openKARST: A novel open-source flow simulator for karst systems
openKARST (v0.2.0) is a Python-based code for flow simulations in complex karst conduit networks. It solves the transient dynamic wave equation using an iterative scheme and is optimized with an efficient vectorized structure. Transitions from free-surface to pressurized flows in smooth and rough circular conduits are realized via a Preissmann slot approach in combination with an implementation of the Darcy-Weisbach and Manning equations to compute friction losses. The dynamic switching from laminar to turbulent flows is modeled with a continuous Churchill formulation for the friction factor computation. openKARST supports common boundary conditions encountered in karst systems, as well as functionalities for network import, export and visualization.
Authors
- Jannes Kordilla (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4083-4491)
- Marco Dentz (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3940-282X)
- Juan J. Hidalgo (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3797-7088)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Computers & Geosciences
- Published
- 2025-10-20
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cageo.2025.106066
- Primary Topic
- Karst Systems and Hydrogeology
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00