In-line forces on a slender structure subjected to combined waves and currents

• Main Author: Hughes, Brian R.
• Language: English
• Published: University of British Columbia 2010
• Subjects: Waves; Ocean currents; Offshore structures
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2429/28387

The present investigation considers the hydrodynamic forces acting on a slender structure subjected to a combined wave and current flow regime. The experimental aspect of the study measured the in-line peak-to-peak forces on a vertical cylinder mounted in a wave-current flume. Although there were some inconsistencies in the data, the general trend indicated a substantial increase in the force with a positive underlying current and a less pronounced increase for a negative current. A numerical analysis of the problem evaluated Morison's equation using the current-invariant force transfer coefficients and flow kinematics obtained through Stokes Fifth Order Wave Theory. The results of this analysis revealed a trend qualitatively similar to that found experimentally. The important distinction between the results obtained through the experimental investigation and those obtained numerically was the consistent over-prediction observed in the numerical analysis. === Applied Science, Faculty of === Civil Engineering, Department of === Graduate