T&R Bulletin 1-35: Analysis of a Stratified Sample of Ocean Wave Records at Station "India" (1976)

Results are presented of an extensive stratified random sampling of spectra obtained by analysis of wave records at Station "India" in the North Atlantic Ocean (59DN, 19°W). Spectra were obtained for five different wind speed groups, and except in the highest wind group represented a roughly equal sampling of all four seasons. The final sample of 323 spectra are presented in graphical and tabular form in an appendix, along with tabulations of the principal spectrum parameters. The report presents the results of analysis of the spectra to show a variety of trends, such as significant height vs. wind speed and average period, seasonal variations in significant height, etc. Typical groups of spectra having significant heights of 25-35 feet and 35-45 feet are presented graphically and compared to several ideal spectrum formulations, showing considerable differences. It is concluded that this collection of spectra can be grouped into families, on the basis of significant wave height, which can be useful for ship designers.