Optimizing harbour maintenance strategies using Delft3D and D-Flow Flexible Mesh

R. W. Hasselaar, W. P. De Boer, A. P. Luijendijk

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

A study of siltation processes was undertaken for the harbour of Harlingen in the Netherlands, to investigate their relative importance for potential sedimentation. Three distinct harbour siltation processes were studied: tidal filling and emptying, horizontal eddy circulation in the harbour mouth and density driven vertical circulation. The Harlingen case, with its complex harbour geometry, seemed a promising candidate for a very early pilot application of D-Flow Flexible Mesh, a new hydrodynamic simulation code. Objective of this paper therefore was to investigate its performance, flexibility and efficiency by means of a qualitative comparison with an existing calibrated Delft3D curvilinear model. It was found that the flexible mesh allows for a more precise distribution of high resolution grid cells and capturing of complex geometries using a local triangular network. Moreover, the accuracy of the model was in line with existing Delft3D results. The tide and density driven current were found to be the main contributors to the siltation in Harlingen. Concluding, the applied research method combined with the Flexible Mesh approach look like a promising tool to help identify possible mitigating measures against harbour siltation problems.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCoasts and Ports 2013
PublisherNational Committee on Applied Mechanics
Pages364-369
Number of pages6
Publication statusPublished - 2013
EventCoasts and Ports 2013 - Sydney, NSW, Australia
Duration: 11 Sept 201313 Sept 2013

Conference

ConferenceCoasts and Ports 2013
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CitySydney, NSW
Period11/09/1313/09/13

Keywords

  • D-Flow Flexible Mesh
  • Delft3D
  • Density gradients
  • Harbour sedimentation
  • Maintenance strategies
  • Unstructured grid

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