Simulation of Loads from Drifting Ice Sheets on Offshore Structures

In later years, there has been an increasing amount of work published regarding simulation of ice action on structures using finite element models of the ice. Here we will present results from a method development project aimed at evaluating the feasi- bility of full scale simulation of ice action from drifting ice sheets on offshore structures. The used methodology is presented including new developments, the implementation in LS-DYNA®, and results from a benchmark study where simulation results are compared with full scale meas- urements of ice forces. The methodology is based on using the cohesive element method for modeling the ice fracture in conjunction with an ad hoc homogenization method developed by the authors. The homogen- ization method is used to capture sub element size cracks in a cost efficient manner.