Numerical simulation of the effects of weight system on the hydrodynamic behavior of 3-D net of gravity cage in current

Abstract

In this article, a model of 3-D net is set up by using lumped mass method. Model test results made by Lader and Enerhaug are cited to verify the numerical model. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of weight system on the hydrodynamic behavior of 3-D net of gravity cage in current. Using the 3-D net model, with different styles and masses of weight system, hydrodynamic behavior of gravity cage net in current is simulated. In this article, two styles of common weight system are used, which include: (1) sinker system, (2) bottom collar-sinker system. Under each style, three different masses of weight system are adopted. The numerical results indicate that the bottom collar-sinker system is practically feasible in improving the cage net volume deformation. Results of this study will give references for better knowledge of hydrodynamic behavior of gravity cage.