RIVER TRAINING STRUCTURES: - GROYNES

By

Arun Lila Mahendra Chaudhari Minimol Korulla

Design Engineer Design Engineer GM Design

Maccaferri Environmental Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

ABSTRACT

River training is the stabilization of the channel in order to maintain the desired cross section and alignment.
Training structures are then necessary in order to protect the channel against the changes that occur due to this
disturbance. River training has assumed considerable significance in India due to huge annual recurring damage
caused by the floods. The paper attempts to highlight the requirement of Groynes, followed by detail design
consideration such as planview shape and cross section of Groynes, length and spacing of Groynes, orientation and
permeability of the Groynes, as per International and Indian standards. This paper also emphasize on the scour
protection work near the Groynes due to localized scour around the Groynes as per Indian standards. A working
example of installation of Groynes using Gabion as a construction material is presented to understand the design
procedure. The design instructions given in this paper must be used as guide line and not interpreted as a strict code
of practice.

Key Words: River training work, Groynes, Gabions

1. INTRODUCTION

River training is the stabilization of the channel in order to maintain the desired cross section and alignment. The
practice of training a river dates back to the sixteenth century where the Yellow River in China was trained by
building embankments along its banks so that the flow would be confined to a single deep channel, which would
transport the sediment load to the sea. Modern river training practice, however, started in Europe in the nineteenth
century, driven by the demands of the industrial revolution for the purpose of maintaining sufficient channel depth
and a better course for navigation.

In general, the objectives of river training may be summarized as:

To increase the safety against flooding by accommodating the flood flow

To improve the efficiency of the sediment transport

To minimize bank erosion by stabilizing the course of flow

To direct the flow to a desired river stretch

To reduce the probability of meandering

And in most of the cases the primary objective of river training is to improve navigation by maintaining
channel depth

Natural processes and human interference may disturb the equilibrium between the sediment load contributed to the
channel and the transport capacity of the flow. Seasonal variations in the flow, dredging of the river, construction of
a reservoir, and deforestation in the catchment area are all examples of causes of disturbance. Training structures are
then necessary in order to protect the channel against the changes that occur due to this disturbance. They could be
classified into:
I. Longitudinal structures
II. Transverse structures
In this paper, the focus will be only on the Groynes as a transverse structure.
2. TRANSVERSE STRUCTURES (GROYNES)

Groynes are structures constructed at an angle to the flow in order to deflect the flowing water away from critical
zones. They are made of stone, gravel, rock, earth, or piles, beginning at the riverbank with a root and ending at the
regulation line with a head. They serve to maintain a desirable channel for the purpose of flood control, improved
navigation and erosion control.

Functions of Groyne

(1) Prevention of river bank erosion:- In particular, a strong flow in a bight of a river causes sediment in
environs to move, which brings out problems related to erosion. The main object of installation of Groyne in
rivers is to prevent the breaking of a bank caused by sediment erosion as a flood.

(2) Flow Control:- There are two main effects controlling flow, expected by installation of a bank. The first
effect is that an existing thalweg can be led to other direction, so the direction of flow would be controlled.
Then another is as the strong velocity of a river bank in a bight can be reduced, a flow would be
delayed. These effects controlling flow cause a flow to concentrate affect maintenance of the depth of water
for navigation and reduce the velocity of a river bank. As a result, a river bank would be protected.

(3) Improvement of ecological environment and scenery:- A Groyne is a protection technique which can
protect a bank and improve scenery in environs at the same. In particular, as the velocity in a Groynes field
would be reduced enough compare to a main stream. According to this phenomenon, not only various
habitats but also a refuge as a flood for fishes and microorganisms are provided. In short Groynes contribute
to create ecological environments.

2.1 TYPES OF GROYNES

Various types of Groynes can be distinguished according to their construction, action on stream flow and
appearance. Beckstead (1975), (as reported by Przedwojski et al. 1995) considers the following, necessary for a full
description of Groynes:

I. Classification according to the method and materials of construction: Groynes may be permeable
allowing the water to flow through at reduced velocities or impermeable blocking and deflecting the
current. Permeable Groynes are fabricated from piles; bamboo or timbers whereas impermeable
Groynes also called solid Groynes, are constructed using rock, gravel, or gabions.
II. Classification according to submergence: Groynes may be designed either as submerged or as non-
submerged. Which of the two types will be used is dictated by the design conditions. Usually
impermeable Groynes are designed to be non-submerged since flow over the top of solid Groynes may
cause severe erosion along the shanks. For submerged conditions, on the other hand, permeable
Groynes may be designed owing to the fact that they disturb the flow much less than solid Groynes.
III. Classification according to the action on the stream flow: Groynes may be classified as attracting,
deflecting or repelling Groynes. Attracting Groynes point downstream, they serve to attract the stream
flow towards themselves and do not repel the flow towards the opposite bank. Deflecting Groynes are
generally short ones and used for local protection. They serve to change the direction of flow without
repelling it. Repelling Groynes point upstream. They serve to repel the flow away from themselves.
IV. Classification according to their appearance in plan: Groynes may be built with different plan view
shapes. Examples are straight Groynes, T-head, L-head, hockey shaped, inverted hockey shaped
Groynes, straight Groynes with pier head, wing, or tail Groynes.

