i

Title
Title of your Project:
Modelling the scour around bridges in
Trinidad

Project/Assignment
Interim report

Course Code & Title

CVNG 3015/3021
SPECIAL INVESTIGATIVE PROJECT

Supervisor: professor Hazi Azamathulla

Assistant supervisor: Mr. Prashant Birbal

Prepared By:
Name: Jonathan Ali

ID Number: 816011130

Signature:

Date Submitted: 24/12/24

Contents
Introduction..................................................................................................................................1
Background...............................................................................................................................1
Research question:...................................................................................................................2
Hypothesis:...............................................................................................................................2
Aim:...........................................................................................................................................2
Objectives:................................................................................................................................2
Scope:.......................................................................................................................................2
Assumptions:............................................................................................................................3
Limitations:...............................................................................................................................3
Literature review..........................................................................................................................4
Methodology..............................................................................................................................10
1. Site Selection......................................................................................................................10
2. Instrumentation and Equipment........................................................................................10
3. Data Collection Protocols...................................................................................................10
4. Environmental Conditions.....................................................................................10
5. Data Analysis......................................................................................................................11
6. Reporting and Documentation...........................................................................................11
Research outcomes....................................................................................................................11
Reference..................................................................................................................................12
Appendix.....................................................................................................................................15
Population...........................................................................................................................21
Sample................................................................................................................................21

i
 1

Introduction

Background
From a study done by Wang, C., Yu, X. & Liang, F. (2017) stated that scouring has

claimed over 1000 bridges in the united states, and such structural failures can be

associated with scour development around the country. The river’s geometry and the

flow’s velocity determine the flow rate creating a complicated three-dimensional effect

that causes vortices to circulate across the front and behind the piers. Water with this

horseshoe vortex-like flow causes local erosion of the river bed and movement of

sediment loads downstream which results in disturbed soil surrounding and under the

piers foundation. From the article Ben Meftah, M, and M Mossa. (2020) mentions that

determining the maximum erosion depth below the hydraulic structures is very

important regarding engineering and environmental factors. However, it is difficult to

make such a prediction because the equilibrium scour hole is rather complicated and

has such a strong relation to the characteristics of the structures and sediments.

A research by De Padova, Diana, Mouldi Ben Meftah, Michele Mossa, and Stefano

Sibilla. (2022) indicates that scour flow can be classified into three distinct stages, albeit

it is observed that equilibrium conditions reach more slowly in clear water periods.

Moreover, scour holes’ behavior in non-cohesive sediments are affected by the channel

and sediment characteristics, notably the bed slope, sediment density, Froude number,

seafloor depth, and mean sediment size which was discussed in Ben Meftah, Mouldi,

Francesca De Serio, Diana De Padova, and Michele Mossa. (2020).

From a study by Ghasemi, M, and S Soltani-Gerdefaramarzi. (2017) said “Local type of

scour has long been acknowledged as a major cause of the bridge failures around the
world, causing major human and financial losses. For example, Alabi (2006) reported
that the average cost for flood damage repair of the United States highways was $50
million per year. Additionally, it was estimated that at least $20 million have been
 2

invested on scour research in the United States in the last two decades (Briaud et. al,
2012). Alabi (2006) also cited that the associated repair costs of the bridge collapse in
1993 (due to scour) in the upstream Mississippi and downstream Missouri river basins
were more than $8,000,000. Considering more severe and more frequent floods due to
climate change, it is gaining an ever increasing importance to mitigate the risk of bridge
failure (Prendergast and Gavin, 2014).”

Research question:
Do local scour models based on hydraulic and sediment transport models predict local

scouring of circular bridge piers in Trinidad based on flow and environmental

conditions?

Hypothesis:
Local scour models can predict the magnitude of scouring around circular bridge piers

located in Trinidad based on flow and environmental conditions?

Aim:
This research paper is intended to generate local scour models that would be able to

predict local scouring in Trinidad for any circular pier or abutment based on various flow

and environmental conditions.

Objectives:
● The Lacey equation will be used to estimate general local scour.

