Parametric Study of Nonlinear Wave Loads on Submerged Decks in Shallow Water

This study is concerned with calculations of nonlinear wave loads on submerged, horizontal decks in shallow water. Solitary and cnoidal wave loads on submerged decks are determined by use of the Level I Green-Naghdi (GN) equations. Results of the GN equations are compared with the linear theory, CFD, and with available laboratory measurements. Variation of the horizontal and vertical wave-induced loads and the overturning moment on submerged decks is studied through an extensive parametric study. In total, 240 cases are considered for cnoidal waves and 84 cases for solitary waves. The variable parameters include the wave height, wave period, deck submergence depth and deck length. Based on the parametric study results, two empirical, design-type equations are suggested for estimating the vertical and horizontal forces on submerged decks. Results of the empirical equations are compared with the available laboratory measurements and CFD calculations and good agreement is observed. Examples are provided to demonstrate the use of the empirical equations for prototype cases. The parametric study and the empirical equations provide engineers with the preliminary determination of wave loads on submerged decks.