A Study of Extreme Waves and Their Effects on Ship Structure.
Abstract
Previous studies have indicated that certain extremely large waves, measured during Hurricane Camille, might be characterized as non-Gaussian. Waves of similar time-domain description had previously been found to cause ship damages during winter storms. Interviews with ship masters and officers furnished additional important characterizations of these waves, as well as indications of the synoptic weather conditions which were involved. A survey of heavy-weather damage information from Coast Guard records was conducted to evaluate general trends of heavyweather damage to ships. A preponderance of damage is attributed to local wave loadings. Selected cases of ship damage and severe hull girder stressing were examined in relation to the types of extreme waves reported to have been encountered, or believed to have been encountered, based in part upon prevailing synoptic weather conditions. A tentative characterization of large non-Gaussian waves is provided. Recent developments in nonlinear wave mechanics are reviewed to help explain the origin and propagation of these waves. Current studies of the synoptic development of winter storms are examined to identify wind field characteristics which appear to be related to the development of 'rogue' waves.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA140317
Entities
People
- W. H. Buckley