● Model local scour around bridge abutments in Trinidad that have circular shaped

piers based on various flow and environmental conditions.

● To compare the model and field result and evaluate the model accuracy.

Scope:
this experiment would focus on predicting local scouring in Trinidad and how flow and

environmental conditions affect local scouring depth around circular shaped piers of

solid type. A suitable bridge such as Mocoya Bridge would the selected specimen. The

velocity of the river would be determined by the float method where the sediment

samples would be obtained by grab samplers using scoops and spoons. The Lacey
 3

modified equation for piers would be used to estimate general local scour. Whereas the

Lacey empirical method would help evaluate the local scour of Macoya Bridge on site.

A hydraulic and sediment transport model, flow2d, would be the selected software that

would help develop simulated local scour models in Trinidad with calibration of linear

regression sensitivity analysis. A grain size distribution would also be done to the ASTM

D6913-04(2009)e1. standard whereas the sediment density would be done according to

the ASTM D7263 − 21 standard.

Assumptions:
1. The local scour model should be able to predict the level of scouring around bridge

piers in Trinidad.

2. The river is flowing in alluvial conditions

3. The riverbed is composed of loose, non-cohesive materials

4. The flow is steady and uniform.

Limitations:
● No velocity gauge to measure river velocity.

● No open type piers would be analyzed.

● Time frame and duration of research

● Measuring river geometry precisely

● complex environmental conditions

● accurate field data recording

● weather conditions

● data acquisition

● dynamics of seasonal conditions

● global scour

● lack of instruments for more accurate sampling

 4

Literature review

According to Y.M. Chiew and B.W. Melville (1987, vol. 25 No. 1), local scour is the

erosion or removal of sediments caused by the effects of flowing water around an

obstruction, which may usually be in the form of bridge piers or abutments. This leads

to reduced bed elevation at the area of interest around the obstruction. This kind of

scouring has variants in the sense that it may be determined based upon the sediment

transport capacity of the approaching flow. In fact, scours can be classified into two

major categories. The first is called clear-water scour and occurs when the flow velocity

is lower than the threshold velocity at which sediment can be moved from upstream.

Thus, at such velocities, no additional sediment will be delivered to the scour hole that

is occurring. The second type, namely that of live-bed scour, happens when the velocity

is above the threshold that is needed for sediment to be picked up from upstream.

Thus, a continuous supply of sediments ends up forming in the continuous transport of

the sediment from the scour hole area. This condition has a more dynamic and variable

nature compared to the other.

Another research article written by Popek, Zbigniew. (2019) talks all about local

scouring bed shear stress instead. It was mentioned in this study that in clear water

scours, the maximum scour depth occurs when the bed shear stress falls below a

critical value. Whereas, in live bed conditions, the maximum scour depth is more

complex and rather impossible to finalize a stable scour depth but fluctuated around a

depth which can be identified as an average value.

Prediction of maximum scour depth downstream of hydraulic structures such as bridge

piers has been one of the primary areas of concern for various engineering and

environmental applications. This has kept many researchers actively searching for
 5

answers for several decades. Many studies have been conducted in vain; yet, the

prediction of equilibrium-scour hole characteristics always proves challenging because

of the complexity of the phenomenon and its dynamic sensitivity to structure and

sediment properties. The important findings of such studies are creating different

empirical formulae, based on actual experimental or field measurements, for predicting

different characteristics such as maximum eroded depth, its maximum length, and

some other properties. According to Ben Meftah and Mossa, Tregnaghi et al, and Lu et

al, scour downstream of a grade control structure is developed by three stages from

laboratory measurements of steady/unsteady flows: initial phase, developing phase,

and equilibrium phase. The scour processes tend to attain their equilibrium condition

quickly in live-bed conditions and slowly in clear water conditions, according to

Tregnaghi et al. Lu et al. indicated that the channel features and the sediment

properties define the scour hole in non-cohesive sediments. These include channel bed

slope, the densimetric Froude number, tailwater depth, and measure of sediment

median size.

