PLAT-O#2 at FloWave: A tank-scale validation of ProteusDS dynamic response software

Abstract

The motion and mooring tensions of a scaled-down PLAT-O#2 physical model were measured in axial currents at FloWave, Edinburgh. At high flows, the platform ‘squats’ – moves in an arc motion along the upstream lines and about their anchors – to a stable lower depth. The compliance improves load share and survivability in extreme seas. To further investigate the squatting motion, the tested set-up is simulated ‘like-for-like’ in ProteusDS software. The modelled and measured trends, motion and line loads, are comparable. A significant lift force is identified with further work focused on estimating it at sea.