Scour estimation of a bridge pier, a case of study

Abstract

The results of a case of study of scour damage in a river in the southwestern of Mexico are presented. The scour was determined using empirical methods and data available from literature to evaluate it. This was done considering the design discharge and the bottom material of the channel at the study site.The scour in rivers is a complex phenomenon, where the effects of water flow, the bottom material, channel geometry and modifications involved in time combine to act together at bridge foundations. The use of the methods presented provide good estimate of scour, combined with field measurements and observations. It is recommended analyze the results using an interdisciplinary team to determinate their reliability and adequacy for the bridge.