Design, Analysis, and Development of a Wave-Current Laboratory

• DOI: 10.1115/omae2020-19253
• Publication Date: 2020-12-19T05:53:03Z
• Authors: Nhu Nguyen; Jacob Davis; Ahmed Alshuwaykh; Krish Thiagarajan...
• Keywords: Wave flume; Flume; Offshore geotechnical engineering

Abstract In real ocean environments, offshore structures are exposed to a combination of wave and current loading conditions. This scenario presents the need study fluid-structure interactions in presence both conditions, achievable through experimentation recirculating flume coupled with wavemaker. The Ocean Resources Renewable Energy (ORRE) group set out design wave-current at University Massachusetts Amherst enable technologies such as scale floating platforms marine energy converters. this paper, we present methods used arrive an optimal under strict spatial constraints posed by available lab space. Limitations on length, width, height overcome via innovative flow designs compact structures. final is approximately 11.5 m (37.7 ft) length 1.2 (3.9 wide nominal water depth 1 (3.3 ft). 2 long test section begins 6 beyond inlet maximize uniformity. A 24” thruster driven 75 hp electric motor maintains velocity 0.5 m/s throughout while wedge-shape plunger implemented generate 0.6–2.8 s period waves maximum 0.2 m. During process, 2D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations employed uniformity over range angles guide vane configurations. scenario, nonuniformity 8.7 % was obtained across 0.7 column measured from free surface. Results 3D simulation around tight corner showed significant increase nonuniformity. implementation screens along path might be necessary future.