Helmi, Ahmed M and Ahmed H Shehata. (2021) Postulated that the local scour

developed around the bridge piers is delivered as an effect of flow field characteristics

around the pier and close to its base level where downward flow, Hv, and wake vortices

are formed. As the water comes nearer to the pier, it slows down until the velocity falls

to zero at the upstream side face of the pier. This creates stagnation pressure

difference between the water surface and the bed for the pier's upstream face, causing

a downward flow. This downward flow has proved to be an important factor in the

erosion of bed material and the scour hole formation, vertical jet thrust created due to

generated downward flow. However, this dynamic interaction still needs to be studied to

best replicate and predict scour depth.

 6

Gazi, Ainal Hoque, and Mohammad Saud Afzal. 2020 suggest that a horseshoe vortex

forms around the base of a bridge pier or similar structure when water flows past it. This

vortex is created due to the separation of flow as it encounters the obstruction, leading

to a swirling motion that resembles a horseshoe shape. The horseshoe vortex is a

significant factor in local scouring because it increases the turbulence and shear stress

on the bed material around the pier, leading to erosion and the formation of a scour

hole. Whereas the wake vortex forms downstream of the pier as the flow reattaches

and separates again, creating a turbulent wake region. This vortex contributes to local

scouring by eroding the bed material behind the pier. The wake vortex's strength and

impact depend on factors such as flow velocity, pier shape, and sediment

characteristics. These vortices are critical in understanding and predicting local scour

around bridge piers, as they directly influence the erosion patterns and the stability of

the structures.

“External Flow: Drag and Lift.” 2024. Mheducation.com. (2024) explains that Drag

forces act parallel to the flow direction and are responsible for the initial movement of

sediment particles. These forces are generated by the flow of water around the

structure, causing erosion of the sediment bed as for lift forces act perpendicular to the

flow direction and can cause sediment particles to be lifted and transported away from

the scour hole. These forces are influenced by the shape of the structure and the flow

velocity. Both drag and lift forces contribute to the formation and expansion of scour

holes, which can undermine the stability of bridge piers and other structures if not

properly managed.

Liang, Bingchen, Shengtao Du, Xinying Pan, and Libang Zhang. (2020) show that flow

intensity serves as an important parameter for deciding the mobilization of sediment

 7

particles into their transportation. In uniform sediment bed conditions, if the ratio of

average approach flow velocity (U) and critical average velocity (Uc) is less than 1,

there are no activated sediment particles, and in local scour hole, there is no sediment

supply from upstream. In the uniform sediments, live-bed scour occurs when U/Uc is

greater than 1. However, in case of sediments that are non-uniform, the scour

conditions depend on limiting armoring velocity (Uca). In such conditions, clear-water

scouring happens at; U<0.8Uca, and live-bed scour happens when; U>0.8Uca

• Clear-Water Excavation: Gradual increase in excavation depth with an increase in

velocity, maximally twice the diameter of the pier.

• Live-Bed Scour: Varying associations with velocity, manifestations of sediment

transport and the influence of bedform dynamics.

Debnath, Koustuv, Susanta Chaudhuri (2012) mentions that there are equations

estimating the maximum equilibrium scour depth for circular piers on non-cohesive

sediment beds based on bed sediment and flow conditions.

Sheppard et al. (2013) conducted research that gave a relationship used in maximum

scour depth prediction from the relationship developed using data from sand and fine

gravel. On the contrary, it yielded less accurate results when tested against the gravel

data. To improve this, new equations for maximum equilibrium scour depth were

developed from sensitivity and regression analyses. The study found that the

densimetric Froude number (Fd50F/{d50}) hugely influenced scour depth while near

approach Froude number (Fr). did not.

According to Debnath, Koustuv, and Susanta Chaudhuri (2012), sediment bed material

being coarse and non-cohesive means that the erosion resistance would, therefore, be

due to the submerged weight of the sediment particles. Whereas mobility of clayey or
 8

mud sediments is dependent upon cohesion from physiochemical forces like van der

Waals attraction and electrical double-layer repulsion as well as cementation at grain

contacts. Fine sediment particles (≤ 63 μm), which fall within the clay and silt range,

contribute to the muddy or cohesive nature of these sediments. These particles can

form flocs or floc aggregates.

