BRIEF ON DEVELOPMENT OF ICE LOAD ESTIMATION FOR HYDROTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

Abstract

Article contain an overview of development of ice loads estimation on offshore structures. It begins by discussing the importance of calculating ice loads for the safety and reliability of offshore structures; then explores the evolution of ice load calculation in norms from the past to the present, including the development of international standards and guidelines and the advancements in ice load estimation techniques. The article further delves into the methods used for ice load estimation before the development of modern standards, highlighting their limitations and reliance on empirical data. It then discusses the significant step forward in ice load estimation, which is the application of the discrete element method (DEM), providing more accurate and reliable estimates of ice loads on offshore structures. The article outlines the advantages of DEM over traditional methods and why it is better for ice load estimation. It also explores the modern software packages that can be used for discrete element modelling of ice loads on offshore structures, including commercial and open-source options. Article emphasizes the importance of remaining at the forefront of the latest technologies and techniques for ice load estimation, highlighting the critical role of accurate and reliable ice load estimation in ensuring the safety and reliability of offshore structures in extreme environments. It provides a comprehensive overview of ice load estimation on offshore structures, covering the evolution of norms and methods, the application of DEM, and modern software packages. It underscores the importance of ongoing research and development in this field to ensure that offshore structures are designed and built to the highest standards of safety and reliability.