We are excited to announce the release of openKARST, a Python-based open-source code developed for modeling transient flow in karst conduit networks. The code is introduced in our new preprint, currently under revision at Computers & Geosciences, and available on arXiv:
https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.22320
Karst systems pose unique challenges due to their highly dynamic flow regimes and complex geometry – transitions between free-surface and pressurized flow, as well as laminar and turbulent conditions, often occur simultaneously across a network. openKARST addresses these complexities by solving the Saint-Venant (dynamic wave) equations using an efficient, fully vectorized iterative scheme.
Key features of openKARST include:
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Dynamic free-surface and pressurized flows in circular conduits and complex karst networks
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Support for both Darcy-Weisbach and Manning friction formulations
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A continuous Churchill friction factor formulation to ensure smooth transitions from laminar to turbulent flow
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Common boundary conditions for karst settings
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Tools for network import, export, and visualization
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Verification against analytical solutions and validation with lab experiments
- Manual and examples to use the code
We demonstrate the capabilities of the code with a simulation of a synthetic recharge event in Mexico’s Ox Bel Ha, one of the world’s largest mapped karst networks. We hope openKARST provides new modeling opportunities for researchers and practitioners in hydrogeology, environmental engineering, and beyond. The code is freely available (currently only on Zenodo, link available in the arXiv paper), and we welcome contributions and feedback from the community.
Check out the preprint and explore the code – help us improve and grow the openKARST project!