Computer and Physical Laboratory Modeling

Most large marine projects are guided through a combination of computer and physical laboratory modelling. Decisions are taken to move ahead in the world's largest projects once these studies are completed. For example, multi-million dollar ports and offshore oil facilities, billion dollar airports and virtually all coastal protection projects are designed using physical and numerical modelling blended with engineering know-how.

With the company's background in science and coastal construction, Surf Pools Ltd uses highly technical numerical modelling software and its own physical laboratory to meet the intense demands of the modern investor for proof of technology.

The modern laboratory contains office facilities, model construction capability and a large 18 m by 9 m 3-dimensional wave tank which is up to 1 m deep. The tank is available for all types of suitable marine projects. The tank can be partitioned into multiple compartments for smaller assignments. Six independent wave generators produce random waves, controlled by computer. Modern scientific measuring equipment includes micro-scale current meters, wave capacitance probes, CTD sensors and time lapse photography.

Example projects:

• A full wave pool facility at 1:10 scale
• Adjustable Science Reef - testing design options
• Numerous ASR ocean reefs - testing prior to construction
• Saline plume dilution - testing diffusers for Victoria's proposed desalination plant
• Geobag methods - testing new ways to lay geotextile reefs

Please contact the Laboratory Manager for enquiries.

laboratory@surfpools.co.nz