Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations

GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING

FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS

JULY 2009 (Updated April 2010 – see next page)

American Bureau of Shipping

Incorporated by Act of Legislature of
the State of New York 1862

Copyright © 2009
American Bureau of Shipping
ABS Plaza
16855 Northchase Drive
Houston, TX 77060 USA
Updates

April 2010 consolidation includes:

• November 2009 version plus Corrigneda/Editorials

November 2009 consolidation includes:

• July 2009 version plus Corrigneda/Editorials

ii ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Foreword
F o r e w o r d

Foreword
This Guide specifies the ABS requirements for building and classing Floating Production Installations
(FPIs) that should be used by designers, builders, Owners and Operators in the offshore industry. The
requirements contained in this Guide are for design, construction, and survey after construction of the
floating installation (including hull structure, equipment and marine machinery), the position mooring
system and the hydrocarbon production facilities. Floating installations of the ship-type, column-
stabilized-type, tension leg platforms and spar installations are included, as well as existing vessels
converted to FPIs. The requirements for optional notations for disconnectable floating installations,
dynamic positioning systems and import/export systems are also provided. This Guide is to be used in
conjunction with other ABS Rules and Guides, as specified herein.
The effective date of this Guide is 1 July 2009. In general, until the effective date, plan approval for
designs will follow prior practice unless review under this Guide is specifically requested by the party
signatory to the application for classification.
The 2009 edition of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations is a reorganization
of the September 2007 edition of the FPI Guide with modifications and updates for ship-type Floating
Production Installations. The 2009 edition consists of the seven (7) Parts as shown in Table 1 below. In
general these seven Parts subdivide the Guide into parts that are more consistent with other ABS Rules.
The primary modifications are described in the following:
a) PART 5A “Ship-Type Installations” reflects changes in the requirements for both new builds and
conversions to FPI. There are changes to the loading conditions, strength and fatigue assessment
procedures and hull interface structure analysis procedures. Conversions to FPI also require finite
element analysis of the converted hull structure.
b) PART 5B “Other Installation Types” which address Column-Stabilized units, Tension-Leg
Platforms and Spars essentially remains unchanged from the 2007 edition.
The primary changes from the September 2007 edition of the Guide are for Ship-Type Conversions to
Floating Production Installations as identified and listed below.
• Analysis and Design of Other Major Hull Structural Features (Section 5A-1-4).
• Steel Renewal Assessment (Section 5A-2-2)
• Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life) (Section 5A-2-3).
• Finite Element Analysis (5A-1-3/3.3, 3.5, 3.7 and Appendix 5A-3-A4).
• Loading patterns in 5A-3-2/Figures 1A to 1D.
• Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Strength Members (Appendix 5A-2-A1).
• Hull Girder Ultimate Strength (5A-3-3/3.5 and Appendix 5A-3-A3).
• Fatigue Assessment – Loading Conditions (5A-3-A2/7.5).
• Fatigue Assessment of Structures Considering Low Cycle Fatigue (5A-3-A2/15).
• Column-Stabilized Installations (Sections 5B-1-1 and 5B-1-2).
• Wave Impact Criteria (Appendix 5B-A1).
• Hull Surveys (Part 7, Chapter 2).

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 iii
 TABLE 1
Applicable Editions of Booklets Comprising the 2009 Guide
Part 1: Conditions of Classification (Supplement to the ABS 2009
Rules for Condition of Classification – Offshore Units
and Structures)
Part 2: Materials and Welding 2009
Part 3: Installation Types, Functions, Features and General 2009
Requirements
Part 4: Units Systems (Process and Import/Export) 2009
Part 5A: Ship-Type Installations 2009
Part 5B: Other Installation Types 2009
Part 6: Mooring Systems 2009
Part 7: Surveys After Construction 2009

Changes to Conditions of Classification (1 January 2008)

For the 2008 edition, Part 1, Chapter 1, “Scope and Conditions of Classification” was consolidated into a
generic booklet, entitled Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1) for
all units, installations, vessels or systems in offshore service. The purpose of this consolidation was to
emphasize the common applicability of the classification requirements in “Part 1, Chapter 1” to ABS-
classed offshore units, pipelines, risers, and other offshore structures, and thereby make “Conditions of
Classification” more readily a common Rule of the various ABS Rules and Guides, as appropriate.
Thus, Part 1, Chapter 1 of this Guide specifies only the unique requirements applicable to floating
production installations. These supplemental requirements are always to be used with the aforementioned
Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).

iv ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 Table of Contents

GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING

FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS

CONTENTS
PART 1 Conditions of Classification (Supplement to the ABS Rules for
Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures).......... 1
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification .................................2
[See also separately published booklet ABS Rules for Conditions of
Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1)]

PART 2 Materials and Welding ......................................................................... 17

[See separately published booklet ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2)]

PART 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General

Requirements ....................................................................................... 18
Chapter 1 General Description .............................................................19
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading ...........................28
Chapter 3 General Requirements.........................................................39
Chapter 4 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning ...........................43

Appendix 1 Abbreviations and References.............................................57

PART 4 Process and Import/Export Systems.................................................. 61

Chapter 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems ..................62
Chapter 2 Import and Export Systems .................................................77

PART 5A Ship-Type Installations ........................................................................ 85

Chapter 1 Design Considerations.........................................................86
Chapter 2 Conversions to FPI ............................................................116
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements........................................143
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in
Length ................................................................................392

PART 5B Other Installation Types .................................................................... 421

Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations..........................................422
Chapter 2 Tension Leg Platforms .......................................................440
Chapter 3 Spar Installations ...............................................................466

Appendix 1 Wave Impact Criteria .........................................................492

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 v
 PART 6 Mooring Systems................................................................................ 498
Chapter 1 Position Mooring Systems .................................................499
Chapter 2 Single Point Moorings ........................................................509
Chapter 3 Mooring Systems Surveys .................................................512

PART 7 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning ............................... 514

Chapter 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and
Commissioning ..................................................................515
Chapter 2 Hull Surveys.......................................................................522
Chapter 3 Drydocking Surveys ...........................................................539
Chapter 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys ...................543
Chapter 5 Production Facilities Surveys.............................................552
Chapter 6 Mooring Systems Surveys .................................................555
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems Surveys .................................559

Appendix 1 Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service ............563

APPENDIX 1 Comparison of the Numbering System of the 2007 Guide vs.

the 2009 Guide .................................................................................... 567

vi ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Part 1: Conditions of Classification (Supplement to the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures)

1
Conditions of Classification
(Supplement to the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units
and Structures)

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification............................................... 3
Section 1 Classification..........................................................................4
Section 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols and
Notations................................................................................5
Section 3 Rules and the Criteria Presented for Classification .............11
Section 4 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations.......................13

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 1
PART Chapter 1: Scope and Conditions of Classification

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Classification .......................................................................................... 4

SECTION 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols and Notations .............. 5

1 Classification Boundaries....................................................................5
3 Classification Symbols ........................................................................5
3.1 New Construction ............................................................................5
3.3 Conversion of Existing Vessel to FPI...............................................6
5 Additional Class Notations ..................................................................6
5.1 Disconnectable System ...................................................................6
5.3 Classification of Dynamic Positioning Systems ...............................6
5.5 Classification of Additional Equipment and Systems .......................6
5.7 Dynamic Loading Approach (DLA) ..................................................7
5.9 Strength Criteria for Ship-Type Installations ....................................7
5.10 Fatigue Life......................................................................................8
5.11 Spectral Fatigue Analysis ................................................................8
5.13 Additional Corrosion Margin ............................................................9
7 À AMS Notation ..................................................................................9
9 Notations for Automatic or Remote Control and Monitoring
Systems ..............................................................................................9
9.1 À ACC or À ACCU Notations ..........................................................9
9.3 À AMCC or À AMCCU Notations ..................................................10
11 Temporary Mooring Equipment Symbol ...........................................10
13 Systems not Built Under Survey .......................................................10
15 Conversion of Existing Vessels or Floating Structures.....................10

SECTION 3 Rules and the Criteria Presented for Classification .......................... 11

1 Application.........................................................................................11
1.1 General..........................................................................................11
1.3 Application .....................................................................................11
3 Reference Standards ........................................................................11
5 Risk Evaluations for Alternative Arrangements and Novel
Features ............................................................................................11

SECTION 4 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations..................................... 13

1 Design Plans and Data .....................................................................13
3 Position Mooring System Design Documentation.............................14
5 Production Facilities and Production Support Facilities....................14
7 Machinery Plans ...............................................................................15

2 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 9 Additional Plans ................................................................................15
11 Manuals and Procedures ..................................................................16
11.1 Operations Manual ........................................................................ 16
11.3 Procedures .................................................................................... 16

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 3
PART Section 1: Classification

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification

SECTION 1 Classification (1 January 2008)

The requirements for conditions of classification are contained in the separate, generic ABS Rules for
Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).
Additional requirements specific to floating production installations are contained in the following
Sections.

4 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: System Classification Boundaries, Symbols and Notations

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification

SECTION 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols and

Notations (1 January 2008)

A listing of Classification Symbols and Notations available to the Owners of vessels, offshore drilling and
production units and other marine structures and systems, “List of ABS Notations and Symbols” is
available from the ABS website “http://www.eagle.org”.
The following classification boundaries, symbols and notations are specific to floating production installations.

1 Classification Boundaries
The boundaries for classification of a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System include three
major items: the position mooring system, the installation and the production facilities.
Classification of additional equipment and systems may be offered if requested by the Owner. (See 3-1-1/3.)
Where Import and or Export Risers provide substantial mooring restraint, the design, construction and
classification of the Riser(s) providing restraint and their connection to the seabed will require special
consideration.

3 Classification Symbols (December 2008)

3.1 New Construction (1 July 2009)

Systems that have been built, installed and commissioned to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the Bureau
to the requirements of the Rules or to their equivalent, where approved by the Committee for service for
the specified design environmental conditions, will be classed and distinguished in the ABS Record by the
symbol À A1, followed by the appropriate notation for the intended service and hull type given below:
Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (hull type)
Floating Production (and Offloading) System (hull type)
Floating Storage and Offloading System (hull type)
The above class notations cover the following components:
i) Installation, including hull structure, equipment and marine machinery under one of the above
notations, subject to the requirements of this Guide.
ii) Position Mooring System according to the requirements of this Guide.
iii) Production Facilities according to the requirements of the Facilities Guide and this Guide.
The service notation will be appended by one of the following (Ship-Type), (Column-Stabilized),
(TLP), or (SPAR) to indicate the hull type. The hull structural configurations of these installations are
described in Section 3-1-2.
Where an installation is fitted with production facilities, but classification of the production facilities is not
desired, certain systems and equipment for the production facilities are to be in compliance with 4-1-1/3.
The installation will be classed and distinguished in the ABS Record by the symbol À A1 followed by the
notation Floating Offshore Installation, provided the installation and position mooring system comply
with the applicable requirements and the topside structures and modules comply with Section 5A-1-5,
5B-1-2/1.3, 5B-3-3/5.3, 5B-2-3/5.1 or 5B-2-3/5.3 as appropriate.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 5
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols, and Notations 1-1-2

If classification of the entire production facility is not desired, but the essential safety features of the
production facilities in compliance with 4-1-1/5 are approved by the Bureau, the installation will be classed
and distinguished in the ABS Record by the symbol À A1, followed by the notation Floating Offshore
Installation. “Production Facilities” will be indicated in the Record. Compliance with the applicable
requirements for the installation and position mooring system, is required. Topside structures and modules
are to comply with Section 5A-1-5, 5B-1-2/1.3, 5B-3-3/5.3, 5B-2-3/5.1 or 5B-2-3/5.3 as appropriate.
In either case, for classification À A1 Floating Offshore Installation, the shipboard systems, including
the electrical system circuit protection for the production facilities and production fire fighting equipment,
are to be reviewed by the Bureau for the classification of the installation.
The mark À (Maltese cross) signifies that the system was built, installed and commissioned to the satisfaction
of the Surveyors to the Bureau. Installations that have not been built under survey to this Bureau, but
which are submitted for classification, will be subjected to a special classification survey. Where found
satisfactory and thereafter approved by the Committee, such installations will be classed and distinguished
in the Record by the symbols and special notations described above, but the mark À signifying survey
during construction will be omitted.
Examples of notations for ship-type installations are:
À Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type)
À Floating Production (and Offloading) System (Ship-Type)
À Floating Offshore Installation (Ship-Type)

3.3 Conversion of Existing Vessel to FPI

When an existing vessel is converted to an FPI, , and is classed under the provisions of Section 5A-2-1, it
will be distinguished in the ABS Record by the symbol A1, followed by the appropriate notation for the
intended service, the notation (Ship-Type) and the qualifier (CI). If the existing vessel being converted is
currently in ABS class with À, then the À would be maintained for the converted FPI. Examples of
notations are:
À Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type) (CI)
À Floating Offshore Installation (Ship-Type) (CI)

5 Additional Class Notations

5.1 Disconnectable System

A floating installation system that has a propulsion system and a means of disengaging the installation
from its mooring and riser systems to allow the installation to ride out severe weather or seek refuge under
its own power for a specified design environmental condition will be classed with the above designations
and with notations (Disconnectable) À AMS at the end. One example of such class designation is:
À A1 Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System (Ship-Type)
(Disconnectable), À AMS
See 1-1-2/7 of this Guide for À AMS notation.

5.3 Classification of Dynamic Positioning Systems

Dynamic positioning systems installed for station keeping purposes, will be denoted by the notation
À DPS (see 4-3-5/15 of the Steel Vessel Rules).

5.5 Classification of Additional Equipment and Systems (1 July 2009)

Additional equipment and systems, such as the subsea template, Import (or Export) PLEMs and the Import
(or Export) system may be considered at the Owner’s request. Where the import and export systems are
built in full compliance with the requirements of Part 4, Chapter 2 of this Guide, the installation will be
classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation À IMP-EXP. The notations À IMP or À EXP will
be applied to the installation when only the import system or the export system, respectively, is built in full
compliance with the requirements of Part 4 Chapter 2 of this Guide.

6 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols, and Notations 1-1-2

5.7 Dynamic Loading Approach (DLA) (1 July 2009)

Where the system’s hull structure has been built to plans reviewed in accordance with the procedure and
criteria in the ABS Guidance Notes on “SafeHull-Dynamic Loading Approach” for Floating Production,
Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Systems for calculating and evaluating the behavior of hull structures under
dynamic loading conditions, in addition to compliance with other requirements of the Rules, the installation will
be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation DLA. The DLA notation will be placed after the
appropriate hull classification notation. The application of the dynamic loading approach is optional.
The dynamic load components considered in the evaluation of the hull structure are to include the external
hydrodynamic pressure loads, internal dynamic loads (fluids stored onboard, ballast, major equipment
items, etc.) and inertial loads of the hull structure. The magnitude of the load components and their
combinations are to be determined from appropriate ship motion response calculations for loading
conditions that represent the envelope of maximum dynamically-induced stresses in the installation. The
adequacy of the hull structure for all combinations of the dynamic loadings is to be evaluated using an
acceptable finite element analysis method. In no case are the structural scantlings to be less than those
obtained from other requirements in this Guide.
The basic notation DLA is applied when the hydrodynamic loads have been determined using the wave
environment of the North Atlantic as if the installation is a trading vessel with a 20- to 25-year service life.
If the wave environment of the intended site is used during the analysis, the notation will include an S
qualifier, followed by the design return period and the definition of the site. For example, if the 100-year
return period was used, the following may apply: DLA (S100) Brazil Marlim Field. Transit conditions
to the intended site are also to be included in the DLA evaluation.

5.9 Strength Criteria for Ship-Type Installations (1 July 2009)

Ship-type installations of 150 meters (492 feet) or more in length that are designed and built to the
requirements of Part 5A of this Guide and Section 5C-1-7 and Part 5C, Appendix 1 of the Steel Vessel
Rules will be identified in the Record by the notation as given in 1-1-2/3 of this Guide.
The basic notation of 1-1-2/3 of this Guide is applied when the dynamic loads have been determined using
the wave environment representative of unrestricted service, i.e., for North Atlantic exposure as if the
installation is a trading vessel with a 20- to 25-year service life. There are several additional qualifiers,
described in the following sub sections, covering site-specific wave environment, design return period,
definition of the site and whether the installation has been converted from an existing vessel.
5.9.1 New Construction
For new-build ship-type installations where transit condition and site-specific environmental data
have been used per this Guide in lieu of North Atlantic data, the basic notation will be followed by
the (S) qualifier. This qualifier will then be followed by the design return period and the
definition of the site.
5.9.2 Conversion of Existing Vessel to FPI
For a converted installation where the trading vessel and site-specific environmental data have
been used per this Guide, the basic notation is followed by the qualifier (CI). The (CI) qualifier
will be followed by the design return period and the definition of the site. Future renewals will be
based on the FPI required scantlings, regardless of the original design renewal scheme. The
process of determining the required and renewal scantlings for an FPI vessel conversion requires a
reassessment of the vessel’s scantlings based on transit condition and the specific site of the
installation.
5.9.3 Relocation of FPI
As site specific units, FPIs are designed and classed taking into consideration the location where
they will operate and the intended period of operation. When the FPI is relocated to a new site, either
within the same field or in a different operating area, or when the intended period of operation is
extended, the strength of the unit is to be reassessed to satisfy that the unit will remain in compliance
with applicable requirements.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 7
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols, and Notations 1-1-2

5.10 Fatigue Life for Ship-Type Installations (October 2001)

5.10.1 New Construction (1 July 2009)
The fatigue criteria are meant to provide a minimum design fatigue life of 20 years for a new build,
ship-shaped FPI (i.e., FPSO, FPS or FSO) hull structure with the class notation FL(number of
years). The (number of years) refers to the fatigue life equal to 20 years or more (in 5-year
increments), as specified by the applicant. Where an installation’s design calls for a fatigue life in
excess of the minimum design fatigue life of 20 years, the excess design fatigue life is to be
verified to be in compliance with the criteria in Appendix 5A-3-A2 of this Guide. Only one
design fatigue life value is published for the entire structural system. Where differing design
fatigue life values are intended for different structural elements within the installation, the
(number of years) refers to the least of the varying target lives. The “design fatigue life” refers
to the target value set by the applicant, not the value calculated in the analysis.
The FL (number of years) notation will be followed by the specific site of the installation. The
fatigue life will be identified in the Record by the notation FL(number of years) in (site of
Installation); for example, FL(30) in Brazil Santos Basin if the minimum design fatigue life
assessed is 30 years.
5.10.2 Conversion of Existing Vessel to FPSO, FPS or FSO (1 July 2009)
When an existing vessel is converted to an FPSO, FPS or FSO in the process referred to as an FPI
vessel conversion, and the FPSO, FPS or FSO is classed under the provisions of Section 5A-2-1,
the expected minimum remaining fatigue life of the structure is to be assessed according to
Section 5A-2-3 and documented by recording its value in the Record. The RFL notation will be
followed by the value of the expected minimum remaining fatigue life in years, the year of
maturation of fatigue life and the specific site of installation. For example, RFL(15), 2018 in
Gulf of Mexico indicates that the expected minimum remaining fatigue life of the structure is 15
years, which will be reached in the year 2018 for conditions anticipated in Gulf of Mexico. The
RFL(number of years), Year in (site of Installation) notation as applied to an FPI vessel
conversion is mandatory.
5.10.3 Relocation of FPI (1 July 2009)
When an FPI is relocated to a new site, either within the same field or in a different operating area,
the fatigue life of the unit is to be reassessed to satisfy that the unit’s remaining fatigue life for the
new operating conditions is within the design fatigue life of the unit. The position mooring system
including chain and other mooring components is also subject to reassessment if it is to be used at
the new site.
5.10.4 Life Extension of FPI (1 July 2009)
When the intended period of operation is extended beyond the life specified in the FL(year) or
RFL(year) notation, the fatigue life of the unit is to be reassessed for the new proposed life.
Following the reassessment and completion of any work required to satisfy the fatigue life
extension requirements, the notation is to be updated. If the installation has an SFA(year) notation
in accordance with 1-1-2/5.11, the spectral fatigue analysis is also to be revised for extended life
and the notation updated if the applicable criteria are met.
The position mooring system including chain and other mooring components is also subject to
reassessment for the extended life. Risers (if classed) are also to be reassessed for the extended
life.

8 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols, and Notations 1-1-2

5.11 Spectral Fatigue Analysis (1 July 2009)

The fatigue strength criteria require the fatigue strength evaluation of structural details, which might also
rely partially on spectral analysis methods to demonstrate the adequacy of fatigue strength. Where more
extensive use of Spectral Fatigue Analysis is performed in accordance with criteria established in Part 5A,
Chapter 1 of this Guide and the ABS Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures, the installation
will be identified in the Record by the notation SFA. If the design fatigue life is greater than the minimum
required 20 years, the notation SFA will be followed by the design fatigue life in years (in 5-year
increments), e.g., SFA (30). Only one minimum design fatigue life value is applied to the entire structural
system. For a structural location required to have an additional factor applied to the minimum design
fatigue life (say, due to safety critical function or relative difficulty of inspection, see for example, 6-2-1/13),
the required minimum fatigue life for such a location is the minimum design fatigue life being applied in
the project multiplied by the additional factor. The ‘design fatigue life’ refers to the target value set by the
designer and not the value calculated in the analysis. The calculated values are usually much higher than
the target value specified for design. This notation is optional.

5.13 Additional Corrosion Margin (1 March 2006)

Where the installation incorporates additional plate thicknesses above the required scantlings, the installation
will be identified in the Record by the notation AT, followed by the description of the major hull girder
component(s) that has the additional thickness. This notation will also include a number to indicate the
magnitude of the additional thickness (rounded down to the nearest 0.5 mm) that has been applied, i.e.,
AT(DK+0.5). In order to apply the notation AT, the additional thickness must be applied to the complete
structural element throughout the tank area of the installation. This notation documents major areas of the
structure that have an additional “as-built” margin on thickness to address areas subject to significant
corrosion or areas where it may be desirable to increase normal corrosion margins to extend a structural
member’s anticipated service life. This notation is optional and is only available to new construction FPIs.
The major structural components are defined as follows:
DK Upper deck (including stringer plate)
BS Bottom shell (including bilge)
IB Inner-bottom
SS Side shell (including shear strake)
IS Inner skin (including “hopper” sloping plating)
LB Longitudinal bulkheads other than the inner skin
TB Transverse Bulkhead

7 À AMS Notation (1 July 2009)

Machinery and boilers for self-propulsion which have been constructed and installed to the satisfaction of
the Surveyors to the Bureau's Rule requirements, when found satisfactory after trial and approved by the
Committee, will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation À AMS. This notation is
mandatory for classification of self-propelled commercial vessels built under survey to the Bureau, classed
and distinguished in the Record by the symbol À A1.

9 Notations for Automatic or Remote Control and Monitoring Systems

9.1 À ACC or À ACCU Notations (October 2001)

For automatic or remote control and monitoring systems of the propulsion machinery, the Bureau will consider
additional classifications with symbols À ACC or À ACCU, as appropriate, provided that the applicable
requirements of Part 4, Chapter 9 of the Steel Vessel Rules are satisfied.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 9
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 2 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols, and Notations 1-1-2

9.3 À AMCC or À AMCCU Notations (March 2003)

For automatic or remote control and monitoring systems of the machinery other than the propulsion machinery
as referenced in Subsection 1/1 of the ABS Guide for Remote Control and Monitoring for Auxiliary
Machinery and Systems (other than Propulsion) on Offshore Installations, Bureau will consider additional
classifications with symbols À AMCC or À AMCCU, as appropriate, provided that the applicable
requirements of the ABS Guide for Remote Control and Monitoring for Auxiliary Machinery and Systems
(other than Propulsion) on Offshore Installations are satisfied.

11 Temporary Mooring Equipment Symbol

The symbol Á will be placed after the symbols of classification to signify that the equipment for
temporary mooring of the floating installation complies with 3-4-1/3 of the MODU Rules or Part 3,
Chapter 5 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

13 Systems not Built Under Survey

Systems that have not been built under survey to this Bureau, but which are submitted for classification,
will be subjected to a special classification survey. Where found satisfactory and thereafter approved by
the Committee, they will be classed and distinguished in the Record by the symbols and special notations
as described in 1-1-2/3 through 1-1-2/9 of this Guide, but the symbol À will be omitted.

15 Conversion of Existing Vessels or Floating Structures

Modifications of existing vessels or floating structures intended for classification as Floating Installations
are to be converted under Bureau design review and survey.

10 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 3: Rules and the Criteria Presented for Classification

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification

SECTION 3 Rules and the Criteria Presented for

Classification (1 January 2008)

1 Application

1.1 General (1 July 2009)

The criteria in this document are applicable to Floating Production, Storage and Offloading installations
(FPSOs), as defined in Section 3-1-1 of this Guide. The criteria are also applicable to Floating Production
Systems (FPSs), as defined in 3-1-1/3, Floating Storage and Offloading systems (FSOs), as defined in 3-1-1/3,
or Floating Offshore Installation (FOI), as defined in 3-1-1/3, with corresponding classification notation, as
indicated in Section 1-1-2 of this Guide.
The application of the criteria to systems other than the above will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The criteria are applicable to those features that are permanent and can be verified by plan review,
calculation, physical survey or other appropriate means. Any statement in the Rules and the criteria in this
document regarding other features are to be considered as guidance to the designer, builder, Owner, et al.

