MSc Thesis: CFD Modelling of Wave Loads

Haskoning continues to strengthen its expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD). It does this through the use and development of its advanced numerical wave flume, CoastalFOAM. We always improve our methods. For example, we work on the Top Consortia for Knowledge and Innovation (TKI) OFCOARSE project. We collaborate with TU Delft, Deltares, and Van Oord in this project. The aim of this TKI project is to develop guidance for the use of OpenFOAM-based models. It also aims to validate two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) OpenFOAM simulations for wave overtopping and wave impact applications.

These observations highlight the need to quantify the added value of 3D CoastalFOAM simulations compared with 2D models. In particular, further assessment is required to determine how the additional spatial dimension influences impact pressures and structural loads. For wave loading, it is expected that including three-dimensional effects may lead to reduced loads due to energy spreading and additional dissipation; however, this still needs to be systematically evaluated and validated against the physical model tests.

The Maritime & Renewables department is seeking a motivated MSc-thesis student for MSc Thesis: CFD Modelling of Wave Loads with a strong interest in numerical modelling. The objective of this research assignment is to conduct a comparative analysis of small-scale physical model tests and CFD simulations using CoastalFOAM. The focus will be on evaluating the differences between 2D and 3D simulation results.

• Delft
• Amersfoort
• 450 - 750
• 32 - 40 hours
• MSc thesis internship

Even though every thesis is different, there are multiple reference theses available:

• An efficient numerical way of working to model wave overtopping of rubble mound breakwaters, Marco Moretto 2020, Delft University of Technology
• Hydrodynamic modelling of wave overtopping over a block-covered dike, Luc Barendse 2021, University of Twente
• Numerical estimation of wave loads on crest walls on top of rubble mound breakwaters using OpenFOAM, Marisol Irias Mata, 2021 Delft University of Technology
• Numerical estimation of upward pressure differences over a placed block revetment under wave loading on a dike, Martijn van Heest, 2023 Delft University of Technology
• Evaluating the Added Value of 3D CFD Modelling for Capturing Wave Overtopping in OpenFOAM, Eveliina Moonen, 2026, Delft University of Technology

What you will do as a graduation intern

During this MSc thesis internship, you will investigate how two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) CoastalFOAM simulations represent wave loads on hydraulic structures. Your research will help assess the added value of 3D modelling for understanding wave behaviour and the resulting structural loads.

You will compare numerical simulation results with measurements from small-scale laboratory experiments. The experimental data will be available for your study, allowing you to examine how well the models reproduce observed wave behaviour, impact pressures and structural loads.

Your work will focus on:

• Analysing wave patterns and identifying differences between the physical tests and the 2D and 3D simulations.
• Investigating three-dimensional energy dissipation and its influence on wave behaviour and loads.
• Evaluating wave impacts on hydraulic structures and comparing the simulation results with laboratory measurements.
• Creating a comparative video that presents the CoastalFOAM simulations alongside the physical model tests.

Based on your findings, you will assess the strengths and limitations of both modelling approaches and draw conclusions about the value of including three-dimensional effects in wave load simulations.

Where you will work

At Haskoning, you will join an independent, employee-owned international consultancy that combines engineering, design, and consultancy services with software and technology.

You will become part of the Advisory Group Maritime & Renewables the Netherlands. This team consists of around 180 colleagues and is based in the Netherlands across three offices (Delft, Amersfoort and Nijmegen). As a team we excel in a wide variety of services and skills in the fields of Climate Resilience, Maritime and Renewable developments. We provide our clients, both private and (semi)governmental, with a range of services throughout the various phases of a project: from inception, through master planning, feasibility, design all the way to construction supervision. We have a strong foothold in the Netherlands but we operate worldwide.

What you bring

You enjoy numerical modelling and approach technical challenges with curiosity and persistence, even when things do not work the first time. You like working alongside colleagues in the office and joining social activities, becoming part of the team beyond your thesis work.

• You are currently enrolled in a technical MSc programme, for example in Hydraulic Engineering, Coastal Engineering or Physics, providing a relevant foundation for researching wave behaviour and loads on hydraulic structures.
• You have experience with MATLAB or Python to analyse laboratory measurements, process simulation results and compare the outcomes of 2D and 3D modelling.