River Hydraulics Lab: dynamics, sediment transport and erosion

Objectives

The lab enables the study of river dynamics and sediment transport through simulations in teaching flumes and mobile-bed tanks, using an experimental and observational approach.

• Observe the formation of meandering channels, sand bars, banks and other bedforms on mobile beds.
• Analyse the behaviour of river flow as discharge and channel slope vary.
• Assess the effects of sediment transport and of changes in bed morphology.
• Simulate surface erosion processes and the interaction between water and soil.
• Study how water velocity and sediment grain size influence the formation of bedforms.
• Reproduce, at reduced scale, natural meandering and sedimentation processes in different river scenarios.
• Apply principles of hydraulics and geomorphology through discharge and velocity measurements (flow meters, piezometer tubes, tracers).
• Collect experimental data on morphological changes in channels and on sediment distribution.
• Compare experimental results with the theoretical principles of flow, sediment transport and channel stability.

Aims

The learning pathway puts the theory of river hydraulics and geomorphology into practice through hands-on, visual activities, encouraging progressive, data-driven learning.

• Put theoretical knowledge into practice through hands-on simulations and direct observation.
• Provide experimental skills in the use of teaching flumes, tanks and discharge and level measurement systems.
• Develop the ability to observe and analyse erosion, transport and sediment deposition phenomena.
• Foster the scientific method: planning tests, collecting data, interpreting them and comparing them with theoretical models.
• Prepare students for real professional contexts (hydrogeological risk management, river engineering design, environmental protection).

Conclusion

By the end of the activities, students will have developed the skills needed to understand and manage real river phenomena, transferring what they have tested in the lab to practical cases.

1. Understood the dynamics of watercourses and sediment transport processes, observing at reduced scale phenomena typical of real rivers.
2. Acquired practical skills in measuring discharge, velocity and morphological changes in riverbeds.
3. Developed critical analysis skills, comparing experimental results with the theories of hydraulics and geomorphology.
4. Gained an applied perspective useful for designing river engineering works, monitoring watercourses and preventing erosion and flooding.

This lab is a bridge between theory and reality, making it possible to understand natural processes through hands-on experiences with strong visual and scientific impact. The solution includes technology systems designed to promote inclusion and equal opportunities and to support innovative teaching methods, encouraging active and collaborative learning.