Experimental and numerical investigation on a double hull structure subject to collision

Abstract

The paper presents the experimental results of scaled double-hull specimens tested by applying local imposed deformations by two different rigid indenters. The quasi-static experiments are performed to investigate the crushing behaviour of the steel structure in ship collision scenarios. Finite element models are also established to calculate the crushing deformation and to analyse the energy absorbing mechanisms. Good agreement is observed between the numerical results and experimental measurements, leading to the conclusion that the finite element model developed in the current investigation can be effectively used to predict the crushing behaviour of the double hull structures. The shape of the indenter is found to have a significant influence on the crushing behaviour of the double hull, with a difference of 32.5% in the maximum load of the penetration of the outer hull between the two tests. The outer hull plays a dominant role in the energy absorption mechanism, followed by the stringer and the inner hull during the later penetration stage.