Application of 3D Mobile Bed, Hydrodynamic Model

Abstract

The prediction of sediment erosion and deposition magnitudes has challenged many investigators. One- and two-dimensional sediment transport models are commonly used for predicting sediment scour and deposition. They are adequate for many engineering applications; however, for some problems, only a three-dimensional model should be used. A three-dimensional model is necessary for predicting sediment erosion and deposition whenever significant secondary currents exist, such as in river bends, crossings, distributaries, or diversions. In diversions, for example, the sediment load may not split in the same proportions as the flow. A three-dimensional model can be used to estimate the sediment split. This paper presents a description of the three-dimensional numerical model CH3D-SED and the governing equations for the model. The validation of the model and its application to the Deep Draft Navigation Project on the lower Mississippi River also are presented.