Impact of access channel geometry on wave penetration in harbours

Access channels (entrance channels) to ports are a relevant part of port facilities, and they have a strong influence on the port operations as well. However, little information is available about their analysis and design regarding the wave interaction with access channels. This study is focused on the interaction of waves with entrance channels regarding wave propagation. This report has three parts: i) a qualitatively assessment of diffraction effects carried out with SWAN; ii) a comparison between SWAN (phase averaged wave model) and SWASH (phase resolving model) results, regarding refraction and diffraction effects; and ii) a systematic analysis of the results in SWAN on several wave conditions and a few access channel geometries (slopes). SWASH is used to test SWAN capabilities in an environment where significant refraction and diffraction is expected. The results of the comparison are analyzed and recommendations for future comparison are presented. The systematic analysis of conditions provides information about performance of SWAN and its ability to correctly represent physical phenomena particularly regarding refraction and diffraction. Additionally, recommendations for wave propagation analysis for entrance channels are presented. Finally, based on the results, engineering recommendations and considerations are presented regarding operations of ports and the design of related structures such as breakwaters.

Subject

access channel
wave propagation
diffraction

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Student theses

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master thesis

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Thesis_Cesar_Guzman_Mardones.pdf

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