BRIDGE SCOUR

Scour is the engineering term for the erosion of soil surrounding a bridge's foundation. Fast-moving water can remove sediment from around the piers and abutments, creating scour holes. These holes can weaken the foundation and compromise the bridge's stability.

Bridge scour is a leading cause of bridge failures, estimated to be responsible for up to 60% of such incidents. Scour analysis helps identify potential problems and take steps to mitigate them before they become critical..

Bridge scour analysis can involve several methods, including:

• Field      Measurements: Directly      measuring the depth and extent of existing scour holes around the bridge.
• Hydraulic      Modeling: Using      computer models to simulate water flow patterns and predict potential      scour depths.
• Empirical      Equations: Applying      established formulas that consider factors like flow velocity, channel      geometry, and sediment characteristics to estimate scour depth.

Once the scour analysis is complete, engineers can design countermeasures to protect the bridge foundation. These may include:

• Riprap: Placing large stones around      the piers and abutments to absorb the impact of flowing water and prevent      erosion.
• Scour      Walls: Constructing      walls around the foundation to deflect water flow and reduce scour      potential.
• Foundation      Extensions: Deepening      the bridge foundation to extend below the anticipated scour depth.

Our structural engineers provide analysis and design services to ensure that structures are safe, efficient, and comply with all relevant codes and standards. We use the latest software and tools to provide accurate and reliable results.

We offer project feasibility studies to help clients assess the viability of their BRIDGE engineering projects. Our experts provide valuable insights and recommendations to help clients make informed decisions about their projects.