Coupling analysis of finite element and finite volume method for the design and construction of FPSO crane

The aim of this study is to establish a procedure for systematic design and performance evaluation of an offshore platform (FPSO; Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading) crane using a computational approach. Coupling analyses of the finite element and finite volume methods, which are applicable for ensuring robust design under the consideration of nonlinear environmental effects, were carried out. In order to investigate the effects of dynamic loading, the boundary conditions of an offshore platform crane having a lifting capacity of 100 tons were studied. In the finite volume method, a series of analyses were carried out using the computational fluid dynamics code, FLUENT. The craneʹs weight, maximum lifting load, calculated wind pressure and boundary conditions such as the inclination of the deck due to the extreme roll motion of FPSO were also considered in the finite element analyses using the commercial code, MSC/NASTRAN. Deformation, stress distribution, as well as fatigue life estimation were conducted under the unified computational environment. An advanced procedure for evaluating design concept validation was proposed for the application of FPSO design and construction.