An interesting study conducted by Debnath, Koustuv, and Susanta Chaudhuri. (2012)

stated that Entrainment or transportation of particles from cohesive sediment beds

occurs when flow-induced shear breaks the interparticle bonds. The erosional

properties of mud-sand mixtures depend on the relative proportions of sand and mud.

Erosion mode shifts from cohesionless to cohesive with low proportions of mud (0.03–

0.15 by weight), influenced by factors like compaction level, water content, and clay

mineral type.

Scouring experiments were conducted for circular piers in kaolinite clay with varying

clay fractions (0.2-1) and water contents (0.20-0.46 of dry weight) by Debnath and

Chaudhuri (2010a). The general finding was that for water contents less than 0.24,

scour depth diminished with increasing clay content, whereas it reduced up to a clay

fraction of 0.5-0.7 and then increased for greater water content exceeding 0.27. These

patterns corresponded with the shear strength of the sediment mixtures.

Munsur, Anisul haque and ahman. (2003) 'Lacey modified equations estimate localized

scour depth around the piers of bridges and similar hydraulic structures. The scour

predictions, however, are most suited to the alluvial channels which carry non-cohesive

sediments. The maximum scour depth is also estimated by taking into account the flow

velocity, sediment size, and channel geometry as input parameters.

 9

Lacey modified equation is given by:

“Estimating Scour.” 2008. https://www.engr.colostate.edu/CIVE510/Lectures/toe%20and%20bed

%20scour%20lectures%20final%202008.pdf.

This equation helps engineers design safer and more economical bridge foundations by

providing a reliable estimate of the potential scour depth around piers.

Methodology
1. Site Selection
A suitable bridge would be chosen as the specimen for conducting the

experimental research. A detailed survey to document the existing conditions,

including channel geometry, and flow characteristics would be conducted.

 10

2. Instrumentation and Equipment

 Flow Measurement Devices: the float method would be done to calculate the velocity

of the discharge. Where multiple measurements would be taken and an averaged value

from these would help prevent outliers from skewing the data.

 Sediment Sampling: the sediment samples would be obtain using grab samplers to

analyze grain size distribution according to ASTM D6913-04(2009)e1 and sediment

properties. Where the sediment density according to the ASTM D7263 − 21

standard would be conducted. Numerous sediment samples locations across

the river bed would be taken to represent a global survey of the riverbed.

3. Data Collection Protocols

Flow Data: flow velocity, discharge, and water levels at regular intervals would be recorded,

especially during high-flow events.

Sediment Data: Analysis of sediment samples for grain size distribution, cohesion, and other

relevant properties would be done.

Scour Data: scour depth would be monitored and recorded at multiple locations around the

bridge piers and abutments.

4. Environmental Conditions

 Weather Data: Collection of weather data, including precipitation, temperature,

and wind speed, to understand the influence of climatic conditions on scour.

 Vegetation and Debris: Documenting the presence of vegetation and debris,

as they can affect flow patterns and scour processes would be taken into

consideration.
 11

5. Data Analysis

 Statistical Analysis: flow 2d would be the computational fluids dynamics model

used to analyze the correlations of the parameters and variables.

 Model Calibration: linear regression sensitivity analysis would adjust the model

accuracy whilst simplifying the models complexity.

6. Reporting and Documentation

 Data Logging: a detailed log would be maintained of all data collected,

including timestamps, locations, and measurement methods.

 Report Preparation: a comprehensive report summarizing the findings,

including data analysis, model results, and recommendations for scour

mitigation would be discussed.

Research outcomes

This research is intended to produce more experimental works in the field of local

scouring as it proves to be a challenge in consolidating a standard empirical formulas or

method with precise accuracy. With this research not only will it help simplify the local

scour prediction model for Trinidad region, but also compile data for future reference

and development. With the local scour model that’s calibrated using linear regression

sensitivity analysis should be able to predict local scour depth based on flow and

environmental conditions.

