Kinematic wave model of bed profiles in alluvial channels

Abstract

A mathematical model, based on the kinematic wave (KW) theory, is developed for describing the evolution and movement of bed profiles in alluvial channels. The model employs a functional relation between sediment transport rate and concentration, a relation between flow velocity and depth and Velikanov's formula relating suspended sediment concentration to flow variables. Laboratory flume and field data are used to test the model. Transient bed profiles in alluvial channels are also simulated for several hypothetical cases involving different water flow and sediment concentration characteristics. The model-simulated bed profiles are found to be in good agreement with what is observed in the laboratory, and they seem theoretically reasonable for hypothetical cases. The model results reveal that the mean particle velocity and maximum concentration (maximum bed form elevation) strongly affect transient bed profiles.