In the heart of Ecuador, the collapse of the Arturo Sandez Bridge in Girón served as a stark reminder of the devastating impact that river scour, or socavación, can have on critical infrastructure. Now, a groundbreaking study led by Leonardo Fernández-Galarza of the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador is shedding new light on how to predict and mitigate these risks, with significant implications for the energy sector and beyond.
Fernández-Galarza and his team have developed an integrated numerical modeling approach that combines hydrological, hydraulic, and water-structure interaction analyses to assess the effects of scour on bridge infrastructure. Their work, published in the journal Advances in Building Education, translates to “Advances in Construction Education,” offers a compelling case study of the Arturo Sandez Bridge and provides a roadmap for preventing similar disasters in the future.
The research begins with a detailed topographical survey using Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology, which allows for precise prediction of geomorfológicos, or geomorphological, changes. The hydrological analysis of the basin was then subdivided into five sub-basins and simulated using the HEC-HMS program. For the hydraulic study, the team modeled the river flow using HEC-RAS software, revealing a water depth of 4.18 meters and a modeled flow rate of 76.90 cubic meters per second in a 50-year scenario.
But perhaps the most innovative aspect of the study is the use of ANSYS CFD software to model the interaction between water and the bridge structure. By employing finite volume methods, the researchers were able to identify the most vulnerable areas of the bridge affected by scour. “This integrated approach allows us to not only understand the complex processes at play but also to implement targeted corrective actions,” Fernández-Galarza explains.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are profound. Many energy infrastructure projects, such as hydroelectric power plants and pipelines, are located in areas vulnerable to river scour. By adopting this integrated modeling approach, energy companies can better assess risks, optimize maintenance schedules, and ultimately prevent costly and dangerous infrastructure failures.
Moreover, the use of advanced numerical modeling tools like ANSYS CFD opens up new possibilities for predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring. As Fernández-Galarza puts it, “The future of infrastructure management lies in our ability to anticipate and mitigate risks before they become disasters. This study is a step in that direction.”
The study published in Advances in Building Education, serves as a call to action for the construction and energy industries to embrace these advanced modeling techniques. By doing so, they can ensure the safety and longevity of their infrastructure, ultimately saving lives and resources. As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, the need for such proactive measures will only grow more urgent. This research offers a beacon of hope, guiding the way towards a more resilient and sustainable future.
