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Evaluation of Various Methods for Deflecting Debris from Bridge Piers

Project Details
STATUS

Completed

START DATE

03/01/11

END DATE

05/31/12

RESEARCH CENTERS InTrans, BEC, CTRE
SPONSORS

Federal Highway Administration
Iowa Department of Transportation

Researchers
Principal Investigator
Terry Wipf
Principal Investigator
Brent Phares

Bridge Research Engineer, BEC

About the research

Debris accumulation on bridge piers is an on-going national problem that can obstruct the waterway openings at bridges and result in significant erosion of stream banks and scour at abutments and piers. In some cases, the accumulation of debris can adversely affect the operation of the waterway opening or cause failure of the structure. In addition, removal of debris accumulation is difficult, time consuming, and expensive for maintenance programs.

This research involves a literature search of publications, products, and pier design recommendations that provide a cost effective method to mitigate debris accumulation at bridges. In addition, a nationwide survey was conducted to determine the state-of-the-practice and the results are presented within.

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