Dynamic ice forces on piers and piles. An assessment of design guidelines in the light of recent research

Abstract

The first part of the paper reviews and assesses various analytical approaches and design formulas used to estimate forces due to the impact of moving ice on piles, piers, and towers. The application of dimensional analysis to the problem is outlined briefly. The second part reviews and assesses full-scale data available from research structures and from reported evaluations of structure performance, and attempts to summarize their more significant findings. The third part reviews a number of recent small-scale laboratory investigations. Finally, suggestions are made for improvement of current design guidelines and practices. It is suggested that a group formed from those with the best knowledge available in Canada be assembled to develop design guidelines for ice forces on all types of structures.