Simulation of Conduit Network Development on Bedding Planes

Abstract

<p>The development of conduit networks on bedding plane surfaces has been simulated in a series of laboratory analogue experiments. Two types of hardware models were used to study the influence of various hydraulic and structural boundary conditions on the pattern of these networks.</p> <p>Network pattern was found to be directly related to the pattern of fluid flow in the bedding plane, as determined by the configuration of input and output areas.</p> <p>Bedding plane inclination did not directly affect network pattern. However, the relationship between stratal dip and the accumulation of sediment within the network may indirectly affect network pattern.</p> <p>The shape of conduits in cross section was found to depend on their mode of origin. Discrete tubes maintained a circular cross section throughout their growth. However, anastomotic bands of tubes tended to develop into a single tube of elliptical cross section.</p>