2.2 DESIGN OF GROYNES

The most important considerations involved in Groynes design are plan view shape, length of the Groynes, spacing
between Groynes, orientation to the flow, crest elevation and slope, cross-section, construction materials and scour;
Alvarez (1989), Richardson et al. (1975), and Przedwojski et al.(1995).
 The purpose of Groynes design to ensure a set of structures which

 Are of a length and height to maximize their effectiveness

 Are located and oriented to maximize their effectiveness
 Are able to withstand bed scour adjacent to the structures and
 Have sufficient structural strength to withstand hydraulic and debris forces without failure

Firm design rules for Groynes not exist. The range of conditions, functions and construction material means that
design becomes a judgmental process which must rely heavily on the experience and common sense of the designer.
The design instructions given in this paper must be used as guide line and not interpreted as a strict code of practice.
Flexibility in the design process can be lead to innovative implementations and major cost saving without sacrificing
effectiveness. Providing the major principle are recognized and incorporated.

2.2.1 PLANVIEW SHAPE

Of the above mentioned types of Groynes according to their appearance in plan view, the straight Groynes is set at
an angle from the bank and has a rounded head to provide extra volume and area for scour protection at the outer
end. The T-head Groynes is normally set at a right angle from the bank and it has a straight shank with a rectangular
guide vane at the outer end. L-head, wing or tail Groynes have larger sediment deposits between Groynes, less scour
at their head, provide greater protection to the banks and are more effective in channelization for navigation when
the length closes 45 to 65 percent of the gap between Groynes. Hockey-shaped Groynes have scour holes that are
more extensive in area than the T-head Groynes.

2.2.2 LONGITUDINAL EXTENT & LENGTH OF THE GROYNES

The longitudinal extent of channel bank requiring protection is discussed in Brown (1985)(1,3) . Figure 1 was
developed from USACE(1981)(11) studies of the extent of protection required at meander bends. The minimum
extent of bank protection determined from Figure 1 should be adjusted according to field inspections to determine
the limits of active scour, channel surveys at low flow, and aerial photography and field investigations at high flow.

Figure:- 1. Extent of protection required at a channel bend (after USACE (1981)(11) )

Groynes length depends on the location, purpose, spacing, and economics of construction. The total length of the
Groynes includes the anchoring length, which remains embedded in the bank, and the working length, which stays
in the flow. The length can be established by determining the channel width and depth desired. The working length
is usually kept between the lower and upper limits of the mean depth and a quarter of the mean width of the free
 surface respectively. The anchoring length on the other hand is recommended to be less than a quarter of the
working length.

The length of both permeable and impermeable Groynes relative to channel width affects local scour depth at the
Groynes tip and the length of bank protected. Laboratory tests indicate that diminishing returns are realized from
Groynes lengths greater than 20 percent of channel width. The length of bank protected measured in terms of
projected Groynes length is essentially constant up to Groynes lengths of 20 percent of channel width for permeable
and impermeable Groynes. Field installations of Groynes have been successful with lengths from 3 to 30 percent of
channel width. Impermeable Groynes are usually installed with lengths of less than 20 percent while permeable
Groynes have been successful with lengths up to 25 percent of channel width. However, only the most permeable
Groynes were effective at greater lengths.

As per IS 8408 : 1994 the Groynes length should not be less than required to keep the scour hole formed at the nose
away from the bank. Thus assuming angle of repose of sand to be 2.5H : 1V & anticipated maximum depth of scour
below bed be ds., the length should be more than 2.5ds. Normally the effective length of Groynes should not exceed
1/5th of width of the flow in case of single channel. In case of wide, shallow & braided rivers, the protrusion of the
Groynes in the deep channel should not exceed 1/5 th of the width of the channel on which the Groynes is proposed
excluding the length over the bank.

