Experimental Investigation of Surface Modification Effects on Scour in Straight Rivers

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Civil Engineering, Engineering Faculty, Islamic Azad University, Sepidan Branch, Sepidan, Iran

2 Department of Civil Engineering, Bey. C., Islamic Azad University, beyza, Iran.

10.22044/jhwe.2026.16606.1076

Abstract

This study dives into the complex issue of erosion around bridge foundations, exploring how sudden changes in a river’s cross-section affect scour patterns. We set up two experiments to get a clearer picture: one with a consistent channel shape as a baseline and another where the waterway’s geometry was abruptly altered. In the first setup, we tested how different flow speeds influence erosion, giving us a solid understanding of typical scour behavior. The second experiment focused on what happens when the channel suddenly narrows, mimicking real-world conditions like those near bridge supports.

Our findings were striking. When the waterway’s shape changed abruptly, scour depth increased significantly, especially at higher flow velocities. This happens because the water speeds up in tighter spaces, creating intense turbulence and swirling vortexes around the bridge foundations. These forces dig deeper scour holes, posing a greater risk to structural stability. Compared to the steady channel, the altered setup showed just how much hydraulic geometry can amplify erosion.

These results drive home a key point: the design of a river’s flow path matters immensely when it comes to protecting bridge foundations. Engineers need to factor in these dynamic hydraulic effects to ensure bridges can withstand the relentless forces of water over time. By understanding how sudden changes in a waterway’s shape can worsen scour, this study offers valuable insights for building safer, more resilient bridges. It’s a reminder that nature’s complexity demands careful consideration in infrastructure design, especially as flow conditions become more extreme. This work underscores the importance of blending hydraulic science with engineering to safeguard critical structures against erosion’s destructive power.

Keywords

Journal of Hydraulic and Water Engineering

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 12 June 2026

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