Numerical prediction of scour around piles in near shore region

Pile supported structures are constructed along the coast for various purposes. Estimation of scour in the vicinity of individual piles, interference amongst the piles in a pile group and their consequences on the scour are important in the design of the structure. This paper addresses the numerical model study conducted for a pile supported jetty to be constructed along the South-East coast of India. Spatial and temporal variations in scour were estimated and results compared with the literature. Results indicate that as far as the scour is concerned, longitudinal spacing of 10 in. and transverse spacing of 6 in. between the piles would be adequate to avoid interference effects. The studies emphasize the need for considering the near shore circulation and associated sediment transport in addition to the pile diameter and water depth in the estimation of scour.