Experimental study of debris-induced scour around a slotted bridge pier

One of the most common problems for river engineers is accumulation waterborne debris upstream bridge piers. In addition to reducing cross-sectional flow area, increases drag force exerted pier and contributes scour. Several studies have been carried out by previous researchers examine usefulness different types countermeasures. The effectiveness these countermeasures not well understood when occurs. this study, effect on efficiency a slot, as scour countermeasure, investigated experimentally. A total 54 experiments were under hydraulic geometrical conditions. results showed that slots effective in protecting piers against scouring presence debris. Depending shape, reduction may increase or decrease slotted compared standard conditions without accumulation. Except inverse pyramid maximum generally more reduced due sheltering located bed. While can lead slot efficiency, be considered reliable countermeasure scouring. outcome study help design new bridges affected large wood accumulations.