Predicting Deposition Patterns in Small Basins

摘要

A technique for estimating sediment depositional patterns based upon flowpatterns is described. Flow patterns are computed using a finite element model for two-dimensional, vertically averaged flow. Once the velocity and depth fields are computed, the bed shear stress distribution can be found. If the annual volume and approximate particle size of the inflowing load is known, anticipated depositional locations and quantities can then be estimated. Use of this technique to forecast the temporal development of the deposits by computing the velocity fields for several steady flow conditions is described. The resulting graphical displays of velocity fields and shear stress contours are very of a two-dimensional sediment transport and dispersion model. Application of the technique to the design of a basin 180 ft. (55 m.) wide by 610 ft. (186 m.) long is described.