Influence of bedforms on the transverse bed slope effect

Abstract

The deflection of sediment transport on a transverse slope due to gravity determines the large scale morphology by influencing bar dimensions and bifurcation dynamics. However, existing transverse bed slope predictors in morphodynamic models are based on a small range of flow conditions and sediment sizes, and do not account for the presence of bedforms. The objective of the current research is to quantify the transverse slope effect for a large range of flow conditions and sediment sizes, using an annular flume. Preliminary results show that the transverse slope is related to helical flow intensity and sediment size. Also, different bed form types developed during the experiments and appear to have a large influence on flow patterns. In order to quantify the effects of bed forms on the transverse slope, a large eddy simulation model of the annular flume is needed.