structures. The outcomes confirm that the method can be effectively used for high-precision and efficient assessment of dam-break consequences, including inundation zones and possible risks to downstream infrastructure or settlements. The main objective of this study is to provide a robust numerical framework for analyzing floods and inundation processes caused by dam failures on realistic three-dimensional terrain. The developed tool contributes to improved risk analysis, emergency planning, and safety assessment of hydraulic structures.

Author Biographies

Yeldos Zhandaulet, Astana IT University

Master’s degree, Senior Lecturer, School of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

Daulet Abilkairov, KazWater-IsDB

MBA, Head of the Project Management Unit

Alexandr Neftissov, Astana IT University

PhD, Associate Professor, Researcher, Scientific-Innovation Center Industry 4.0

PhD, Associate Professor, Rectorate for Science and Innovation, Academy of Physical Education and Mass Sports, Kazakhstan

 

Ilyas Kazambayev, Astana IT University

Master’s degree, Acting Director of Scientific-Innovation Center Industry 4.0

Marat Bayandin, International Taraz University named after Sherkhan Murtaza

Doctor of Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Economics and Management

Lalita Kirichenko, Astana IT University

PhD student, Junior Researcher of Scientific-Innovation Center Industry 4.0

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Published

2026-03-30

How to Cite

Zhandaulet, Y., Abilkairov, D. ., Neftissov, A. ., Kazambayev, I. ., Bayandin, M. ., & Kirichenko, L. . (2026). NUMERICAL STUDY OF THE WATER SURFACE MOVEMENT DURING A DAM BREAK ON A REAL TERRAIN OF THE TASOTKEL RESERVOIR, ZHAMBYL REGION, KAZAKHSTAN. Scientific Journal of Astana IT University, 25. https://doi.org/10.37943/25IQAH4178

Issue

2026: Volume 25

Section

Information Technologies

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