FEA Case Study

DEEP-DIVING SUBMERSIBLE VESSEL

Structural analysis was performed on a deep-diving submersible vessel. A comprehensive set of finite element models was developed to fully document the stress state in the vessel. For example, hatch forgings were modeled using tetrahedral elements while the main hull structure was modeled with plate elements. For the buckling analysis, a specialized brick and plate model of the complete vessel was developed.

This model was then analyzed using the eigenvalue buckling routine and a geometric nonlinear approach. Both techniques yielded equivalent results.

Modeling notes: Experimental strain measurements (Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors) gathered during sea trials confirmed the accuracy of the FEA results. At this juncture, the FEA analyses have been submitted to the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to certify the vessel for use.