Large-Scale Model Tests With Wave Loading on Offshore Platform Deck Elements

Abstract

The present paper concerns a detailed large-scale experimental study of wave loading on offshore platform decks. A series of model tests with wave loading on different types of deck elements have been performed in the large wave channel (GWK) at Forschungszentrum Kiiste in Hannover, Germany. The following types of deck elements have been considered: tubular elements, plate profiles, and HEB beam profiles. The tests have been performed with individual elements and arrays of elements. Tests have also been performed with an array of beam elements covered with deck plating. A large range of different wave types, air gaps, and inundation’s have been tested. Regular waves with wave height ranging from 1.4 m to 1.8 m, irregular waves and wave packages with crest heights ranging from 0.9 m to 1.6 m have been tested. During the tests the following parameters were measured: wave elevations, deck element inundation’s, wave kinematics profile, and wave forces on the individual deck elements. The model test results will be analysed to provide hydrodynamic load coefficients to a wave-in-deck load programme based on the concept of change of fluid momentum. The results will also be used to verify a CFD code based on the Volume of Fluid method.