1.3 Application (1 July 2009)

This Guide has an effective date of 1 July 2009. The application of this Guide is, in general, based on the
contract date for construction or conversion between the shipbuilder and the prospective owner (e.g., Rules
which became effective on 1 July 2009 are not applicable to a floating production installation for which the
contract for construction was signed on 30 June 2009). See also 1-1-4/3 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of
Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).
In the case of conversions, structures other than hull structures (such as deckhouses), machinery equipment
and/or marine systems which will remain unchanged or with minor modifications during the conversion
will be considered on the basis of the original Rules used for the vessel construction as well as the safety
features of the converted unit.

3 Reference Standards
Reference is made in this Guide to ABS Rules and other criteria issued by the Bureau and other organizations.
Appendix 3-A1-2 contains a listing of such Reference Standards.

5 Risk Evaluations for Alternative Arrangements and Novel Features

(April 2004)
Risk assessment techniques may be used to demonstrate that alternatives and novel features provide
acceptable levels of safety in line with current offshore and marine industry practice. The ABS Guide for
Risk Evaluations for the Classification of Marine-Related Facilities provides guidance to ABS clients on
how to prepare a risk evaluation to demonstrate equivalency or acceptability for a proposed Floating
Production Installation.
Risk evaluations for the justification of alternative arrangements or novel features may be applicable either
to the installation as a whole, or to individual systems, subsystems or components. The Bureau will
consider the application of risk evaluations for alternative arrangements and novel features in the design of
the floating production installations, Verification Surveys during construction, and Surveys for Maintenance
of Class.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 11
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 3 Rules and the Criteria Presented for Classification 1-1-3

Portions of the floating production installation or any of its components thereof not explicitly included in
the risk evaluation submitted to ABS are to comply with any applicable part of the ABS Rules and Guides.
If any proposed alternative arrangement or novel feature affects any applicable requirements of Flag and
Coastal State, it is the responsibility of the Owner to discuss with the applicable authorities the acceptance
of alternatives based on risk evaluations.

12 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 4: Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations

1
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification

SECTION 4 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations

1 Design Plans and Data (1 March 2006)

Plans showing the scantlings, arrangements and details of the principal parts of the hull structure of each
installation to be built under survey are to be submitted and approved before the work of construction has
commenced. These plans are to clearly indicate the scantlings, joint details and welding, or other methods
of connection. In general, plans are to be submitted that include the following, where applicable:
i) General Arrangement
ii) Body Plan, lines, offsets, curves of form, inboard and outboard profile
iii) Wind heeling moment curves of equivalent data
iv) Arrangement plan of watertight compartmentation
v) Diagrams showing the extent to which the watertight and weathertight integrity is intended to be
maintained, the location, type and disposition of watertight and weathertight closures
vi) Capacity plan and tank sounding tables
vii) Summary of distributions of weights (fixed, variable, ballast, etc.) for various conditions
viii) Type, location and quantities of permanent ballast, if any
ix) Loadings for all decks
x) Transverse section showing scantlings
xi) Longitudinal sections showing scantlings
xii) Decks, including helicopter deck
xiii) Framing, shell plating, watertight bulkheads and flats, structural bulkheads and flats, tank bulkheads
and flats with location of overflows and air pipes
xiv) Pillars, girders, diagonals and struts
xv) Stability columns, intermediate columns, hulls, pontoons, superstructure and deck houses
xvi) Arrangement and details of watertight doors and hatches
xvii) Foundations for anchoring equipment, industrial equipment, process, and process support modules,
etc., where attached to hull structure, superstructures or deckhouses
xviii) Mooring turrets and yoke arms, including mechanical details
xix) Corrosion control arrangements
xx) Methods and locations for nondestructive testing
xxi) The plans listed in 5B-1-4/11 for column-stabilized units
xxii) (1 March 2006) Plans and calculations/analyses for the module structures to support production
facilities
xxiii) (1 March 2006) Plans and calculations/analyses for module support structures
xxiv) (1 July 2009) Construction Monitoring Plan

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 13
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 4 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations 1-1-4

3 Position Mooring System Design Documentation

The design documentation for the mooring system is to include the following, when applicable:
i) Mooring Arrangement or Pattern.
ii) Details of winching equipment.
iii) Details of anchoring system.
iv) Details of mooring line segments.
v) Connections at anchors and between mooring line segments.
vi) Details of in-line (spring) buoys.
vii) Details of buoy for CALM system.
viii) Details of SALM structures, if appropriate.
ix) Details of Turret System to show turret structure, swivel, turntable and disconnecting device.
x) Details of yoke (hard or soft) connecting the installation and CALM/SALM structure.
xi) Environmental Report.
xii) Mooring Analysis describing method of load calculations and analysis of dynamic system to
determine the mooring line design loads.
xiii) Model Test report when the design loads are based on model tests in a wave basin.
xiv) Thruster specifications and calculations of a system with dynamic positioning system for thruster
forces and power to counteract environmental forces. (See Sections 3-2-3 and 3-2-4.)

5 Production Facilities and Production Support Facilities

The following design documentation of a floating production and storage system is required to be submitted,
as applicable:
i) General Arrangements showing arrangements and locations of storage tanks, machinery, equipment,
living quarters, fire walls, emergency shutdown (ESD) stations, control stations, crude loading and
discharge stations and the flare (see 4-1-7/3).
ii) Hazardous Area Classification Plans, as defined in 3-1-3/7 herein.
iii) Details of Storage Tank Venting and Inerting indicating arrangements for storage tank venting and
inerting.
iv) Arrangements for Use of Produced Gas as Fuel showing piping and control arrangements for use
of produced gas as fuel showing details of double wall or ducting arrangements for the pipe runs
in way of the safe space.
v) A design specification that is to include design parameters (environmental conditions, geographical
location of the unit, external loads, pressures, temperatures, etc.), standards and codes adopted
throughout the design, construction and testing stages and the process description.
vi) A description of the field development plan, including well fluid properties, production rates, gas
oil ratios, processing scheme, well shut-in pressures.
vii) Process flow sheets showing major process equipment components, process piping, material
balance, normal pressures and temperatures at the inlet and outlet of each major component.
viii) Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) indicating location of all sensing and controlling
elements on the process and production support systems, sizing and material specification of
piping and the associated components, maximum design pressure and temperature ratings, piping
strength and flow calculations.
ix) List of electrical equipment located in hazardous areas together with the certificates issued by an
independent testing laboratory to show suitability of their use in the intended location.

14 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 4 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations 1-1-4

x) Electrical one line diagram showing ratings of all generators, motors, transformers, type and size
of wires and cables. Types and rating of circuit breakers with the setting, interrupting capacity of
circuit breakers and fuses.
xi) Short circuit current calculations and coordination data giving the maximum calculated short
circuit current available at the main bus bars and at each point in the distribution system in order
to determine the adequacy of the interrupting capacities of the protective device. A system
coordination study is to be included.
xii) Safety Analysis, including Safety Analysis Function Evaluation (S.A.F.E.) charts.
xiii) Emergency shutdown system (ESD) relating to all sensing devices, shutdown valves, shutdown
devices and emergency support system to their functions and showing ESD logic for the complete
process and the subsea valves system.
xiv) Emergency backup and uninterrupted power source, supply and the consumers.
xv) Pressure vessel (fired and unfired) and heat exchangers, design dimensional drawings, design
calculations, material specifications, pressure and temperature ratings, together with weld details
and the details of their support.
xvi) Pressure relief and depressurization vent systems showing arrangements sizing of the lines,
capacities of the relief valve, materials, design capacity, calculations for the relief valves, knock
out drums, anticipated noise levels and gas dispersion analyses.
xvii) Complete details of flares, including pilots, igniters and water seal and design calculations, including
stability and radiant heat analyses.
xviii) Schematic plans for the production support systems, including the size, wall thicknesses, maximum
design working pressure and temperature and materials for all pipes and the type, size and material
of valves and fittings.
xix) Compressors, pumps selection and control arrangements, including specification data sheet.
xx) Fire and gas detection system showing the location and detailed description of all power sources,
sensors, annunciation and indication, set point for the alarm system.
xxi) Passive and active fire protection system indicating locations of fire walls, fire pumps and their
capacities, main and backup power supply, fixed and portable fire extinguishing, and fire fighting
systems and equipment. In this regard, supportive calculations are to be submitted to show the
basis of capacities and quantities of fire extinguishing equipment.
xxii) Escape route plan showing escape routes to abandonment stations and survival embarkation areas.
xxiii) Startup and commissioning procedures detailing sequence of events for inspection, testing and
startup and commissioning of equipment and system.
xxiv) Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning Procedures. (See Part 3, Chapter 4.)

7 Machinery Plans
Where applicable, plans showing the boiler, main propulsion engine, reduction gear, shafting and thrust
bearing foundations, including holding down bolts (see Section 3-2-12 of the Steel Vessel Rules), are to be
submitted. Machinery general arrangements, installation and equipment plans, as referenced in 4-1-1/5 of
the Steel Vessel Rules, are also to be submitted and approved before proceeding with the work.

9 Additional Plans
Submission of additional plans and calculations may be required when additional classification
designations or certifications are requested:
Additional classification designations under 1-1-2/5, 1-1-2/9, 1-1-2/11, 1-1-2/13 of this Guide or Part 4,
Chapter 2. (See Section 4-2-2 for import/export system submission requirements.)
Certifications under 1-1-2/5, 1-1-2/9, 1-1-2/11 or 1-1-2/13 of this Guide or 1-1-5/3 or 1-1-5/5 of the ABS
Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 15
Part 1 Conditions of Classification
Chapter 1 Scope and Condition of Classification
Section 4 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations 1-1-4

11 Manuals and Procedures

11.1 Operations Manual

The Operations Manual is to be submitted, providing guidance information for operating personnel
regarding the following, when applicable:
Subject References in this Guide
Loading Manual 3-3-1/7, 5B-1-1/5
Trim and Stability 3-3-1/9, 3-3-1/11, 5B-1-3/1

11.3 Procedures
Procedures are to be submitted for the following:
Subject References in this Guide
Disconnecting Procedure, if applicable 3-4-1/13
Drydocking Procedure Section 7-3-1
Hook Up Procedures Section 3-4-2
Import/Export System 4-2-4/7, 3-4-1/11
Installation Procedures Section 3-4-1
Installation Manual 3-4-1/11
Lay-up and Reactivation, if applicable 7-1-1/15
Startup and Commissioning Procedures Section 3-4-3
Survey and Inspection Planning Document 7-1-1/21

16 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Part 2: Materials and Welding

2
Materials and Welding
The independent booklet, ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2), for steels, irons, bronzes, etc., is
to be referred to. This booklet consists of the following Chapters:

Rules for Testing and Certification of Materials

CHAPTER 1 Materials for Hull Construction
CHAPTER 2 Materials for Equipment
CHAPTER 3 Materials for Machinery, Boilers, Pressure Vessels, and Piping

APPENDIX 1 List of Destructive and Nondestructive Tests Required in Part 2,

Chapters 1, 2 and 3 and Responsibility for Verifying
APPENDIX 4 Scheme for the Approval of Rolled Hull Structural Steel
Manufacturer
APPENDIX 5 Scheme for the Approval of Manufacturers of Hull Structural Steels
Intended for Welding with High Heat Input
APPENDIX 6 Guide for Nondestructive Examination of Marine Steel Castings
APPENDIX 7 Guide for Nondestructive Examination of Hull and Machinery Steel
Forgings

Rules for Welding and Fabrication

CHAPTER 4 Welding and Fabrication

APPENDIX 2 Requirements for the Approval of Filler Metals

APPENDIX 3 Application of Filler Metals to ABS Steels

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 17
PART Part 3: Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements

3
Installation Types, Functions, Features and General
Requirements

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 General Description ............................................................................. 19
Section 1 Basic Configurations ............................................................21
Section 2 Installation............................................................................23
Section 3 Production Facilities.............................................................24
Section 4 Position Mooring System .....................................................25
Section 5 Subsea System....................................................................26

CHAPTER 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading......................................... 28

Section 1 General Design Basis ..........................................................29
Section 2 Design Documentation.........................................................30
Section 3 Design Conditions................................................................31
Section 4 Environmental Conditions ....................................................34

CHAPTER 3 General Requirements ......................................................................... 39

Section 1 All Installations .....................................................................40

CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning......................................... 43

Section 1 General ................................................................................44
Section 2 Hook-up Procedures Submittal ............................................47
Section 3 Start-up and Commissioning Procedures Submittal............48
Section 4 Surveys During Installation of the Mooring Systems ...........49
Section 5 Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export System ....51
Section 6 Surveys During Hook-up......................................................53
Section 7 Demonstration of the Disconnectable Mooring System.......54
Section 8 Surveys During Start-Up and Commissioning .....................55

APPENDIX 1 Abbreviations and References ............................................................ 57

Section 1 Abbreviations .......................................................................58
Section 2 References...........................................................................59

18 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 1: General Description

3
CHAPTER 1 General Description

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Basic Configurations ........................................................................... 21
1 Purpose.............................................................................................21
3 Major Elements .................................................................................21

SECTION 2 Installation ............................................................................................ 23

1 General .............................................................................................23
3 Ship-Type Installations......................................................................23
5 Column-Stabilized Installations.........................................................23
7 Tension Leg Platform Installations....................................................23
9 Spar Installations ..............................................................................23
11 Other Types ......................................................................................23

SECTION 3 Production Facilities ............................................................................ 24

1 General .............................................................................................24
3 Production Support Systems ............................................................24
5 Manned Facility.................................................................................24
7 Hazardous Areas: Classified Areas and Area Classification
Plan ...................................................................................................24
9 Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) .................................24
11 Safety Analysis Function Evaluation (S.A.F.E.) Charts ....................24

SECTION 4 Position Mooring System .................................................................... 25

1 General .............................................................................................25
3 Spread Mooring ................................................................................25
5 Single Point Mooring (SPM)..............................................................25
5.1 CALM (Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring) ......................................... 25
5.3 SALM (Single Anchor Leg Mooring) .............................................. 25
5.5 Turret Mooring............................................................................... 25
5.7 Yoke Arm....................................................................................... 25
7 Dynamic Positioning and Thruster Assisted Systems ......................25

SECTION 5 Subsea System..................................................................................... 26

1 General .............................................................................................26
3 Floating Hose....................................................................................26
5 On Bottom Flexible Flow Lines .........................................................26

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 19
 7 Pipe Line End Manifold (PLEM)........................................................26
7.1 Import PLEM..................................................................................26
7.3 Export PLEM .................................................................................26
9 Riser..................................................................................................26
11 Riser System.....................................................................................26
13 Riser Support ....................................................................................26
15 Submerged Jumper Hoses ...............................................................27

20 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 1: Basic Configurations

3
CHAPTER 1 General Description

SECTION 1 Basic Configurations

1 Purpose
A Floating Installation provides hydrocarbon processing and/or hydrocarbon storage and offloads
hydrocarbons. Where discussion of the various component systems supporting hydrocarbon processing
and/or storage may cause confusion with the total system, Floating Installation is used to generically
identify the combination under discussion and refers to a site-specific installation.
The notations:
Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System
Floating Production (and Offloading) System
Floating Storage and Offloading System
Floating Offshore Installation
are based on accepted industry practice and were chosen to provide a clear description of the function of
each configuration.
• Floating Production, Storage and Offloading System – This installation processes, stores and
offloads hydrocarbons.
• Floating Production (and Offloading) System – This installation processes and offloads
hydrocarbons without storage capacity.
• Floating Storage and Offloading System – This installation stores and offloads hydrocarbons
without hydrocarbon processing facilities.
• Floating Offshore Installation – This installation may process and offload hydrocarbons and may
or may not have storage capacity, but the production facilities are not classed.

3 Major Elements
A Floating Installation consists of several of the following major elements that are addressed in this Guide:
i) Installation
ii) Position mooring (or station keeping system)
iii) Production processing facilities
iv) Import/export system
Classification boundaries encompass the installation and position mooring system and may include the
production facilities. Import/export systems may be classed, as well. (See Section 1-1-2 of this Guide.)
A Floating Installation classed as an FPSO, FPS, FSO or FOI includes the following elements:

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 21
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 1 General Description
Section 1 Basic Configurations 3-1-1

Installation Position Storage Hydrocarbon Import/Export

Mooring Process System
System System(s)
FPSO 9 9 9 9 Optional
FPS 9 9 --- 9 Optional
FSO 9 9 9 --- Optional
FOI (Production Facilities not 9 9 Safety Features Only Optional
classed) See 4-1-1/3
FOI (with Production 9 9 Safety Features Only Optional
Facilities indicated in See 4-1-1/5
Column 5)

22 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Installation

3
CHAPTER 1 General Description

SECTION 2 Installation

1 General
Installation, as used in this Guide, refers to a floating structure and the machinery, equipment and systems
necessary for safety, propulsion (if fitted) and auxiliary services. The structural configurations of these
installations may be ship-shaped or barge-shaped (with or without propulsion), column stabilized or any
other configuration of a purpose-built floating installation.

3 Ship-Type Installations
Ship-type installations are single displacement hulls, either ship-shaped or barge-shaped, which have been
designed or converted to a floating production and/or storage system. They may have propulsion machinery
and/or station keeping systems.

5 Column-Stabilized Installations
Column-stabilized installations consist of surface piercing columns, submerged pontoons and a deck supported
at column tops. Buoyancy is provided by the submerged pontoons, surface piercing columns and braces, if any.

7 Tension Leg Platform Installations (1 July 2009)

Tension leg platform (TLP) installations are vertically moored, buoyant structural systems wherein the
excess buoyancy of the platform maintains tension in the mooring system. The TLPs consist of buoyant
pontoons and columns, a column top frame or a topside deck and a tendon system with its seafloor
foundations.

9 Spar Installations (1 July 2009)

Spar installations are deep draft, vertical floating structures, usually of cylindrical shape, supporting a
topside deck and moored to the seafloor. The hull can be divided into upper hull, mid-section and lower
hull.

11 Other Types (1 July 2009)

Purpose-built and new configurations belong to this category.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 23
PART Section 3: Production Facilities

3
CHAPTER 1 General Description

SECTION 3 Production Facilities

1 General (1 July 2009)

The production facilities typically consist of the processing, safety and control systems, production support
systems and auxiliary equipment for processing hydrocarbon liquid and gas mixtures from wells or other
sources. Generally, a production facility includes all elements located onboard the Floating Installation
unit. These elements are located from (and including) the first inlet flange of the well fluid flow line above
the water level inboard to (and including) the last onboard flange. Some important items related to
production facilities are defined in the following paragraphs.

3 Production Support Systems

The production support systems include power generation and distribution, instrument and service air,
potable water, fuel oil systems, HVAC, instrumentation, communication systems and firewater systems
required to support hydrocarbon production and processing.
Production support systems may be in addition to or extensions of the normal marine utility systems found
on MODUs, barges or ship-type installations. (See Part 4, Chapter 1 of this Guide and Chapter 3, Section
6 of the Facilities Guide.)

5 Manned Facility
A manned facility is one with permanent occupied living accommodations or one that requires the continuous
presence of personnel for more than 12 hours in successive 24 hour periods.

7 Hazardous Areas: Classified Areas and Area Classification Plan

A classified area is an area in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the air in quantities
sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. See 3-6/15 of the Facilities Guide.
An area classification plan is a set of drawings indicating extent, boundaries and classification of all classified
areas.

9 Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)

P&IDs show the size, design and operating conditions of each major process component, piping and valve
designation and size, sensing and control instrumentation, shutdown and pressure relief devices with set
points, signal circuits, set points for controllers, continuity of all line pipes and boundaries of skid units and
process packages.

11 Safety Analysis Function Evaluation (S.A.F.E.) Charts

The S.A.F.E. charts list all process components and emergency support systems with their required sensing
devices and the functions to be performed by each device and relate all sensing devices, shutdown valves,
shutdown devices and emergency support systems to their functions.

24 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 4: Position Mooring System

3
CHAPTER 1 General Description

SECTION 4 Position Mooring System

1 General
A Position Mooring System keeps the installation on station. The Position Mooring System includes
mooring lines, connectors and hardware, winches, piles, anchors and thrusters. For a single point mooring
system, the turret, turntable, disconnecting system, buoy, anchoring legs, etc., are also part of the system.

3 Spread Mooring
A spread mooring is a system with multiple catenary mooring lines anchored to piles or drag anchors at the
sea bed. The other end of each line is individually attached to winches or stoppers on the installation
through fairleads as necessary. A catenary mooring line may have one or more line segments, in-line
buoy(s) (spring buoy) or sinker(s) (clumped weight) along the line.

5 Single Point Mooring (SPM)

A single point mooring allows the installation to weathervane. Three typical types of single point mooring
systems that are commonly used are described below:

5.1 CALM (Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring)

A catenary anchor leg mooring system consists of a large buoy anchored by catenary mooring lines. The
installation is moored to the buoy by soft hawser(s) or a rigid yoke structure.

5.3 SALM (Single Anchor Leg Mooring)

A single anchor leg mooring system consists of an anchoring structure with built-in buoyancy at or near
the water surface and is itself anchored to the seabed by an articulated connection.

5.5 Turret Mooring

A turret mooring system consists of a number of mooring legs attached to a turret that is designed to act as
part of the installation, allowing only angular relative movement of the installation to the turret, so that the
installation may weathervane. The turret may be mounted internally within the installation or externally
from the installation bow or stern. Typically, a spread mooring arrangement connects the turret to the seabed.

5.7 Yoke Arm

A yoke arm is a structure at the end of the installation that only allows angular relative movement between
the installation and the mooring attachment to the seabed.

7 Dynamic Positioning and Thruster Assisted Systems

A dynamic positioning system is defined as all of the equipment necessary to provide a means of controlling
the position and heading of a Floating Installation within predetermined limits by means of vectored thrust.
A thruster-assisted system provides controlled thrust to assist the main (usually static) mooring system and
reduce component loading of the main mooring system.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 25
PART Section 5: Subsea System

3
CHAPTER 1 General Description

SECTION 5 Subsea System

1 General
A subsea system is a flexible/articulated piping system providing a conduit for the hydrocarbons from the
subsea pipeline to the surface components. It includes subsea pipelines, subsea well system and risers.
The definitions in this Section describe the various aspects of the classification procedure in this Guide.

3 Floating Hose
A floating hose is a floating conduit used to export hydrocarbons from a point of storage/production, either
an SPM or installation’s manifold to a receiving installation’s manifold for transport.

5 On Bottom Flexible Flow Lines

These lines are conduit used to connect one subsea location to another subsea location prior to a vertical
conveyance by the riser system to the surface.

7 Pipe Line End Manifold (PLEM)

A PLEM is the assemblage of valves and components or equipment performing the equivalent function
connecting the production facilities to the pipeline carrying product to or from the shore, an offloading
system or to another facility.

7.1 Import PLEM

Import PLEM is the equipment connecting to the Import Riser and the import supply line or wellhead. (In
some configurations, the wellhead may provide the function of the Import PLEM.)

7.3 Export PLEM

Export PLEM is the equipment connection between the Export Riser and the product discharge line.

9 Riser
A riser is a subsea rigid and/or flexible pipe that connects the surface facilities with the sea floor and is
thus the conduit for fulfilling the desired function of conveying fluids, gas, electrical power, etc.

11 Riser System
The riser system includes the entire assemblage of components, control systems, safety systems and tensioning
devices that ensure the integrity of the riser throughout its operation. Riser classification boundaries are defined
in Section 4-2-1 of this Guide.

13 Riser Support
Riser support comprises any structural attachments, including buoyancy devices that are used to give structural
integrity to the riser or transfer load to the supporting structure.

26 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 1 General Description
Section 5 Subsea System 3-1-5

15 Submerged Jumper Hoses

Jumper hoses are flexible lines used in conjunction with rigid risers to accommodate the relative motion
between the Floating Installation and the submerged top of the riser. Jumper hoses may also be used to
connect the subsea manifold to the wellhead.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 27
PART Chapter 2: Design Basis and Environmental Loading

3
CHAPTER 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General Design Basis........................................................................... 29

SECTION 2 Design Documentation ........................................................................ 30

SECTION 3 Design Conditions................................................................................ 31

1 Position Mooring System ..................................................................31
1.1 Design Environmental Condition (DEC).........................................31
1.3 Design Operating Condition (DOC) ...............................................31
1.5 Design Installation Condition (DIC)................................................32
1.7 Angular Separation of Wind, Current and Waves ..........................32
3 Structural Strength and Fatigue Life .................................................32
3.1 Project Site ....................................................................................32
3.3 Transit............................................................................................33
3.5 Disconnectable Installations ..........................................................33
3.7 Strength and Fatigue Life ..............................................................33

SECTION 4 Environmental Conditions................................................................... 34

1 General .............................................................................................34
3 Environmental Loads ........................................................................34
5 Current ..............................................................................................35
7 Wind ..................................................................................................35
7.1 Wind Load .....................................................................................35
9 Waves ...............................................................................................36
9.1 Wave Forces .................................................................................37
9.3 Wave-induced Motion Responses .................................................37
11 Directionality......................................................................................37
13 Soil Conditions ..................................................................................38

TABLE 1 Shape Coefficients Cs for Windages .......................................38

TABLE 2 Height Coefficients Ch for Windages .......................................38
TABLE 3 Wind Velocity Conversion Factor............................................38

28 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 1: General Design Basis

3
CHAPTER 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading

SECTION 1 General Design Basis

(1 July 2009) The design basis of a Floating Installation identifies, among other items, the production rate,
storage capacity and loading capabilities. Since the system operation is site-specific, the environmental
conditions of the site directly influence the design of such a system.
The effects of prevailing winds are to be considered to minimize the risk of vented or flared hydrocarbons
to personnel, living quarters and evacuation means. Generally, atmospheric vents, flare systems and
emergency gas release vents are to be arranged in such a way so that prevailing winds will carry heat
and/or unburned gases away from potential ignition sources on the installation. See API RP 14J.
The design environmental conditions are to include those for the operation, installation and transit portions
of the Floating Installation’s design life. This Chapter specifically covers the environmental design criteria
for:
i) Position Mooring System.
ii) Structural Strength and Fatigue Life Assessments.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 29
PART Section 2: Design Documentation

3
CHAPTER 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading

SECTION 2 Design Documentation

The design documentation submitted is to include reports, calculations, plans and other documentation
necessary to verify the structural strength of the installation itself and adequacy of the mooring system,
production and other utility facilities and riser system (if included in the classification) for the intended
operations.