Reference

Wang, C., Yu, X. & Liang, F. A review of bridge scour: mechanism, estimation,
monitoring and countermeasures. Nat Hazards 87, 1881–1906 (2017).
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-017-2842-2
 12

Ben Meftah, M, and M Mossa. 2020. “New Approach to Predicting Local Scour
Downstream of Grade-Control Structure.” Journal of Hydraulic Engineering (New
York, N.Y.) 146 (2). https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)HY.1943-7900.0001649.

De Padova, Diana, Mouldi Ben Meftah, Michele Mossa, and Stefano Sibilla. 2022. “A
Multi-Phase SPH Simulation of Hydraulic Jump Oscillations and Local Scouring
Processes Downstream of Bed Sills.” Advances in Water Resources 159: 104097.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advwatres.2021.104097.

Ben Meftah, Mouldi, Francesca De Serio, Diana De Padova, and Michele Mossa. 2020.
“Hydrodynamic Structure with Scour Hole Downstream of Bed Sills.” Water (Basel)
12 (1): 186. https://doi.org/10.3390/w12010186.

Ghasemi, M, and S Soltani-Gerdefaramarzi. 2017. “The Scour Bridge Simulation

around a Cylindrical Pier Using Flow-3d.” Journal of Hydrosciences and
Environment. University of Sistan and Baluchestan. September 14, 2017.
https://doi.org/10.22111/jhe.2017.3357.

Chiew, Y. M., and B. W. Melville. 1987. “Local Scour around Bridge Piers.” Journal of
Hydraulic Research 25 (1): 15–26. doi:10.1080/00221688709499285.

Liang, Bingchen, Shengtao Du, Xinying Pan, and Libang Zhang. 2020. Local scour for
vertical piles in steady currents: Review of mechanisms, influencing factors and
empirical equations. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering 8, (1): 4,
https://ezproxy.sastudents.uwi.tt/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-
journals/local-scour-vertical-piles-steady-currents-review/docview/2558445214/se-
2 (accessed November 20, 2023).

Helmi, Ahmed M, and Ahmed H Shehata. 2021. “Three-Dimensional Numerical

Investigations of the Flow Pattern and Evolution of the Horseshoe Vortex at a
Circular Pier during the Development of a Scour Hole.” Applied Sciences 11 (15):
6898. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11156898.

Kiraga, M., & Popek, Z. (2019). Bed Shear Stress Influence on Local Scour Geometry
Properties in Various Flume Development Conditions. Water (Basel), 11(11), 2346.
https://doi.org/10.3390/w11112346

Popek, Zbigniew. 2019. "Bed Shear Stress Influence on Local Scour Geometry
Properties in various Flume Development Conditions." Water 11 (11): 2346.
doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/w11112346.
https://ezproxy.sastudents.uwi.tt/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-
journals/bed-shear-stress-influence-on-local-scour/docview/2550467663/se-2.
 13

Mostafa, Yasser E. 2012. “Effect of Local and Global Scour on Lateral Response of
Single Piles in Different Soil Conditions.” Engineering 04 (06): 297–306.
https://doi.org/10.4236/eng.2012.46039.

Debnath, Koustuv, and Susanta Chaudhuri. 2012. “Local Scour around Non-Circular
Piers in Clay–Sand Mixed Cohesive Sediment Beds.” Engineering Geology 151
(November): 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enggeo.2012.09.013.

Sheppard DM, Melville B, Demir H (2013) Evaluation of existing equations for local
scour at bridge piers. J Hydraul Eng (ASCE) 140(1):14–23

ahman, Munsur, and Anisul Haque. 2003. "Local Scour Estimation at Bridge Site:
Modification and Application of Lacey Formula." International Journal of Sediment
Research 18 (4):
333-339.https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237492009_Local_scour_estimation_
at_bridge_site_Modification_and_application_of_lacey_formula

Gazi, Ainal Hoque, and Mohammad Saud Afzal. 2020. “A Review on Hydrodynamics of
Horseshoe Vortex at a Vertical Cylinder Mounted on a Flat Bed and Its Implication
to Scour at a Cylinder.” Acta Geophysica 68 (3): 861–75.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11600-020-00439-8.

