"Barbs" for river bend bank protection: application of a three-dimensional numerical model

Abstract

A three-dimensional numerical model was used to examine the turbulent flow field and associated sediment transport due to a series of barbs (submerged groynes) in a channel bend. Model results were in good agreement with measured laboratory data and adequately simulated the important features of sediment transport. Statistical comparison of the predicted and measured equilibrium bed geometry found average regression coefficients of determination of 0.77 and 0.72 for the 90° and 135° channels, respectively. The predicted velocity data followed expected trends. The capability of a three-dimensional numerical model to simulate sediment transport through bend sections of a channel containing barbs was verified. This included the simulation of the effects of different arrangements of barb groups and an analysis of the data to determine the relation of the flow field to associated scour and deposition in a complex fluvial environment. These novel results are useful for improved analyses of the bank-protection capabilities of these structures and for the development and improvement of design guidelines.Key words: three-dimensional models, numerical models, movable bed models, channel bends, turbulence, secondary flow, scour, barbs, groynes.