Calibration of Scour Models Using Advanced Sonar Technology for Bridge Safety: Final Report

01006514615226032005Final reportPDFTech ReportURITC FY03-05URI 500230600000000059Acoustic measuring instrumentsBridge piersBridgesCalibrationDepthField studiesMaintenanceMathematical modelsMeasurementMonitoringSafetyScourSonarStreambedsTechnologyScour at bridgesacoustic monitoringscour predictionbridge safetyBridges and other structuresDesignHighwaysMaintenance and PreservationSafety and Human FactorsI24: Design of Bridges and Retaining WallsI61: Equipment and Maintenance MethodsUnited StatesUniversity of Rhode Island. Transportation CenterMiller, James H.Potty, Gopu R.Chen, Chuen-SongBaxterUniversity of Rhode Island, Narragansett. Department of Ocean EngineeringUniversity of Rhode Island. Transportation CenterUniversity Transportation Centers Program (U.S.)US Transportation CollectionRiverbed scour near bridge piers is a widespread problem which causes scour holes to develop, piers to fall and, ultimately, bridges to collapse. Measurement of riverbed scour and deposition near bridge piers are essential for the proper maintenance and safety of bridges. Scour processes have been extensively studied and mathematical models have been developed from physical models and field data. But scour depths predicted using these models could vary substantially when these models are applied outside the range of conditions for which they have been developed. Field measurements of scour depths are needed to put practical constraints and limits on these models. We conducted these field measurements using a number of underwater acoustic instruments and techniques. These instruments include depth sounder, side scan sonar, and subbottom profiler. These measurements were conducted aboard the Department of Ocean Engineering research vessel R/V CT-1 and another research vessel- R/V Quest. This will also then serve as a rapid assessment tool for scour and has the potential to compliment and/or replace inspection by divers.75