30 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 3: Design Conditions

3
CHAPTER 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading

SECTION 3 Design Conditions

The FPI is to be designed for load scenarios encountered during transit and site-specific conditions. Site-
specific conditions are to include both the Design Environmental Condition and the Design Operating
Condition.

1 Position Mooring System

The position mooring system of a Floating Installation is to be designed to survive in the Design Environmental
Condition and operate in the Design Operating Condition. For a disconnectable mooring system, the
limiting condition at which the mooring system is to be disconnected or reconnected is to be specified.

1.1 Design Environmental Condition (DEC) (1 March 2006)

The Design Environmental Condition (DEC) is defined as the extreme condition with a specific combination
of wind, waves and current for which the system is to be designed.
The DEC is to be one of the following combinations that results in the most severe loading case:
• 100-year waves with associated wind and current.
• 100-year wind with associated waves and current.
• 100-year current with associated waves and wind.
In areas with high current, additional design environmental load cases may need to be considered.
The 100-year waves are normally characterized by a significant wave height with a spectral shape type and
a range of associated peak wave periods.
A minimum return period of 100 years for the DEC is required for Floating Installations. A minimum return
period of 50 years will be specially considered if it is accepted by the coastal state. Any environmental
combinations with return periods shorter than that of the DEC which induce larger mooring load responses
are also to be used in the design.
For a Floating Installation with a Disconnectable notation (see 1-1-2/5.1 of this Guide), the DISconnecting
Environmental Condition (DISEC) of the mooring system is the limiting extreme environmental condition
at which the installation is to be disconnected from the mooring system. However, the permanent mooring
system, i.e., the mooring system alone (without the installation), is to be designed to withstand an
environmental condition based on a 100-year recurrence period. An acceptable monitoring system is to be
provided for tracking environmental conditions or mooring line tensions in order to assist in the decision to
disconnect the installation from the mooring system.

1.3 Design Operating Condition (DOC) (1 July 2009)

The Design Operating Condition (DOC) is defined as the limiting environmental condition that would
require suspension of normal operations. The return period associated with the DOC shall be the larger of:
a) the value as specified by the Operator, or b) one year.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 31
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading
Section 3 Design Conditions 3-2-3

1.5 Design Installation Condition (DIC)

The Design Installation Condition (DIC) is defined as the limiting environmental condition that would
require suspension of installation operations. Specific limits on environmental conditions affecting safe
operation during the installation phases described in Part 3, Chapter 4 are to be established and documented.

1.7 Angular Separation of Wind, Current and Waves

For single point mooring systems, which allow the installation to weathervane, both collinear and non-
collinear directions among wind, current and waves are to be considered. Proper angular separation for the
DEC of wind, current and waves is to be determined based on the site-specific environmental study. If this
information is not available, the following two angular combinations for non-collinear environments can
be considered as a minimum:
i) Wind and current are collinear and both at 30 degrees to waves.
ii) Wind at 30 degrees to waves and current at 90 degrees to waves.
For spread mooring systems with limited change in installation heading angles (less than 20 degrees) under
design environmental loads, the collinear environments of wind, current and waves, which are generally
controlling, can be used in design.
For each design sea state, a long-crested sea without spectral energy spreading in direction is normally
considered in the mooring analysis.

3 Structural Strength and Fatigue Life

3.1 Project Site (December 2008)

The site-specific environmental conditions, including both 100-year return period environmental events
and wave scatter diagram data of wave height/period joint occurrence distribution, are to be considered for
the installation’s hull strength and fatigue life assessment. Fatigue life assessment is also to include the
effects of on-site operational loading and unloading cycles. A minimum return period of 100 years for the
design response should be used for the DEC criteria per API RP 2T. A minimum return period of 50 years
for the structural response may be specially considered, provided that it is accepted by the Coastal State.
Different environmental conditions may induce different worst responses on various parts of the hull
structure. The wave-induced maximum motion responses and maximum structural load effects may result
from different wave periods. Therefore, the following two environmental conditions are to be considered to
derive the maximum motion responses and maximum structural load effects. The larger of the two values
obtained from i) and ii) is to be considered the maximum response:
i) 100-year return period waves characterized by a significant wave height with a range of associated
peak wave periods. Both winter storms and tropical cyclones (hurricanes or typhoons), if any,
need to be considered.
ii) Wave scatter diagram data of wave height/period joint occurrence distribution. The length of time
on which the data base for the wave scatter diagram data is constructed is long enough to be a
reliable basis for design (preferably at least five years). The occurrence distribution is to be
annualized with equal probability of occurrence for each data point. Each data point is to represent
a sea state of approximately three hours in a continuous time duration of the database.
For both of the above environmental conditions the following are also to be considered:
iii) Wave directions of head seas and other directions relative to the installation heading, including the
effects of wind and current, with proper probability distribution are to be considered, irrespective
of the type of mooring system utilized.
iv) As appropriate, either long-crested seas or short-crested seas with spreading function are to be
considered for various design issues.

32 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading
Section 3 Design Conditions 3-2-3

3.3 Transit
The wind and wave conditions representing the environment for the transit route from the building or
outfitting site (or the shipyard where the conversion modifications are made) to the project site and the
time of the year are to be determined for the design of a floating installation. Except for floating
installations that qualify for the Disconnectable classification notation, any other transit conditions
occurring during the operational life of the floating installation are to be submitted for review. Prior to
commencement of such a voyage, a Surveyor to this Bureau is to attend and survey the installation to
assess its condition.
As a minimum, the wind speed and significant wave height of 10-year return period are to be considered,
unless a weather routing plan is to be implemented for the voyage. Seasonal effects on the design
environments as appropriate for the proposed transit duration can be considered.
In addition to the check on the installation’s hull strength during transit, special attention is to be paid to
items such as the flare boom, crane pedestal and process equipment supports that will be subject to motion-
induced loading and/or effects of green water. Motion-induced loads during transit are to be calculated
and the superstructures and their supports, which are included in the scope of classification, shall be
verified against these loads.
If fitted with an internal turret, special consideration is to be given to bottom slamming to preclude damage
to the turret supports and bearings.

3.5 Disconnectable Installations (December 2008)

For Disconnectable floating installations that are disconnected from its mooring and riser systems due to
the occurrence of a limiting extreme environmental condition, the structural strength of the installation
shall comply with unrestricted service (North Atlantic) conditions. However, if the Disconnectable floating
installation is restricted to a specific service area in proximity to its operating site location, reduced design
load parameters may be applied with an appropriate limited area of disconnected service notation
Disconnectable-R (from site to designated port), where permitted by local authorities or regulations.

3.7 Strength and Fatigue Life (December 2008)

Hull strength and fatigue life assessment are calculated according to Part 5A or 5B of this Guide for a
given project site and transit route.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 33
PART Section 4: Environmental Conditions

3
CHAPTER 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading

SECTION 4 Environmental Conditions

1 General
The environmental conditions for various design conditions described in Section 3-2-3 are to be submitted
with adequate data for the specific site of operation. Statistical data and mathematical models that describe
the range of pertinent expected variations of environmental conditions are to be employed. All data used
are to be fully documented with the sources and estimated reliability of data noted.
An environmental report describing methods employed in developing available data into design criteria is
to be submitted in accordance with 1-1-4/3 of this Guide. Probabilistic methods for short-term, long-term
and extreme-value prediction are to employ statistical distributions appropriate to the environmental
phenomena being considered, as evidenced by relevant statistical tests, confidence limits and other
measures of statistical significance. Hindcasting methods and models are to be fully documented.
Generally, data and analyses supplied by recognized consultants will be accepted as the basis of design.
Published design standards and data, if available for the location of interest, may be cited as documentation.
Specifically, the following environmental data are normally to be provided:
i) Extreme events of 100-, 10- and 1-year return period data for wind speed, significant wave height
and current. A range of associated wave periods is to be considered for each specified significant wave
height. Both winter storms and tropical cyclones (hurricanes or typhoons), if any, need be considered.
ii) Directional data and angular separation for extreme values of wind, waves and current.
iii) Wave spectral shape formulation.
iv) Current speed and directional variation through the water depth.
v) Wave height/period joint occurrence distribution (wave scatter diagram data with equal annual
probability of occurrence for each data point).
vi) Long-term wave statistics by direction.
vii) Water depth and tidal variations, including wind and pressure effects of storms.
viii) Air and sea temperature.
ix) Ice, iceberg and snow, if any.

3 Environmental Loads
The design of a Floating Installation requires the establishment of environmental loads considering the
following parameters:

Air and sea temperatures Tides and storm surges

Currents Waves
Ice and Snow Wind

Other phenomena such as loop currents, tsunamis, submarine slides, seiche, abnormal composition of air
and water, air humidity, salinity, ice drift and icebergs may require special considerations.
Wind tunnel and towing tank tests on the project-specific submerged hull and superstructures are preferred
in determining current and wind loads. Alternatively, the following calculation procedures can also be applied.

34 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading
Section 4 Environmental Conditions 3-2-4

5 Current
The current forces on the submerged hull, mooring lines, risers or any other submerged objects associated
with the system are to be calculated using a current profile established in accordance with 3-2-3/1. In areas
where relatively high velocity currents occur, load amplification due to vortex shedding is to be considered.
Current force, Fcurrent, on the submerged part of any structure is calculated as the drag force by the following
equation:
Fcurrent = 1/2 ρwater CD Acurrent uc |uc| kN (lbf)
where
ρwater = density of sea water, 0.1045 tonnes/m3 (1.99 Slugs/ft3)
CD = drag coefficient, in steady flow (dimensionless)
uc = current velocity vector normal to the plane of projected area, in m/s (ft/s)

Acurrent = projected area exposed to current, in m2 (ft2)

For a Floating Installation using a ship-type configuration (e.g., tankers), current forces may be calculated
(as appropriate) by using coefficients based on model test data as presented in Prediction of Wind and
Current Loads on VLCCs, published by Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), 1994.

7 Wind
The wind conditions for various design conditions are to be established from collected wind data and
should be consistent with other environmental parameters assumed to occur simultaneously. In general,
the wind speed is to be based on a recurrence period of 100 years.
The environmental report is to present wind statistics for the site of installation. The statistics are to be
based on the analysis and interpretation of wind data by a recognized consultant. The report is to include a
wind rose or table showing the frequency distributions of wind velocity and direction and a table or graph
showing the recurrence period of extreme winds. The percentage of time for which the operational phase
limiting wind velocity is expected to be exceeded during a year and during the worst month or season is to
be identified.

7.1 Wind Load

The wind loading can be considered either as a steady wind force or as a combination of steady and time-
varying load, as described below:
i) When wind force is considered as a constant (steady) force, the wind velocity based on the
1-minute average velocity is to be used in calculating the wind load.
ii) Effect of the wind gust spectrum can be taken into account by considering wind loading as a
combination of steady load and a time-varying component calculated from a suitable wind spectrum.
For this approach, the wind velocity based on 1-hour average speed is to be used for steady wind
load calculation. The first approach is preferred to this approach when the wind energy spectrum
cannot be derived with confidence.
Wind pressure, pwind, on a particular windage of a floating installation may be calculated as drag forces
using the following equations:
2
Pwind = 0.610 CsCh Vref N/m2 Vref in m/s

2
= 0.0623 CsCh Vref kgf/m2 Vref in m/s

2
= 0.00338 CsCh Vref lbf/ft2 Vref in knots

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 35
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading
Section 4 Environmental Conditions 3-2-4

where
Cs = Shape Coefficient (dimensionless)
Ch = Height Coefficient (dimensionless)
The height coefficient, Ch, in the above formulation accounts for the wind velocity (Vwind) profile in the
vertical plane. The height coefficient, Ch, is given by the following equation:
2 2β
⎛ V ⎞ ⎛ z ⎞
Ch = ⎜ z ⎟ or Ch = ⎜ ⎟ , but Ch (≥ 1)
⎜ V ref ⎟ ⎜ Z ref ⎟
⎝ ⎠ ⎝ ⎠
where the velocity of wind, Vz, at a height, z, is to be calculated as follows:
β
⎛ z ⎞
V z = Vref ⎜ ⎟
⎜ Z ref ⎟
⎝ ⎠
Vref = velocity of wind at a reference elevation, Zref, of 10 m (33 feet)
ß = 0.09 - 0.16 for 1-minute average wind
= 0.125 for 1-hour average wind.
The corresponding wind force, Fwind, on the windage is:
Fwind = pwind Awind
where
Awind = projected area of windage on a plane normal to the direction of the wind, in m2 (ft2)
The total wind force is then obtained by summing up the wind forces on each windage.
Representative values of Ch are given in 3-2-4/Table 2 of this Guide. Wind profiles for the specific site of
the Floating Installation should be used.
The shape coefficients for typical structural shapes are presented in 3-2-4/Table 1 of this Guide. To
convert the wind velocity, Vt, at a reference of 10 m (33 feet) above sea level for a given time average, t, to
velocity of another time average, the following relationship may be used:
Vt = fV(1 hr)
Example values of the factor f, based on API RP 2A, for U.S. waters are listed in 3-2-4/Table 3 of this
Guide. Values specific to the site of the Floating Installation are to be used.
Wind forces can be calculated for large ship-type installations with relatively small superstructure (e.g.,
tankers) using the coefficients presented in the document Prediction of Wind and Current Loads on VLCCs,
OCIMF, 1994. Additional forces due to superstructures and equipment can be calculated by the above
formula and added to these results.
Wind forces on Floating Installations other than ship-type are to be calculated by the summation of wind
forces on individual areas using the above formulas.
If the 1-hour average wind speed is used, the wind’s dynamic effect should be separately considered. The
wind energy spectrum, as recommended in API RP 2A, may be used.

9 Waves
Wave criteria are to be described in terms of wave energy spectra, significant wave height and associated
period for the location at which the Floating Installation is to operate. Waves are to be considered as
coming from any direction relative to the installation. Consideration is to be given to waves of less than
the maximum height because the wave-induced motion responses at waves with certain periods may be
larger in some cases due to the dynamic behavior of the system as a whole.

36 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading
Section 4 Environmental Conditions 3-2-4

9.1 Wave Forces

The wave forces acting on a floating installation consist of three components, i.e., first order forces at wave
frequencies, second order forces at frequencies lower than the wave frequencies and a steady component of
the second order forces. This steady component of the wave force is called Mean Drift Force. The
calculation of wave loading is necessary for assessing the installation motion responses and the mooring
system. It requires calculations of dynamic characteristics of the installation and the hydrodynamic
loading on the installation for a given environmental condition.
For structures consisting of slender members that do not significantly alter the incident wave field, semi-
empirical formulations, such as Morison’s equation, may be used. For calculation of wave loads on
structural configurations that significantly alter the incident wave field, appropriate methods which account
for both the incident wave force (e.g., Froude-Krylov force) and the forces resulting from wave diffraction
are to be used. In general, application of Morison’s equation may be used for structures comprising slender
members with diameters (or equivalent diameters giving the same cross-sectional areas parallel to the
flow) less than 20 percent of the wave lengths.
For a column-stabilized type of installation consisting of large (columns and pontoons) and small (brace
members) cylindrical members, a combination of diffraction and Morison’s equation can be used for calculation
of hydrodynamic characteristics and hydrodynamic loading. The designer may refer to 3-1-2/1.5 of the
MODU Rules. Alternatively, the suitable model test results or full scale measurements can be used.
Wave force calculations should account for shallow water effects which increase current due to blockage
effects, change the system natural frequency due to nonlinear behavior of moorings and alter wave kinematics.

9.3 Wave-induced Motion Responses

The wave-induced response of an installation consists of three categories of response, i.e., first order (wave
frequency) motions, low frequency or slowly varying motions and steady drift.
9.3.1 First Order Motions
These motions have six degrees of freedom (surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch and yaw) and are at
wave frequencies that can be obtained from model tests in regular or random waves or by computer
analysis in frequency or time domain.
9.3.2 Low Frequency Motions
These motions are induced by low frequency components of second order wave forces. The low
frequency motions of surge, sway and yaw can be substantial, particularly at frequencies near the
natural frequency of the system.
The low frequency motion-induced mooring line tension in most systems with a tanker-type
installation is a dominating design load for the mooring system. The low frequency motions are to
be calculated for any moored installation by using appropriate motion analysis software or by
model test results of a similar vessel.
9.3.3 Steady (Mean) Drift
As mentioned above, an installation subjected to waves experiences a steady drift along with the
first and second order motions. The mean wave drift force and yawing moment are induced by the
steady component of the second order wave forces. Mean drift forces and yawing moments are to
be calculated using appropriate motion analysis computer programs or extrapolated from model
test results of a similar vessel.

11 Directionality
The directionality of environmental conditions can be considered if properly documented by a detailed
environmental report.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 37
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 2 Design Basis and Environmental Loading
Section 4 Environmental Conditions 3-2-4

13 Soil Conditions (1 July 2009)

Site investigation in general should be in accordance with Part 3, Section 6 of the ABS Rules for Building
and Classing Offshore Installations. Soil data should be taken in the vicinity of the foundation system site.
An interpretation of such data is to be submitted by a recognized geotechnical consultant. To establish the
soil characteristics of the site, the foundation system borings or probings are to be taken at all foundation
locations to a suitable depth of at least the anticipated depth of any piles or anchor penetrations plus a
consideration for the soil variability. As an alternative, sub-bottom profile runs may be taken and correlated
with at least two borings or probings in the vicinity of anchor locations and an interpretation may be made by
a recognized geotechnical consultant to adequately establish the soil profile at all anchoring locations.

TABLE 1
Shape Coefficients Cs for Windages
Shape Cs
Sphere 0.40
Cylindrical Shapes 0.50
Hull above waterline 1.00
Deck House 1.00
Isolated structural shapes 1.50
(Cranes, channels, beams, angles, etc.)
Under deck areas (smooth) 1.00
Under deck areas (exposed beams and girders) 1.30
Rig derrick 1.25

TABLE 2
Height Coefficients Ch for Windages
Height above Waterline Ch
Meters Feet 1-min 1-hr
0.0 - 15.3 0 - 50 1.00 1.00
15.3 - 30.5 50 - 100 1.18 1.23
30.5 - 46.0 100 - 150 1.31 1.40
46.0 - 61.0 150 - 200 1.40 1.52
61.0 - 76.0 200 - 250 1.47 1.62
76.0 - 91.5 250 - 300 1.53 1.71
91.5 - 106.5 300 - 350 1.58 1.78

TABLE 3
Wind Velocity Conversion Factor*
Wind Duration Factor "f"
1 Hour 1.000
10 Min 1.060
1 Min 1.180
15 Sec 1.260
5 Sec 1.310
3 Sec 1.330
* The values of 3-2-4/Table 3 are most representative
of U.S. waters. Site-specific data should be used.
(See 3-2-4/7.1 of this Guide)

38 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 3: General Requirements

3
CHAPTER 3 General Requirements

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 All Installations..................................................................................... 40
1 General .............................................................................................40
3 Lightweight Data ...............................................................................40
5 Load Line ..........................................................................................40
7 Loading Manual (Operating Manual) ................................................41
9 Trim and Stability Booklet (Operating Manual) .................................41
11 Stability..............................................................................................41
13 Engineering Analysis ........................................................................41
15 Mooring Systems and Equipment.....................................................42

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 39
PART Section 1: All Installations

3
CHAPTER 3 General Requirements

SECTION 1 All Installations

1 General (1 July 2009)

This Chapter covers the requirements for installations (ship-type, column-stabilized, tension leg platform
and spar) as defined in Section 3-1-2. Other types, as defined in 3-1-2/7, will be considered on a case-by-
case basis.
This Chapter covers the requirements for installations that are newly designed or are undergoing a major
conversion that affects the principal dimensions of the floating installation, or an existing vessel that is
undergoing conversion to a floating installation. The application of these requirements to existing vessels
undergoing conversions will be considered by the Bureau based on the service history, age, condition of
the existing floating installation, etc.
The designer is required to submit to the Bureau for review all applicable design documentation, such as
reports, calculations, plans and other documentation necessary to verify the structural strength of the
floating installation itself (see Section 1-1-4 of this Guide). The submitted design documentation is to
include the design environmental conditions (see Section 3-2-4).

3 Lightweight Data
The lightweight and center of gravity are to be determined for installations of all types. An inclining test
will be required for the first floating installation of a series, when as near to completion as practical, to
determine accurately the lightweight and position of center of gravity. An inclining test procedure is to be
submitted for review prior to the test, which is to be witnessed by a Surveyor to the Bureau.

5 Load Line
Every installation is to have marks that designate the maximum permissible draft to which the installation
may be loaded. Such markings are to be placed at suitable visible locations on the hull or structure to the
satisfaction of the Bureau. On column-stabilized installations, where practical, these marks are to be
visible to the person in charge of liquid transfer operations.
Except where otherwise permitted by the flag and coastal States, load line marks are to be established
under the terms of the International Convention of Load Lines, 1966. Where minimum freeboards cannot
be computed by the normal methods laid down by the convention, such as in the case of a column-
stabilized installation, they are to be determined on the basis of compliance with intact or damage stability
requirement for afloat modes of operation.
The installation’s arrangements are to comply with all applicable regulations of the International Convention
on Load Lines.

40 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 3 General Requirements
Section 1 All Installations 3-3-1

7 Loading Manual (Operating Manual)

For a ship-type installation, a loading manual is to be prepared and submitted for review pertaining to the
safe operation of the installation from a strength point of view. This loading manual is to be prepared for
the guidance of and use by the personnel responsible for loading the installation. The manual is to include
means for determining the effects of various loaded, transitional and ballasted conditions upon the hull
girder bending moment and shear force and is to be furnished to the master of the installation for guidance.
In addition, a loading instrument suitable for the intended service is to be installed on the installation. The
check conditions for the loading instrument and other relevant data are to be submitted for review.
An operating manual is required for the marine operation of all Floating Installations, containing the
information listed in Section 1-1-5 of the MODU Rules Supplement to the ABS Rules for Conditions of
Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1) and 5B-1-4/11 of this Guide, as applicable. The
above mentioned loading manual may be included in the overall operating manual or issued as a separate
document. The loading manual, if issued as a separate document, is to be referenced in the overall
operating manual. Further, where Disconnectable is requested as an additional classification notation,
the operating manual is to include procedures for disconnection and reconnection of the installation to its
mooring and riser system. (See 3-4-1/13 and 3-4-7/3.)
See Parts 5A and 5B and for additional requirements pertaining to each installation type.

9 Trim and Stability Booklet (Operating Manual)

In addition to the loading manual described in 3-3-1/7, a ship-type floating installation is to be provided
with sufficient information to guide the master and other responsible personnel in the safe loading, transfer
and discharge of cargo and ballast with respect to the hull’s trim and stability. The information is to
include various loaded, transitional and ballasted example conditions over the full range of operating drafts
together with stability criteria to enable the responsible personnel to evaluate the intact and damage
stability of any other proposed condition of loading.
This information may be prepared as a separate trim and stability booklet or may be included in the overall
operating manual. If issued as a separate document, the trim and stability booklet is to be referenced in the
overall operating manual. In addition to the booklet or section of the operating manual, the stability
guidance information also may be incorporated as part of the loading instrument described in 3-3-1/7. (See
3-2-1/7 and Part 3, Chapter 3, of the Steel Vessel Rules, Regulation 10 of the 1966 Load Line Convention,
Regulation 25 of MARPOL 73/78.)
See Parts 5A and 5B and for additional requirements pertaining to each installation type.

11 Stability (December 2008)

The intact and damage stability of the installation are to be evaluated in accordance with Section 3-3-1 of
the MODU Rules. In addition, the requirements of the 1966 Load Line Convention and MARPOL 73/78
are to be considered. See 3-3-1/9 of this Guide for general requirements pertaining to the makeup and
issuance of loading guidance with respect to stability.

13 Engineering Analysis (December 2008)

Documentation necessary to verify the adequacy of the hull structure is to be submitted for review. The
needed extent and types of analyses and the sophistication of such analyses vary, depending on one or a
combination of the following factors:
i) The design basis of the hull structure versus the conditions to be encountered at the site for the
installation.
ii) The relative lack of experience with the hull structure’s arrangement, local details, loading patterns,
failure mode sensitivities.
iii) Potential deleterious interactions with other subsystems of the floating offshore installation.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 41
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 3 General Requirements
Section 1 All Installations 3-3-1

The required structural analyses are to employ the loads associated with the environmental conditions
determined in association with Part 3, Chapter 2. These conditions include those expected during the
operational life of the Floating Installation on site and those expected during the transport of the structure
to the site of the installation.
For sites with relatively mild environmental conditions, it may be possible, depending on the intended
service of the structure, to reduce the structural analysis effort where it is demonstrated that the hull
structure satisfies the unrestricted criteria of the pertinent ABS Rules applicable to the installation type
being considered. However, it may still be deemed necessary to perform and submit for review specific
analyses for such considerations as the interface between the position mooring system and the hull
structure, or the effects of structural support reactions from deck mounted (or above-deck) equipment
modules or both, potential sloshing load effects and fatigue strength assessments of hull components where
the other applied ABS Rules do not address that consideration to the extent needed for a floating offshore
installation. More specific information on required structural analyses is given in Parts 5A and 5B for each
type of hull structure covered by these criteria.

