Abstract
A method for measuring fluid velocity in waves in the splash zone is demonstrated. The method uses Laser Anemometry coupled to accurate microcomputer control of the wave generation. Results are presented for the developing flow field in a plunging breaking wave in deep water.The phenomenon of slam when waves hit members of offshore structures causes large forces with small rise times. The design of a rig capable of measuring such forces in laboratory produced breaking waves is presented. Measurements on a small cylinder show that maximum forces are present at the height where the plunging spout forms and that these forces can be up to five times the drag force.

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