“External Flow: Drag and Lift.” 2024. Mheducation.com. 2024.

https://highered.mheducation.com/sites/0073138355/student_view0/chapter10/.

‌Williams, P.; Bolisetti, T.; Balachandar, R. Evaluation of Governing Parameters

on Pier

Scour Geometry. Canadian journal of civil engineering 2017, 44 (1), 48–58.

https://doi.org/10.1139/cjce-2016-0133.

“Estimating Scour.” 2008. https://www.engr.colostate.edu/CIVE510/Lectures/toe

%20and%20bed%20scour%20lectures%20final%202008.pdf.

‌Tavouktsoglou, N. S, J. M Harris, R. R Simons, and R. J. S Whitehouse. 2017.

“Equilibrium Scour-Depth Prediction around Cylindrical Structures.” Journal of

Waterway, Port, Coastal, and Ocean Engineering 143 (5).
https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)WW.1943-5460.0000401.

Dang, Nguyen Mai, Duong Tran Anh, and Thanh Duc Dang. 2021. “ANN Optimized by
PSO and Firefly Algorithms for Predicting Scour Depths around Bridge Piers.”
Engineering with Computers 37 (1): 293–303. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00366-019-
00824-y.
14
 15

Appendix

variables

1. Pier Shape: The geometry of the pier affects the flow patterns and turbulence,

which in turn influences the scouring process.

2. Flow Depth: The depth of the water flow around the pier is a critical factor. A

higher flow depth can lead to more significant scouring.

3. Flow Intensity: The velocity and intensity of the water flow impact the erosive

force acting on the riverbed material.

4. Pier Width: The width of the pier affects the obstruction to the flow and the

resulting scouring patterns.

5. Flow Direction Angle (Attack Angle): The angle at which the flow hits the pier

can change the scouring dynamics significantly

6. Channel roughness

7. non cohesive sediments are influenced by channel and sediment properties

8. Bed slope,

9. Density,

10. Froude number,

11. average sediment size.

 16

Flow 2d
1. Prerequisites

 Ensure that you have the Flow 2D Sediment Transport Module enabled, as this
is essential for scour modeling.
 Gather the required data: digital elevation models (DEMs), flow data, sediment
data, and hydraulic structure dimensions.

2. Create a New Project

1. Open Flow 2D and start a new project.

2. Import Terrain Data: Load your DEM to represent the topography of the study
area. The DEM should capture the terrain around the hydraulic structures where
local scour is expected.
3. Define the Model Grid: Create a computational grid over the project area. The
grid resolution should be fine enough around the area of interest (like bridge
piers) to capture detailed changes in topography.

3. Input Sediment Data

1. Sediment Properties: Define the sediment characteristics. This includes:

o Grain Size Distribution: Use data from sediment sampling or literature
values for grain size (d50, d90, etc.).
o Sediment Density: Input the density of the sediment particles.
o Sediment Transport Formula: Choose a suitable sediment transport
formula (e.g., Meyer-Peter Müller or van Rijn). Flow 2D offers multiple
options depending on the nature of the sediment transport.

4. Defining Hydraulic Structures

Local scour often occurs around structures like:

 Bridge Piers

To model these structures:

1. Insert Hydraulic Structures: Use the Flow 2D interface to add bridge piers to
the model. You’ll need detailed dimensions of the structures.
2. Define Roughness: Specify Manning's n values for the channel and the structure
surroundings. This will impact the flow velocity and hence the scour potential.

5. Boundary Conditions and Inflow Data

1. Inflow Hydrograph: Define the inflow conditions by importing or setting up a

hydrograph. The hydrograph should capture the flow rate over time for the river
or water body.
 17

2. Outflow Boundary: Set up an appropriate downstream boundary condition. It’s

crucial for ensuring that the flow leaves the model without causing unrealistic
water levels upstream.

