2D and 3D Physical Model Testing of Mega Port Projects

Physical model testing is recognized to be a vital element for the confidence and security it adds to ports and maritime engineering design. Consequently, many clients consider physical model testing as an a priori step for a safe and economical design. This fact was exemplified by two major port expansion projects, namely, the ports of Haifa and Ashdod, Israel, where the port owner has embarked on a phased development plan that includes a significant amount of physical modeling work. In particular, the development envisaged broadening the port basin and lengthening the existing outer breakwaters. Accordingly, the designed breakwater layouts were physically modeled and tested for their structural integrity and functionality. The testing campaigns have created an excellent platform to evaluate the design, first with theory, and next with the observations and measurements gathered from the physical modeling. This paper presents the approach, results, and lessons learned from both projects, lessons which continue to contribute to subsequent model testing for other port projects.