Wave Flume
In most projects, physical model tests are performed to confirm or optimise the design. Since 2008 Delta Marine Consultants offers 2D physical model tests for breakwaters and shore protections in their state-of-the-art wave flume in Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Since 2008, various project specific model tests have been carried out, such as breakwaters in Panama, Australia, Benin, UK, The Netherlands, U.A.E., Poland, Sri Lanka and Congo-Brazzaville. Due to the fact that DMC has various sizes of rock and Xbloc scale model units available in the facility, it is possible to optimise a cross section during the test program in a quick and efficient manner. Apart from these project specific tests, various research projects have been carried out in order to increase DMC’s knowledge on breakwater design and to test new applications.
Subjects that can be studied are:
- Stability of breakwater armour layer
- Toe and crest stability
- Overtopping
- Wave pressures and forces on structures
- Reflection and transmission coefficients
- Wave run-up
- scour
Wave generator
The 2D wave flume of Delta Marine Consultants is equipped with the innovative Edinburgh Designs piston wave generator, which can generate regular and irregular waves. The wave generator measures the reflective wave and corrects the paddle motion to absorb it. The resultants wave field is totally predictable even with highly reflective models.
Xbloc model units for tests at other facilities
Apart from model tests at the DMC wave flume, many project specific tests are carried out at other hydraulic laboratories around the world. DMC has Xbloc scale model units available for rent in various sizes to suit the required model scale and the properties of the wave flume. If you require model units for model tests, please contact DMC.
Wave Flume Characteristics
| Length: | 25.0 m |
| Width: | 0.6 m |
| Height: | 1.0 m |
| Max. water depth | 0.7 m |
| Hmax |
0.3 m (depending on the water depth) |