15 Mooring Systems and Equipment

Position mooring systems are to meet the requirements of Part 6. For temporary mooring equipment, see
1-1-2/11 and 5A-1-3/1.17 of this Guide.

42 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 4: Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General.................................................................................................. 44
1 General Description ..........................................................................44
3 Pre-installation Verification ...............................................................44
5 Pile or Anchor and Mooring Line Installation ....................................44
7 Tensioning and Proof Load Testing..................................................45
9 Hook-up of the Anchor Chain System ..............................................45
11 Import/Export System Installation .....................................................45
11.1 Rigid and Flexible Risers............................................................... 45
11.3 Export Vessel Transfer System ..................................................... 46
13 Disconnecting Procedure..................................................................46

SECTION 2 Hook-up Procedures Submittal........................................................... 47

SECTION 3 Start-up and Commissioning Procedures Submittal ........................ 48

SECTION 4 Surveys During Installation of the Mooring Systems ....................... 49

SECTION 5 Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export System ................ 51

SECTION 6 Surveys During Hook-up ..................................................................... 53

SECTION 7 Demonstration of the Disconnectable Mooring

System .................................................................................................. 54

SECTION 8 Surveys During Start-up and Commissioning................................... 55

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 43
PART Section 1: General

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 1 General

The requirements in this Chapter apply to the procedures to be submitted and the surveys to be performed
for all ABS-classed Floating Installations.
Prior to carrying out the installation, the installation procedures are to be submitted for review. The
installation procedures to be submitted are to include the following, where applicable.

1 General Description
General description of the entire layout of the mooring system and of the Floating Installation with risers,
subsea pipelines and, as applicable, pipeline end manifolds (PLEMs).

3 Pre-installation Verification
Pre-installation verification procedures for the seabed condition in way of the installation site and
contingency procedures for removing any obstacles found on site.

5 Pile or Anchor and Mooring Line Installation

Pile or anchor and mooring line installation procedures which are to include, but are not limited to, the
following:
i) General preparations for installation.
ii) Rigging arrangements for piles, chaser pile and driving hammers.
iii) Work barge setup during the various phases of installation, taking into consideration the prevailing
weather conditions.
iv) Anticipated pile driving resistance.
v) Pile penetration acceptance criteria established by design and pile refusal and overdrive contingency
procedures.
vi) Procedure for positioning of the pile orientation toward the center of the Position Mooring System
and the criteria for allowable deviations of position and orientation.
vii) Procedure for installation of the mooring line and the precautions to be taken in order to prevent
any twisting of the mooring chains during installation.
viii) Procedure for installation of anchors, including piggyback anchors, if applicable, and procedure
for determining the installed positions and orientations of the anchors. Criteria for allowable
deviations in positioning and orientation are also to be included.

44 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2008
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning
Section 1 General 3-4-1

7 Tensioning and Proof Load Testing

Tensioning and proof load testing procedures of the anchor piles or anchors and chain system are to
include the following:
i) Rigging arrangements for proof load tension testing of the mooring chains, anchor or pile system.
ii) Work barge setup to perform the proof load testing of the chains and anchor or pile system.
iii) Detailed tensioning procedure, including type of tensioning device to be utilized and tensioning
operations.
iv) Chain retrieval and abandonment procedures during tensioning.
v) Procedure for chain proof load tensioning by ballasting the Floating Installation, if applicable.

9 Hook-up of the Anchor Chain System

Procedure for hook-up of the anchor chain system to the Floating Installation, which is to include the
following:
i) Rigging and towing procedures for positioning of the Floating Installation for hook-up to the
mooring system.
ii) Preferred ballast condition of the Floating Installation prior to the hook-up.
iii) Procedure for sequential hook-up of the chains, repositioning of the Floating Installation and
tensioning of the chains.
iv) Method of determining the correct tension of the chains and the acceptable design tolerance.
v) Procedure for determining the positioning of the SPM system relative to the PLEM or wellhead
and the acceptable design tolerance for the position of the SPM center relative to the PLEM or
wellhead.
vi) Method of securing the chain turntable from movement and the overall safety precautions for the
entire hook-up installation.
vii) Procedure for chain tensioning by ballasting the Floating Installation, if applicable.

11 Import/Export System Installation

The Import/Export System Installation Procedure is to be submitted for review in conjunction with the
design review so that it can be verified that all appropriate installation loadings have been considered. The
manual is to describe procedures to be employed during the installation of the import/export systems. In
addition, the manual is to include a list of allowable environmental limits under which system installation
may proceed. Abandonment procedures, retrieval procedures and repair procedures are to be supplied,
when deemed necessary.

11.1 Rigid and Flexible Risers

The procedure to hook-up the import/export risers to the Floating Installation is to include the following
items, where applicable:
i) Handling and rigging of the rigid and flexible riser during installation.
ii) Positioning of the work barge for the various phases of the installation.
iii) Procedure for installation of the buoyancy tank and arch support and clump weight, if applicable,
including steps to avoid riser interference and precautions against damaging the riser during
installation.
iv) Tie-in rigging technique for hook-up of both ends of the risers.
v) Procedure for hydrostatic testing of the risers. Hydrotest pressure and test duration are to be in
accordance with API or other recognized code of practice.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 45
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning
Section 1 General 3-4-1

11.3 Export Vessel Transfer System

The procedure for installing the export system is to include the following items, as applicable.
i) Rigging, handling and make-up of the export hose system and precautions against damage during
installation.
ii) Fitting of all the necessary accessory and navigational aids.
iii) Procedure for paying out of the hose string into the sea.
iv) Procedure for filling and testing the hose string. The required design and testing pressure and
testing duration are to be provided.

13 Disconnecting Procedure
For disconnectable mooring systems, the procedures for the disconnecting and connecting of the Floating
Installation’s mooring system are to be submitted. These procedures are to include the abandonment and
retrieval of the import and export systems. (Also see 1-1-4/11 of this Guide for Operating Manual
requirements.)

46 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Hook-up Procedures Submittal

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 2 Hook-up Procedures Submittal

Any system component installation intentionally left incomplete to ease the installation of the Floating
Installation at site is to be documented and a procedure for site hook-up and testing is to be submitted.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 47
PART Section 3: Start-up and Commissioning Procedures Submittal

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 3 Start-up and Commissioning Procedures

Submittal

Start-up and commissioning procedures for the production system are to be submitted for review per the
Facilities Guide.

48 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 4: Surveys During Installation of the Mooring Systems

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 4 Surveys During Installation of the Mooring

Systems

During installation, the requirements as contained in the following paragraphs are to be verified or
witnessed, where applicable, by the attending Surveyor.

1
All mooring components are to be examined for transit damages prior to installation. Any damages found
are to be dealt with to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.

3
All applicable components required to be certified at the manufacturers’ facilities have received certification.

5
The area at and in the vicinity of the mooring site is to be surveyed by divers or remotely operated vehicles
(ROVs) to ensure that there are no obstructions or debris prior to installation.

7
During the installation of the anchors or anchor piles, the following are to be verified in order, where
applicable:
i) Proper locking of all connecting shackles from chains to piles or anchors and chains to chains.
ii) Sealing of all Kenter shackle locking pins.
iii) All complements of anchor chains for correct sizes and lengths.
iv) All anchor pile or anchors are installed in the designed positions and orientations and are within
the allowable design tolerance.

9
The paying out of the anchor chains after the installation of the piles is to be performed in accordance with
the approved procedures.

11
Unless otherwise approved by the attending Surveyor, the first pair of anchor chains to be cross-tensioned
is the first pair to be installed.

13
The cross-tensioning is to be verified to ensure all pretensioning loads are in accordance with the design
and there is no movement or pullout of the anchor piles.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 49
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning
Section 4 Surveys During Installation of the Mooring Systems 3-4-4

15
Upon successful completion of the pretensioning, the subsequent hooking up of all of the chain legs to the
chain stoppers in the turntable is to be verified.

17
During tensioning of the chains for the position mooring system, the relative position of the mooring
system’s center to the PLEM is to be verified for compliance with the design specifications and tolerance.

19
Upon completion, the chain tension is to be verified by measuring the catenary angles of the chains for
compliance with the design specifications and tolerance. Any excess length of chain above the chain
stoppers is to be removed, unless it is designed to be retained in the chain well.

50 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 5: Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export System

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 5 Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export

System

During installation of the import/export system, the following items are to be witnessed by the Surveyor, as
applicable.

1
The riser is to be examined for damage as it is being paid out, and sufficient tension is to be maintained to
ensure the riser is free of deformations or buckles. The buoyancy tank and arch support are to be verified
as being installed in the correct position relative to the water surface end of the riser.

3
The installation of the riser clamps on the buoyancy tank and arch support are to be monitored to ensure
that the riser is adequately secured and not damaged due to excessive tightening of the clamps.

5
The installation of the end flanges of the riser is to be monitored for compliance with the approved
procedures.

7
Upon completion of installation, the entire underwater complement of components is to be generally
examined and verified by divers or ROVs for compliance with the reviewed design specifications and
configurations. At a site with limited visibility, alternative means of verifying the installation are to be
submitted for review and are to be performed to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.

9
Hydrotesting of the import/export system is to be performed in accordance with the approved procedure.
The test pressure and duration of the hydrotest should follow the appropriate codes, such as ANSI/ ASME
B31.8, API RP 2RD and RP 17B.

11
The make-up of the export floating hose string is to be verified for compliance with the approved
procedures. Suitable gaskets for the hose flanges, positioning of all navigational aids, correct location of
the breakaway couplings and tightening of the flange bolts are also to be verified.

13
During the paying out of the hose string, verification is to be made that the hose string bend radii are not
smaller than the manufacturer’s recommended limits.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 51
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning
Section 5 Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export System 3-4-5

15
Upon completion of installation, the entire export hose string is to be hydrostatically tested in accordance
with the approved procedure and codes, such as the OCIMF Guidelines for the Handling, Storage, Inspection,
and Testing of Hoses in the Field.

17
Subsea controls, if installed, are to be satisfactorily tested.

19
All navigational aids are to be functionally tested and proven in working order.

52 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 6: Surveys During Hook-up

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 6 Surveys During Hook-up

Survey during hook-up is to be performed following reviewed procedures and is to include the following,
where applicable:

1
Piping hook-up is to be verified for compliance with the reviewed drawings and procedures. Welds are to
be visually inspected and nondestructive testing (NDT) performed as required. Upon completion of hook-
up, the affected sections are to be hydrostatically tested to 1.5 times the design working pressure and
proven tight.

3
Electrical hook-up is to be verified for compliance with the approved drawings and procedures. Proper
support for cables and proper sealing of cable entries to equipment are to be verified. Upon completion of
the hook-up, the affected sections of the equipment and cabling are to be insulation tested and proven in
order. All grounding is also to be verified as being in order.

5
Instrumentation hook-up is to be verified for compliance with the reviewed drawings and procedures.
Tubing supports are to be verified. Upon completion, all systems are to be functionally tested and proven
as being in order. The manufacturer’s limits on bend radii for any component of the instrumentation
system are to be observed.

7
Mechanical equipment hook-up is to be verified for compliance with the reviewed drawings and procedures,
including the grounding of the equipment. Upon completion, all equipment is to be functionally tested and
proven as being in order.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 53
PART Section 7: Demonstration of the Disconnectable Mooring System

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 7 Demonstration of the Disconnectable Mooring

System

1
For a disconnectable mooring system, the system’s capability to disconnect free from its mooring system is
to be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor, in accordance with approved test procedures.

3
During the disconnect operation, the time taken to effectively free the Floating Installation from the
mooring system is to be recorded in the operation manual.

54 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 8: Surveys During Start-up and Commissioning

3
CHAPTER 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning

SECTION 8 Surveys During Start-up and Commissioning

The start-up and commissioning of hydrocarbon production systems are to be verified by the attending
Surveyor. The scope of the start-up and commissioning to be verified by the Surveyor is to include the
following items:

1
The start-up and commissioning operations are to be in accordance with the reviewed procedures.

3
Verify precautions for safety of personnel during commissioning, including checks of operational
readiness of all life saving equipment, fire and gas detection systems, fire fighting equipment, Emergency
Shutdown systems and unobstructed escape routes.

5
Verify establishment of communication procedures prior to the start of commissioning operations.

7
Verify that emergency procedures are provided to deal with contingencies, such as spillage, fire and other
hazards. Drills may have to be performed to demonstrate readiness to these procedures.

9
Verify start-up and testing of all support utility systems, including main and auxiliary sources, for the
process system prior to commissioning.

11
Verify proper hook-up and testing of the entire process system prior to commissioning, including the
testing of entire system for leaks, the process control functions and emergency shutdown system.

13
Verify purging of the entire production system of oxygen to an acceptable level prior to the introduction of
hydrocarbons into the production system.

15
Verify the introduction of hydrocarbon into the process system and the system’s capability to control the
flow of the well effluent in the system in a stabilized manner without undue control upsets.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 55
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Chapter 4 Installation, Hook-up, and Commissioning
Section 8 Surveys During Start-Up and Commissioning 3-4-8

17
Verify the start-up of the flare system, if applicable, including the necessary precautions taken to eliminate
the risk of explosion or fire. The functional capability of the flare system is to be verified.

19
Verify that the post-commissioned process system is functioning satisfactorily for a duration of at least 12 hours.
Equipment required to be verified but not used during the initial start-up and commissioning is to be identified
for verification at the next Annual Survey.

56 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Appendix 1: Abbreviations and References

3
APPENDIX 1 Abbreviations and References

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Abbreviations ....................................................................................... 58

SECTION 2 References............................................................................................ 59

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 57
PART Section 1: Abbreviations

3
APPENDIX 1 Abbreviations and References

SECTION 1 Abbreviations

API American Petroleum Institute Appendix 3-A1-2

ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers Appendix 3-A1-2
DEC Design Environmental Condition 3-2-3/1.1
DIC Design Installation Condition 3-2-3/1.5
DOC Design Operating Condition 3-2-3/1.3
FOI Floating Offshore Installation 3-1-1/1
FPS Floating Production (and Offloading) System 3-1-1/1
FPSO Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading System 3-1-1/1
FSO Floating Storage and Offloading System 3-1-1/1
HSE Health and Safety Executive of the United Kingdom Appendix 3-A1-2
MODU Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit Appendix 3-A1-2
OCIMF Oil Company International Marine Forum Appendix 3-A1-2
PLEM Pipe Line End Manifold 3-1-5/7
P&ID Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams 3-1-3/9
S.A.F.E. Chart Safety Analysis Function Evaluation Charts 3-1-3/11
SB Steel Barges Appendix 3-A1-2
SPM Single Point Mooring Appendix 3-A1-2
SV Steel Vessel Appendix 3-A1-2
UWILD Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking Survey 7-3-1/3 &
Appendix 3-A1-2

58 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: References

3
APPENDIX 1 Abbreviations and References

SECTION 2 References

ABS:
Facilities Guide The ABS Guide for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations
FEM Guide The ABS Guidance Notes on SafeHull Finite Element Analysis
MODU Rules The ABS Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
Offshore Chain Guide The ABS Guide for Certification of Offshore Mooring Chain
Single Point Mooring Rules The ABS Rules for Building and Classing Single Point Mooring Systems
Steel Vessel Rules The ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels
UWILD Guide The ABS Guide for the Class Notation of Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking
Synthetic Rope Guidance The ABS Guidance Notes on the Application of Synthetic Ropes for Offshore Mooring
Notes
Risk Guidance Notes The ABS Guidance Notes on Risk Assessment Application for the Marine and Offshore
Oil and Gas Industries

American Institute of Steel Construction:

AISC Code Manual of Steel Construction - ASD, latest edition

American Society of Mechanical Engineers/American National Standards Institute:

B31.3 Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping
B31.4 Liquid Transportation Systems for Hydrocarbons, Liquid Petroleum Gas, Anhydrous
Ammonia, and Alcohol
B31.8 Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems
Boiler Code Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, latest edition.

American Petroleum Institute:

API RP 2A Recommended Practice for Planning, Designing, and Constructing Fixed Offshore
Platforms
API RP 2 SK Recommended Practice for the Design and Analysis of Stationkeeping Systems for
Floating Structures, Third Edition - 2005
API RP 2Q Replaced by API RP 16Q
API RP 2RD Recommended Practice for Design of Risers for Floating Production Systems (FPSs)
and Tension-Leg Platforms (TLPs)
API RP 2T Recommended Practice for Planning, Designing, and Construction Tension Leg
Platforms, Second Edition - 1997
API Bull 2U Bulletin on Stability Design of Cylindrical Shells, Third Edition - 2004
API Bull 2V Bulletin on Design of Flat Plate Structures, Third Edition - 2004
API Spec 9A Specification for Wire Rope Twenty-fifth Edition - 2004

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 59
Part 3 Installation Types, Functions, Features and General Requirements
Appendix 1 Abbreviations and References
Section 2 References 3-A1-2

API RP 9B Recommended Practice on Application, Care, and Use of Wire Rope for Oil Field
Service Twelfth Edition - 2005
API RP 14C Recommended Practice for Analysis, Design, Installation, and Testing of Basic Surface
Safety Systems on Offshore Production Platforms Seventh Edition - 2001
API RP 14E Recommended Practice for Design and Installation of Offshore Production Platform
Piping Systems, Fifth Edition - 1991 (ANSI/API RP 14E-1992)
API RP 14J Recommended Practice for Design and Hazards Analysis for Offshore Production
Facilities, Second Edition - 2001
API RP 17B/ISO 13628-11 Recommended Practice for Flexible Pipe, Fourth Edition - 2008
API RP 500 Recommended Practice for Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at
Petroleum Facilities Classified as Class I Division 1 and Division 2, Second Edition –
1997 (ANSI/API RP 500-1998)
API RP 505 Recommended Practice for Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at
Petroleum Facilities Classified as Class I, Zone 0, Zone 1 and Zone 2, First Edition –
1997
API RP 520 Recommended Practice for Sizing, Selection, and Installation of Pressure-Relieving
Devices in Refineries
Part I Sizing and Selection, Eighth Edition - 2008
Part II Installation, Fifth Edition - 2005
API Std 521/ISO 23251 Pressure-Relieving And Depressuring Systems Fifth Edition - 2007
API Spec 17J Specification for Unbonded Flexible Pipe

Oil Companies International Marine Forum:

Guide for Prediction of Wind and Current Loads on VLCCs, 2nd Edition, 1994
Guide to Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Testing of Loading and Discharge Hoses
The OCIMF Ship to Ship Transfer Guide
Guidelines for Handling, Storage, Inspection, and Testing of Hoses in the Field

United Kingdom's Health and Safety Executive:

HSE Guidance Notes Offshore Installations: Guidance on DESIGN CONSTRUCTION AND
CERTIFICATION, Fourth Edition, 1991, as amended

60 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Part 4: Process and Import/Export Systems

4
Process and Import/Export Systems

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems ............................... 62
Section 1 General ................................................................................64
Section 2 Scope...................................................................................66
Section 3 Installations ..........................................................................67
Section 4 Subsea Equipment...............................................................68
Section 5 Other Codes and Standards ................................................69
Section 6 Non-Standard Equipment ....................................................70
Section 7 Design and Construction .....................................................71
Section 8 Process System ...................................................................72
Section 9 Hazardous Area Classification.............................................74
Section 10 Fire Protection......................................................................75
Section 11 Fabrication and Testing .......................................................76

CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems................................................................. 77

Section 1 General ................................................................................78
Section 2 Submission of Plans and Design Data ................................79
Section 3 Environmental Considerations.............................................80
Section 4 System Design Analysis ......................................................81
Section 5 Materials ..............................................................................84

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 61
PART Chapter 1: Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General .................................................................................................. 64
1 Installations Classed as FPSO or FPS .............................................64
3 Installations Classed as FSO or FOI (Production Facilities not
Classed) ............................................................................................64
5 Installations Classed as FSO or FOI (with Production Facilities
Indicated in the Record)....................................................................65

SECTION 2 Scope..................................................................................................... 66

SECTION 3 Installations .......................................................................................... 67

1 Ship-Type Installations – Oil Carriers ...............................................67
3 Column-Stabilized Installations, Tesion Leg Platforms, and Spar
Installations .......................................................................................67

SECTION 4 Subsea Equipment ............................................................................... 68

SECTION 5 Other Codes and Standards ................................................................ 69

SECTION 6 Non-Standard Equipment .................................................................... 70

SECTION 7 Design and Construction..................................................................... 71

1 General .............................................................................................71
3 Arrangements....................................................................................71
5 Structural Considerations..................................................................71

SECTION 8 Process System.................................................................................... 72

1 Submittals .........................................................................................72
3 Piping System and Manifolds............................................................72
5 Pressure Relief and Depressurization Systems ...............................72
7 Process Equipment and Vessels ......................................................72
9 Prime Movers ....................................................................................72
11 Safety Systems .................................................................................72
13 Control System .................................................................................73
15 Quick Disconnect System .................................................................73
17 Electrical Installations .......................................................................73

SECTION 9 Hazardous Area Classification ............................................................ 74

62 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 SECTION 10 Fire Protection...................................................................................... 75

SECTION 11 Fabrication and Testing....................................................................... 76

1 Pressure Vessels, Accumulators, Heat Exchangers, Separators
and Manifolds....................................................................................76
3 Pumps, Compressors and Diesel/Gas Engines ...............................76
5 Motors and Generators .....................................................................76
7 Switchboards and Control Panels.....................................................76
9 Process and Process Support Piping ...............................................76

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 63
PART Section 1: General

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 1 General

1 Installations Classed as FPSO or FPS

Hydrocarbon production and processing systems are to comply with the requirements of the Facilities
Guide and Sections 4-1-2 through 4-1-11 of this Guide.

3 Installations Classed as FSO or FOI (Production Facilities not

Classed)
The entire production facility need not comply with the requirements of this Chapter. However, the following
systems and equipment for the production facilities are to be in accordance with the requirements of the
Facilities Guide.

System/Equipment Facilities Guide Section

Facility Layout 3-3/5
Area Classification 3-6/15
Electrical System Circuit Protection 3-6/5.9
Electrical Installations in Classified Areas 3-6/15
Fire Water Systems 3-8/5.1
Dry Chemical Systems, as applicable 3-8/5.3
Fixed Fire Extinguishing Systems 3-8/5.5
Paint Lockers, Laboratory Spaces, and Flammable Material Store Rooms 3-8/5.7
Emergency Control Station 3-8/5.11
Operation After Facility Total Shutdown 3-8/5.13
Portable and Semi-portable Extinguishers 3-8/5.15
Gas and Fire Detection Systems 3-8/7
Structural Fire Protection 3-8/9
Muster Areas 3-8/11
Means of Escape 3-8/13
Lifesaving Requirements 3-8/15
Personnel Safety Equipment and Safety Measures 3-8/17

No equipment certification is required for installations with the FOI classification symbol.

64 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 4 Process and Import/Export Systems
Chapter 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 1 General 4-1-1

5 Installations Classed as FSO or FOI (with Production Facilities

Indicated in the Record)
The entire production facility need not comply with the requirements of this Chapter. However, safety
features are to be in accordance with the following requirements of the Facilities Guide in addition to the
requirements in 4-1-1/3.

System/Equipment Facilities Guide Section

Facility Layout 3-3/5
Safety System 3-3/7.3
Process Shutdown Systems 3-7/13

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 65
PART Section 2: Scope

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 2 Scope

This Chapter is applicable to the following:

i) Systems that process hydrocarbon liquids, gases or mixtures from completed wells.
ii) Production support systems associated with the process system, such as water, steam, hydraulics,
pneumatics and power supply to the process.
iii) Fire protection systems for the protection of the process equipment and the process area.
iv) Systems that are utilized for stimulation of a completed well, such as chemical, gas or water
injection downhole through a Christmas tree.
v) Power generation systems for export purposes.
vi) Electrical systems and components associated with the process facilities.
vii) Systems other than those mentioned above, such as methanol production and/or processing, and
desalination, will be the subject of special consideration.
The scope of the hydrocarbon process system is defined in Section 3-1-3 of this Guide. The scope of the
hydrocarbon process system may also include the controls for the well head and subsurface safety valve, if
these are included in the process safety shutdown system.

66 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 3: Installations

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 3 Installations

Hydrocarbon production systems are typically installed on the following types of installations.

1 Ship-Type Installations – Oil Carriers

Where tankers are to retain the propulsion capability for rapid deployment in the event of environmental
conditions exceeding the approved design environmental criteria, the flow lines and the export lines are to
be fitted with quick disconnect systems. The documentation regarding the disconnecting procedure is to be
submitted for review. For detailed requirements for the disconnect system of the process lines and the
mooring systems, see 4-1-8/15.

3 Column-Stabilized Installations, Tension Leg Platforms, and Spar

Installations (1 July 2009)
These installations may be used simultaneously for operations other than hydrocarbon processing, such as
drilling.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 67
PART Section 4: Subsea Equipment

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 4 Subsea Equipment

Subsea equipment is not a part of the classification boundaries as defined in 1-1-2/1 of this Guide.
However, subsea equipment may be classed if desired by the Owner, provided these items are approved by
the Bureau for compliance with the requirements of the Facilities Guide and applicable Sections of this
Guide.
The Bureau is prepared to certify the subsea equipment if the manufacturers/owners wish to obtain ABS
certification. The design, construction and testing of the subsea equipment are to be in accordance with
3-3/17.19 of the Facilities Guide.