6. Bed Erosion and Scour Setup

To model local scour:

1. Enable Bed Erosion: Go to the sediment transport settings and enable bed
erosion modeling. This will allow the simulation to capture changes in bed
topography over time.
2. Initial Sediment Layer Thickness: Define the initial sediment layer thickness.
This is necessary to calculate how much material is available for erosion.
3. Scour Depth: Set a scour depth limit if desired, or allow the model to compute
this dynamically based on flow conditions and sediment transport capacity.
4. Scour Protection: If the structure has scour protection (e.g., riprap), model this
by adjusting the roughness and sediment properties around the structure.

7. Run the Simulation

1. Simulation Settings: Set the simulation time and output intervals. If modeling
local scour, shorter time steps may be necessary to capture rapid changes in
sediment transport and bed elevation.
2. Run the Model: Start the simulation. Flow 2D will compute changes in flow
velocities, sediment transport rates, and bed elevation (including scour).

8. Post-Processing Results

After the simulation:

1. Visualize Scour Depth: Examine the results for bed elevation changes. Flow 2D
should display scour holes forming around bridge piers or other structures, where
sediment is eroded due to increased flow velocity.
2. Sediment Transport Analysis: Analyze sediment transport rates in the vicinity
of the structure to understand where and how much material is being eroded and
deposited.
3. Flood Extents and Velocities: Check flow velocities around the structures, as
they are directly related to the severity of local scour.

9. Calibration and Validation

 Compare with Field Data: Validate your results by comparing simulated scour
depths with observed scour data, if available. You can adjust parameters like
sediment size distribution and roughness to better match field measurements.
 Sensitivity Analysis: Test different grid resolutions, sediment transport
formulas, and flow conditions to see how sensitive the model is to these inputs.
 18

10. Advanced Features

 Sediment Replenishment: Model sediment replenishment in areas downstream

of the scour.
 Multiple Structures: Include multiple hydraulic structures if the project
involves complex scour around several piers or abutments.
 Riprap Protection: Simulate the effects of scour protection techniques, such as
placing riprap around the base of structures.

Key Tips:

 Use High-Resolution Data: For local scour modeling, fine grid resolution and
high-quality terrain and sediment data are essential for accuracy.
 Check for Model Stability: Scour can create steep bed slopes, so monitor the
model for numerical instabilities, which can sometimes occur with rapidly
changing bed topography.

Choosing to perform a linear regression sensitivity analysis for local scour depth can be
beneficial for several reasons:

1. Identifying Key Factors: Sensitivity analysis helps in identifying which

variables have the most significant impact on the scour depth. This can guide
researchers and engineers to focus on the most influential factors in their studies
and designs.
2. Simplifying Models: By understanding the sensitivity of different variables, less
significant factors can be excluded from the model, simplifying the analysis
without compromising accuracy.
3. Improving Predictions: Sensitivity analysis can improve the accuracy of
predictions by highlighting the most critical parameters that need precise
measurement and control.
4. Resource Allocation: It helps in efficient allocation of resources by prioritizing
the measurement and monitoring of the most sensitive parameters.
5. Model Validation: Sensitivity analysis can be used to validate the robustness of
the model. If small changes in input variables lead to significant changes in
output, the model may need refinement.
6. Risk Management: Understanding the sensitivity of different factors can help in
managing risks associated with bridge design and maintenance by focusing on
the most critical aspects that affect scour depth.
 19

Flow 2d framework

1. Introduction

 Objective: To model local scour around a cylindrical pier in non-cohesive bed

sediment using Flow-2D and perform a linear regression sensitivity analysis to
identify key factors influencing scour depth.

2. Experimental Setup

 Channel Dimensions: A rectangular channel width and length

 Pier Specifications: A vertical cylindrical pier with a diameter and a height
Sediment Characteristics: Non-cohesive bed sediment with specified grain size
distribution.

