A computational fluid dynamics model for sediment movement based on the unit stream power approach

Abstract

This thesis introduces a three-dimensional numerical model based on the unit stream power approach for the prediction of scour profiles. The unit stream power approach is employed to define the incipient motion criteria for the sediment particles by comparing the available applied stream power with the individual particle power requirements for motion (Rooseboom 1992). The Movability Number (Lui 1957), which represents the shear velocity-settling velocity ratio, is related to the unit stream power and is applied as an alternative incipient motion criterion. The Movability Number, as adapted by Armitage (2001) to account for topography, is utilised for scour hole predictions.