Experimental study on extreme hydrodynamic loading on pipelines. Part 1: Flow hydrodynamics

Abstract

Over the past two decades, extreme flood events generated by tsunamis or hurricanes have caused massive damage to nearshore infrastructures and coastal communities. Utility pipelines are part of such infrastructure and need to be protected against potential extreme hydrodynamic loading. Therefore, to address the uncertainties and parameters involved in extreme hydrodynamic loading on pipelines, a comprehensive experimental program was performed using an experimental facility which is capable of generating significant hydraulic forcing, such as dam-break waves. The study presented herein examines the dam-break flow characteristics and influence of the presence of pipelines on flow conditions. To simulate conditions of coastal flooding under tsunami-induced inundation, experiments were performed on both dry and wet bed conditions to assess the influence of different impoundment depths and still water levels on the hydrodynamic features.