Proposal to use new methods of design and construction in mobile riverbed physical models: the Salto do Paraopeba dam case

ABSTRACT The study of the interaction between hydraulic structures in mobile bed river systems is complex because it involves sediment transport and dynamic changes boundary conditions, requiring use physical models. This article presents procedure for design construction a model reservoir dam Small Hydroelectric Power Plant (SHPP) Salto Paraopeba. In phase, computational modelling was used to reconstitute primitive geometry river, simulations flow regime capacity along course were also carried out; both results allowed delimit extension. Considering choice scale similarity criteria prototype, new alternative material proposed, composed crushed tire rubber particles, with lower specific mass larger diameter than prototype's sediment. constructive method applied using fiberglass, advantages, such as better representation morphology, weight, simple installation uninstallation through modules, fast repairs, among others.