Abstract
The paper deals with the integrated behaviour of the structure and the foundation soil for independent-leg-supported jackup platforms. With the traditional wedged shape of the leg foundations (spud cans), the foundations stability of the platform is achieved by vertical preloading. Common practice has been to preload to a level equal to the maximum vertical leg force in the design storm. Since the actual storm loading includes horizontal forces and possible moments in combination with the vertical force the soil is likely to be loaded into the plastic large strain area. The consequences may vary from slight or insignificant leg penetrations and redistribution of leg reaction forces to catastrophic foundations stability problems. The paper deals with important aspects of the soil structure interaction as overall platform stability, foundation stiffness and structural response. A general description of the soil structure interaction aspects is given, including a discussion of todays practice of operating jackup rigs. Simple analytical models for soil structure interaction are described. The effects of various soil conditions, foundation geometries, preload level etc. on overall stability and structural response are given by examples.
Published Version
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