2.2.3 SPACING BETWEEN GROYNESS

The spacing between Groynes is measured at the riverbank between their starting points. It is related to river width,
Groynes length, velocity of flow, and angle to the bank, orientation to the flow, bank curvature, and purpose.
However, it is often expressed as a multiple of the Groynes length. Richardson et.al. (1975) recommends a spacing
of 1.5 to 6 times the upstream projected Groynes length into the flow. In order to obtain a well defined deep channel
navigation, to keep a spacing of 1.5 to 2 times the Groynes length is recommended, whereas for bank protection the
ratio of spacing to Groynes length is less and distances from 2 to 6 times the Groynes length are generally used,
although there exists successful examples of bank protection with short Groynes spaced apart 10 to 100 times their
length where the banks are protected with riprap or vegetation. If the spacing between Groynes is too long, a
meander loop may form between Groynes. Long and far apart spaced Groynes may contract the flow resulting in
channel degradation and bank erosion, and cause a hindrance to navigation. If the Groynes are spaced too close
together on the other hand, construction costs will be higher and the system would work less efficiently without
making best use of each individual Groynes.

Figure:- 2. Relationship between Groynes length and expansion angle for Groynes permeability (Brown (1985)(2))

Groynes spacing is a function of Groynes length, Groynes angle, permeability, and the degree of curvature of the
bend. The flow expansion angle, or the angle at which flow expands toward the bank downstream of a Groynes, is a
function of Groynes permeability and the ratio of Groynes length to channel width. This ratio is susceptible to
alteration by excavation on the inside of the bend or by scour caused by the Groynes installation. Figure 2 indicates
 that the expansion angle for impermeable Groynes is an almost constant 17°. Groynes with 35 percent permeability
have almost the same expansion angle except where the Groynes length is greater than about 18 percent of the
channel width.

Groynes spacing in a bend can be established by first drawing an arc representing the desired flow alignment (Figure
3). This arc will represent the desired extreme location of the thalweg nearest the outside bank in the bend. The
desired flow alignment may differ from existing conditions or represent no change in conditions, depending on
whether there is a need to arrest erosion of the concave bank or reverse erosion that has already occurred. If the need
is to arrest erosion, permeable retarder Groynes or retarder structures may be appropriate. If the flow alignment must
be altered in order to reverse erosion of the bank or to alter the flow alignment significantly, deflector Groynes or
retarder/deflector Groynes are appropriate. The arc representing the desired flow alignment may be a compound
circular curve or any curve which forms a smooth transition in flow directions.

Next, draw an arc representing the desired bankline. This may approximately describe the existing concave bank or
a new theoretical bankline which protects the existing bank from further erosion. Also, draw an arc connecting the
nose (tip) of Groynes in the installation. The distance from this arc to the arc describing the desired bank line, along
with the expansion angle, fixes the spacing between Groynes. The arc describing the ends of Groynes projecting into
the channel will be essentially concentric with the arc describing the desired flow alignment.

Figure:- 3. Groynes spacing in a meander bend (Brown (1985)(2))

As per IS 8408 1994 the spacing of the Groynes is normally 2 to 2.5 times its effective length. For site specific cases
model studies may be conducted.

2.2.4 ORIENTATION OF THE GROYNESS

Groynes orientation refers to Groynes alignment with respect to the direction of the main flow current in a channel.
Figure 4 defines the Groynes angle such that an acute Groynes angle means that the Groynes is angled in an
downstream direction and an angle greater than 90° indicates that the Groynes is oriented in a upstream direction.

Groynes may be oriented perpendicular to the flow or be inclined either upstream or downstream. Each orientation
affects the stream in a different way and results in different deposition of sediment in the vicinity of the Groynes. A
Groynes pointing downstream is an attracting Groynes, which attracts the stream flow towards itself. Repelling
Groyne, which repel the flow away, and deflecting Groyne, which deflect the flow away from the bank, point
upstream. A Groyne that is oriented upstream causes more deposition than a perpendicular one at the downstream
bank and also at the area upstream where a reverse eddy is formed and causes suspended load to settle. The amount
of deposition between Groynes is maximized in case of upstream inclination due to their ability to protect bank areas
upstream and downstream of themselves. Therefore, Groynes of this kind are best suited for bank protection and
sedimentation purposes.
 Figure:- 4. Definition sketch for Groynes angle (Karaki (1959)).

Groynes that are perpendicular to the flow have protection over a smaller area. Downstream facing Groynes are not
suitable for bank protection purposes due to their attracting effect on the flow. The flow towards the root of the
downstream Groynes threatens the surrounding bank area as well as the Groynes itself. For the purpose of
maintaining a deep channel to improve navigation on the other hand, best performance is obtained by perpendicular
or downstream pointed Groynes. Permeable retarders Groynes are usually designed to provide flow retardance near
the streambank, and they perform this function equally as well without respect to the Groynes angle. Since Groynes
oriented normal to the bank and projecting a given length into the channel are shorter than those at any other
orientation, all retarder Groynes should be constructed at 90° with the bank for reasons of economy.

