Evolution of coherent structures in the flow around a circular pier with a developing scour hole: A numerical study

What is it about?

The papers explain how the scour holes form and develop around the bridge piers, threatening the bridge's safety. It also describes how the flow features responsible for the formation of scour holes evolve with time and their role in the development of scour holes.

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Photo by Grant Durr on Unsplash

Photo by Grant Durr on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Scour holes will develop with time at the bottom of the bridge piers. If the scour hole depth exceeds the foundation depth of the pier, the bridge will lose its stability and collapse. Hence, accurate prediction of scour depth is essential. This study aimed to improve understanding of the mechanism of scour hole formation that in turn helps for the accurate estimation of scour depth.