Computer Aided Design and Cost Estimation of Gabion Lined Channels

Williams, David T.; Osendorf, Gary R.; ,

Computer Aided Design and Cost Estimation of Gabion Lined Channels

by David T. Williams, WEST Consultants, Inc, Carlsbad, United States,
Gary R. Osendorf, WEST Consultants, Inc, Carlsbad, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract:

Rivers are a dynamic part of the hydrologic cycle. Changes in discharge, flow depth, water velocity, and meander patterns contribute to this dynamic nature. As a result, portions of a river will scour, deposit and meander, which in turn causes the stream bank and bottom to move. To prevent this movement, revetments (linings) are often placed on the stream banks and bottom. One such revetment method is the use of gabions. Gabions are essentially wire baskets filled with stone. Ideally, the stone diameter typically ranges from 0.3 feet (90 mm) to up to 0.8 feet (240 mm) with allowable fluctuations depending on the usage of the gabions and quality of the stone. These wire baskets are tied together by wire, or fastened with approved alternate joint materials, end to end and side to side to form a continuous flexible surface as in the case for river channel linings. Sometimes these baskets are stacked vertically as in the case for gabion retaining wall design and drop structures. Gabions are popular for channel protection because of their flexibility, ability to withstand relatively high water velocities, the use of a natural material - stone, and the ability of vegetation to grow through the gabions. This paper describes the essential features and design consideration of a channel lined with gabionsl. These features and design considerations are part of a recently developed computer program entitled Gabion Design System.

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