Comparative study on wave force calculation methods for bridge superstructures

Hurricane-generated large waves accompanied by storm surges have destroyed several bridges along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. It is crucial to develop a practical method for calculating the wave forces acting on bridge decks located in hurricane- or typhoon-prone areas. Some methods were presented after Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina. However, these methods were developed through case-specific research, indicating that their applicability requires comparative validation. This study provided a detailed summary of existing methods based on their development and distinctive features. Moreover, several methods were employed to estimate wave forces in two different girders: a T-girder and a box girder. The results were proportional to the wave amplitude for different clearance cases, with a complicated relationship between the wave forces and wave period. The calculated results were compared with experimental data obtained from open literature. It can be concluded that several methods satisfactorily estimated the wave forces acting on a bridge deck under specific conditions with reasonable redundancy. Recommendations were made to apply these methods to different conditions, considering the wave amplitude and clearance. This research can serve as a reference for the future design of coastal bridge superstructures.