Influence of Complex Load on the Strength and Reliability of Offshore Derrick by Using APDL and Python

Abstract

In an offshore operational environment, complex loads such as the hook load, stand load and wind load play a crucial role in the structural strength and reliability of the offshore derrick. Previous studies have mainly focused on the effect of a specific load on the strength of the derrick by using commercial software. Therefore, the influencing mechanism of each complex load on the strength and reliability of the offshore derrick is urgently necessary to explore. Not only is the strength numerical model of the JJ315/45-K typical derrick established and conducted via APDL (ANSYS Parametric Design Language), but also the stress–strength reliability simulation is explored and plotted using Python code and APDL. Furthermore, the influence and contribution of each load to the strength and reliability is determined. With the increase in hook load, the positions of maximum reliability risk appear in section II-1. With the increase in stand load or back wind load, the positions of maximum reliability risk appear in the bottom section. In addition, with the decrease in the columns’ height, the stress proportion of the hook load decreases by 73.5%, the stress proportion of the stand load increases by 22.6%, and the stress proportion of the back wind load changes slightly. When the wind speed is less than 20 m/s, the hook load mainly affects the minimum reliability index of the derrick. Moreover, when the wind speed is more than 20 m/s, the back wind load mainly affects the minimum reliability index of the derrick. This study provides a thorough explanation of the strength distribution law and the reliability of derricks under complex loads.