Stone Stability in Nonuniform Flow

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental study on stone stability under nonuniform turbulent flow, in particular expanding flow. Detailed measurements of both flow and turbulence and the bed stability are described. Than various manners of quantifying the hydraulic loads exerted on the stones on a bed are extensively reviewed and extended. On the basis of the data, a new relationship between flow parameters and bed damage—expressed as a stone entrainment formula—has been established for nonuniform flow. As the present data is in line with existing data on other flows, the present relation seems applicable for other types of nonuniform flow as well. Such a relationship could provide more consistent design criteria and allow an estimate of the cumulative damage over time, which is important for making decisions regarding maintenance frequency and lifetime analysis of hydraulic structures.