Numerical Investigation of the Ultimate Strength of D-Ring Devices and Deck Structures

Abstract

An accurate prediction of the ultimate strength of lashing devices and deck structures is important to ensure the safety of the crews and carrying ships. In this study, finite element analysis using ABAQUS/implicit was performed to investigate the ultimate strength of D-ring devices subjected to various external loads. The resistance of deck plates to which the D-ring devices were clamped was also analyzed numerically, considering the effects of the plate thickness and corrosion wastage. The resultant force-displacement relationship of the devices and the deck plate was investigated from the simulations and the threshold was determined by means of the tangent interaction method. The numerical results were compared with the Cargo Stowage and Securing Code proposed by the International Marine Organization and the results showed that the code predicts conservative ultimate strength of the D-ring devices in most cases. The deck plate with a thickness of 6 mm should have a local stiffener to increase structural strength whereas corrosion wastage has negligible effect on the deck strength. The numerical analysis verified the feasibility of predicting the ultimate strength of D-ring devices and deck structures. Nevertheless, the need for further experimental study is acknowledged to validate the feasibility of the numerical results.