Study of the acoustic and vibratory underwater footprint

The challenge

Within the framework of internal works of R&D activities, Metravib studies the underwater acoustic footprint of offshore installations in operation and of the maritime fleet. This work is oriented around the control of the corresponding impact by its prediction from the vibrating sources and their subsequent radiation.

The solution

From experimental information and existing knowledge, Metravib is developing numerical models on the propagation of the main sources of vibrations to the interface with the aquatic environment, and then evaluate how such vibration propagates as acoustic waves in the water.

The long-term objective is to propose a management tool of this impact to support the decision making in exploitation which would help, if necessary, to limit the nuisance or even to act in the design stage to reduce it as much as possible.  If the regulations evolve in this direction, this tool could also be used to display the underwater acoustic footprint of offshore installations in operation and the maritime fleet.