Dynamic Structural Integrity Assessment for Offshore Structures

Abstract

The paper initially presents the results of a dynamic structural integrity assessment for fracture of cracked plate and tubular members under sinusoidal loading at different frequencies. The behavior of cracked members and joints in an offshore structure under wave loading (Stokes 5th order or gridded wave) is then examined. Global structural dynamic analyses of a whole offshore jacket were carried out as the first step, then, a set of sub-models of joints was selected from chosen locations and modeled with through thickness cracks under the loading extracted from the global analysis. The sub-model dynamic results were analyzed to obtain the fracture response in terms of variation of crack tip opening displacement (CTOD). Related values of K, J and their rates were also calculated. These results are used to give guidance on methods for design and assessment of structural integrity under dynamic loading.