3D numerical investigation of wave-induced seabed response around a tripod pile foundation with different arrangements

Abstract

This paper developed an integrated numerical model for the dynamic response of the seabed around tripod turbine foundations under dynamic wave pressure. Three-dimensional (3D) numerical analysis is performed by applying an integrated multiphysics model developed in the finite volume method (FVM) based on the OpenFOAM framework. The present work adopts nonlinear wave model, linear elastic structure model, and anisotropic porous seabed model for wave-structure-seabed interactions. Accuracy of the wave-structure-seabed coupling process was ensured by comparing the numerical model with the numerical and experimental results. This study indicates: (1) the existence of tripods will significantly affect the consolidation results of the surrounding seabed; (2) wave force acting on the tripod structure varies with different arrangements, in which the maximum wave force under the wave crest decreases as the angle between wave and structure increases; and (3) the asymmetry 15° arrangement would significantly increase the maximum liquefaction depth of the seabed.