Post-overtopping loads behind vertical structures

David Ingram, Tom Bruce, N. W. H. Allsop

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Overtopping prediction methods (e.g. EurOtop, 2007) offer extensive advice on discharges and individual overtopping volumes, and some (more sparse) advice on overtopping jet speeds, spatial extents and pressures arising from the downfalling water mass. Advice on the loads due to overtopped volumes of water is however absent, leading to uncertainties in assessment of possible loadings on structures (e.g. secondary defences). This lack of knowledge also prevents a detailed physically rational modelling of direct hazard to people and vehicles due to wave overtopping. This paper presents results from a study of these loads carried out at small-scale. It is found that the pressures (and loads) experienced by a "target" in the path of overtopped water are not strongly correlated with the volume of the overtopping event. It is also noted that impulsive loadings on the "target" can be generated even under conditions wherethe overtopping at the primary wall is non-impulsive (i.e. under green water overtopping conditions). Local pressures of 6–8 ρgHm0 were recorded at distances up to c. 0.1 (offshore) wavelength shoreward of the primary defence. The largest local pressures measured (up to c. 30 ρgHm0) were due to downfalling water mass.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings 31st International Conference on Coastal Engineering, World Scientific (ASCE)
Pages3144-3156
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2008

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Post-overtopping loads behind vertical structures'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this