Author(s): Jon E. Zufelt; Sun Zhao-Chu
Linked Author(s): Jon Zufelt
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: The velocity field through a river bend is greatly affected by its channel curvature, primarily by the action of centrifugal acceleration. The streamwise velocity gradient is responsible for a nonuniform distribution of centrifugal forces, which results in a radial circulation. River bends have long been reported as the locations for the initiation and development of ice jams. These radial velocities affect the transport and deposition of bed material and/or ice in the bend, resulting in nonuniform depths and ice thicknesses over a cross-section. The streamwise and transverse velocity profiles through a 90° bend of a laboratory flume were examined. A variety of discharge, bed roughness, and water surface conditions were tested, including smooth and rough simulated ice covers. The effects of each variable on the velocity field were identified.
Year: 1988