A Methodological Framework for Structural Reliability Assessment of Marine Structural Elements

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide a robust framework to assist researchers in deciding which methods to use, depending on the problem at hand, in order to estimate the probability of failure of marine structural parts that are subjected to variable loads (both hull-girder and local pressure loads) that exhibit uncertainties in their material properties and that involve fabrication-related uncertainties. The limitations of analytical approaches both in deterministic mathematical modeling (strength formulas) and probabilistic estimation will be provided, and respective computational tools will be demonstrated (FEA and Monte Carlo simulation). The approach is showcased in flat and bow-defected rectangular plates through analytical and numerical approaches.