Force and water jet impact reduction on adjacent structures by means of free surface breakwaters

Journal article (2023)

Authors

K. J. Holkema Allseas, Student
C. Aalbers Allseas
P.R. Wellens Ship Hydromechanics and Structures - Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering
Research Group
Ship Hydromechanics and Structures (Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2023 K. J. Holkema, C. Aalbers, P.R. Wellens
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3233/ISP-230012
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Published Date

2023

Language

English

Faculty

Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

Department

Marine and Transport Technology

Research Group

Ship Hydromechanics and Structures

Abstract

In head waves, water jet impacts due to run up can occur as a result of the structural configuration of some floating structures, reducing workability. Wave attenuation near the floater may reduce the risk of water jet impacts. This paper presents a numerical study of the performance and attenuation mechanisms of various plate type fixed free surface breakwaters and their ability to prevent water jet impacts on adjacent structures. Simulations are performed in two dimensions with a numerical method based on the Navier–Stokes equations in the presence of a free surface. The breakwater models are evaluated in two irregular sea states in terms of wave transmission, reflection and energy dissipation and by their ability to reduce water jets impacts on adjacent structures. A 60 degree inclined plate is found to induce a large wave energy reduction, little wave transmission and reflection and to experience little wave loading while effectively reducing water jet impacts.