Validation of Some Empirical Equations to Estimate Bridge Abutment Scour in Non-cohesive Soil Using Field Data

Abstract

The scour under the bridge can cause very serious economic and social damages. The prediction of the maximum scour depth at the abutment is very important when assessing and warning the safety of the bridge. Recently, there have been many equations to predict local scour depth at bridge abutments. Most of them have been developed based on laboratory data. Validation of these equations using field data is necessary to make recommendations for the proper application of these equations. In this article, four design equations for the estimation of the equilibrium maximum scour depth at an abutment in non-cohesive soil were selected for validation by using field data in the United States. Based on the results of this analysis would allow to promote the highly accurate design of the abutment foundation to reduce construction and maintenance costs.