Riprap Stability: Studies in Near-Prototype Size Laboratory Channel

Riprap stability tests were conducted in the large test channel at the US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station to develop improved design guidance for riprap subjected to flow-induced forces. Rock size in bends, side slope effects, flow duration effects, and characteristic particle size were addressed in the investigation. Limited tests were conducted to evaluate the effects of riprap thickness, stability of rounded rock, riprap packing effects, and effects of filter type on stability. The procedure is based on local depth- averaged velocity, and extensive velocity measurements were conducted throughout the test channel.