Preventing large pits in water beds

High flow velocities caused by ship thrusters can result in large pits in water beds (scouring) that may, in extreme cases, even undermine quays, embankments and other structures. To prevent this, scour protection is used near structures such as quays and locks. Such protective measures consist of loose materials (rocks), block mats, concrete or asphalt.

Scale model tests

The aim of the physical scale model tests performed in this project was to establish the governing conditions for different propeller and bow thruster configurations. One test series focused on flow velocities produced by bow thrusters at specific distances in front of a quay. A second test series considered the impact that ship main propellers have on scour protections of loose rock and block mats.

Bow thruster tests

The bow thruster tests considered a schematic ship hull that included a transparent thruster tube. This made it possible to measure the outflow velocities generated by the propeller, even when the ship was very close to the quay, and without disturbing the flow field. The full ship model could not be reproduced, but the approach with the schematic hull shape ensured that the blunt blockage of the hull was represented. Flow velocities were also measured at an array of horizontal and vertical positions around the ship hull and between the ship and the quay. Pressure fluctuations were measured with probes positioned in a raised floor as to not to disturb the flow conditions.

Results of the bow thruster tests were provided to the participants as measured loads for given outflow velocities and data were compared to existing formulae from literature. These formulae describe for a given outflow velocity of the jet where the critical bed flow velocities will occur and with which strength. In this they also take the influence of the nearby quay into account. The critical flow velocities at the bed dictate the minimum required strength and extent of the bed protection measures. The outcome of this study indicates that the guidelines are often – but not always – conservative (on the safe side) for this situation and could be optimised.

Tests on influence of the main propeller of ships on scouring protection

A second test series considered the influence of the main propeller of ships on scouring protection measures consisting of loose rocks and of block mattresses. These block mattresses consist of concrete blocks attached to a geotextile. In the past design guidelines for loose rock, for a given propeller jet strength, have been extended to also derive the minimum thickness of block mattresses. The tests showed that the accuracy of placement of the mattresses is critical for the stability of the mats. The test results also showed that the guidelines – so far consisting of a scale version of those for loose rocks – are not consistently always applicable for block mattresses.

Follow-up phase

A follow-up phase is foreseen to perform additional measurements for verification and to consider other situations. When successful, the results will make it possible to design less heavy scour protection measures, or to limit their extent to smaller areas. Ultimately, this can generate major cost savings.

Share this page.