Coastal Engineering Studies in Support of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Beach Erosion Control and Hurricane Protection Project. Report 1. Physical Model Tests of Irregular Wave Overtopping and Pressure Measurements.

Abstract

A two-dimensional physical model investigation was conducted at scales of 1:13 and 1:19 (model to prototype) to provide input for the design optimization of a seawall proposed for long-term storm protection at Virginia Beach. This was one of a number of tasks conducted in support of the detailed design of a beach erosion control and hurricane protection project at Virginia Beach. The 2-D tests were conducted to acquire data on the expected rate of overtopping for two design storm types (hurricane and northeaster) at selected still-water levels, determine a stable stone size for a proposed fronting riprap berm, and to determine the distribution of wave-induced pressures on the face of the seawall. As a result of the 2-D tests, a stable stone size was determined for the proposed fronting berm, and overtopping rates were measured. An improved seawall design was recommended and showed a significant reduction of overtopping rates over the initial seawall design. Wave-induced shock pressures were recorded on the face of the seawall; however, durations were small and probably insignificant. Measured surge pressure magnitudes were relatively consistent and durations were significant. No significant negative pressures were recorded.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 1988
Accession Number
ADA194495

Entities

People

  • D. D. Davidson
  • John P. Ahrens
  • Martha S. Heimbaugh
  • Peter J. Grace

Organizations

  • Coastal Engineering Research Center

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Beach Erosion
  • Civil Engineering
  • Coastal Engineering
  • Data Acquisition
  • Engineering
  • Engineers
  • Erosion
  • Geometry
  • Models
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Pressure Distribution
  • Pressure Measurement
  • Prototypes
  • Riprap
  • Storm Surges
  • Two Dimensional
  • United States

Readers

  • Coastal and Marine Engineering/Sediment Transport/Hydraulic Engineering