STRUCTURAL DESIGN ANALYSIS OF FPSO HULL TOPSIDE INTERFACE

Abstract

This paper aims to address the structural challenges in conjunction with the design and analysis of topside module support structures for installation on Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The most common topsides foundation concepts applied on FPSOs are identified, and discusses the consequences of each configuration for the layout of the unit in associated with the design of the hull structure and the topsides. Further, the information needed by the hull designer and the topside designer is investigated. The topside – hull interface may be experienced with the design loads such as hull girder bending moment, internal tank pressures, deck deformations, crane loads, wind loads, ship motions in terms of heave-pitch-roll, green waters, riser-mooring loads, and temperature loads.   Actions caused by the topside and interface structures shall be sufficiently addressed in the vessel hull design. In many cases fatigue and strength assessment will require that hull structure needs to be strengthen further beyond normal vessel design. The results and insights derived from the present work are summarized.