3D numerical simulation of ship-induced waves and sediment transport in restricted waterways

Abstract

In inland waterways, the wave wake is the main factor that erodes the banks and the alluvial bottom. It may cause sediment resuspension into the water column. A 3D hydrodynamic model based on the Navier-Stokes equations is developed to reproduce these wave wakes and analyze their kinematic characteristics. Then, a 3D model of sediment transport is coupled with the hydrodynamic model to estimate the influence of the wakes and return current to the resuspension of sediments. The coupled model was validated with the experimental data of the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (CNR, 1997b). The numerical results show that the maximum value of Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) is proportional to the Froude number (Fr), and also used to estimate the influence of the blocking coefficient (Cb) on sediment transport induced by the passing ship.