Boundary Stresses and Velocity Profiles in Estuarine Flows: Report 1. Interim Calculation Methods

Abstract : Calculation of sediment entrainment and transport rates at open water dredged material placement sites in tidal waters requires accurate descriptions of velocity profiles and stresses on the sediment bed. Standard equations for calculations in steady, uniform flows can give misleading results when applied in tidal waters. Complicating factors in tidal water environments include tidally reversing flows, density stratification, suspended sediment contributions, and combined current and wind-wave effects. Possible approaches to making calculations in this environment include (a) modified applications of the steady-flow equations, (b) time- and space-varying eddy viscosity and mixing length equations, and (c) turbulence transport equations. Interim recommendations for calculation methods are based on the situation and the computational power available.