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Freeboard Formula:
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Freeboard calculation determines the height of the watertight portion of a structure above a given water level, considering wave effects. It's crucial for coastal engineering and flood protection design to ensure structures remain safe and functional during wave events.
The calculator uses the Freeboard formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the required freeboard by considering wave runup and the transmission characteristics through a structure, providing a safety margin against wave overtopping.
Details: Accurate freeboard calculation is essential for designing coastal structures, seawalls, breakwaters, and flood defenses to prevent overtopping and ensure structural integrity during storm events.
Tips: Enter wave runup in meters, wave transmission coefficient (dimensionless), and dimensionless coefficient. All values must be valid positive numbers.
Q1: What is wave runup?
A: Wave runup is the maximum vertical extent of wave uprush on a beach or structure above the still water level.
Q2: What factors affect wave transmission coefficient?
A: The coefficient depends on structure type, porosity, geometry, and incident wave characteristics.
Q3: How is the dimensionless coefficient determined?
A: The dimensionless coefficient is typically derived from empirical studies and varies based on structure configuration and wave conditions.
Q4: What are typical freeboard values for coastal structures?
A: Freeboard values typically range from 1-3 meters for most coastal protection structures, depending on design wave conditions.
Q5: Can this formula be used for all types of coastal structures?
A: This formula is specifically designed for structures where the Seelig equation applies, primarily rubble mound breakwaters and similar permeable structures.