Experimental Analysis of Hydrodynamic Forces on Vertical Cylinders Under Wave and Current Conditions

 

1. Introduction

The experimental determination of hydrodynamic forces acting on vertical cylinders plays a vital role in offshore and coastal engineering research. Vertical cylindrical structures are commonly used in offshore platforms, wind turbine foundations, and marine energy devices. Understanding how waves and currents interact with these structures enables accurate prediction of loading conditions, ensuring structural safety, efficiency, and long-term sustainability in harsh marine environments.

2. Experimental Setup and Methodology

This research employs controlled laboratory experiments using wave flumes and current tanks to simulate real ocean conditions. Force sensors and pressure transducers are used to measure inline and transverse forces on vertical cylinders. By varying wave height, wave period, and current velocity, the study systematically captures hydrodynamic responses under combined loading scenarios.

3. Hydrodynamic Force Measurements

Accurate measurement of drag and inertia forces is essential for understanding wave–current interactions. The experimental results highlight how force amplitudes change with flow conditions, revealing nonlinear effects and complex force coupling mechanisms that are often underestimated in simplified analytical models.

4. Determination of Hydrodynamic Coefficients

Hydrodynamic coefficients such as drag coefficient (Cd) and inertia coefficient (Cm) are derived from experimental force data. These coefficients are critical inputs for Morison’s equation and numerical simulations, enabling more reliable prediction of offshore structural behavior under realistic sea states.

5. Implications for Offshore and Renewable Energy Structures

The findings have direct applications in the design of offshore wind turbines, wave energy converters, and coastal protection systems. Improved understanding of force behavior under combined wave and current conditions enhances structural safety, reduces maintenance costs, and supports the development of resilient renewable energy infrastructure.

6. Future Research Directions and Conclusions

The study concludes by emphasizing the need for advanced experimental techniques and data-driven modeling approaches. Future research may integrate machine learning, CFD validation, and real-sea monitoring data to further improve hydrodynamic force prediction for next-generation smart offshore systems.

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