68 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 5: Other Codes and Standards

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 5 Other Codes and Standards

Use of national or international standards or codes other than those listed herein in the design and
construction of the equipment and components is subject to prior approval and acceptance by the Bureau.
The standards or codes being applied are to be adhered to in their entirety.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 69
PART Section 6: Non-Standard Equipment

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 6 Non-Standard Equipment

Equipment not designed to a recognized standard may be accepted based on approval of detailed design
calculations and testing results that verify the integrity of the equipment which is submitted for review and
found satisfactory.

70 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 7: Design and Construction

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 7 Design and Construction

1 General
Hydrocarbon process systems and associated equipment are to be designed to minimize the risk of hazards
to personnel and property. This criterion is implemented by complying with the Facilities Guide, as well
as this Guide. The implementation of this criterion is intended to:
i) Prevent an abnormal condition from causing an upset condition.
ii) Prevent an upset condition from causing a release of hydrocarbons.
iii) Safely disperse or dispose of hydrocarbon gasses and vapors released.
iv) Safely collect and contain hydrocarbon liquids released.
v) Prevent formation of explosive mixtures.
vi) Prevent ignition of flammable liquids or gasses and vapors released.
vii) Limit exposure of personnel to fire hazards.

3 Arrangements
General arrangement drawings are to be submitted for review, in accordance with 1-1-4/5 of this Guide.
The arrangements depicted are to comply with Subsections 3-3/5 and 3-8/9 of the Facilities Guide, applicable
Sections of this Guide, and the Steel Vessel Rules or the MODU Rules, as applicable.

5 Structural Considerations (1 March 2006)

Structure that supports production facilities or forms an integral part of the equipment is to be designed to a
recognized standard. Plans and calculations are to be submitted for Bureau review. Process liquid weights
and dynamic loads due to installation motions and other loads, such as wind imposed loads, are to be
considered. (See Section 5A-1-5.)

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 71
PART Section 8: Process System

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 8 Process System

1 Submittals
The various data and plans that are to be submitted to the Bureau for review are listed in 1-1-4/5 of this
Guide.

3 Piping System and Manifolds

Piping of the process and process support systems are to comply with the requirements of API 14E and
ASME/ANSI B31.3 and B31.1, as applicable. Refer to Chapter 3, Sections 3 and 4 of the Facilities Guide.

5 Pressure Relief and Depressurization Systems

Pressure relief and depressurization systems are to comply with API RP 520 and API RP 521. Refer to
3-3/11 of the Facilities Guide.

7 Process Equipment and Vessels

Process equipment and vessels are to comply with the applicable requirements in 3-3/17 and 5-1/3 of the
Facilities Guide.

9 Prime Movers
Internal combustion engines and gas or steam turbines are to comply with 3-4/3.9 and 5-1/3 of the Facilities
Guide.

11 Safety Systems
Safety systems are to comply with 3-3/7.3 and 3-3/9 of the Facilities Guide. Specific items to be addressed
are as follows:
i) The process safety and shutdown system is to comply with API RP 14C.
ii) Fire detection and gas detection is to comply with API RP 14C and API RP 14G, respectively.
The location of the fire and gas detectors is to be to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyors.
iii) The process safety shutdown system is required to shut down the flow of hydrocarbon from all
wells and process systems. The discharge of processed hydrocarbons to the export lines is also to
be controlled by the process safety shutdown system. Redundancy is to be provided in the power
source to the process safety shutdown system such that upon failure of the main power source, the
secondary power source is brought online automatically.

72 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2008
Part 4 Process and Import/Export Systems
Chapter 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 8 Process System 4-1-8

13 Control System
Control systems, in general, are to comply with Chapter 3, Section 7 of the Facilities Guide. Additionally,
computer based control systems are to comply with the following:
i) The control system is to be totally independent of the alarm and monitoring system.
ii) Where computers are utilized for monitoring, alarm and control, the arrangements are to be such
that a fault in one of these functions will not impair the capability of other functions.
iii) The computer system for monitoring alarms and control is to include redundancy arrangements in
order to maintain continued operation of the hydrocarbon process system.

15 Quick Disconnect System

Where the Floating Installation is fitted with a quick disconnect system, the control of this system is to be
totally independent of the process safety shutdown system required for the hydrocarbon process system.
However, the source of power for the process safety shutdown system and controls for the quick
disconnect system need not be totally independent, provided that the failure in one system does not render
the other system ineffective, e.g., failure through leakage in the hydraulic or pneumatic control lines.
Means are to be provided for the activation of the quick disconnect system from the control station and
locally in the vicinity where the disconnect arrangements are located.
The disconnect arrangement is to be designed such that upon its activation, all process flow to the Floating
Installation is automatically stopped immediately without leakage of process fluids.

17 Electrical Installations
Electrical installations for the hydrocarbon process system are to comply with the requirements of Chapter 3,
Section 6 of the Facilities Guide.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 73
PART Section 9: Hazardous Area Classification

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 9 Hazardous Area Classification

Hazardous areas are to be delineated and classified, as required by 3-6/15 of the Facilities Guide. In
general, API RP 500 or 505 is to be applied to process areas, and the Steel Vessel Rules or the MODU
Rules are applied to non-process areas, as modified by 3-6/15 of the Facilities Guide.

74 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 10: Fire Protection

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 10 Fire Protection

Fire extinguishing systems and fire fighting equipment associated with the hydrocarbon process facilities
are to comply with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Facilities Guide.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 75
PART Section 11: Fabrication and Testing

4
CHAPTER 1 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems

SECTION 11 Fabrication and Testing

Inspection and testing of hydrocarbon process and associated equipment at the manufacturer’s facility are
to be in accordance with 5-1/Table 1 of the Facilities Guide. Construction and fabrication is to be performed in
accordance with approved plans and procedures. Representative survey interventions are listed as follows.

1 Pressure Vessels, Accumulators, Heat Exchangers, Separators and

Manifolds
i) The construction, fabrication and material are in accordance with design codes shown on the
approved plans.
ii) Witness weld procedure and welder performance qualification tests.
iii) Visual inspection of weld joints, witness nondestructive testing.
iv) Fit up and joining of all pipe connections and pipe supporting arrangement.
v) Dimensional inspection during fit-up and after completion.
vi) Internal examination.
vii) Witness calibration of hydrostatic testing equipment.
viii) Witness hydrostatic tests.

3 Pumps, Compressors and Diesel/Gas Engines

i) Witness mechanical running tests.
ii) Witness testing of auxiliary equipment and protective devices (controls, filters, coolers, oil pumps,
alarms, trips, governors).

5 Motors and Generators

i) Functional running test for machines greater than 100 kW.
ii) Witness testing of auxiliary equipment and protective devices.

7 Switchboards and Control Panels

Inspection and witness testing at the manufacturer’s facility is not required for switchboards and control
panels. These components will be accepted for use, provided they have been designed and constructed to a
recognized national or international code or standard.
Control and alarm panels for fire protection and safety systems are to be function-tested at the manufacturer’s
facility. These tests are to be conducted in the presence of the Surveyor.

9 Process and Process Support Piping

Fabrication, inspection and testing of process and utility piping is to be performed to the satisfaction of the
attending Surveyor.

76 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 2: Import and Export Systems

4
CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General.................................................................................................. 78
1 Riser Classification Boundaries ........................................................78
1.1 The Import System ........................................................................ 78
1.3 The Export System ........................................................................ 78
3 Basic Design Considerations............................................................78

SECTION 2 Submission of Plans and Design Data ............................................... 79

SECTION 3 Environmental Considerations ........................................................... 80

SECTION 4 System Design and Analysis .............................................................. 81

1 General .............................................................................................81
3 Rigid Risers.......................................................................................81
3.1 Design Analysis............................................................................. 81
3.3 Design Limits................................................................................. 81
5 Flexible Risers ..................................................................................82
5.1 In-place Analysis ........................................................................... 82
5.3 Design Limits................................................................................. 82
7 Export Vessel Transfer System ........................................................82
9 System Components.........................................................................82
11 Installation Analysis ..........................................................................83

SECTION 5 Materials................................................................................................ 84
1 Material for Rigid Risers....................................................................84
3 Material for Flexible Risers ...............................................................84

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 77
PART Section 1: General

4
CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems

SECTION 1 General
This Chapter applies to import and export systems utilized in Floating Installations. These systems include
rigid and flexible risers, connecting flow lines, submerged jumpers and floating offloading hoses. (Section
3-1-5 for definitions of related items.)

1 Riser Classification Boundaries (1 July 2009)

The import/export system is assumed to consist of only rigid, flexible hose/pipe or a combination of both
rigid and flexible hose/pipe, and associated riser components, such as the tensioning system, buoyancy
modules, line buoys, permanent clamps, anchoring systems and safety control systems.
In a typical Floating Installation import (or export) system, the applicable starting and termination points
are the riser’s connection point to the PLEM and the riser’s connection point to the installation or floating
structure. The connection points are typically the discharge (or input) flange of the PLEM and the input
(or discharge) flange of the installation or floating structure.
For export vessel transfer systems, the connection points are the discharge flange of the installation or floating
structure and the end connection to the input flange onboard the export vessel (see 4-2-4/7 of this Guide).

1.1 The Import System

The Import System is to include the import risers starting from the Import PLEM, but not including the
Import PLEM.
For a typical flexible riser system, the import riser may start at the PLEM/wellhead flanges and terminate
at the input flange of the installation or floating structure.

1.3 The Export System

The Export System is to include the export risers that may start from the discharge flanges of the
installation or floating structure and terminate at the Export PLEM, but not including the Export PLEM.
The criteria given here for Import Risers are applicable to Export Risers where classification is requested.
Where Import and/or Export Risers induce mooring restraint to the floating installation, design, construction
and classification of the Riser(s) providing restraint and their connection to the seabed will require special
consideration.

3 Basic Design Considerations

The import/export system is to be designed to maintain its integrity under the most unfavorable
combination of external environmental loads, internal loads due to fluid contents, pressure and temperature
and accidental loads. This is accomplished by ensuring that riser system design is consistent and compatible
with the design philosophy used for the Floating Installation.
The dynamic response of the import/export system is to be investigated to the level of detail necessary to
ensure that interference between the floating production installation and the associated mooring system
does not affect the integrity of the installation or the import/export system. Where conditions are such that
analytical investigation (vortex induced vibration analysis, for example) is not adequate to account for
installation interference or interference due to multiple riser configurations, etc., model testing or other
means of verification are to be performed and requested documentation provided to the Bureau for review.
The riser is to survive the maximum installation offset, as defined in 6-1-1/3.3.

78 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Submission of Plans and Design Data

4
CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems

SECTION 2 Submission of Plans and Design Data

Documentation outlining the design, manufacture, installation and operating assumptions applicable to the
project is to be submitted for review at the initiation of the project. The following summarizes the typical
information that is required to help ensure that the design basis and criteria selection is consistent with the
design philosophy. In general, the following are to be submitted for review:
i) Site plan indicating bathymetric features, the location of obstructions to be removed, the location
of permanent manmade structures and other important features related to the characteristics of the
sea floor.
ii) Material specifications for the import/export system, its supports and coatings.
iii) Pipe manufacture, testing and quality control procedures.
iv) Flow diagrams indicating temperature and pressure profiles.
v) Specifications and plans for instrumentation, control systems and safety devices.
vi) Specifications and plans for installation, field testing, inspection, anticipated component replacement
and continued maintenance of the riser system.
vii) Environmental and geotechnical report.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 79
PART Section 3: Environmental Considerations

4
CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems

SECTION 3 Environmental Considerations

The environmental loadings are to be calculated in accordance with the methods in Part 3, Chapter 2.

80 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 4: System Design and Analysis

4
CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems

SECTION 4 System Design and Analysis

1 General
The design of the import/export system should consider all modes of operating, testing, survival and accidental
events. The import/export system should be analyzed to determine its response to the design events. Each
individual component should be examined for its strength and suitability for the service conditions.

3 Rigid Risers

3.1 Design Analysis

The analysis of a rigid riser is to follow the appropriate sections of API RP 2RD and API RP 2T for all
relevant design load cases. The establishment of the critical design condition must be verified by a suitable
verified program that properly simulates the dynamic response of the entire system operating under the
required design condition.
The following items, as applicable, are to be appropriately accommodated in the analysis:
i) Environmental conditions
ii) Boundary conditions
iii) Riser configuration
iv) Riser joint properties
v) Buoyancy devices
vi) Installation motion (RAOs)
vii) Applicable site conditions
viii) Effects of internal contents
ix) Pressure testing and accidental conditions

3.3 Design Limits

Rigid risers are to be designed against the following limits based on the design load cases being
investigated.
Maximum Stress, Stability and Buckling. Allowable stresses in plain pipe are to be limited, per API RP
2RD. Overall stability of the riser and local pipe buckling should be evaluated.
Maximum Deflection. Acceptable limits of maximum deflection are to be determined considering the
inherent limitations of riser components, equipment used in the riser and the need to avoid interference
with the Floating Installation.
Fatigue and Fracture. The riser system is to be designed to ensure that an adequate margin of safety is
available for critical components to counteract the effects of fatigue caused by cyclic fluctuations (due to
both internal and external loads) over the anticipated life of the system.
The cumulative damage calculated by the use of Miner’s Rule is to be 0.1 or less for a critical component
which cannot be easily inspected or repaired. For non-critical components which can be easily inspected,
the cumulative damage should be 0.3 or less.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 81
Part 4 Process and Import/Export Systems
Chapter 2 Import and Export Systems
Section 4 System Design and Analysis 4-2-4

5 Flexible Risers

5.1 In-place Analysis

The in-place analysis is to address all design load cases using motions consistent with the mooring analysis.
The scope of the in-place analysis, as a minimum, should include the following:
i) On-bottom stability for flexible flow lines
ii) Static and dynamic analysis for flexible riser
iii) A system dynamic analysis to ensure:
1. Maximum tension and minimum radius of curvature are within the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
2. Suspended portions of the flexible pipe (e.g., sag bends) are not allowed to bounce on the
sea floor or experience compression that might cause kinks.
3. Suspended flexible pipes are not allowed to chafe against each other, the installation body
or mooring lines.
iv) Flow-induced motion analysis.
v) Flexible pipe layer stress analysis.
vi) The stresses in the flexible pipe layers shall comply with the requirements of API SPEC 17J for
the applicable design load cases.
vii) Mechanical gripping devices should not cause damage to the weaker exterior layer.
viii) Service life analysis.
ix) Corrosion protection system design.

5.3 Design Limits

Design limits established for the riser system are to be determined in accordance with API RP 17B and
confirmed by performance/acceptance testing during the manufacture of the flexible riser and the associated
components. Where sufficient test data and service history exist to confirm a component’s capability, the
Bureau may consider the acceptance of this documentation in lieu of performance/ acceptance testing.

7 Export Vessel Transfer System (December 2008)

This system may be classed if requested. Export of fluid to an export vessel is usually limited to stabilized
crude oil and is usually accomplished by: (1) Side-by-side transfer, (2) Tandem transfer, or (3) Single Point
Moored Buoy via, for example, a floating hose or riser. For certification of these systems, the Bureau
requires compliance to OCIMF Standards and MARPOL. The OCIMF Standard is applicable for
operating pressures not greater than 15 bar gauge. In complying with these standards, the Bureau requires
the Owner to observe the guidelines as given in The OCIMF Guide to Purchasing, Manufacturing, and
Testing of Loading and Discharge Hoses for Offshore Moorings. The operation and safety considerations
for transfer of crude are to be contained in the Floating Installation’s operations manual and be consistent
with the requirements outlined in The OCIMF Ship to Ship Transfer Guide and Chapter 6.

9 System Components
All system components are to be designed in accordance with the appropriate criteria issued by the API.
The specification for the design and manufacture of the components is to be submitted. The specification
is to include at a minimum the performance criteria established from the riser design and analysis and give
explicit acceptance criteria needed to ensure the compliance to these criteria.

82 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 4 Process and Import/Export Systems
Chapter 2 Import and Export Systems
Section 4 System Design and Analysis 4-2-4

11 Installation Analysis
The installation analysis is to address all aspects of the installation procedure discussed in 3-4-1/11.
Calculations to demonstrate the structural integrity of the riser and its auxiliary components are to be
submitted for review.
The riser pipe is to be checked for all installation loads, tension and bending combination (bending from
chute, sleeve, roller or drum) and loads caused by the installation of auxiliary components.
Loads from mechanical gripping devices, such as clamps and tensioners, are to be checked and are not to
cause damage to the weaker exterior layer of the flexible pipe.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 83
PART Section 5: Material

4
CHAPTER 2 Import and Export Systems

SECTION 5 Materials

1 Material for Rigid Risers

Material and dimensional standards for steel pipe are to be in accordance with ANSI/ASME B31.4 and
B31.8, API RP 2RD and/or other suitable standards approved for the intended application by the Bureau
with respect to chemical composition, material manufacture, tolerances, strength and testing requirements.

3 Material for Flexible Risers

The guidelines in API RP 17B and API SPEC 17J may be used to assess the adequacy of the material
standards for flexible risers.

84 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Part 5A: Ship-Type Installations

5A
Ship-Type Installations

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations ........................................................................ 86
Section 1 General ................................................................................89
Section 2 Longitudinal Strength ...........................................................93
Section 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull ..........................97
Section 4 Design and Analysis of Other Major Hull Structural
Features.............................................................................106
Section 5 Modules on Deck ...............................................................113
Section 6 Other Systems ...................................................................115

CHAPTER 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI ............ 116

Section 1 General ..............................................................................118
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment ...............................................126
Section 3 Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life) ...............134

Appendix 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to

Reassessed Scantling Determination
(See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) ........................................................137

CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements ...................................................... 143

Section 1 General ..............................................................................154
Section 2 Loads .................................................................................164
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation.................................................212
Section 4 Total Strength Assessment................................................268
Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships ..............................293
Section 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations .............306

Appendix 1 Determination of Environmental Severity Factors .............317

Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type
Installations ........................................................................321
Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength.............................................364
Appendix 4 Guide for Finite Element Analysis of Ship-Type
Installations ........................................................................372

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 85
 CHAPTER 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length...... 392
Section 1 Introduction ........................................................................395
Section 2 Hull Structure .....................................................................401
Section 3 Cargo Oil and Associated Systems ...................................416

Appendix 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Ship-Type

Vessels...............................................................................417

86 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 1: Design Considerations

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General.................................................................................................. 89
1 Introduction .......................................................................................89
3 Definitions .........................................................................................89
3.1 Ship-type Installation ..................................................................... 89
3.3 Environmental Severity Factor ...................................................... 90
3.5 Hull Interface Structure.................................................................. 90
5 Structural Arrangement.....................................................................90
7 Limit States .......................................................................................90
7.1 General.......................................................................................... 90
7.3 Limit States.................................................................................... 91
7.5 Strength Criteria ............................................................................ 91
7.7 Strength Check for Impact Loads .................................................. 92

TABLE 1 Structural Strength Assessment .............................................90

SECTION 2 Longitudinal Strength .......................................................................... 93

1 Longitudinal Hull Girder Strength......................................................93
1.1 Wave Loads – Modified for Site-Specific Environmental
Conditions ..................................................................................... 93
3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength ............................................................96

FIGURE 1 Sign Convention......................................................................95

FIGURE 2 Distribution Factor M...............................................................95
FIGURE 3 Distribution Factor F1 ..............................................................96
FIGURE 4 Distribution Factor F2 ..............................................................96

SECTION 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull........................................ 97

1 Structural Design of the Hull .............................................................97
1.1 Hull Design for Additional Loads and Load Effects........................ 97
1.3 Superstructures and Deckhouses ................................................. 98
1.5 Helicopter Decks ........................................................................... 98
1.7 Protection of Deck Openings......................................................... 98
1.9 Bulwarks, Rails, Freeing Ports, Ventilators and Portlights............. 98
1.11 Equipment ..................................................................................... 98
1.13 Materials and Welding ................................................................... 99
1.15 Machinery and Equipment Foundations ........................................ 99
1.17 Additional Considerations for Disconnectable Systems ................ 99

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 87
 1.19 Bilge Keels.....................................................................................99
1.21 Sea Chests ....................................................................................99
3 Engineering Analyses of the Hull Structure ....................................100
3.1 General........................................................................................100
3.3 Strength Analysis of the Hull Structure ........................................100
3.5 Three Cargo Tank Length Model .................................................100
3.7 Alternative Approach – Cargo Block or Full Ship Length
Model...........................................................................................102
3.9 Fatigue Analysis ..........................................................................104
3.11 Acceptance Criteria .....................................................................104

SECTION 4 Design and Analysis of Other Major Hull Structural Features ....... 106
1 General ...........................................................................................106
3 Hull Interface Structure ...................................................................106
3.1 Position Mooring/Hull Interface Modeling ....................................107
3.3 Hull Mounted Equipment Interface Modeling ...............................108
5 Loads ..............................................................................................109
5.1 Load Conditions...........................................................................109
5.3 Inertial Load Cases......................................................................110
5.5 Hull Girder Load Cases ...............................................................110
7 Acceptance Criteria.........................................................................110
7.1 Yielding Checks ...........................................................................110
7.3 Buckling Checks ..........................................................................112
7.5 Fatigue Calculations ....................................................................112

TABLE 1 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull Interface

Structures..............................................................................112

FIGURE 1 Loading Pattern 1 with 2/3 Scantling Draft ...........................108

FIGURE 2 Loading Pattern 2 with Scantling Draft..................................108

SECTION 5 Modules on Deck ................................................................................ 114

1 General ...........................................................................................114

SECTION 6 Other Systems .................................................................................... 115

1 Other Systems ................................................................................115
1.1 Marine Piping Systems ................................................................115
1.3 Electrical Systems .......................................................................115
1.5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment .........................................115
1.7 Machinery and Equipment ...........................................................115
1.9 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks .............................................115

88 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 1: General

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

SECTION 1 General

1 Introduction (1 July 2009)

The design and construction of the hull, superstructure and deckhouses of ship-type installations that are
new builds or conversions are to be based on the applicable requirements of Part 5A of this Guide and
where referenced in the Steel Vessel Rules. Part 5A of this Guide reflects the different structural performance
and demands expected for an installation transiting and being positioned at a particular site on a long-term
basis compared to that of a vessel engaged in unrestricted seagoing service.
The design criteria for new build or conversions of ship-type installations are located in Part 5A, Chapters
1 and 3, with additional design criteria for ship-type conversions in Part 5A, Chapter 2 of this Guide, which
are applicable to installations of 150 meters (492 feet) or more in length. Part 5A, Chapter 4 applies to
installations under 150 meters in length. In addition, the applicable criteria contained in the Load Line,
SOLAS and MARPOL Conventions issued by the International Maritime Organization are to be considered.
It is further suggested that the local authorities having jurisdiction where the installation is to operate be
contacted to obtain any further criteria that are applicable to the floating installations.
Note: This Guide is applicable to installations not exceeding 500 m (1640 ft) in length, L, having breadths not exceeding
one-fifth of the length nor 2.5 times the depth to the strength deck. Installations beyond these proportions will be
reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
The design criteria contained in Part 5A, Chapter 3 are applied in two phases. The first phase provides the
basic hull design to reflect overall hull girder and local structural component strength, including fatigue
strength. This is referred to as the Initial Scantling Evaluation (or ISE) phase. For ship-type conversions,
the reassessed and renewal scantlings are calculated in the ISE phase, as described in Section 5A-2-2. The
reassessed scantlings are the required scantlings for the site-specific location and transit condition, and are
used to establish the minimum renewal scantlings of an FPI conversion. The second phase requires the
performance of finite element structural analyses using either a three cargo tank-length model or cargo
block-length model to validate the selected scantlings from the first phase. This is referred to as the Total
Strength Assessment (or TSA) phase. For ship-type conversions, the TSA phase is used to validate the
reassessed scantlings obtained in the ISE phase.
Performance of additional structural analyses can lead to the granting of the optional DLA classification
notation, which signifies that the design meets the Dynamic Load Approach criteria. Also, the optional
SFA classification notation can be granted, which signifies that the design satisfies fatigue strength criteria
based on Spectral Fatigue Analysis.
The application of the design criteria in Part 5A, Chapter 3 to reflect the site-dependent nature of the
floating offshore installation is accomplished through the introduction of a series of Environmental Severity
Factors (ESFs). Reference is to be made to 5A-1-2/1.1 and Section 5A-3-2 for the applicable structural
design and analysis criteria that have been modified to reflect site-specific service conditions.

3 Definitions (1 July 2009)

3.1 Ship-type Installation

See Section 3-1-2 for the description of a ship-type installation. For installations that are considered ship-type,
the definitions of primary characteristics of the installation can be found in Section 3-1-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 89
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 1 General 5A-1-1

3.3 Environmental Severity Factor

Environmental Severity Factors are adjustment factors for the dynamic components of loads and the
expected fatigue damage that account for site-specific conditions as compared to North Atlantic unrestricted
service conditions. See Sections 5A-3-2 and 5A-3-A1 for description of the concept, application and
determination of Environmental Severity Factors.

3.5 Hull Interface Structure

The interface between the position mooring system and the hull structure, and between deck-mounted
equipment modules and the hull structure, is the hull interface structure. The interface structure is defined
as the attachment zone of load transmission between the main hull structure and hull-mounted equipment.
See Section 5A-1-4 for additional information on hull interface structure.

