Hydrodynamic behavior of submerged floating tunnels with suspension cables and towers under irregular waves

Abstract

In this paper, case studies were carried out to analyze the feasibility of submerged floating tunnels (SFTs) with suspension cables. In order to apply an SFT in a field site, the deformation of the system should be controlled, even under extreme wave conditions, if vehicles or trains operate inside the SFT. Two types of suspended SFTs were proposed to analyze their hydrodynamic behavior. The main variables were the wave conditions, cross-sectional diameters, buoyancy weight ratios, inclination angles of the main cables, and installation depth of the SFT. Overall, it was found that the SFT with a mid-anchor was superior from a hydrodynamic point of view. However, a detailed hydrodynamic analysis must be performed to avoid the conditions that previously produced slack. In addition, in a case where acceleration is generated by motion, the design should be reviewed to ensure safe conditions, according to the traffic passage.