Figure:- 5. Scour adjustment for Groynes orientation (Richardson et.al. (2001))

No consensus exists regarding the orientation of permeable retarder/deflector Groynes and impermeable deflector
Groynes. There is some agreement that Groynes oriented in an upstream direction do not protect as great a length of
channel bank downstream of the Groynes tip, result in greater scour depth at the tip, and have a greater tendency to
accumulate debris. Groynes orientation at approximately 90° has the effect of forcing the main flow current
(thalweg) farther from the concave bank than Groynes oriented in an upstream or downstream direction. Therefore,
 more positive flow control is achieved with Groynes oriented approximately normal to the channel bank. Groynes
oriented in an upstream direction cause greater scour than if oriented normal to the bank, and Groynes oriented in a
downstream direction cause less scour.

It is recommended that the Groynes furthest upstream be angled downstream to provide a smoother transition of the
flow lines near the bank and to minimize scour at the nose of the leading Groynes. Subsequent Groynes downstream
should all be set normal to the bank line to minimize construction costs. Figure 5 can be used to adjust scour depth
for orientation. It should be noted that permeability also affects scour depth. A method to adjust scour depth for
permeability is presented in the following section.

The lateral extent of scour can be determined from the depth of scour and the natural angle of repose of the bed
material the expansion angle downstream of Groynes, i.e., the angle of flow expansion downstream of the
contraction at the Groynes is about 17° for impermeable Groynes for all Groynes angles. The implication is that
Groynes orientation affects the length of bank protected only because of the projected length of the Groynes along
the channel bank.

2.2.5 GROYNES PERMEABILITY

The permeability of the Groynes depends on stream characteristics, the degree of flow retardance and velocity
reduction required, and the severity of the channel bend. Impermeable Groynes can be used on sharp bends to divert
flow away from the outer bank. Where bends are mild and only small reductions in velocity are necessary, highly
permeable retarders Groynes can be used successfully. However, highly permeable Groynes can also provide
required bank protection under more severe conditions where vegetation and debris will reduce the permeability of
the Groynes without destroying the Groynes. This is acceptable provided the bed load transport is high.

Scour along the stream bank and at the Groynes tip are also influenced by the permeability of the Groynes.
Impermeable Groynes, in particular, can create erosion of the stream bank at the Groynes root. This can occur if the
crests of impermeable Groynes are lower than the height of the bank. Under submerged conditions, flow passes over
the crest of the Groynes generally perpendicular to the Groynes as illustrated in Figure 6. Laboratory studies of
Groynes with permeability greater than about 70 percent were observed to cause very little bank erosion, while
Groynes with permeability of 35 percent or less caused bank erosion similar to the effect of impermeable Groynes.
Richardson et. al (2001)

Figure:- 6. Flow components in the vicinity of spurs when the crest is submerged (Brown (1985)(2))

Permeability up to about 35 percent does not affect the length of channel bank protected by the Groynes. Above a
permeability of 35 percent, the length of bank protected decreases with increasing permeability. Figure 7 shows the
results of laboratory tests of the effects of permeability and orientation on the expansion angle of flow downstream
 of Groyness. For this figure, Groynes lengths were 20 percent of the channel width projected normal to the bank.
(Brown (1985)(2))

From the above discussion, it is apparent that Groynes of varying permeability will provide protection against
meander migration. Impermeable Groynes provide more positive flow control but cause more scour at the toe of the
Groynes and, when submerged, cause erosion of the stream bank. High permeability Groynes are suitable for use
where only small reductions in flow velocities are necessary as on mild bends but can be used for more positive flow
control where it can be assumed that clogging with small debris will occur and bed load transport is large. Groynes
with permeability up to about 35 percent can be used in severe conditions but permeable Groynes may be
susceptible to damage from large debris and ice.

Figure:- 7 Groynes permeability and spur orientation vs. expansion angle (Brown (1985)(2))

2.2.6 CREST ELEVATION, SLOPE & CROSS SECTION OF GROYNES

The crest elevation of Groynes depends on the purpose and possible problems due to overbank flow. For bank
protection, the crest should be at least as high as the bank. To avoid overtopping the crest elevation should be higher
than the expected levels of water. Crests may be either level or sloping downwards from the bank towards the end of
the Groynes (Figure 8).

