Design of elastomeric pad in LMU for semi-submersible float-over installation

Abstract

During the float-over installation of an offshore structure, diverse equipment are utilized to minimize impact and damage to the structure. LMU(Leg Mating Unit) is one of the above mentioned equipment which is utilized to minimize the impact and damage on the structures during mating procedure. Therefore designing of elastomer part of LMU, which absorbs those impact and loads, is crucial. In this study, we performed a series of parametric studies to investigate the effect of reaction force and maximum stress occurring during the mating procedure of the 20,000 tons topside structure on a semi-submersible supporting structure under float-over installation. ？ 2019 by the International Society of Offshore and Polar Engineers (ISOPE).