Pier and Abutment Scour: Integrated Approach

TLDR

The study reviews extensive bridge scour research conducted at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. The paper proposes an integrated method for estimating local scour depth at bridge piers and abutments. The method uses K‑factors derived from envelope curves fitted to existing and new abutment data, incorporating flow depth, foundation size, intensity, sediment, type, shape, alignment, and channel geometry. The new abutment data are presented, and the method is demonstrated through illustrative examples.

Abstract

This paper summarizes many of the results from an extensive program of bridge scour research undertaken at The University of Auckland, New Zealand. An integrated approach to the estimation of local scour depth at bridge piers and abutments, collectively termed bridge foundations, is presented. The design method is based on empirical relations, termed K-factors, that account for the effects on scour depth of flow depth and foundation size, flow intensity, sediment characteristics, foundation type, shape and alignment, and approach channel geometry. The K-factors are evaluated by fitting envelope curves to existing data for piers and abutments and a new extensive data set for abutments. The new data are discussed and presented. Application of the design method is illustrated in examples.