Figure:- 8 Groynes Crest Sloping and Level (Courtesy of Maccaferri )

For bank protection, sloping-crested Groynes are recommended by Alvarez (1989) with a slope of 0.1 to 0.25 due to
their advantages of reducing scour at the Groynes end, less material needed for construction, faster deposits of
sediment between Groynes. For navigation channel control, level crested Groynes work best normal to the flow or
angled downstream, whereas, sloping crested Groynes work best normal or angled upstream, Richardson et al
 (1975). The crest width ranges from 1to 6m and side slopes from 1:1.25 to 1:5. The minimum crest width of 1m is
controlled by the equipment placing the Groynes and wider crests make placing easier.

Impermeable Groynes are generally designed not to exceed the bank height because erosion at the end of the
Groynes in the overbank area could increase the probability of outflanking at high stream stages. Where stream
stages are greater than or equal to the bank height, impermeable Groynes should be equal to the bank height. If flood
stages are lower than the bank height, impermeable Groynes should be designed so that overtopping will not occur
at the bank. Bank erosion is more severe if the Groynes are oriented in the downstream direction. The crest of
impermeable Groynes should slope downward away from the bank line, because it is difficult to construct and
maintain a level Groynes. Use of a sloping crest will avoid the possibility of overtopping at a low point in the
Groynes profile, which could cause damage by particle erosion or damage to the stream bank. Groynes permeability
and Groynes orientation vs. expansion angle (Brown (1985)(2)). Permeable Groynes, and in particular those
constructed of light wire fence, should be designed to a height that will allow heavy debris to pass over the top.
However, highly permeable Groynes consisting of jacks or tetrahedrons are dependent on light debris collecting on
the Groynes to make them less permeable. The crest profile of permeable Groynes is generally level except where
bank height requires the use of a sloping profile.

In general, straight Groynes should be used for most bank protection. Straight Groynes are more easily installed and
maintained and require less material. For permeable Groynes, the width depends on the type of permeable Groynes
being used. Less permeable retarder/deflector Groynes which consist of a soil or sand embankment should be
straight with a round nose. The top width of embankment Groynes should be a minimum of 1 m (3 ft.). However, in
many cases the top width will be dictated by the width of any earth moving equipment used to construct the
Groynes. In general a top width equal to the width of a dump truck can be used. The side slopes of the Groynes
should be 1V:2H or flatter.

As per IS 8408 1994: the top width of Groynes should be 3 to 6m as per requirement the slopes of the side & nose
the Groynes would be 2:1 to 3:1 depending upon the material used.

2.2.7 SCOUR PROTECTION FOR THE GROYNES

River training works should be designed to resist scour, in particular erosion of the bed adjacent to the river training
structure. For Groynes scour can be localized, general or a combination of both. The expected scour near the
structure during the construction and during the service is one of the most important aspects to consider during
design. Most failures of the river training structures result from an underestimation of depth of scour. Therefore the
expected scour depth should be taken into consideration in the determination of the base depth of the Groynes.
Scour Apron should be placed on the upstream and downstream faces as well as on the nose of the Groynes to
inhibit erosion of the Groynes.

The depth of scour for different portions of Groynes can be adopted as per IS 8408: 1994

o Nose 2.0 D to 2.5 D

o Transition from nose to shank and first 30 to 60m in upstream 1.5D
o Next 30 to 60M in upstream 1.0 D
o Transition from nose to shank and first 15 to 30m in downstream 1.0 D
Where, D = The depth of scour below HFL estimated using Lacey’s formula,
In which
D = 0.473 (Q/f)1/3 ------------------------------Eqn 1

Where, Q = discharge in cum/sec, and

f = silt factor = 1.76 d1/2, Where d is the mean diameter of river bed material in mm.

When the discharge intensity is known, following formula may preferably used

D = 1.33 (q2/f)1/3 ------------------------------Eqn 2

Where, q=intensity of discharge in cum/sec/m.
Shape and Size of Launching Apron as per IS 8408: 1994

o Nose at upstream 1.5 Dmax

o Transition from nose to shank and first 30 to 60m in upstream 1.5 Dmax
o Next up to upstream bank line Nominal or No Apron
o Nose at downstream 1.5 Dmax
o Transition from nose to shank and first 15 to 30m in downstream 1.0 Dmax
o Next up to downstream bank line Nominal or No Apron

Detailed plan & Sections drawings of straight Groynes as per IS 8408:1994 is shown in Appendix:-1

Thickness of Loose stone Pitching as per IS 8408: 1994

Thickness of pitching should be equal to two layers of stones determined for velocity from equation given below in
the case of free dumping stone
0.02323S s 6
W= 3
V ------------------------------Eqn 3
K (S s − 1)

Where
1
 sin 2 θ  2
K = 1 − 2
 ------------------------------Eqn 4
 sin φ 
,
W – Weight of stone in Kg, Ss – Specific gravity of stones, θ - Angle of sloping bank, φ - Angle of repose of
protection material, V – Velocity on m/s.

