Finite Element Analysis for Structural Performance of Offshore Platforms

Finite element analysis (FEA) technology has become an increasingly important tool for evaluating the structural performance of offshore platforms. This includes using FEA to perform strength and stability checks and optimization of structural design when subjected to design loads such as gravity, wind and waves, and also to perform failure investigation for offshore platforms when subjected to special loading conditions such as earthquakes and vessel impacts. Modeling of offshore platforms has been challenging due to the complexity of structural designs and the large volume of elements used in the model. This paper reviews design approaches and requirements for offshore platforms, and presents several considerations in modeling the structural performance of offshore platforms using Abaqus, including selection of element types for various components, selection of material models, modeling of masses, modeling of foundations, and simulation of various load conditions. A numerical example with a generic GBS (gravity based structures) offshore platform is included to demonstrate the use of the proposed modeling approach.