Mechanical design of a tide gauge station for Ustica

Abstract

There are many scientific experiences related to the sealevel measurement with different techniques [Blomenhofer and Hein, 1994; Key and Parke, 1997; Pellegrinelli et al., 2009] where methods, data analysis and comparisons are discussed, but no technical information are provided about the mechanical aspects of the structure required for the acquisition. In order to fill this lack, in this work we show some mechanical design steps, with technical information, of a particular tide gauge station, highlighting the significant mechanical stresses and deformations arising from the interaction between the structure and the sea. The structure of a tide gauge station, with submerged sensor, consists of a surge pipe anchored to a pier and partially immersed in seawater. Despite such conceptual simplicity, this design required a careful analysis under different points of view to ensure a long life in the harsh environment in which the station will be installed and to guarantee an optimal sealevel monitoring.