5 Structural Arrangement (1 July 2009)

The general arrangement and subdivision of the installation are to comply with applicable requirements of
Section 3-2-9 of the Steel Vessel Rules and Part 5A, Chapter 3 of this Guide. Reference should also be
made to the 1966 Load Line Convention and MARPOL 73/78.

7 Limit States (1 July 2009)

7.1 General
The structural strength assessments indicated in 5A-1-1/Table 1 are covered by the requirements of this Guide.
In the case of installations sited at locations where the environmental conditions are less than that used for
unrestricted service conditions, adjustments to the loadings and load effects produced by the site-specific
long-term environment at the installation site can be applied to the assessment of hull strength and fatigue
life. This is done by incorporating the Environmental Severity Factors (ESFs) for a given project site and
the proposed transit route.

TABLE 1
Structural Strength Assessment (1 July 2009)
Ultimate
Yielding Check Buckling Check Fatigue Check
Strength Check
Local Plating 9 9 9 (1) ──
Structures Stiffeners 9 9 9 (2) 9 (3)
Primary supporting members 9 9 9 9 (3)
(4)
Hull girder 9 9 9 ──
(5) (6)
Hull interface structures 9 9 9 9 (7)
Notes:
9 indicates that the structural assessment is to be carried out.
1 The ultimate strength check of plating is included as part of the buckling check of plating.
2 The ultimate strength check of stiffener is included as part of the buckling check of stiffeners.
3 The fatigue check of longitudinal stiffeners and primary supporting members is the fatigue check
of connection details of these members.
4 The buckling check of stiffeners and plating included in hull girder strength is performed against
stress due to hull girder bending moment and hull girder shear force.
5 The buckling check is to follow the ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength Assessment for
Offshore Structures.
6 The ultimate strength check of plating and stiffeners is included as part of the buckling check of
plating and stiffeners, in accordance with the ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength
Assessment for Offshore Structures.
7 The fatigue check is to follow the ABS Guide for Fatigue Assessment for Offshore Structures.

90 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 1 General 5A-1-1

7.3 Limit States

The verification that the structural design is in compliance with the Guide requires that the design be
checked against a set of limit states beyond which the installation’s hull structure and mooring system are
no longer considered adequate.
7.3.1 Serviceability Limit State
Serviceability limit state, which addresses the structure’s performance during its normal use, includes:
• Local damage which may reduce the working life of the structure or affect the efficiency of
structural members
• Unacceptable deformations which affect the efficient use of structural members or the functioning
of equipment
• Motions or accelerations that can exceed the range of effective functionality of topside equipment
7.3.2 Ultimate Limit State
Ultimate limit state, which corresponds to the maximum load-carrying capacity, or in some cases,
the maximum applicable strain or deformation, includes:
• Attainment of the maximum resistance capacity of sections, members or connections by rupture
or excessive deformations
• Instability of the whole structure or of a significant part of it.
7.3.3 Fatigue Limit State
Fatigue limit state relates to the possibility of failure due to cyclic loads.
7.5.4 Accidental Limit State
Accidental limit state considers the flooding of any one cargo tank without progression of the
flooding to the other compartments

7.5 Strength Criteria

7.5.1 Serviceability Limit State
For the serviceability limit state design check in accordance with the partial factor design format,
all partial safety factors are equal to unity. See 5A-3-4/3 and 5A-3-4/5.
• For the yielding check of the hull girder, the stress corresponds to a load at 10-8 probability
level.
• For the yielding check and buckling check of plating constituting a primary supporting member,
the stress corresponds to a load at 10-8 probability level.
• For the yielding and buckling check of stiffeners, the stress corresponds to a load at 10-8
probability level
7.5.2 Ultimate Limit State
For the ultimate limit state design check of the strength of the hull girder in accordance with the
partial factor design format, the ultimate strength of the hull girder is to withstand the maximum
total still-water and wave sagging and hogging vertical bending moments obtained by multiplying
a partial safety factor on the maximum still water sag and hog bending moments and a partial safety
factor on the maximum sag and hog vertical wave bending moments as specified in 5A-3-3/3.5.
• The ultimate strength of the plating between ordinary stiffeners and primary supporting members
is to withstand the loads due to the maximum total bending moment.
• The ultimate strength of the ordinary stiffener is to withstand the loads due to the maximum
total bending moment.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 1 General 5A-1-1

7.5.3 Fatigue Limit State

For the fatigue limit state design check in accordance with the partial factor design format, all
partial safety factors are equal to unity. The fatigue life of representative structural details, such as
connections of ordinary stiffeners and primary supporting members, is obtained from reference
pressures at 10-4 probability level. See 5A-3-4/9 and 5A-3-A2.
7.5.4 Accidental Limit State
Longitudinal strength of hull girder in cargo tank flooded condition is to be assessed in accordance
with 5A-2-1/5.5.2.

7.7 Strength Check for Impact Loads

Structural strength shall be assessed against impact loads such as forward bottom slamming, bow impact,
green water on deck and sloshing loads in cargo or ballast tanks.

92 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Longitudinal Strength

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

SECTION 2 Longitudinal Strength (1 July 2009)

1 Longitudinal Hull Girder Strength (December 2008)

Longitudinal strength is to be based on Section 3-2-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules. The total hull girder
bending moment, Mt [used in 3-2-1/3.7.1(a)] is the sum of the maximum still water bending moment for
operation on site or in transit combined with the corresponding wave-induced bending moment (Mw)
expected on-site and during transit to the installation site. In lieu of directly calculated wave-induced hull
girder vertical bending moments and shear forces, recourse can be made to the use of the Environmental
Severity Factor (ESF) approach described in 5A-3-2/1.1 and Appendix 5A-3-A1 of this Guide. The ESF
approach can be applied to modify the Steel Vessel Rules wave-induced hull girder bending moment and
shear force formulas (see 5A-1-2/1.1 below).
Depending on the value of the Environmental Severity Factor, βvbm, for vertical wave-induced hull girder
bending moment (see 5A-3-2/1.1 and Appendix 5A-3-A1 of this Guide), the minimum hull girder section
modulus, SMmin, of the FPI as specified in 3-2-1/3.7.1(b) of the Steel Vessel Rules, may vary in accordance
with the following:

βvbm SMmin
<0.7 0.85SMsvr
0.7 to 1.0 Varies linearly between 0.85SMsvr and SMsvr
> 1.0 SMsvr
Where SMsvr = minimum hull girder section modulus as required in
3-2-1/3.7.1(b) of the Steel Vessel Rules

The required hull girder section modulus amidships is to be calculated in accordance with 3-2-1/3.7, 3-2-1/5
and 3-2-1/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules and 5A-1-2/1 of this Guide.
Due account is to be given to the influence of mooring loads and riser weights in calculating the vertical
still water bending moments and shear forces.

1.1 Wave Loads – Modified for Site-Specific Environmental Conditions

This Paragraph, referred to in this Chapter and in Section 5A-2-1, provides modifications for ship-type FPI
design criteria to account for site-specific conditions compared to unrestricted service conditions. The
modifications are performed using the Environmental Severity Factor (ESF) approach described in
Appendix 5A-3-A1 of this Guide. The sign convention for bending moment and shear force is shown in
5A-1-2/Figure 1.
1.1.1 Wave Bending Moment Amidships
The wave bending moment, expressed in kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft), may be obtained from the following
equations.
Mws = − k1 βVBM C1L2B(Cb + 0.7) × 10-3 Sagging Moment

Mwh = + k2 βVBM C1L2BCb × 10-3 Hogging Moment

where

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 2 Longitudinal Strength 5A-1-2

k1 = 110 (11.22, 1.026)

k2 = 190 (19.37, 1.772)

βVBM = ESF for vertical bending moment

1.5
⎛ 300 − L ⎞
C1 = 10.75 − ⎜ ⎟ 90 ≤ L ≤ 300 m
⎝ 100 ⎠
= 10.75 300 < L ≤ 350 m
1.5
⎛ L − 350 ⎞
= 10.75 − ⎜ ⎟ 350 ≤ L ≤ 500 m
⎝ 150 ⎠
1.5
⎛ 984 − L ⎞
C1 = 10.75 − ⎜ ⎟ 295 ≤ L ≤ 984 ft
⎝ 328 ⎠
= 10.75 984 < L < 1148 ft
1.5
⎛ L − 1148 ⎞
= 10.75 − ⎜ ⎟ 1148 ≤ L ≤ 1640 ft
⎝ 492 ⎠
L = length of vessel, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
B = breadth of vessel, as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
Cb = block coefficient, as defined in 3-1-1/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules

1.1.2 Envelope Curve of Wave Bending Moment

The wave bending moment along the length, L, of the vessel, may be obtained by multiplying the
midship value by the distribution factor, M, given in 5A-1-2/Figure 2.
1.1.3 Wave Shear Force
The envelopes of maximum shearing forces induced by waves, Fw, as shown in 5A-1-2/Figure 3
and 5A-1-2/Figure 4, may be obtained from the following equations.
Fwp = +k βVSF F1C1L B (Cb + 0.7) × 10-2 for positive shear force

Fwn = −k βVSF F2C1L B (Cb + 0.7) × 10-2 for negative shear force
where
Fwp, Fwn = maximum shearing force induced by wave, in kN (tf, Ltf)
C1 = as defined in 5A-1-2/1.1.1

βVSF = ESF for vertical shear force

L = length of vessel, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
B = breadth of vessel, as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
Cb = block coefficient, as defined in 3-1-1/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules
k = 30 (3.059, 0.2797)
F1 = distribution factor, as shown in 5A-1-2/Figure 3
F2 = distribution factor, as shown in 5A-1-2/Figure 4

94 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 2 Longitudinal Strength 5A-1-2

FIGURE 1
Sign Convention (December 2008)

(+)
FSW, FW

Aft Fore

MSW, MW (+)

FIGURE 2
Distribution Factor M (December 2008)

1.0

0
0.0 0.4 0.65 1.0
Aft Forward
end of L Distance from the aft end of L in terms of L end of L

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 95
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 2 Longitudinal Strength 5A-1-2

FIGURE 3
Distribution Factor F1 (December 2008)

1.0

0.92 × 190 Cb
110 (Cb + 0.7)

F1 0.7

0
0.0 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.6 0.7 0.85 1.0
Aft Forward
end of L Distance from the aft end of L in terms of L end of L

FIGURE 4
Distribution Factor F2 (December 2008)

0.92

190 Cb
110 (Cb + 0.7)

F2 0.7

0
0.0 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.6 0.7 0.85 1.0
Aft Forward
end of L Distance from the aft end of L in terms of L end of L

3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength (1 July 2009)

The hull girder ultimate longitudinal bending capacities for either hogging or sagging conditions are to be
evaluated in accordance with Appendix 5A-3-A3. The hull girder ultimate bending capacity for the design
environmental condition (DEC) is to satisfy the limit state specified in 5A-3-3/3.5.

96 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 3: Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

SECTION 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull (1 July

2009)

1 Structural Design of the Hull (December 2008)

The design of the hull is to be based on the applicable requirements of Part 5A, Chapters 3 or 4 of this
Guide, depending on the hull length and where referenced the Steel Vessel Rules. For ship-type installations
over 150 meters (492 feet) in length, Part 5A, Chapter 3 is the primary reference. Where the conditions at
the installation site are less demanding than those for unrestricted service that are the basis of the Steel
Vessel Rules, the design criteria for various components of the hull structure may be reduced, subject to the
limitations indicated below to reflect these differences. However, when the site conditions produce
demands that are more severe, it is mandatory that the design criteria are to be increased appropriately.
5A-3-2/1.1 presents an explanation of the Environmental Severity Factor (ESF) concept, which is used to
adjust the unrestricted service criteria of the Steel Vessel Rules.
In the application of the modified criteria, no minimum required value of any net scantling is to be less
than 85 percent of the value obtained had all the ESF Beta values been set equal to 1.0 (which is the
unrestricted service condition). In view of this, for an FPSO converted from a vessel, where the total
bending moment for unrestricted service conditions is used for determination of the minimum required value
of any net scantling, the total bending moment should consist of the maximum still water bending moment
of the existing vessel and the wave-induced bending moment with all the beta values set equal to 1.0.
The loads arising from the static tank testing condition are also to be directly considered in the design. In
some instances, such conditions might control the design, especially when the overflow heights are greater
than normally encountered in oil transport service, or the severity of environmentally-induced load
components and cargo specific gravity are less than usual.

1.1 Hull Design for Additional Loads and Load Effects

The loads addressed in this Subsection are those required in the design of an installation in Part 5A,
Chapters 3 or 4, depending on the length of the installation. Specifically, these loads are those arising from
liquid sloshing in hydrocarbon storage or ballast tanks, green water on deck, bow impact due to wave
group action above the waterline, bowflare slamming during vertical entry of the bow structure into the
water, bottom slamming and deck loads due to on-deck production facilities. All of these can be treated
directly by reference to Part 5A, Chapters 3 or 4. However, when it is permitted to design for these loads
and load effects on a site-specific basis, the formulations given in Section 5A-3-2 reflect the introduction
of the Environmental Severity Factors (ESFs-Beta-type) into the Rule criteria. The paragraphs below give
the location in Section 5A-3-2 where the adjusted load formulations are presented.
1.1.1 Sloshing of Produced or Ballast Liquids (December 2008)
For ship-type installations, it is typical that the tanks may be subjected to partial filling levels. For
tanks where partial filling is intended, sloshing analyses are to be performed. Firstly, the sloshing
analysis is to determine if the sloshing natural periods of the anticipated filling levels in each tank
are close to the installation’s pitch and roll motion periods. It is recommended that the periods of
the fluid motions in each tank for each anticipated filling level are at least 20 percent greater or
smaller than those of the relevant installation’s motion. This range of installation natural periods
constitutes the “critical” range. If the natural periods of the tanks and installation are sufficiently
separated, then no further analyses are required. However, when the tanks are to be loaded within
“critical” filling levels, then additional analyses are to be performed in order to determine the
adequacy of the structure for the internal pressures due to sloshing.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 97
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull 5A-1-3

The extent of sloshing analyses is indicated in 5A-3-2/11. Reference can be made to Section
5A-3-2 on adjustments that could be used to modify the amplitudes of the ocean-based sloshing
criteria. However, it should be borne in mind that the sloshing assessment criteria of Section
5A-3-2 are derived considering an unrestrained freely floating hull subjected to wave energy
spectra representing the open ocean. Mooring restraints, potential hull weathervaning and
different wave energy characterizations (e.g., energy spectra for ocean swells, tropical cyclonic
storms and water depth effects) may need to be additionally considered by the designer when
establishing the installation’s motions for sloshing-induced loading analysis.
1.1.2 Green Water Loads on Deck
When it is permitted to base the design on a site-specific modification of the Steel Vessel Rules,
reference is to be made to 5A-3-2/13.7 of this Guide.
1.1.3 Bow Impact
When it is permitted to base the design on a site-specific modification of the Steel Vessel Rules,
reference is to be made to 5A-3-2/13.1 of this Guide.
1.1.4 Slamming
When it is permitted to base the design on a site-specific modification of the Steel Vessel Rules,
reference is to be made to 5A-3-2/13.3 and 5A-3-2/13.5 of this Guide.
1.1.5 Deck Loads (December 2008)
Deck loads due to on-deck production facilities for on-site and transit conditions are referenced in
5A-3-2/15 of this Guide.

1.3 Superstructures and Deckhouses (December 2008)

The designs of superstructures and deckhouses are to comply with the requirements of Section 3-2-11 of
the Steel Vessel Rules. The structural arrangements of 3-2-11/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules for forecastle decks
are to be satisfied.
The design of buildings on top of the topside module is to be in accordance with the applicable requirements
of the Offshore Installation Rules.

1.5 Helicopter Decks (1 July 2009)

The design of the helicopter deck structure is to comply with the requirements of 3-2-2/3 of the MODU
Rules. In addition to the required loadings defined in 3-2-2/3 of the MODU Rules, the structural strength
of the helicopter deck and its supporting structures are to be evaluated considering the DOC and DEC
environments, if applicable.

1.7 Protection of Deck Openings

The machinery casings, all deck openings, hatch covers and companionway sills are to comply with 5A-3-1/3
and 5A-4-1/3 of this Guide.

1.9 Bulwarks, Rails, Freeing Ports, Ventilators and Portlights

Bulwarks, rails, freeing ports, portlights and ventilators are to meet the requirements of Section 3-2-17 of
the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.11 Equipment
The provision of equipment on the installation is optional. For guidance on the requirements for temporary
mooring equipment (anchor, chains, windlasses or winches, hawse pipe, etc.), refer to Section 3-5-1 of the
Steel Vessel Rules.

98 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull 5A-1-3

1.13 Materials and Welding (December 2008)

For a minimum design service temperature of 0°C and above, ship-type installations are to be constructed from
steel selected in accordance with Part 3 of the Steel Vessel Rules. For a minimum design service temperature
lower than 0°C, ship-type installations are to be constructed from steel selected in accordance with Part 3 of the
MODU Rules with the provision that the steel selection is not to be less conservative than that of Part 3 of the
Steel Vessel Rules. The structural application categories defined in Part 3 of the Steel Vessel Rules are to be
used with the steel selection criteria in Part 3 of the MODU Rules by applying the following correlations:
i) Class I correlates with Secondary
ii) Class II correlates with Primary
iii) Class III correlates with Special
The steel selection criteria footnotes of Part 3 of the Steel Vessel Rules are to be implemented, as appropriate,
and are to supplant less severe steel selection criteria of Part 3 of the MODU Rules for equivalent structure.
Underdeck and hull interface plating or bracket structures attached to the deck or hull should have the
same or compatible material grade as the deck or hull structure, respectively.
The topside facilities (production deck) are to be constructed from steel selected in accordance with the
ABS Rules for Building and Classing Offshore Installations (Offshore Installations Rules).
Turret and SPM buoy mooring systems are to be constructed from steel selected in accordance with the
MODU Rules.
Tower mooring systems are to be constructed from steel selected in accordance with the Offshore Installations
Rules.
All fabrication and welding are to comply with the requirements in Chapter 4 of the ABS Rules for Materials
and Welding (Part 2). The weld type and sizing are to be shown on the scantling drawings or in the form
of a welding schedule and are to comply with the requirements that govern the steel selection.

1.15 Machinery and Equipment Foundations

Foundations for equipment subjected to high cyclic loading, such as mooring winches, chain stoppers and
foundations for rotating process equipment, are to be analyzed to verify they provide satisfactory strength
and fatigue resistance. Calculations and drawings showing weld details are to be submitted to the Bureau
for review.

1.17 Additional Considerations for Disconnectable Systems

1.17.1 Machinery Space and Tunnel
Requirements for machinery spaces with regard to engine foundations, tunnels and tunnel recesses
are given in Section 3-2-12 of the Steel Vessel Rules, as modified by 5A-3-1/5.33 and 5A-4-1/5.31
of this Guide.
1.17.2 Keels, Stems, Stern Frames and Rudder Horns
Requirements for stems, stern frames, shoe pieces, rudder horns and gudgeons are given in Section
3-2-13 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Additional requirements for ice strengthening are given in Part 6
of the Steel Vessel Rules.
1.17.3 Rudders and Steering Gears
For installations with steering capabilities, the requirements for rudder stocks, couplings, pintles,
plating, steering gears, etc., are given in Section 3-2-14 and Part 4, Chapter 3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
Ice-strengthened installations are to comply with 6-1-1/43 or 6-1-2/27 of the Steel Vessel Rules, as
applicable.

1.19 Bilge Keels (December 2008)

Requirements for bilge keels are given in Part 5A, Section 11/3.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.21 Sea Chests (December 2008)

Structural requirements for sea chests are given in 3-2-4/17.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull 5A-1-3

3 Engineering Analyses of the Hull Structure

3.1 General (1 July 2009)

The criteria in this Subsection relate to the analyses required to verify the scantlings selected in the hull
design in 5A-1-3/1. Depending on the specific features of the offshore installation, additional analyses to
verify and help design other portions of the hull structure will be required. Such additional analyses include
those for the deck structural components supporting deck-mounted equipment and the hull structure interface
with the position mooring system. Analysis criteria for these two situations are given in Section 5A-1-4.

3.3 Strength Analysis of the Hull Structure (1 July 2009)

For installations of 150 m (492 feet) in length and above, two approaches in performing the required
strength assessment of the hull structure are acceptable. One approach is based on a three cargo tank
length finite element model amidships where the strength assessment is focused on the results obtained
from structures in the middle tank. As an alternative, a complete hull length or full cargo block length
finite element model can be used in lieu of the three cargo tank length model. Details of the required Finite
Element Method (FEM) strength analysis are indicated in 5A-3-4/11 and Appendix 5A-3-A4 of this Guide.
The net scantlings used in the strength analysis of new build FPI and conversions to FPI differ as follows:
i) For new build FPI, the finite element strength analysis is performed using the new build net
scantlings obtained by deducting the nominal design corrosion values in 5A-3-1/Table 1 from the
new build design scantlings.
ii) For FPI conversions, the finite element strength analysis is performed using the reassessed net
scantlings obtained by deducting the nominal design corrosion values in 5A-3-1/Table 1 from the
reassessed scantlings as determined in Section 5A-2-2.
When mooring and riser structures are located within the extent of the FE model, the static mass of the
mooring lines and risers may be represented by a mass for which gravity and dynamic accelerations can be
calculated and added to the FE model. The resulting dynamic loads shall be compared to the mooring and
riser analysis results to ensure that the dynamic effects are conservatively assessed in the hull FE analysis.
For installations less than 150 m in length, it is recommended that a Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis
be performed if the installation is of double hull construction or of unusual design (see 5A-4-1/1.3.3 of this
Guide). When the design is permitted to be based on site-specific environmental conditions, the load
components to be used in the strength analyses can be determined using 5A-1-2/1.1, 5A-1-3/1 and Section
5A-3-2 of this Guide.
Generally, the strength analysis is performed to determine the stress distribution in the structure. To
determine the local stress distribution in major supporting structures, particularly at intersections of two or
more members, fine mesh FEM models are to be analyzed using the boundary displacements and load
from the 3D FEM model. To examine stress concentrations, such as at intersections of longitudinal
stiffeners with transverses and at cutouts, fine mesh 3D FEM models are to be analyzed.
The accidental load condition, where a cargo tank is flooded, is to be assessed for longitudinal strength of
the hull girder consistent with load cases used in damage stability calculations.

3.5 Three Cargo Tank Length Model (1 July 2009)

3.5.1 Structural FE Model
The three cargo tank length FE model is considered representative of cargo and ballast tanks
within the 0.4L amidships. The same FE model may be used for hull structures beyond 0.4L
amidships with modifications to the hull geometry, plate and stiffener properties and the applied
loads, provided that the structural configurations are considered as representative of the location
under consideration. Where the tanks in the 0.4L amidships are of different lengths, the middle
tank of the FE model is to represent the cargo tank of the greatest length.
The assessment of the hull structure to resist hull girder vertical shear loads in the forward and aft
cargo block regions may be based on the midship cargo tank finite element model with
modifications to the structural properties, where appropriate. The strength assessment is calculated
according to Section 5A-3-4 for the load cases described in 5A-1-3/3.5.3.

100 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 3 Structural Design and Analysis of the Hull 5A-1-3

For FPI conversions, reassessed net scantlings are to be used in the finite element model, and are
obtained by deducting the nominal design corrosion margins from the reassessed scantlings of the
structure.
Details of the modeling, mesh size, element types used and boundary conditions are described in
Appendix 5A-3-A4. Detailed local stress assessment using fine mesh models to evaluate highly
stressed critical areas are to be in accordance with 5A-3-A4/21.
3.5.2 Load Conditions
In the strength analyses of the three cargo tank length model, the following loading conditions are
to be used:
General Loading Patterns. The FEM analysis is to be performed in accordance with the loading
patterns specified in Section 5A-3-2 of this Guide. The loading patterns included in Section 5A-3-
2 are intended to represent the envelope of worst case loading patterns for local load structural
design purposes and may not necessarily represent the actual operating loading patterns of the FPI.
The actual loading patterns for the installation are to be reviewed to verify that there are no other
patterns producing more severe loading. If any worse governing loading patterns than those
specified in Section 5A-3-2 exist, these loading patterns are to be included in the analyses. The
structural responses for the still water conditions are to be calculated separately to establish
reference points for assessing the wave-induced responses. Topside loads are also to be included
in the load cases.
Loading patterns to be used for double hull, double side with single bottom and single hull
installations are specified in Section 5A-3-2 of this Guide. In addition to the specified loading
patterns and cargo densities, inspection and repair, transit, and static conditions representing tank
testing, inspection and repair, and transit are also to be investigated.
Static Loading Conditions for New Construction. The tank loading patterns of Load Cases No. 9
and 10 specified in Part 5A, Chapter 3 of this Guide are to be analyzed considering static conditions
and seawater (Specific Gravity = 1.025) at minimum draft. The tanks are to be loaded considering
the actual height of the overflow pipe, which is not to be taken less than 2.44 m (8 feet) above the
deck at side. The external drafts for these load cases are to be taken as 25 percent of the scantling
draft. However, Notes (1) and (2) below are applicable.
Notes:
1 Where the actual minimum static condition with the tank loading pattern as the center row of
tanks results in a draft less than specified, the actual loading condition draft is to be used.
2 For an installation with two outer longitudinal bulkheads only (inner skin), i.e., one tank across
between the inner skin bulkheads, the minimum actual loading condition draft is to be used.

