Numerically Modelling 2D Swash Zone Flows: SMAC VS VOF

Abstract

In recent years, numerically modelling the swash-zone has proven a feasible approach in
unraveling the zone’s intricacies. Whilst many researchers have used and examined many
swash-zone numerical models, no specific research has examined the comparative
performance of the Simplified Marker and Cell (SMAC) method relative to the status quo; the
Volume of Fluid (VOF) method, in 2D applications of the zone. This study investigates the
performance of these numerical methods via comparative simulations of 2D dam-break swash
like flows across both models. The results show that an adapted Finite Difference (FD)- Finite
Volume (FV) discretization of the SMAC method with reductions in marker particles yields
smooth interfacial predictions and clear convergence with mesh refinement, while being less
computationally demanding than the VOF method for the test scenario. The study demonstrates
the suitability of the SMAC method for simulating swash zone flows and highlights its potential
for efficient and accurate 2D simulations.