Author(s): Robert Ettema, Jonathan Aubuchon, Nathan Holste, David Varyu, Drew Baird, Robert Padilla, Christopher Thornton
Linked Author(s): Robert Ettema
Keywords: Rivers, hydraulic structures, channel control, armor rock
Abstract:
This paper discusses the findings from a series of large-scale flume tests conducted to determine the velocity magnitudes at which river flow may dislodge rocks assembled to form bendway-weirs. These bendway-weirs are low-elevation rock dikes angled upstream to the river flow and are intended to be submerged at flows above the base flow of a channel reach. Bendway-weirs are possible means of river channel control, especially for large channels used for navigation and may augment bank-protection methods in smaller channels. The flume tests are involved replicating the stream wise portion (or head) of a bendway-weir formed from reasonably uniform diameter rocks. Three diameters of rock were tested: 0.10m, 0.15m and 0.23m. Rates of water flow used ranged up to 5.7m3 /s. The findings are presented using a non-dimensional parameter expressing the ratio of flow inertia versus rock weight (density typical of quartz-based rock), and are of use in sizing rock used for constructing bendway-weirs. (2631, 64, 283)
Year: 2017