Earthquake Response of Tension Leg Platform

Abstract

The purposes of this report is to set up an analysis model for determining the response of Tension Leg Platform (TLP) at its connection with the foundation when the TLP is subjected to vertical seismic excitation. A specific TLP is analyzed to show the application of the procedures developed and the importance of response to vertical seismic excitation. The purposes of this analysis is to examine the variation of the dynamic response characteristics of a TLP as a function of the foundation weight/initial net buoyancy ratio. The maximum tendon force due to vertical earthquake ground motion can be as large as 35% of the initial net buoyancy of platform. The numerical results obtained indicate that seismic response must be considered in designing the TLP.