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Numerical modeling of current-induced scour around multi-wall foundation using large-eddy simulation

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Abstract

Scouring is one of the primary triggers of failure for bridges across rivers or seas. However, research concerning the scour mechanism of multi-wall foundations (MWFs) remains scarce, hindering the further application of MWFs. In this study, for the first time, the scouring effect caused by unidirectional flow around MWFs was examined numerically using FLOW-3D involving a large-eddy simulation. Initially, the applicability of the scouring model and input parameters was validated using a case study based on published measured data. Subsequently, the scouring effects of four MWFs with different wall arrangements and inflow angles, including the flow field analysis and scour pit and depth, were investigated thoroughly. It was found that the maximum scour depth of MWFs with an inflow angle of 0° was smaller than that of those with an inflow angle of 45°, regardless of the wall arrangement. Meanwhile, changing the inflow angle significantly affects the scour characteristics of MWFs arranged in parallel. In practical engineering, MWFs arranged in parallel are preferred considering the need for scouring resistance. However, a comparative analysis should be performed to consider comprehensively whether to adopt the form of a round wall arrangement when the inflow angle is not 0° or the inflow direction is changeable.

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Acknowledgements

This research was funded by the National Nature Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 42007247), Nature Science Foundation of Sichuan Province (No. 2022NSFSC1151), Open Fund of Shock and Vibration of Engineering Materials and Structures Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province (No. 20kfgk08), Scientific and Technological Innovation Projects of Housing and Urban-rural Construction in Sichuan Province (No. SCJSKJ2022-09) as well as Selected Funding for Scientific and Technological Activities in Sichuan.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Shock and Vibration of Engineering Materials and Structures Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China

    Jiujiang Wu

  2. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B9, Canada

    Jiujiang Wu

  3. Office of International Students Education, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China

    Lingjuan Wang

  4. Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China

    Qiangong Cheng

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  1. Jiujiang Wu
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  2. Lingjuan Wang
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  3. Qiangong Cheng
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Correspondence to Jiujiang Wu.

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Wu, J., Wang, L. & Cheng, Q. Numerical modeling of current-induced scour around multi-wall foundation using large-eddy simulation. Front. Struct. Civ. Eng. 17, 546–565 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11709-023-0943-4

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