OysterBreak reef design is a complex and environmentally interactive process. The final OysterBreak reef cost will be determined by the balancing of a number of physical, fiscal, environmental, regulatory and asthetic goals. One of the more complex criteria encountered in designing an OysterBreak project are the engineered gaps. There are two completely different types of gaps which may optionally be used with an OysterBreak project.
Flushing Gaps Defined
A flushing gap is a gap between two segments of OysterBreak reef. The width of each gap and the length of each OysterBreak segment (the gap interval) are determined by classic coastal engineering analysis. The relationship between OysterBreak segment length (flushing gap interval), flushing gap length, and distance to shore affect the wave - shoreline interaction. The accompanying diagram from the Coastal Engineering Manual is intended to help visually illustrate the flushing gap principles and relationships. The OysterBreak estimate calculator flushing gap length is represented in the diagram as 'Lg'. The OysterBreak estimate calculator flushing gap interval length is represented in the diagram as 'Ls'. You may include or ignore these parameters in the OysterBreak calculator.
OysterBreak Gaps
As a design element and/or in response to fiscal constraints it may be possible to consider leaving out a small percentage of OysterBreak rings in the top layer of a multi-layer OysterBreak reef structure. Basically fewer OysterBreak rings used in the overall project correlate directly to a lower reef project cost. However, these gaps will have an impact on other project goals. So, OysterBreak gaps may only be considered after a careful and thorough project design based on your environmental, asthetic, and protection goals.
When using our W.E.T. OysterBreak project estimate calculator you may specify flushing gap parameters. We will be happy to discuss OysterBreak top layer gaps based on your overall project needs.