Time-dependent scour processes on granular beds at large scale

Abstract A theoretical framework, based on the phenomenological theory of turbulence applied to scour-related processes due plunging jets cohesionless beds, is considered in this paper. More specifically, its predictive capability assessed herein for large-scale domains, after it was developed small scales elsewhere. The analysis focuses both time-evolution process and equilibrium configuration a wide range hydraulic structures. After revisiting temporal evolution scour processes, tests investigated using unpublished experiments performed at Colorado State University by last author. These confirm existence two stages hole development, namely developing phases. Thus, dynamics large shown be consistent with that smaller scales. Then, recently introduced first three authors used predict time scour, corroborating very same equations, together coefficients, provide successful predictions, regardless scale granulometric distribution. Finally, again verified against laboratory data PK weirs obtained Pisa. Overall, work described paper offers tool general validity.