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Abstract
A comprehensive method for estimating local scour depths at bridge abutments is presented. The method was developed in New Zealand on the basis of an extensive series of laboratory investigations. Application of the method ensures that the various influences on local scour depths are systematically addressed. These are the characteristics of the flow approaching the bridge crossing, the shape of the river channel in the vicinity of the bridge, the characteristics of the bed sediments in the vicinity of the bridge, the geometry of the bridge abutments, and the peak value and duration of the design flood. Application of the method is highlighted.Preliminary results from a current investigation of the use of riprap and cable-tied blocks to protect bridge abutments are presented. The experiments apply to spill-through abutments sited on the flood-plain of wide river crossings, and wing-wall abutments sited near the bank of narrow crossings.
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Notes on contributors
B W Melville
Professor Bruce Melville is Head of the Department of Civil and Environmental ngineering at the University of Auckland. His academic career spans 23 years, prior to which he spent 6 years working for civil engineering consultants in NZ and overseas. He is an active researcher with an international reputation in the field of fluvial sediment transport. His expertise encompasses most aspects of water resources engineering, including hydraulic, river, environmental and hydro-electric engineering He is Associate-Editor of the (ASCE) Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, has served on local and international research committees, and has been a member of many tribunals for water consent hearings. He received the 2002 ASCE Hydraulic Structures Medal, in recognition of his contributions in the field.