This is a shorter description of the full-scale investigation carried out to study the vortex-induced motion of circular steel piles in today flow using a specially constructed full-scale rig which was built at Immingham. This incorporated three test piles of 457, 610 and 762 mm diameter driven into the estuary bed and held at the top by short capping beams. The responses of the piles to the flow as the speed changed over the tidal cycle were measured.
To obtain a better understanding of the cause of the motion, the pressure fluctuations in the wake behind the 762-mm pile were studied. The motion was found to be affected by changes in the angle of the capping beam relative to the flow direction. Sufficient information has been obtained to distinguish the parameters controlling the motion and to suggest possible methods of avoiding or preventing it. In particular, it was found that the flow speed for the onset of oscillations was significantly lower than had been anticipated prior to this work. Concurrently, a thorough examination has been made of the tidal regime in the vicinity of the test rig.
For more information, please contact Matthew Parker (Matthew.parker@ice.org.uk)
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Oscillation of piles in marine structures (Out of publication - available as photocopy only)
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