Thickness of protection layer should be checked for negative head created due to velocity from the following
formula
V2
T= ------------------------------Eqn 5
2 g (S s − 1)

Where, V – Velocity in m/sec, T – Thickness in m, Ss – Specific gravity of stones

Thickness of Wire Crates or Gabion as per IS 8408: 1994

In case of crates, the mass specific gravity of the crate is required to be worked out to account for the porosity. For
estimating it an empirical relation between void ratio and mean diameter of stone in mm is as follows:
0.864
e = 0.245 + 0.21
------------------------------Eqn 6
(D50 )
D50 – Mean diameter of stone used in crates in mm.

The stone size should be larger than opening of the crates. The mass specific gravity of the crates can be worked out
from the formula given below
Sm = (1-e)Ss ------------------------------Eqn 7

For working out the volume of crates Sm should be used instead of Ss in Eqn 3. the shape of the crates as far as
possible cubical. Crates should be of made of G.I wire of adequate strength and should be with double knots, should
be PVC coated as per International standards.

The thickness of crates or Gabions is decided on the basis of the Eqn 5 the condition that the mass of each crate
should not be less than that determined on the basis of velocity consideration in Eqn 3 for Gabions or crates.
2.2.8 DESIGN EXAMPLE OF GROYNE INSTALLATION

We have assumed a location at which a migrating bend threatens an existing bridge as shown in Figure. 9. Existing
bank line conditions are shown with a solid line. Ultimately, based upon the following design example, seven
Groynes will be required. Although the number of Groynes is not known in advance, the Groynes (and other design
steps) are shown as dashed lines on Figure 9 as they will be specified after completing the following design
example. We have assumed that the width of the river from the desired (North) bank line to the existing bank line is
50m and the other river flow parameters are assumed and given in appendix 2.

Objectives of Groynes installation:-

• To establish a different flow alignment & to reverse erosion of concave (outer side) bank.
• To stop migration of the meander before it damages the highway stream crossing.
• To reduce scour at the bridge abutment & piers by aligning flow in the channel with the bridge opening.

Step 1. Type of Groynes

Impermeable deflector Groynes are suitable to accomplish these objectives and the stream regime is favorable for
the use of this type of countermeasure. It has been assumed that for this particular site the conditions are favorable
for the use of Gabions as a construction material. It has been desired to achieve the 30% porosity of the Gabions,
indeed will allow the water to pass through it and will help in protecting downstream bed. For the present scenario
as per plan view appearance the straight Groynes is set an angle from the bank and has a rounded head to provide
extra volume and area for scour protection at the other end.

Step 2. Length and Expansion angle of Groynes

As per IS 8408:1994 the effective length of Groyne should not exceed the 1/5th (20 percent) of the desired river
width. Therefore for the present example the effective length of Groyne is = 1/5 x 50 = 10 m. The expansion angle
for this Groyne type is approximately 17° for a Groyne length of about 20 percent of the desired channel width, as
indicated in Figure 2.

Figure 9. Example of Groynes design.

Step 3. Sketch Desired Thalweg

The third step is to sketch the desired thalweg location (flow alignment) with a smooth transition from the upstream
flow direction through the curve to an approach straight through the bridge waterway (Figure 9). Visualize both the
high-flow and low-flow thalwegs. For an actual location, it would be necessary to examine a greater length of
stream to establish the most desirable flow alignment. Then draw an arc representing the desired bank line in
relation to thalweg locations. The theoretical or desired left bank line is established as a continuation of the bridge
abutment and left bank downstream through the curve, smoothly joining the left bank at the upstream extremity of
eroded bank .

