Assessment Procedures for Lahars, Mudflows, Debris Flows and Debris Torrents

by Robert C. MacArthur, Resource Consultants & Engineers, Inc, Davis, United States,
Douglas L. Hamilton, Resource Consultants & Engineers, Inc, Davis, United States,
William E. Branch, Resource Consultants & Engineers, Inc, Davis, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract:

Unique hydraulic and rheologic characteristics of lahars, mudflows, debris flows and debris torrents require specialized assessment procedures. This paper discusses a fourteen element approach for assessing these types of special hazards. Special hazards assessments must consider the unique rheological characteristics of the flow properties. Specialized flow resistance relationships must be used to account for Non-Newtonian fluid characteristics and rheological flow dependencies. Versions of these equations are used in both the one- and two-dimensional mudflow routing models discussed in approach elements 8-11. By formulating the mechanics of a mudflow in terms of flow resistance related to in situ rheological fluid properties, the authors have been able to develop and apply methods and computer models that more accurately evaluate special hazards flooding phenomena.

Subject Headings: Fluid flow | Rheology | Debris | Computer models | Landslides | Flow measurement | Drag (fluid dynamics)

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