Static Loading Conditions for FPI Conversions. The tank loading patterns of Load Cases No. 9
and 10 specified in Part 5A, Chapter 3 of this Guide are to be analyzed considering static
conditions and seawater (Specific Gravity = 1.025) at minimum draft. The tanks are to be loaded
to the top of access hatches for cargo tanks, or 760 mm above deck for ballast tanks. If the actual
tank condition results in a static pressure head higher than specified, the actual pressure head is to
be used. The external drafts for these load cases are to be taken as 30 percent of the scantling
draft. However, Notes (1) and (2) of the above paragraph are applicable.
Inspection and Repair Conditions. Loading patterns representing inspection and repair conditions
are also to be investigated. Inspection and repair conditions are to be analyzed using a minimum
1-year return period design operating condition load and a minimum specific gravity of cargo fluid
of 0.9. Other aspects of the loading pattern, modeling, acceptance criteria, etc., indicated in Part
5A, Chapter 3 of this Guide are to be followed
Transit Conditions. The transit condition is to be analyzed using the actual tank loading patterns
in association with the anticipated environmental conditions based on a minimum 10-year return
period to be encountered during the voyage (see 3-2-3/3.3 of this Guide).

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3.5.3 Load Cases

The tank loading patterns as described above and specified in Section 5A-3-2 are to be applied.
These loading patterns are intended to represent the envelope of worst case loading patterns for
local load structural design purposes and may not necessarily represent the actual operating
loading patterns of the FPI. The structural responses for the still water conditions are to be
calculated separately to establish reference points for assessing the wave-induced responses.
Additional loading patterns may be required for special or unusual operational conditions or
conditions that are not covered by the loading patterns specified in Section 5A-3-2. Topside loads
are also to be included in the load cases.

3.7 Alternative Approach – Cargo Block or Full Ship Length Model (1 July 2009)
3.7.1 Structural FE Model
As an alternative to the three cargo tank length model, the finite element strength assessment can
be based on a full length or cargo block length of the hull structure, including all cargo and ballast
tanks. All main longitudinal and transverse structural elements are to be modeled. These include
outer shell, floors and girders, transverse and vertical web frames, stringers and transverse and
longitudinal bulkhead structures. All plates and stiffeners on the structure, including web
stiffeners, are to be modeled. Topside stools should also be incorporated in the model. The
modeling mesh and element types used should follow the principles that are described in
Appendices 5A-3-A4/9 and 5A-3-A4/11.
Boundary conditions should be applied at the ends of the cargo block model for dynamic equilibrium
of the structure.
The strength assessment is calculated according to the loading conditions in 5A-1-3/3.7.2 associated
with each load case. The plates and stiffeners in the model are to be assessed against the yielding
and buckling requirements of 5A-3-4/3 and 5A-3-4/5, respectively.
Detailed local stress assessment using fine mesh models to evaluate highly stressed critical areas
are to be in accordance with Appendix 5A-3-A4/21.
3.7.2 Loading Conditions
In the strength analyses of the cargo block or full ship length model, the static on site FPI
operating load cases are to be established to provide the most severe loading of the hull girder and
the internal tank structures. The operating load cases found in the Loading Manual and Trim &
Stability Booklet provide the most representative loading conditions to be considered for analysis.
The static load cases should include as a minimum tank loading patterns resulting in the following
conditions:
i) Ballast or minimum draft condition after offloading
ii) Partial load condition (33% full)
iii) Partial load condition (50% full)
iv) Partial load condition (67% full)
v) Full load condition before offloading
vi) Transit load condition
vii) Inspection and repair conditions
viii) Tank testing condition – during conversion and after construction (periodic survey)
The tank testing condition is to be considered as a still water condition. The static load cases i) to
vii) will be combined with environmental loading conditions to develop static plus dynamic load
cases that realistically reflect the maximum loads for each component of the structure.

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3.7.3 Dynamic Loading

Hydrodynamic loading analysis of a full length model of the FPI hull in the static load conditions
is to be carried out using a recognized vessel motions and loads hydrodynamic seakeeping software.
In quantifying the dynamic loads, it is necessary to consider a range of wave environments and
headings at the installation site, which produce the considered critical responses of the FPI
structure. The maximum 100-year design response is to be determined based on the motion and
structural load effects from 3-2-3/3.1. The static and dynamics of the position mooring and
topside module loads contribution shall also be included.
Wave loads are to be determined based on an equivalent design wave approach where an
equivalent design wave is defined as a regular wave that gives the same response level as the
maximum design response for a specific response parameter. The equivalent design wave is
characterized by wave amplitude, wave length, wave heading, and wave crest position referenced
to amidships of the hull structure. This maximum design response parameter or Dominant Load
Parameter is to be determined for the site-specific environment with a 100-year return period,
transit environment with a 10-year return period, and inspection and repair condition with a 1-year
return period. In selecting a specific response parameter to be maximized, all of the simultaneously
occurring dynamic loads induced by the wave are also derived. These simultaneous acting dynamic
load components and static loads, in addition to the quasi-static equivalent wave loads, are applied
to the cargo block model. The Dominant Load Parameters essentially refer to the load effects,
arising from vessel motions and wave loads, that yield the maximum structural response for
critical structural members. Each set of Dominant Load Parameters with equivalent wave and
wave-induced loads represents a load case for structural FE analysis.
The wave amplitude of the equivalent design wave is to be determined from the maximum design
response of a Dominant Load Parameter under consideration divided by the maximum RAO
amplitude of that Dominant Load Parameter. RAOs will be calculated using a range of wave
headings and periods. The maximum RAO occurs at a specific wave frequency and wave heading
where the RAO has its own maximum value. The equivalent wave amplitude for a Dominant Load
Parameter may be expressed by the following equation:
Rmax
aw =
RAOmax
where
aw = equivalent wave amplitude of the Dominant Load Parameter
Rmax = maximum response of the Dominant Load Parameter
RAOmax = maximum RAO amplitude of the Dominant Load Parameter
The Dominant Load Parameters of interest to develop the load cases are:
• Vertical bending moment – sag and hog
• Vertical shear force
• Horizontal bending moment
• Horizontal shear force
• External sea pressures
• Internal tank pressures
• Inertial accelerations

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3.7.4 Load Cases

Load cases are derived based on the above static and dynamic loading conditions, and Dominant
Load Parameters. For each load case, the applied loads to be developed for structural FE analysis
are to include both the static and dynamic parts of each load component. The dynamic loads represent
the combined effects of a dominant load and other accompanying loads acting simultaneously on
the hull structure, including external wave pressures, internal tank pressures, deck loads and
inertial loads on the structural components and equipment. For each load case, the developed loads
are then used in the FE analysis to determine the resulting stresses and other load effects within
the FPI hull structure.

3.9 Fatigue Analysis (1 July 2009)

For all installations of 150 m and above, the extent of fatigue analysis required is indicated in 5A-3-4/9 of
this Guide. For installations of less than 150 m, the requirements are indicated in 5A-4-1/1.5 of this Guide.
For the three cargo tank length model, the fatigue assessment is to be performed applying Appendix 5A-3-A2
of this Guide.
For the cargo block model, the fatigue assessment is to be performed based on spectral fatigue analysis
applying the latest edition of the ABS Guidance Notes on Spectral-Based Fatigue Analysis for Floating
Offshore Structures.
The fatigue strength of welded joints and details at terminations located in highly stressed areas and in
fatigue prone locations are to be assessed, especially where higher strength steel is used. These fatigue
and/or fracture mechanics analyses, based on the combined effect of loading, material properties, and flaw
characteristics are performed to predict the service life of the structure and determine the most effective
inspection plan. Special attention is to be given to structural notches, cutouts, bracket toes, and abrupt
changes of structural sections.
Consideration is also to be given to the following analyses:
i) The cumulated fatigue damage during the transit voyage from the fabrication or previous site for
an existing FPI to the operation site is to be included in the overall fatigue damage assessment.
ii) The stress range due to loading and unloading cycles is to be accounted for in the overall fatigue
damage assessment. See 5A-3-A2/15.

3.11 Acceptance Criteria

The total assessment of the structure is to be performed against the failure modes of material yielding,
buckling, ultimate strength and fatigue. The reference acceptance criteria of each mode are given as follows:
3.11.1 Material Yielding
For installation lengths of 150 m and above, the criteria are indicated in 5A-3-4/3.1 of this Guide.
For installation lengths of less than 150 m, the criteria are indicated in 5A-4-2/13.3 and 5A-4-2/13.7
of this Guide.
3.11.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength of Plate Panels, Stiffeners and Longitudinals
For installation lengths of 150 m and above, the criteria is indicated in 5A-3-4/5 of this Guide.
For installation lengths of less than 150 m, the criteria are indicated in 3-2-1/19 of the Steel Vessel
Rules and Appendix 5A-2-A1 of this Guide.

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3.11.3 Fatigue
The required target fatigue life as indicated in 1-1-2/5.10.1 and 5A-3-A2/5.1 of this Guide is 20
years. Appendix 5A-3-A2 is also referred to for installations with lengths less than 150 m. Direct
application of the Appendix will result in the evaluation of members for stress ranges of an
unrestricted trading service vessel. In the absence of more detailed environmental data, stress
ranges are to be obtained in consideration of the unrestricted service environment. When the site-
specific wave environment is used and produces less severe fatigue demand than the unrestricted
service environment, credit can be given to the less severe environment by increasing the expected
fatigue life. For site-specific environmental conditions producing more severe fatigue demand
than the unrestricted service environment, the site-specific environmental data are to be used, and
the calculated fatigue life is to be not less than 20 years.
Due to the structural redundancy and relative ease of inspection inherent in typical hull structures
of ship-type installations, there is generally no further need to apply additional factors of safety
above what is already built into the fatigue classification curves cited in Appendix 5A-3-A2.
However, for areas of the structure which are non-inspectable or “critical,” such as in way of the
connections to the mooring or production systems (see Section 5A-1-4), additional factors of
safety should be considered.
For existing installations that are employed in floating installation service, the estimated remaining
fatigue lives of the critical structural details are to be assessed and the supporting calculations
submitted for review. Special consideration is to be given to the effects of corrosion and wastage
on the remaining fatigue life of existing structures.
Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free of cracks. The effects of stress
risers should be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.

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PART Section 4: Design and Analysis of Other Major Hull Structural Features

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

SECTION 4 Design and Analysis of Other Major Hull

Structural Features (1 July 2009)

1 General (December 2008)

The design and analysis criteria to be applied to the other pertinent features of the hull structural design are
to conform to this Guide or to recognized practices acceptable to the Bureau. For many ship-type
installations, the hull design will need to consider the interface between the position mooring system and
the hull structure or the effects of structural support reactions from deck-mounted (or above-deck) equipment
modules, or both. The interface structure is defined as the attachment zone of load transmission between
the main hull structure and hull mounted equipment, such as topside module stools, crane pedestals and
foundations, riser porches, flare boom foundation, gantry foundation, mooring and offloading, etc. The
zone includes components of the hull underdeck structures in way of module support stools and
foundations, such as deck transverse web frames, deck longitudinals and upper parts of longitudinal and
transverse bulkhead structures, as well as foundations of the hull-mounted equipment. These components
of the interface structure should comply with the criteria indicated in 5A-1-4/7.
The criteria to be applied for the interface structures are presented below. When it is permitted to base the
design of the ship-type offshore installation on site-specific environmental conditions, reference is to be made
to 5A-1-3/1, 5A-1-2/1.1 and Section 5A-3-2 of this Guide regarding how load components can be adjusted.
Criteria applicable to the position mooring (e.g., turret) structure itself is given in Section 6-2-1, and the
above (or on) deck equipment or module structure is referred to in 4-1-7/5.

3 Hull Interface Structure

The basic scantlings in way of the hull interface structure is to be designed based on the first principle
approach and meet the requirements of Section 3-2-1 of the MODU Rules strength criteria, the ABS Guide
for Buckling and Ultimate Strength Assessment for Offshore Structures and the ABS Guide for the Fatigue
Assessment of Offshore Structures, or equivalent national industry standards recognized and accepted by
ABS, such as API Standards. Welding design of hull interface structure connections is to be developed
based on Section 3-2-6 of the MODU Rules or a direct calculation approach. Material grades for the above-
deck interface structure are to be selected as per Section 3-1-3 of the MODU Rules requirements. The
material grades for the hull structure components, such as deck and frame structures, are to be selected as
per Part 3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
The verification of the hull interface structure as defined above is to be performed using direct calculation
of local 3-D hull interface finite element models, developed using gross scantlings and analyzed with load
conditions and load cases described in the following sections.

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3.1 Position Mooring/Hull Interface Modeling

A FEM analysis is to be performed and submitted for review:
3.1.1 Turret or SPM Type Mooring System, External to the Installation’s Hull
If the mooring system is of the turret or SPM type, external to the installation’s hull, the following
applies:
i) Fore end mooring. The minimum extent of the model is from the fore end of the
installation, including the turret structure and its attachment to the hull, to a transverse
plane after the aft end of the foremost cargo oil tank in the installation. The model can be
considered fixed at the aft end of the model. The loads modeled are to correspond to the
worst-case tank loads, seakeeping loads as determined for both the transit condition and
the on-site design environmental condition (DEC), ancillary structure loads, and mooring
and riser loads for the on-site DEC, where applicable. The design operating condition
(DOC) may also need to be considered for conditions which may govern.
ii) Aft end mooring. The minimum extent of the model is from the aft end of the installation,
including the turret structure and its attachment to the hull structure, to a transverse plane
forward of the fore end of the aft most cargo oil tank in the hull. The model can be
considered fixed at the fore end of the model. The loads modeled are to correspond to the
worst-case tank loads, seakeeping loads as determined for both the transit condition and
the on-site design environmental condition (DEC), ancillary structure loads, and mooring
and riser loads for the on-site DEC, where applicable.
3.1.2 Mooring System Internal to the Installation Hull (Turret Moored)
If the mooring arrangement is internal to the installation hull (turret-moored), the following
applies:
i) Fore end turret. The model is to extend from the fore end of the installation to the after
end of the cargo tank or hold aft of the one containing the turret. The model can be
considered fixed at the aft end of the model. The loads modeled are to correspond to the
worst-case tank loads, seakeeping loads as determined for either the transit condition or
the on-site design environmental condition (DEC), ancillary structure loads, and mooring
and riser loads for the on-site DEC, where applicable. The design operating condition
(DOC) may also need to be considered for conditions which may govern.
ii) Midship turret. The model can be a 3-tank model similar to that described in 5A-3-4/11
of this Guide where the turret is located in the center tank of the model. Hull girder loads
are to be applied to the ends of the model. The loads modeled are to correspond to the
worst-case tank loads, seakeeping loads as determined for either the transit condition or
the on-site design environmental condition (DEC), ancillary structure loads, and mooring
and riser loads for the on-site DEC, where applicable. The design operating condition
(DOC) may also need to be considered for conditions which may govern.
iii) As a minimum, the following two cargo loading patterns that result in the worst load
effects on the hull structure are to be considered:
• Maximum internal pressure for fully filled tanks adjacent to the hold containing the
turret, with the other tanks empty and minimum external pressure, where applicable.
(See 5A-1-4/Figure 1)
• Empty tanks adjacent to the hold containing the turret, with the other tanks full and
maximum external pressure, where applicable. (See 5A-1-4/Figure 2)
The interface structure is to be assessed for yielding, buckling and fatigue strength, and
should include all structural members and critical connections within the hold containing
the turret as well as the hold boundaries and their attachments.

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FIGURE 1
Loading Pattern 1 with 2/3 Scantling Draft (December 2008)

FIGURE 2
Loading Pattern 2 with Scantling Draft (December 2008)

3.1.3 Spread Moored Installations

The local foundation structure and installation structure are to be checked for the given mooring
loads and hull structure loads, where applicable, using an appropriate FEM analysis. The mooring
loads to be used in the analysis are to be based on the on-site design environmental condition
(DEC) for hull structure, and the mooring loads for the on-site DEC and breaking strength of the
mooring lines. The design operating condition (DOC) may also need to be considered for conditions
which may govern.

3.3 Hull Mounted Equipment Interface Modeling

3.3.1 Topside Module Support Stools and Hull Underdeck Structures
The topside module support stools and hull underdeck structures in way of module support stools,
such as deck transverse webs, deck longitudinals, longitudinal and transverse bulkheads, are to be
assessed for the most unfavorable load combinations of topside stool reactions and hull structure
loads, where applicable, using an appropriate FEM analysis. The load combinations of topside
stool reactions and hull structure loads are to be consistent with those assumed in the module
analysis (refer to Section 5A-1-5). The finite element model extent is to be sufficiently large to
minimize the cut boundary effects. The openings in way of critical areas are to be incorporated
into the FEM model to investigate their effects. The loads for the on-site design operating condition
(DOC), on-site design environmental condition (DEC) and transit condition are to be taken into
account. Topside production and support systems are to be empty in transit condition. Special
attention is to be given to the cutouts in deck transverse webs in way of topside module stools.
The strength analysis for the typical cutout with the maximum topside stool reactions using a local
fine mesh FEM model is to be carried out and submitted for review.
3.3.2 Other Hull Mounted Equipment Foundation Structures
Other hull mounted equipment foundations, such as crane pedestals and foundations, riser porches,
flare boom foundations, gantry foundations, offloading equipment foundations, etc., and hull
vessel structure in way of the foundations are to be checked for the given functional loads,
environmental loads and hull structure loads, where applicable, using an appropriate FEM analysis.
The finite element model extent is to be sufficiently large to minimize the cut boundary effects.
Openings such as cutouts in way of critical areas are to be incorporated into the FEM model. The
loads for the on-site design operating condition (DOC), on-site design environmental condition
(DEC) and transit condition are to be taken into account in the analysis. All equipment is to be in
the stowed position for the transit condition.

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5 Loads

5.1 Load Conditions

For all conditions, the primary hull girder load effects are to be considered, where applicable.
5.1.1 Site Design Environmental Condition (DEC)
For non-disconnectable FPSOs or FSOs:
• Site DEC with hull design return period, and severe storm functional dead and live loads, as
applicable, with 1/3 stress increase allowable (i.e., 0.8*fy)
For disconnectable FPSOs and FSOs:
• Site Disconnectable Environmental Condition (DISEC), Client-specified site year return loads
(See 3-2-3/1.1), and severe storm functional, dead and live loads (i.e., excluding tropical cyclones),
as applicable, with 1/3 stress increase allowable (i.e., 0.8*fy)
For the DEC and DISEC load conditions, the following assumptions are applicable:
• Topside Production Facility modules are in wet condition for all site conditions and in dry
conditions for unrestricted service and transit conditions.
• Cranes are in stowed position
• Mooring loads in the most severe hull loading condition are determined from the site mooring
load analysis for the following conditions:
- All lines are intact
- One line is damaged
- For each individual line and associated fairlead, chock, chain stopper etc., the strength is
to be assessed under the breaking strength of the line/chain with a Utilization Factor,
UF = 0.8 for component stress, 0.9 for Von Mises element stress and 0.8 for buckling stress,
in the case that the mooring loads in the above two conditions are not available.
Note: FE analysis requirements for the position mooring/hull interface described 5A-1-4/3.1 are to be met. In
addition for the internal turret, the longitudinal strength calculations (i.e., Hull Girder longitudinal
bending & shear strength and IACS buckling strength checks (UR S11.5), as per 5A-1-2/1 of this Guide
and Section 3-2-1 and Appendix 3-2-A4 of the Steel Vessel Rules, for the hull girder section in way of
the internal turret), for all applicable conditions, are to be submitted for review and approval.

5.1.2 Site Design Operating Condition (DOC)

Site DOC with maximum functional live loads under site operation without 1/3 stress increase
allowable (i.e., 0.6*fy). Special consideration should be given to the following:
• Limiting environmental condition, specified by designer/operator, that would require suspension
of normal operations, is to be minimum 1-year return as per this Guide.
• Deck support stools for topside production facility modules are in wet condition.
• Crane functional loads are as per API RP 2A and API Spec 2C Practices.
• Position mooring hull interface
5.1.3 Transit Condition
For transit (topside production facility in dry condition), it is the shipyard’s and/or designer‘s
responsibility to specify the design parameters for the transit condition. There are generally four
approaches available:
• Specified maximum seasonal weather routing condition;
• Maximum 10-year return response based on the worst environmental conditions and associated
wave scatter diagram along the transit route,

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• Maximum 10-year return response based on a composite wave scatter diagram,

• North Atlantic service condition, with a minimum 10-year return period, using the IACS standard
wave data where the transit route is not yet defined or finalized.
5.1.4 Damage Condition
Damaged Conditions (as applicable) with static deadweight and functional loads only, for a minimum
1-year return period DOC caused by accidental flooding.

5.3 Inertial Load Cases

The long-term and short-term DLP (Dominant Load Parameter) values can be calculated either using the
ABS Eagle FPSO SEAS module or by using direct seakeeping/hydrodynamic calculations using 3D diffraction
radiation program. The DLP values are to be selected for the most unfavorable structural response. Maximum
accelerations are to be calculated at the center of gravity of the most forward and aft and midship topside
production facility modules. The load cases are to be selected to maximize each of the following DLPs
together with other associated DLP values.
• Max. Vertical Bending Moment
• Max. Shear Force
• Max. Vertical Acceleration
• Max. Lateral Acceleration
• Max. Roll
Alternatively, the number of load cases can be reduced by assuming that all maximum DLP values occur
simultaneously, which is a conservative assumption.

5.5 Hull Girder Load Cases

As a minimum, the following two hull girder load cases are to be analyzed:
• Maximum hull girder sagging moment (i.e., generally full load condition)
• Maximum hull girder hogging moment (i.e., generally ballast, tank inspection or partial loading condition)

7 Acceptance Criteria

7.1 Yielding Checks

7.1.1 For DEC 100-Years Return Periods, Transit 10-Year Return Period and/or North Atlantic Loads:
i) For one-stiffener spacing element size FE analysis:
fe (Von Mises) < 0.9fy plate membrane stresses at element centroids
f1x (axial stress) < 0.8fy bar and beam elements
fxy (shear) < 0.53fy
ii) (1 July 2009) The effects of notches, stress risers and local stress concentrations are to be
taken into account when considering load carrying elements. When stress concentrations
are considered to be of high intensity in certain elements, the acceptable stress levels will
be subject to special consideration. The following guidance may be used in such
circumstances.
For local detail FE model analyses (localized highly stressed area, 50 × 50 mm approximate
element size):

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• For mild steel:

fe small area < 1.25fy
f1x element stress < 1.25fy

• For high-tensile steel:

fe small area < 1.0fy
f1x element stress < 1.0fy

7.1.2 For DOC (Deadweight + Maximum Functional Loads), with 1-Year Minimum Return Period Loads
(1 July 2009):
i) For one-stiffener spacing element size FE analysis:
fe < 0.7fy plate membrane stresses at element centroids
f1x < 0.6fy bar and beam elements
fxy < 0.4fy
Note: These load cases often govern for benign environmental loads.
ii) For local detail FE model analyses (localized highly stressed area, 50 × 50 mm approximate
element size):
• For mild steel
fe small area < 0.97fy
f1x element stress < 0.97fy

• For high-tensile steel

fe small area < 0.78fy
f1x element stress < 0.78fy

7.1.3 For Damaged Condition (1 July 2009):

Same as above for a minimum 1-year return period, except for the following, as applicable:
i) For one-stiffener spacing element size FE analysis:
fe < 0.9fy plate membrane stresses at element centroids
fe < 0.8fy bar and beam elements
fxy< 0.53fy
ii) For local detail FE model analyses (localized highly stressed area, 50 × 50 mm approximate
element size):
• For mild steel
fe small area < 1.25fy
f1x element stress < 1.25fy

• For high-tensile steel

fe small area < 1.0fy
f1x element stress < 1.0fy

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7.3 Buckling Checks

ABS buckling criteria included in the latest edition of the ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength
Assessment for Offshore Structures are to be used with the following:
• Buckling strength to be calculated using gross scantlings,
• Utilization Factor, UF:
UF = 0.8 or SF =1.25 for onsite DEC, transit condition and/or North Atlantic condition
UF = 0.6 or SF =1.67 for onsite DOC
UF = 0.8 or SF =1.25 for damage condition
UF determined on a case-by-case basis for other special conditions

7.5 Fatigue Calculations

7.5.1
The fatigue damage/life calculations are to be carried out as per the latest edition of the ABS
Guide for Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures. The fatigue calculations are to be carried out
for the intended design operating life of the installation. Where the external interface connections
are subjected to water immersion, the S-N curves in seawater with (CP) Cathodic Protection or
(FC) Free Corrosion are to be used, as applicable. If the simplified fatigue calculation approach is
to be used and the long-term Weibull distribution parameter is not available for the hull interface,
then a Weibull parameter is to be developed for the specific location under consideration.
The safety factors for fatigue life for hull interface connections are to be in accordance with
5A-1-2/Table 1 shown below.

TABLE 1
Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull Interface Structures (December 2008)
Importance Inspectable and Repairable
Yes No
Non-Critical 3 5
Critical 5 10
Note: “Critical” implies that failure of these structural items would result in the rapid loss of
structural integrity and produce an event of unacceptable consequence.

7.5.2 Position Mooring Hull Interface

Structural members in way of the turret structure or other mooring structure are to be effectively
connected to the adjacent structure in such a manner as to avoid hard spots, notches and other
harmful stress concentrations.
Special attention is to be given to cutouts, bracket toes and abrupt changes of structural sections.
These areas are considered to be critical to the vessel and are to be free of cracks. The effects of
stress risers in these areas are to be determined and minimized.
The FE model used to perform the turret/hull integration strength analysis may also be used for the
fatigue screening evaluation of the turret/hull interface structure to identify the critical fatigue
details using the F or F2 Class S-N curves and appropriate safety factors. The refined stress
analysis should be performed for the critical areas that fail to meet the screening, and the use of
the hot spot approach as specified in the ABS Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore
Structures is considered to be acceptable.
The fatigue cyclic loads are to correspond to the worst-case tank dynamic loads, seakeeping loads,
inertia loads due to the vessel motion, and mooring and riser dynamic loads, where applicable.
Different wave headings and vessel tank loading patterns should be considered and the fraction of
the total time for each base wave heading and each tank loading pattern can be used directly.

