Mechanics of Riprap Failure at Bridge Piers
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Volume 121, Issue 9
Abstract
Engineering methods to deal with pier-scour problems include placing coarse riprap stones around the bridge pier. This study aims to investigate the stability of a riprap layer around a cylindrical bridge pier. Experiments conducted in a laboratory flume identified three different modes of riprap failure. They can act singly or combine to render a complete failure of the riprap layer. These modes of failure are riprap shear failure, winnowing failure, and edge failure. The study proposes a semiempirical method to size stones for riprap protection. The procedure for this method was illustrated with field data from three different bridge sites. The experimental data show that a thick riprap layer can prevent winnowing in the absence of a filter layer. The thick riprap layer can also sustain a partial breakup of the layer with the capability of rearmoring the scour hole, preventing a total disintegration of the riprap layer. Finally, the study proposes two empirical relationships, which describe the effect of riprap thickness and cover on the stability of the riprap layer.
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Published In
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering
Volume 121 • Issue 9 • September 1995
Pages: 635 - 643
Copyright
Copyright © 1995 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Published online: Sep 1, 1995
Published in print: Sep 1995
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