Step 4. Sketch Alignment of Groyne Tips

The forth step is to sketch a smooth curve through the nose (tip) locations of the Groynes, concentric with the
desired bankline alignment. Using a guideline of 1/5th (20%) of the desired channel width for impermeable Groynes
(see Section 2.2.2) the distance, L, from the desired bankline to the Groyne tips (Figure 9) would be:

The effective length of Groynes = 1/5 x 50 = 10 m

Step 5. Locate First Groyne

Step number five is to locate Groyne number 1 so that flow expansion from the nose of the Groyne will intersect the
stream bank downstream of the abutment. This is accomplished by projecting an angle of 17° from the abutment
alignment to an intersection with the arc describing the nose of Groynes in the installation or by Eqn 8. Groynes are
set at 90° to a tangent with the arc for economy of construction. Alternatively, the first Groyne could be considered
to be either the upstream end of the abutment or guide bank if the Groyne field is being installed upstream of a
bridge. Thus, the Groyne spacing, S, would be:

S=L x cot θ=10 x cot17° = 33m ---- Eqn 8

As per IS 8408: 1994 the minimum spacing of Groyne should be 2 to 2.5 times of its effective length
, therefore Minimum S = 10 x 2.5 = 25 m, Hence 33m spacing is ok.

It may be desirable to place gabion mattress protection on the stream bank at the abutment. Furthermore, the size of
the scour hole at the Groyne directly upstream of the bridge should be estimated. If the extent of scour at this
Groyne overlaps local scour at the pier, total scour depth at the pier may be increased. This can be determined by
extending the maximum scour depth at the Groyne tip, up to the existing bed elevation at the pier at the angle of
repose.

Step 6. Locate Remaining Groynes

Groynes upstream of Groyne number 1 are then located by use of Eqn 8, using dimensions as illustrated in Figure 3
(i.e., the spacing, S, determined in Step 5). Using this Groyne spacing, deposition will be encouraged between the
desired bank line and the existing eroded bank.

The seventh and last Groyne upstream is shown oriented in a downstream direction to provide a smooth transition of
the flow approaching the Groyne field. This Groyne could have been oriented normal to the existing bank, and been
shorter and more economical, but might have caused excessive local scour. Orienting the furthest upstream Groyne
at an angle in the downstream direction provides a smoother transition into the Groyne field, and decreases scour at
the nose of the Groyne. Last Groynes should be anchored well into the bank to prevent outflanking.

Step 6. Design of Scour protection work using Gabions as per IS 8408:1994

Scour depth & scour apron length for different parts of Groynes is calculated as per section 2.2.7. The thickness of
the Gabion mattress is calculated on the Groynes slope on river bed. The calculation & supported assumed data for
the presented working example is shown in appendix 2. Detailed plan of the Groyne as per design is shown in
appendix 3, also three alternatives of Groynes cross section using Gabions has been shown in the appendix 3. The
 selection of suitable alternative depends upon important of structure, cost, construction viability, availability of stone
& other geotechnical, environmental & hydraulics stability.

2.2.9 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

1. Among the different types of structures for river Groynes are most nature friendly, which make them
popular worldwide.
2. Firm design rules for Groynes not exist. The design instructions given in this paper must be used as guide
line and not interpreted as a strict code of practice.
3. To install Groynes properly it is required to take four-steps: the fundamental design, model experiments for
a relevant river, construction, and then the river itself should follow the nature system to create topography
formation.
4. The ecological connectivity of Gabion Groynes increases through the opening in the Gabion Groynes. The
opening allows the better migration of species, Vegetation growth and prevents scouring of downstream
bank.

REFERENCE

1. Alvarez, J. A. M. (1989). “Design of groins and Groynes dikes.” Proceedings 1989 National Conference On
Hydraulic Engineering, New Orleans, 296-301.
2. Brown, S.A., 1985, "Design of Groynes-Type Streambank Stabilization Structures, Final Report," FHWA/RD-
84-101, Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.
3. Brown, S.A., 1985, "Design of Spur-Type Streambank Stabilization Structures, Final Report," FHWA/RD-84-
101, Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.
4. Brown, S.A., 1985, "Streambank Stabilization Measures for Highway Engineers," FHWA/RD-84. 100 Federal
Highway Administration, McLean, VA.
5. Brown, S.A. and E.S. Clyde, 1989, "Design of Riprap Revetment," Hydraulic Engineering Circular No.11,
FHWA-IP-89-016. Prepared for the Federal Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.
6. IS 8408:1994 Planning and Design of Groynes in alluvial river Guidelines.
7. Karaki, S.S., 1959, "Hydraulic Model Study of Groynes Dikes for Highway Bridge Openings," Colorado State
University, Civil Engineering Section, Report CER59SSK36, September, 47 pp.
8. Przedwojski, B. (1995). “Bed topography and local scour in rivers with banks protected by groynes.” Journal of
Hydraulic Research, 33(2), pp. 257-273.
9. Przedwojski, B., Blazejewski, R., and Pilarczyk, K. W. (1995). River training techniques fundamentals, design
and application, A.A. Balkema, Rotterdam.
10. Rajaratnam, N., and Nwachukwu, B. (1983). “Flow near groyne-dike structures.” Journal of Hydraulic Div.,
ASCE, Vol. 109, No. HY3, pp. 463-480.
11. Richardson, E.V., D.B. Simons, and P.F. Lagasse, 2001, "River Engineering for Highway Encroachments -
Highways in the River Environment," Report No. FHWA NHI 01-004, Hydraulic Design Series No. 6, Federal
Highway Administration, Washington, D.C.
12. Richardson, E. V., Stevens, M. A., and Simons, D. B. (1975). “The design of Groyness for river training.”
XVIth , IAHR congress, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 382-388.
13. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1981, "The Streambank Erosion Control Evaluation and Demonstration Act of
1974," Final Report to Congress, Executive Summary and Conclusions.
APPENDIX:-1

