Evaluation of wind-induced turbulence around offshore platforms in different wind speeds and directions, along with safety assessment of helicopter operation and helideck’s air-gap optimization

Abstract

The demand for helicopter transportation has increased as offshore activity has expanded into more remote waters. In this situation, safe takeoffs, approaches, and landings on the platform's helidecks require understanding wind behavior. This study simulates the effect of a helideck air gap on wind turbulence around an offshore platform. The simulations are carried out using a validated computational fluid dynamics model based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes k-equations. Five wind directions (with intervals of 45°), two wind speeds (5, 15, and 35 m/s, respectively, for winds with 7-days, 1-year, and 100-year return periods), and six air gap sizes (0–6 m) were assumed to calculate the induced turbulence. The Norsok C-004 standard, two speed-base, and one energy-based criterion were used to identify the turbulence conditions that allow helicopter operations. Wind-induced turbulence was significantly generated by the interaction of the wind with the crane and equipment placed on the highest level, limiting helicopter operation, particularly in most cases where the wind blows from the southwest. According to the findings, a minimum 4-m air gap is nedded to reduce turbulence caused by wind contact with equipment. Although no upward or downward flows (with ±2 m/s) have formed on the helipad, they have formed strongly around the helipad structure and in the direction of the helicopter approach.