Breakwater Design and Build: A Comprehensive Approach

The design and construction of a breakwater is a complex process that requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure its stability and effectiveness in mitigating wave energy. One of the key aspects of breakwater design is the calculation of mechanical admittance, which involves interpolating responses at intermediate attack angles. This is followed by the computation of dynamic response, taking into account the motions of the floating structure in waves.

The Excel package used for this purpose employs closed-form analytical solutions to calculate the diffraction and Froude-Krilov forces acting on the breakwater for different wave periods. The installation also requires afloat stability checks, which involve removing the caisson from the semi-submersible barge and calculating wave forces and safety factors against sliding and overturning.

A key aspect of the design process is the consideration of wave forces, which are critical in ensuring the structural integrity of the breakwater. This involves computing wave forces and safety factors using Excel, as shown in the chart below. The importance of a well-designed breakwater cannot be overstated, particularly in coastal areas where it can provide crucial protection against erosion and damage.

In conclusion, the design and build of a breakwater is a multidisciplinary process that requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure its effectiveness in mitigating wave energy. By employing advanced analytical tools and techniques, such as those used in Excel, designers can create breakwaters that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

References

* CAISSON DESIGN VERIFICATION

* ASCE COPRI 2018 Houston Chapter Conference

Breakwater design and build