PLAN AND SECTION OF GROYNES (As per IS 8408:1994)

APPENDIX:-2

PROTECTION WORK CALCULATION FOR WORKING EXAMPLE AS PER SECTION 2.2.7

ASSUMED DATA
Velocity of Water (V) 3.8 m/s

Discharge (Q) 2000 cum/sec

Desired Width of River (W) 50 m

Discharge Intensity (q) 40 cum/s/m

Angle of Repose of Fill Material ( Ф ) 30 Degree

HFL 4.5 m

Free Board 1 m

Specific gravity of stones (Ss) 2.6

Thickness of Gabion Protection work on Bed for Scour Protection

Assumed Opening of Gabions 100mm x 120 mm

Assumed D50 of stones in Gabions 150 mm

Void ratio (e) From Eqn. 6 0.27517

The mass specific gravity of Gabions (Sm) From Eqn. 7 1.88457

From Eqn. 3 Weight of Stone W= 190.446 Kg

Thickness of Gabion From Eqn. 5 0.46 m

Assume Gabion Mattress of 0.5 m thickness with diaphragms at every 1 m

Volume of Gabion (1 x 1 x 0.5 )= 0.5 cum

Mass of Stone 942.282 Kg

Weight of Stone in each gabion is higher than that computed by Eqn. 3

Hence 0.5 m thick Gabion Mattress can be adopted for the Launching apron on Bed

Thickness of Gabion Protection work on Side Slope of Groynes

Assumed Side slope of Groynes is 2H:1V 26.56 Degree

Slope Factor K From Eqn. 4 0.44753

From Eqn. 3 Weight of Stone W= 425.551 Kg

Thickness of Gabion From Eqn. 5 0.46 m

Assume Gabion Mattress of 0.5 m thickness with diaphragms at every 1 m

Volume of Gabion (1 x 1 x 0.5 )= 0.5 cum

Mass of Stone 942.282 Kg

Weight of Stone in each gabion is higher than that computed by Eqn. 3

Hence 0.5 m thick Gabion Mattress can be adopted for the Launching apron on Bed

Calculation For Depth of Scour

Assumed Silt Factor f = 1

Lacey's Scour Depth (D) From Eqn. 1 15.5558 m

Maximum Scour Depth 11.0558 m

For Nose Portion consider Dmax = 2 D 22.1115 m

Transition from nose to shank and first 30 to 60m (Assumed up to Scour
Depth) in upstream 16.5837 m

Next up to upstream River Bank 11.0558 m

Transition from nose to shank and first 15 to 30m (Assumed up to 50 % of
scour Depth ) in downstream 11.0558 m

Next up to downstream River Bank 11.0558 m

Calculation For Length of Scour Apron

Nose at upstream 33.1673 m
Transition from nose to shank and first 30 to 60m(Assumed up to Scour
Depth) in upstream 24.8755 m

Next up to upstream (Assumed up to Scour Depth) River Bank line 11.0558 m

Nose at downstream 33.1673 m

Transition from nose to shank and first 15 to 30m (Assumed up to 50 % of
scour Depth ) in downstream 11.0558 m
Next up to downstream (Assumed up to Scour Depth) bank line (50% of
Maximum Scour Depth ) 5.5279 m

Check For Length of Groynes

As per Desired Width of River Effective Length 10 m
Total Length of Groynes should be Greater than 2.5 times Scour depth 27.6394 m

Calculation For Top Width of Groynes

Top Width of Groyne 3 to 6 m

Assumed Width of Groynes 3 m

Calculation For Height of Groynes

Top level of Groyne 5.5 m

Spacing of Groynes
Minimum Spacing of Groyne should be 2 to 2.5 times of its effective length

Assumed 2.5 times of Effective length than Spacing S = 25 m

APPENDIX:-3

PLAN VIEW AND SECTION OF WORKING EXAMPLE