A Case Study of Propeller-Induced Currents and Sediment Transport in a Small Harbor

by Bradley K. Paulson, CH2M Hill, Bellevue, United States,
Steven L. Da Costa, CH2M Hill, Bellevue, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: World Marina '91

Abstract:

The operation of vessels in marinas and small harbors can provide important driving forces affecting ambient circulation patterns and current speeds near the bottom. The case study on propeller-induced currents described in this paper was done in a small, semi-enclosed embayment located in western Washington State. A numerical model was used to quantify the initiation of sediment motion by predicting the current velocities induced by the propeller of a ferry during maneuvering and loading operations. The model results indicate that the area of maximum bottom velocity and maximum scour effect depends primarily upon water depth and vessel draft. Propeller-induced flows can also lead to the transport of sediment in suspension or along the bottom, especially when these flows act together with tidal or wind-driven currents.

Subject Headings: Sediment transport | Ports and harbors | Case studies | Tides | Numerical models | Ships | Water supply systems | Washington | United States

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