Investigation of Waves’ Impact on Floating Objects Using Numerical Simulations and Experiments

Wave loads significantly influence offshore structure design; the structures must be strong enough to resist those loads. On the other hand, waves can be used as a renewable energy source if the loads are adequately exploited. The wave loads can be obtained by experimental methods or simulations. However, experimental methods are costly and limited in shape, accuracy, and the details of the measurements. This study uses the CFD method to capture the interaction between waves and a partially submerged object. The simulations are performed by utilizing two-phase open-channel transient flow and Volume of Fluid (VOF) techniques. The simulations are performed for different wave scenarios, i.e., wave height and frequency. Simulation results are validated by experimental tests. The experiments are performed in a dedicated lab, which includes a water tank with a wave generator and a facility for measuring drag and lift forces. The study focuses on the study of wave loads on partially submerged objects. The CFD simulations show strong consistency with the experimental data. The results show load distribution over the floating objects that can be used to design proper structures for resisting or energy-harvesting wave loads.