Evaluation of Selected Pier-Scour Equations Using Field Data

Abstract

Field measurements of channel scour at bridges are needed to improve the understanding of scour processes and the ability to accurately predict scour depths. An extensive data base of pier-scour measurements has been developed over the last several years in cooperative studies between state highway departments, the Federal Highway Administration, and the U.S. Geological Survey. Selected scour processes and scour design equations are evaluated using 139 measurements of local scour in live-bed and clear-water conditions. Pier-scour measurements were made at 44 bridges around 90 bridge piers in 12 states. The influence of pier width on scour depth is linear in logarithmic space. The maximum observed ratio of pier width to scour depth is 2.1 for piers aligned to the flow. Flow depth and scour depth were found to have a relation that is linear in logarithmic space and that is not bounded by some critical ratio of flow depth to pier width. Comparisons of computed and observed scour depths indicate that none of the selected equations accurately estimate the depth of scour for all of the measured conditions. Some of the equations performed well as conservative design equations; however, they overpredict many observed scour depths by large amounts. Some equations fit the data well for observed scour depths less than about 3 m (9.8 ft), but significantly underpredict larger observed scour depths.