Review and Comparison of Methods for Estimating Irregular Wave Overtopping Rates.
Abstract
Methods for estimating the volume rate of wave overtopping by irregular seas are reviewed. Four methods are discussed in detail: Shore Protection Manual (SPM 1984), Goda (1971), Battjes (1974), and Owen (1980). Each method is discussed adequately for engineering use, and an example using each method is given. The assumptions made in each method's derivation and the importance of these assumptions are discussed also. Since the four methods were derived for different situations, the methods' ranges of applicability are summarized. The different methods yield results which can vary by more than an order-of-magnitude. For vertical seawalls, the SPM method estimates more overtopping than Goda's method except in very shallow water. For steeply sloped structures, the SPM method estimates less overtopping than Owen's method. For mildly structures, the SPM method estimates less overtopping than Battjes' method except for very low relative freeboards. Published irregular-wave overtopping data are briefly reviewed and shown to be inadequate for evaluating the available methods. Until better data are available, estimates from these methods should be considered to be within a factor-of-three, and more conservatively, an order-of-magnitude of the actural overtopping rate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA178346
Entities
People
- Scott L. Douglass
Organizations
- Coastal Engineering Research Center