Simulation of Scour at Bridge Supports

Abstract

Groups of piers are used on bridges to minimise scour around bridge supports. The prediction of scour around piers due to interaction of vortices around bridge piers is more complex compared to scour prediction around a single pier. Four arrangements of bridge piers with different spaces in the lateral and longitudinal directions are investigated under clear water conditions to observe scour generation around bridge foundations. The experimental study is performed in a rectangular open channel. A 3D numerical study based on fluid dynamics is also conducted. Results show that different pier group arrangements produce smaller scour holes than a single pier.