New hydraulics research facility launched in the Netherlands

The Delta Flume hydraulics research facility has been opened in Delft, the Netherlands.

The Delta Flume will be the location for full-scale studies of the effects of extreme waves on dikes, breakwaters and offshore structures.

It is 300 m long, 5 m wide and 9.5 m deep. According to Deltares, an independent institute for applied research in the field of water and subsurface, the depth makes it possible to generate waves up to 4.5 m high.

The facility can be used for studies in which major factors affecting the results include not only large water movements but also the detailed flows in small spaces between stones and sand or clay.

Typical measurements in the Delta Flume will look at wave heights, wave pressures and forces, flow velocities, wave overtopping, damage patterns and changes in cross-sections.

The Delta Flume was opened by Ministers Melanie Schultz van Haegen from the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, and Henk Kamp from the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Schultz van Haegen said: “The Delta Flume shows that we have everything we need to be the planet’s testing ground. And there are benefits for everyone. We are leading the way with innovative solutions for our own water challenges. And we can supply other countries with the expertise we develop.”

Take a look at the ‘opening wave’ of the Delta Flume research facility.

Image: Deltares