Wave Action in Pumping Station Storm Overflow

Abstract

A method of analysis of tidal flap doors under oscillatory flow conditions is presented. Hydrodynamic data for flap doors is given for use in numerical simulation of door movement. Application of the data is illustrated by considering the case of a pumping station overflow that includes twin tidal flap doors. Boundary conditions for the numerical model are the inflow to the pumping station and the time history of pressure at the outfall determined from wave‐climate measurements offshore. Computations were undertaken with a threefold purpose: to establish peak water levels in the pumping station for selection of safe machinery levels; to determine the closure rate of flap doors to assess risk of slamming; and to quantify airflow rates to and from access chambers to provide adequate venting arrangements.