Ship Impact and Nonlinear Dynamic Collapse Analysis of a Single Well Observation Platform

A three dimensional nonlinear dynamic analysis is performed for a single well observation platform. The structure consists of a single level service deck supported by three driven piles and a bracing frame. Extreme Loading for Structures (ELS) software was used. The analyses are carried out under the effects of impact for a 3500 ton vessel moving at speeds varying between 1 and 10 knots. The effect of soil type was investigated. The effect accidental failure of a supporting pile was studied and the possibility of progressive collapse of the platform was evaluated. The study found that there is a difference of up to 20% in the results using nonlinear dynamic when compared to the traditional equivalent static analysis. The analysis show that the soil type significantly affects the internal forces in the platform as well as the total platform displacement.