Three-Dimensional Numerical Modeling of Solitary Wave Breaking and Force on a Cylinder Pile in a Coastal Surf Zone

In this paper, a three-dimensional numerical wave model is applied to simulate solitary wave run-up and breaking on a plane beach, as well as the resulting breaking-wave force exerted on a single pile located at different elevations on the beach. The model employed is based on Reynolds–averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations with a k-ε model for turbulence closure.

The model is validated using experimental data on breaking solitary wave run-up on a plane beach, time history of the wave force on a cylinder, and wave-pile interaction on a sloping bottom. After model validation, the wave model is applied to simulate wave-pile interaction with the pile located at seven different elevations on the plane beach.

Snapshots of wave-pile interaction, as well as the time history of breaking-wave force on the pile, are obtained and analyzed. The variations in breaking-wave force with elevation of the pile are also discussed.