3. Flow-2D Simulation

 Model Configuration:
o Domain Setup: Define the computational domain and boundary
conditions.
o Mesh Generation: Create a mesh with appropriate resolution to capture
the flow and scour processes.
o Initial Conditions: Set initial water depth and sediment bed level.
o Flow Rates: Simulate different flow rates (e.g., 5, 10, 19, and 30 L/sec).
 Simulation Parameters:
o Flow Velocity: Measure flow velocity at various points in the channel.
o Fluid Depth: Record fluid depth at different locations.
o Froude Number: Calculate the Froude number for each flow rate.
o Sediment Motion: Track changes in sediment motion and bed elevation.

4. Data Collection

 Scour Depth Measurement: Record maximum scour depth at different flow

rates after a specified simulation time (e.g., 600 seconds).
 Upstream and Downstream Scour: Measure scour depth at upstream and
downstream locations relative to the pier.

5. Linear Regression Sensitivity Analysis

 Variable Selection: Identify key variables influencing scour depth (e.g., flow
velocity, fluid depth, Froude number, sediment characteristics).
 Regression Model: Develop a linear regression model to predict scour depth
based on the selected variables.
 Sensitivity Analysis:
o Parameter Estimation: Estimate regression coefficients for each
variable.
 20

o Significance Testing: Perform statistical tests to determine the

significance of each variable.
o Model Validation: Validate the regression model using observed data
and calculate goodness-of-fit metrics (e.g., R-squared, RMSE).

6. Results and Discussion

 Scour Depth Predictions: Compare predicted scour depths with observed

values.
 Sensitivity Analysis Findings: Discuss the impact of each variable on scour
depth and identify the most influential factors.
 Model Performance: Evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the regression
model.

7. Conclusion

 Summary: Summarize key findings and implications for bridge design and scour
prevention.
 Future Work: Suggest areas for further research and potential improvements to
the modeling approach.
 21

Population and sample for predicting local scour in Trinidad

To predict local scour in Trinidad, you would need to define both the population and the
sample for your study. Here's a structured approach:

Population

The population for predicting local scour would include all potential sites where local
scour could occur around hydraulic structures in Trinidad in alluvial conditions.

Sample

The sample should be representative of the population and include a variety of sites to
capture different conditions. Here's how you can define your sample:

1. Site Selection:
o Geographical Diversity: Select sites from different regions of Trinidad
to account for varying environmental conditions.
o Structure Types: Include different types of structures such as bridges,
piers, and abutments.
o Flow Conditions: Choose sites with varying flow velocities and sediment
characteristics.
2. Sampling Methods:
o Random Sampling: Randomly select sites from the identified population
to avoid bias.
o Stratified Sampling: Divide the population into strata (e.g., by region,
structure type) and sample from each stratum to ensure representation.
3. Data Collection:
o Flow Measurements: Measure flow velocity, discharge, and water levels
at each site.
o Sediment Sampling: Collect sediment samples to analyze grain size
distribution and sediment properties.
o Scour Depth Monitoring: Use scour sensors or manual measurements to
record scour depth at different locations around the structures.
 22

Task duration
ID Task Name start date end date in days
1 topic research 17/10/2024 28/10/2024 11
2 introduction 28/10/2024 12/11/2024 15
literature
3 review 12/11/2024 23/11/2024 11
4 methodology 23/11/2024 20/12/2024 27
research
5 outcomes 20/12/2024 24/12/2024 2
total 66
Gantt chart
23
24
25
26
27
 28

Summary record of major Student name: Working title of

 29

progress meetings with Jonathan Ali dissertation/research project:

supervisors
Modelling the scour around
bridges in Trinidad

Meeting Other issues, e.g.

Date of
date & Progress since last Agreed programme of facilities,
next
supervisors meeting work and target dates supervision,
meeting
present training needs, etc.
17/10/24 No new work was Commented on the 28/10/24
done interim report
introduction and
adjustments that
needed for the report
as well as guidelines
for the literature
review.

28/10/24 Fix the introduction, Expected work to be 23/12/24

aim, objective, done included the
limitation, literature reviewe.
hypothesis and
research question.
Started working on
the literature review.

23/12/24 Literature review Final draft to be NA

completed and submitted along with
started the the plagiarism form
methodology and and logs as well as the
framework. gantt chart.