Experimental Study on Cross-Vane Scour Morphology in Curved Horizontal Channels

Abstract

In-stream grade-control hydraulic structures have been employed to reinstate riverbeds, to protect riverbanks, and to improve aquatic habitats. This paper aims to study scour phenomena and morphologies downstream of cross-vane structures installed in curved channels, and structure orientation with respect to the flow direction. Experiments have been conducted in clear-water conditions. The results showed the important effect of the channel curvature on the maximum scour depth value and position. Increasing of the bend radius leads to a decrease in the value of the maximum scour depth. The scour morphology has been classified in three types. Observations showed that the scour typology affects the maximum scour depth value. The variation of the structure orientations has been experimentally analyzed and results showed a significant effect on the maximum scour depth position.