Implementation of a New Bank Erosion Model in Delft3D

Abstract

Bank erosion plays an important role in the hydro-morphodynamics and evolution of natural rivers. Therefore, it is essential to have a reliable bank erosion model for accurate simulation of hydro-morphodynamic processes. We developed and successfully implemented a new, feasible bank erosion model in Delft3D software. The developed model considers physical bank erosion processes to a greater extent than previous models. Model performance was assessed by comparison with a previously reported experiment in a mobile-bed-and-bank laboratory open-channel bend flume. The results from our developed model were compared with those from the standard Delft3D and angle of repose bank erosion models. We showed that progressive lateral bank erosion as well as the corresponding hydro-morphodynamics of the channel were better predicted by the developed bank erosion model. The results of this study provide insight into bank erosion prediction with Delft3D, and they suggest that the developed model will improve the performance of the Delft3D model for short- and long-term hydro-morphodynamic simulation of natural meandering rivers.