Classification of Breaking Wave Loads on Vertical Structures

Abstract

Measurements of impact pressures and forces together with simultaneous video records of the wave motion at and in front of caisson breakwaters were performed in a wave flume. Based on the results of this model study, criteria are developed for wave‐breaking and breaker‐type classification in the presence of vertical structures. As a result, four main breaker types are identified and discussed. The corresponding impact loads (pressure, pressure distribution, and total forces) are described. The results obtained suggest that the observed breaker shapes can now be identified by the recorded force histories, as well as by the impact pressure histories and distributions, without any use of the corresponding video pictures. The effect of the caisson front geometry on the impact forces is also briefly discussed. It is concluded that the shape of both the colliding breaker and structure front must be accounted for in the future prediction of impact loads.