Experimental investigation on scour topography around high-rise structure foundations

The current study aims to investigate the characteristics of scour topography around High-Rise Structure Foundations (HRSFs) via physical modeling tests. Clear-water scour tests with a uniform non-cohesive bed are modeled under the action of unidirectional steady flows. Time variations of the erosion and deposition topography are measured. The results show that deposition downstream of the first dune behind the HRSF is not located on the centerline of the wake. The deposition pattern indicates that a long steady wake region exists behind the permeable foundation. The scour depth around an HRSF is much less than that around a monopile because of the structural permeability, which gives rise to the bleed flow and a weakened downflow and horseshoe vortex. Additionally, the asymmetry of the HRSF affects the scour rate but not the final equilibrium scour depth. The average scour slope decreases along the direction of the flow. On the contrary, the scour radial distance increases along the direction of the flow, with the average value changing from 1.36D(e) to 2.35D(e) (where De is the equivalent diameter of the foundation). Furthermore, the scour hole around the HRSF is serrated rather than smooth owing to the presence of multiple piles. Empirical formulae are suggested for estimating the evolution of scour depth and volume. These laboratory experiments provide reference information for relevant numerical modeling studies and can be applied to guide engineering designs in an ocean area. (C) 2020 International Research and Training Centre on Erosion and Sedimentation/the World Association for Sedimentation and Erosion Research. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.