Sediment Transport Calculator
Sediment Transport
Estimate sediment transport capacity in rivers using flow velocity, particle size, and channel characteristics with the simplified Engelund-Hansen approach.
Formula
Bed Shear Stress = rho_w x g x depth x slope; Shields Parameter = Shear Stress / ((rho_s - rho_w) x g x D); Transport Rate (Engelund-Hansen) = 0.05 x rho_s x V^2 x d x S / ((SG-1) x g x D x sqrt((SG-1) x g x D))
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sediment transport?
Sediment transport is the movement of solid particles (sand, gravel, silt) by flowing water. It includes bed load (particles rolling along the bottom) and suspended load (particles carried in the water column).
What is the Shields parameter?
The Shields parameter is a dimensionless number comparing the forces trying to move a sediment particle (shear stress) to the forces keeping it in place (gravity). Transport begins when it exceeds a critical value of about 0.047.
Why does sediment transport matter?
Sediment transport affects river channel shape, reservoir sedimentation, coastal erosion, water quality, and aquatic habitat. Understanding it is essential for dam design, flood control, and environmental management.
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