Iceberg Impact Load on a Gravity Based Structure

by Dat Duthinh, Petro-Canada Resources, Calgary, Alberta, Can,
Stephen Marsden, Petro-Canada Resources, Calgary, Alberta, Can,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Cold Regions Engineering

Abstract:

The mechanics of the eccentric collision of an iceberg against a fixed, rigid, gravity based structure are discussed. A closed form solution is derived for the case of infinite friction (perfect adhesion) between the iceberg and the structure. This solution provides the energy absorbed during the collision. A more general, time stepping computer method is also presented. Examples are given of a spherical berg and two parallellepipedic bergs colliding with a cylindrical structure. (The iceberg characteristics used in the examples are illustrative only and do not necessarily reflect design parameters). Results show the effect of friction, eccentricity and berg orientation on the impact load. Implications for design are presented.

Subject Headings: Ice | Offshore structures | Impact loads | Gravity loads | Structural design | Sea ice | Ice loads

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