A physical model of gabion overflow dams was studied to determine the velocity profile and Reynolds shear stress. Physical tests were done under two different conditions of dam crest, overflow dams with impermeable and with permeable crests. Instantaneous velocity components over dam crest were measured by an ADV (Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter) instrument. This instrument is capable of measuring instantaneous velocity components with frequencies up to 25 Hz. Average velocity components and bed shear stress were extracted from ADV measurements. The results of this research show the effect of crest permeability on velocity and Reynolds shear stress. The magnitude of Reynolds shear stresses, horizontal velocity components, and absolute value of vertical velocity components under the permeable scenario are bigger than those of the impermeable scenario. Velocity distribution over the dam crest is different from the universal logarithmic profile.

Keywords: porous media – gabion dam – permeable bed – velocity profile – Reynolds shear stress – flood control – sediment – ADV

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