A Tidal Inlet Bridge Scour Assessment Model

by Mark S. Vincent, Univ of South Florida, Tampa, United States,
Mark A. Ross, Univ of South Florida, Tampa, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract:

Undermining of bridge structures constructed in tidal inlets is a common problem. Scour mechanisms in tidal inlets are often complex combinations of local contraction and regional tidal inlet dynamics. A numerical model for quantitatively evaluating and assessing the scour and depositional magnitudes associated with contraction and inlet geomorphological changes has been developed. The model uses a two-dimensional, dynamic numerical hydraulic model coupled to a movable bed sediment scour and deposition model developed specifically for this need. The model provides for subgrid features such as bridge piers and limited inhomogeneity in sediment grain size. A simplistic representation for armoring associated with sediment sorting or manmade structures is also provided. Initial applications to Clearwater Pass and Johns Pass in West Central Florida indicate reasonable comparisons between model predictions and observations of scour/deposition in the inlets, warranting additional testing of this approach.

Subject Headings: Numerical models | Inlets (waterway) | Tides | Scour | Hydraulic models | Bridge tests | Two-dimensional models | Florida | United States

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