112 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 1 Design Considerations
Section 4 Design and Analysis of Other Major Hull Structural Features 5A-1-4

The frequency difference between wave frequency stress response and low frequency stress
response imposed by mooring lines and risers should be considered. Although the low frequency
stress response has negligible effects on most hull structural details, it becomes significant and
may have the dominant contribution to the fatigue damage of structural components in the
mooring system, risers and their interface with the hull. When the wave frequency and low
frequency stress responses are obtained separately, the method of simple summation of fatigue
damages from the two frequency stress responses does not account for the coupling effects (i.e.,
the augmentation of the low frequency response by the wave frequency response is non-conservative
and therefore should not be used).
There is an alternative method, which is both conservative and easy to use, that is known as the
combined spectrum method. In this method, the stress spectra for the two frequency bands are
combined. The RMS and the mean up-crossing frequency of the combined stress process are
given, respectively, as follows:

σc = ( σ w2 + σ l2 )1/2

f0c = ( f w2σ w2 + f 02lσ l2 )1/2/σc

where
σw = RMS of the wave-frequency stress component
σl = RMS of the low-frequency stress component
f0w = mean up-crossing frequency of the wave-frequency stress component
f0l = mean up-crossing frequency of the low-frequency stress component
However, if both frequency components of stress range are significant, the above-mentioned
combination method may be too conservative since the wave-frequency contribution is expected
to dominate, thus controlling the mean up-crossing frequency of the combined stress process. To
eliminate the conservatism, a correction factor given below can be applied to the calculated fatigue
damage of the sea state:

f 0 p ⎡ ( m / 2) +1 ⎛ ⎞ ⎤ ⎛ ⎞ m/2
⎢λ l ⎜1 − λ w ⎟ + πλ l λ w mΓ(m / 2 + 1 / 2) ⎥ + ⎜ f 0 w ⎟λ w
f 0c ⎢ ⎜
⎝ λ l ⎟⎠ Γ(m / 2 + 1) ⎥ ⎜⎝ f 0c ⎟
⎠
⎣ ⎦
where

λl = σ l2 / σ c2

λw = σ w2 / σ c2

f0p = ( λ l2 f 02l + λl λw f 02wδ w2 )1/2 with δw = 0.1

m = slope parameter of the S-N curve
Γ( ) = complete gamma function
7.5.3 Hull-Mounted Equipment Interface
The procedure for the fatigue evaluation of the turret/hull integration structure can also be applied
to deck-mounted equipment interface structures in which the wave-induced hull girder loads,
external hydrodynamic pressure, and inertia loads due to the vessel motion as well as the specified
equipment fatigue loads should be taken into account.
Special attention is to be given to the cutouts in deck transverse webs in way of topside module
stools. Where applicable, the detail fatigue evaluation for the typical cutout with the maximum
topside stool dynamic reactions is to be carried out and submitted for review.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 113
PART Section 5: Modules on Deck

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

SECTION 5 Modules on Deck (1 July 2009)

1 General (December 2008)

The structural strength design of deck modules on ship-type installations is to be in accordance with
5B-3-3/5.3.1 through 5B-3-3/5.3.4 and 5B-3-3/5.3.6, wherever applicable. The relative deformations among
module supports (e.g., stools) and the rigidity of supports and ship-type installation hull/deck, as well as
hull deformations, are to be included in the analysis if their effects on the module are significant.
The module structures above their supports are to be analyzed and shown explicitly on the drawings so that
the construction of the module supports can be consistent with those assumed in the structural analysis.
The module design reactions and conditions are to be assessed for the most unfavorable load combinations
of topside stool reactions and hull structure loads. The design requirements for module supports are given
in 5A-1-3/1.13 and 5A-1-4/5.
Fatigue analysis of the modules on ship-type installations is not required. However, fatigue analysis of the
topside module/hull interface is required (see 5A-1-4/7.5).
The structural fire protection aspects of the design of deck modules on a ship-type installation, including
the arrangement of the hydrocarbon process area, are to be in accordance with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the
Facilities Guide.
The designs of the piping system on the ship-type installation deck are to comply with Part 4, Chapter 2 of
the MODU Rules and applicable requirements of the Facilities Guide.

114 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 6: Other Systems

5A
CHAPTER 1 Design Considerations

SECTION 6 Other Systems (1 July 2009)

1 Other Systems
Other systems are to comply with the applicable requirements as prescribed in the following Paragraphs.

1.1 Marine Piping Systems

Marine piping systems are those systems that are required to conduct marine operations and are not
associated with the process facilities. These systems include, but are not limited to, bilge, ballast, tank
venting, sounding and fuel oil. Marine piping systems on ship-type installations are to be in accordance
with the applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 6 of the Steel Vessel Rules and Chapter 3, Section 5 of
the Facilities Guide, as applicable.

1.3 Electrical Systems

Electrical systems on ship-type installations are to comply with the applicable requirements of Part 4,
Chapter 8 of the Steel Vessel Rules and Chapter 3, Section 6 of the Facilities Guide. For area classification
requirements, refer to Section 4-1-9 of this Guide.

1.5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment

Fire fighting systems and equipment for service functions not associated with the process facilities are to
be in accordance with the applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 7 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Fire
fighting systems and equipment for protection of hydrocarbon process and associated systems are to be in
accordance with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Facilities Guide.

1.7 Machinery and Equipment

Machinery and equipment not associated with the process facilities are to be in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapters 2, 4, and 6 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Machinery and
equipment forming a part of the hydrocarbon processing facilities are to be in accordance with applicable
requirements of the Facilities Guide. Refer to Part 4, Chapter 1 of this Guide regarding process-related
machinery and equipment.

1.9 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks (1 July 2009)

If the TLP is designed to store hydrocarbons in hull tanks, criteria for hull storage of hydrocarbons are to
meet flag and coastal state requirements and applicable international requirements. The designs for
scantlings and strength for such storage tanks are to be in accordance with Part 5A Chapter 3. See 3-5/5.9
of the Facilities Guide for the storage facility arrangement requirements.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 115
PART Chapter 2: Additional DesignConsiderations for Conversions to FPI

5A
CHAPTER 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions
to FPI

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General ................................................................................................ 118
1 Introduction .....................................................................................118
3 General ...........................................................................................118
5 Acceptance Criteria for the Hull Structure ......................................119
5.1 General........................................................................................119
5.3 Structural Evaluation of the Hull ..................................................119
5.5 Engineering Analyses of the Hull Structure .................................119
5.7 Fatigue Analysis of the Hull Structure..........................................120
5.9 Acceptance Criteria .....................................................................120
5.11 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures ...........................121
5.13 Turret Mooring .............................................................................121
7 Assessing the Design of the Hull Structure ....................................122
7.1 General........................................................................................122
7.3 Hull Design Review Acceptance Criteria .....................................122
9 Survey Requirements for a Conversion..........................................123
9.1 Conversion Survey Requirements ...............................................122
9.3 Structural Repairs/Steel Renewal ................................................123
9.5 Bottom Plate Pitting Repair..........................................................123

FIGURE 1 Procedure for Hull Structure Evaluation of Existing Vessel

Converting to FPI ..................................................................125

SECTION 2 Steel Renewal Assessment ............................................................... 126

1 Introduction .....................................................................................126
3 Steel Renewal Assessment Procedure ..........................................126
3.1 Minimum Renewal Scantlings within 0.4L....................................126
3.3 Minimal Renewal Scantlings at 0.125L from the Ends.................127
3.5 Minimum Renewal Scantlings between 0.4L Amidships and
0.125L from the Ends....................................................................128

TABLE 1 Individual Wastage Allowances, Vessels Converted to

FPI, 90 meters and Over.......................................................132

FIGURE 1 Determination of Reassessed and Renewal Scantlings for

Ship-Type FPI Conversions within 0.4L Amidships –
Flow Chart.............................................................................129

116 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 SECTION 3 Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life)............................. 134
1 Introduction .....................................................................................134
3 Remaining Fatigue Life ...................................................................134
5 Remaining Fatigue Life for Longitudinal Stiffener Connections......135
7 Remaining Fatigue Life for Connections of Transverses
and Girders .....................................................................................135

APPENDIX 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to

Reassessed Scantling Determination
(See 5A-2-2/Figure 1).......................................................................... 137
1 Application ......................................................................................137
3 Elastic Buckling Stresses................................................................137
3.1 Elastic Buckling of Plates ............................................................ 137
3.3 Elastic Buckling of Longitudinals ................................................. 138
5 Critical Buckling Stresses ...............................................................140
5.1 Compression ............................................................................... 140
5.3 Shear........................................................................................... 141
7 Working Stress................................................................................141
7.1 Longitudinal Compressive Stress ................................................ 141
7.3 Shear Stresses............................................................................ 141
9 Scantling Criteria.............................................................................142
9.1 Buckling Stress............................................................................ 142

TABLE 1 Number of Half Waves..........................................................140

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 117
PART Section 1: General

5A
CHAPTER 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions
to FPI

SECTION 1 General

1 Introduction
The conversion of an existing vessel to a ship-type FPI is referred to as an FPI Conversion.
The direct application of the criteria contained in Sections 3-3-1 and Part 5A, Chapter 1 as the basis of
acceptance of the hull structure of an existing vessel for FPI service will result in classification notations as
described in 1-1-2/3.3 and 1-1-2/5. However, modified acceptance criteria, given in this Section, may be
used for some aspects of the vessel’s structural design as a conversion to FPI service. This Section applies
to both the ‘Change of Class Designation’ and ‘Transfer of Class’ situations where the acceptance of the
existing vessel’s hull structure as an FPI conversion is pursued. ‘Change of Class Designation’ refers to an
existing vessel classed by the Bureau which is being converted to FPI service. ‘Transfer of Class’ refers to
a vessel transferring into the Bureau’s classification from another IACS member Society.
5A-2-1/Figure 1 is a diagram depicting the conversion procedure given in this Section.

3 General (December 2008)

All applicable criteria contained in this FPI Guide are to be used in the classification of an FPI conversion,
except that some criteria (primarily in Section 3-3-1 and Part 5A, Chapter 1) can be modified. Specific
modifications are given below for the affected criteria.
The major criteria differences for the FPI conversion arise in the acceptance of the hull structure. The
design of the hull structure relates to hull girder longitudinal strength and local scantling selection. Specific
changes that will accommodate the use of the acceptance criteria for an FPI conversion are given in 5A-2-1/5.
The principal differences in the modified criteria are summarized as:
i) The hull girder strength and acceptability of local scantlings follow the Rule approach (it is noted
that there are several valid bases to do this under the Bureau’s Rules and procedures, which are
discussed in 5A-2-1/7); and
ii) The performance of strength analyses and stress checks, including finite element analyses are to be
based on reassessed net scantlings. The determination of the reassessed scantlings is given in
Section 5A-2-2 and its purpose is to establish minimum renewal scantlings. The acceptance
criteria for the hull structure are defined in 5A-2-1/5.
The minimum fatigue life of the hull structure is also fundamentally different for a converted vessel. For a
new-build, the minimum design service life for fatigue is 20 years; for an existing vessel to be converted to
FPI service, the minimum intended on-site service life for fatigue can be less than 20 years (see
5A-2-1/5.9.3).

118 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

5 Acceptance Criteria for the Hull Structure (December 2008)

5.1 General (1 July 2009)

For a vessel being converted to FPI service, the design and construction of the existing hull, superstructure
and deckhouses are to meet either the applicable criteria of the Steel Vessel Rules at the time of original
build, or as applicable, the criteria presented in 5A-2-1/7 below. In the case of the former approach in
which the acceptance criteria is the Steel Vessel Rules at the time of original build, the hull structure is also
to satisfy the hull interface structure criteria, as applicable, and the remaining fatigue life requirements in
5A-2-1/5.11. The second approach is based on criteria in 5A-2-1/7, where Environmental Severity Factors
(ESFs), as described in 5A-3-2/1.1 of this Guide (which reflect expected conditions from the long-term
mooring of the installation at an offshore site), are applied, and the required hull girder longitudinal strength
in Section 5A-1-2 and strength assessment in Sections 5A-3-3 and 5A-3-4 are satisfied. This results in
revised values of required local scantlings that reflect the site-specific nature of the structural design. In the
application of these criteria, no minimum required value of any scantling is to be less than 85 percent of
the value obtained with all the Beta Values set equal to 1.0.
To be eligible to apply the second approach based on criteria in 5A-2-1/7, it is to be demonstrated that the
β type Environmental Severity Factors (ESFs) βVBM and βWHT, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3, are 1.0 or less, and
the required hull girder longitudinal strength as specified in Section 5A-1-2 is satisfied.
In addition, it is expected that the applicable and most recent versions of the criteria contained in the Load
Line, SOLAS, MODU Code and MARPOL Conventions issued by the International Maritime Organization
are to be considered. It is further suggested that flag state and the local authorities having jurisdiction
where the installation is to operate be contacted to obtain any further applicable criteria.
See also 5A-1-1/1.
Note: The ABS Eagle FPSO computer software should be used to establish the limits on permissible reductions in the
scantling requirements as they are automatically accounted for in the software.

5.3 Structural Evaluation of the Hull (1 July 2009)

The hull structure that is to be converted is to satisfy renewal criteria that are to be established by a
reassessment calculation. A reassessment calculation as described in Section 5A-2-2 is first performed to
establish the minimum renewal scantlings of individual plates and structural members below which
renewals are required. For the uninterrupted operation of the installation on-site without any drydocking,
the anticipated corrosion predicted to occur over the proposed on-site life of the FPI is to be provided by
the designer or owner and considered in the design. Estimation of anticipated corrosion rates are to be
made, by taking into account any future corrosion protection measures to be used, previous service
experience, the type and temperatures of stored fluids and the other variables significantly affecting the
corrosion rate. In no case is this corrosion margin provided by the designer or owner for plates and
structural members to be less than 0.5 mm, except for bottom, deck and side shell plating where it is not to
be less than 1.0 mm.
For ABS classification of the FPI at the time of conversion, the rule required scantlings are the renewal
scantlings as determined by the reassessment calculation plus the minimum corrosion margins stated
above. However for surveys in service, if the gauged thickness is between the renewal thickness and the
substantial corrosion thickness as defined in 5A-2-2/3.1, either the affected areas are to be renewed or
repaired, or alternatively, subsequent annual surveys of these affected areas are required.

5.5 Engineering Analyses of the Hull Structure

5.5.1 General (1 July 2009)
This Subsection relates to the strength analyses required to verify the reassessed scantlings for the
hull structure.
Depending on the specific features of the offshore installation, additional analyses to verify and to
help design other portions of the hull structure will be required. Such additional analyses include
those for the hull interface structure such as the deck structural components supporting deck-
mounted equipment and the hull structure interface with the position mooring system. Analysis
criteria for these two situations are given in Section 5A-1-4.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 119
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

Provided a scantling of the existing vessel is not below its renewal limit, or if it is to be renewed at
the time of conversion, then it can be modeled in the structural analyses using the “reassessed net
scantling,” which is the “reassessed” value minus the “nominal design corrosion values” specified
in 5A-3-1/Table 1.
Documentation necessary to verify the structural adequacy of the installation is to be submitted for
review.
5.5.2 Strength Analysis of the Hull Structure (1 July 2009)
When the design of the hull is accepted based on the criteria in 5A-2-1/7 accounting for the on-site
environmental effects, finite element structural analysis using the reassessed net scantlings is to be
performed. The reassessed net scantlings are obtained by deducting the nominal design corrosion
values in 5A-3-1/Table 1 from the reassessed scantlings as determined in Section 5A-2-2.
A three cargo tank length model or full cargo block model as described in 5A-1-3/3.3 may be used
for finite element analyses. Finite element analyses should also be performed in areas where
structural configurations or novel features are present that affect the basic hull design.
The loading conditions to be analysed for the three cargo tank length model or full cargo block
model are described in Section 5A-1-3.
The loads from the hull mounted top side production and support systems, and other equipment
are to be included in the strength analysis. The accidental load condition, where a cargo tank is
flooded, is to be assessed for longitudinal strength of the hull girder consistent with load cases
used in damage stability calculations.
The additional loads and load effects of 5A-1-3/1.1 are also to be considered in the strength analysis.

5.7 Fatigue Analysis of the Hull Structure

Fatigue analysis is required considering the fatigue damage that has occurred during prior service as a
trading vessel, during transit and during on-site operations including operational loading and unloading cycles.
See 5A-1-3/3.9 and Section 5A-2-3.

5.9 Acceptance Criteria

The total assessment of the structure is to be carried out against the failure modes of material yielding,
buckling and ultimate strength, and fatigue. The reference acceptance criteria of each mode are given as
follows.
5.9.1 Material Yielding
See 5A-1-3/3.11.1.
5.9.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength
See 5A-1-3/3.11.2.
5.9.3 Fatigue (1 July 2009)
For existing vessels that are employed in FPI service, the estimated remaining fatigue lives of the
critical structural details are to be assessed and the supporting calculations submitted for review.
Consideration is given to the effects of corrosion and wastage on the remaining fatigue life of
existing structures by using net scantlings.
The minimum acceptable fatigue life for the FPI conversion is the greatest of: the on-site service
life of the FPI, the time to the next Special Survey or five years. Whichever of these values
controls, it is to be documented in accordance with 1-1-2/5.10.2 (the FL classification notation)
and used in the Survey Planning Document referred to in 1-1-4/11.3.
Appendix 5A-3-A2 of this Guide is also referred to for ship-type installations with lengths less
than 150 m. Application of the Appendix will result in the evaluation of members for stress ranges
of an unrestricted trading service vessel. In the absence of more detailed environmental data,
stress ranges are to be obtained in consideration of the unrestricted service environment.

120 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

The fatigue strength is based on a cumulative damage theory, which infers that the structure is
likely to experience a fatigue failure after a finite number of stress cycles occur. This is especially
important when looking at FPI conversions. The installation has already experienced cycles of
stress during the “ship” phase of its life and it will experience additional cycles during the “FPI”
phase of its life. The basic concept is to keep the total number of cycles below the number that
results in failure.
For FPI conversions, an analysis procedure accounting for the fatigue damage of the “ship” phase
and FPI phase, including transit, is acceptable. First, the historical cumulative fatigue damage up
to the time of conversion is to be calculated through realistic temporal weighting of wave environments
experienced along the service routes during the service life of the vessel.
Second, the expected cumulative fatigue damage is to be calculated using site-specific wave
environment and operational conditions, as well as transit condition. These will provide an
estimate of the remaining fatigue life of the structural members at the time of conversion. See
Section 5A-2-3.
When the route and site-specific wave environments are used and they produce less severe fatigue
demands than the unrestricted service environment of the Steel Vessel Rules, credit can be given to
the less severe environment by increasing the expected fatigue life. For site-specific environmental
conditions producing more severe fatigue demand than the Steel Vessel Rule basis, the site-specific
environmental data are to be used.
Due to the structural redundancy and relative ease of inspection inherent in typical hull structures
of ship-type installations, there is no further need to apply additional factors of safety above what
is already built into the fatigue classification curves cited in the above reference. However, for
areas of the structure which are non-inspectable or “critical”, such as in way of the connections to
the mooring or production systems (see 5A-2-1/5.11), additional factors of safety should be
considered.
Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free of cracks, and the effects of stress
risers should be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.
For an existing classed vessel being converted to FPI service, the minimum fatigue lives of the
structural components covered in 5A-2-1/5.11 and 5A-2-1/5.13 can be less than 20 years as
mentioned above.
5.9.4 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength
See 5A-1-2/3.

5.11 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures

See Section 5A-1-4 for required analysis of hull interface structures.
See also 5A-2-1/5.9.3 for revised target minimum fatigue life for an existing vessel being accepted as an
FPI conversion.

5.13 Turret Mooring

See 6-2-1/13 for required analysis of the turret mooring system.
See also 5A-2-1/5.9.3 for revised target minimum fatigue life for as existing vessel being accepted as an
FPI conversion.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

7 Assessing the Design of the Hull Structure (December 2008)

7.1 General (1 July 2009)

The FPI conversion approach relies on a review of the hull’s design. The review consists of an assessment
of the hull girder strength and cargo region scantling review including main supporting members, local
plating and stiffeners that directly contribute to the hull girder strength.
Two major purposes for this review are to assess the adequacy of the hull girder and local strength, and to
“benchmark” the values upon which local scantling renewals are to be based for future in-service surveys.
For this latter purpose, several approaches which can be applied are listed in 5A-2-1/7.3.
An existing vessel can be sorted into one of three basic categories, as follows.
a. Vessel satisfies ABS Rules from its original classification [À Maltese Cross in the classification
symbol and not accepted under 1-1-4/7.5 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification (Part 1)].
b. Vessel currently classed by an IACS member or taken into ABS classification under 1-1-4/7.5 of
the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification (Part 1).
c. Vessel was never classed by an IACS member.
A vessel in category (a) or (b) can be considered for an FPI conversion. The acceptance criteria to be applied
to a category (c) vessel will based on special consideration determined in consultation with the Bureau.

7.3 Hull Design Review Acceptance Criteria (1 July 2009)

The review of the design of an existing hull structure, which is applicable to a vessel classed for unrestricted
service, does not account for the increased or reduced local structural element strength requirements that
could result from the long-term, moored operation of the installation at an offshore site. The approach to
the design review also allows variations in the acceptance criteria that can be based on:
i) The Bureau’s Rules from the year of build of the vessel with the Bureau’s permissible corrosion
limits for renewal; or
ii) The Bureau’s current Rules with the Bureau’s permissible corrosion limits for renewal; or
iii) The prior IACS member’s approved scantlings (or as-built values) using that society’s permissible
corrosion limits for renewal. However the permissible corrosion limits for the longitudinal
members are to be based on the Bureau's limits if the IACS member society's limits are greater.
When the acceptance criteria is based on i), ii) or iii), the renewal scantlings for plates and stiffeners in the
deck and bottom structure, within 0.15 Depth from deck and bottom, and for plates in side shell and
longitudinal bulkheads must be established at the time of conversion. The allowable material diminution
of these plates and stiffeners is to be based on the smaller of the % wastage allowance according to the
Bureau's allowances for i) and ii) or IACS member's allowance for iii), or the allowable wastage based on
buckling strength. The allowable wastage based on buckling strength is to apply to these plates and
stiffeners subject to hull girder bending and shear stresses as required by 5A-2-A1. When the acceptance
criteria are based on iii), the IACS member's allowable wastage based on buckling considerations may be
used.
The combination of the variety of ways to review local scantlings and the permissibility to account for site-
dependent effects on global and local hull structural strength requirements can lead to a range of acceptable
procedures.
If it is desired to account for the on-site environmental effects and how these affect the required scantlings,
it will be necessary to establish the required renewal scantlings on this basis. This results in a reassessment
of the hull structure design to establish the converted structure’s renewal scantlings. The acceptance
criteria for the hull structure are defined in 5A-2-1/5.

122 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

9 Survey Requirements for a Conversion (2003)

A Floating Installation is expected to remain permanently moored on site, and it is therefore without the
ready access to the repair and maintenance facilities used by a vessel. Considering these conditions, the
following minimum Hull survey requirements for conversion of an existing vessel to FPI service are to be
followed.

9.1 Conversion Survey Requirements

9.1.1 Drydocking Survey
When the vessel is to be placed on drydock and surveyed, the requirements of Section 7-4-1 of the
ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7) are to be followed.
9.1.2 Special Survey of Hull
A Special Periodical Survey of Hull, appropriate to the age of the installation, is to be carried out
in accordance with 7-3-2/5.13 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7) for non-
Double Hull tankers and 7-3-2/5.14 of the referenced Part 7 for Double Hull tankers. All
requirements for Close-up Survey and thickness measurements are to be applied.
9.1.3 Modifications
All modifications to the vessel are to be carried out in accordance with ABS-approved drawings
and to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. In general, the IACS Shipbuilding and Repair
Quality Standard (SARQS) requirements are to be followed unless a recognized shipyard or
national standard is already established in the shipyard. Reference may be made to the ABS Guide
for Shipbuilding and Repair Quality Standard for Hull Structures During Construction, which
incorporates the IACS SARQS requirements.

9.3 Structural Repairs/Steel Renewal

Renewed material should be replaced by steel of the same or higher grade and to the approved design
scantling or greater. Workmanship is to be carried out in accordance with the ABS Guide for Shipbuilding
and Repair Quality Standard for Hull Structures.

9.5 Bottom Plate Pitting Repair

The following repair recommendations apply to pitting found in both ballast and cargo tank bottom plating.
9.5.1 Repair Recommendations
There are four main approaches used for dealing with severe bottom pitting.
9.5.1(a) Partially Crop and Renew Affected Bottom Plating. Partial cropping and renewal is
primarily a matter of: proper welding technique, selection of an adequately sized plate insert and
the appropriate nondestructive examination (NDE) of repaired areas.
9.5.1(b) Clean Pitted Areas and Cover with Special Coating. Cleaning out and covering with
special coating without use of filler or weld build-up need only be limited by the maximum allowable
depth of the pits (or allowable minimum remaining thickness of the bottom plating) permitted
from a strength or pollution risk standpoint. The allowable loss of bottom cross-sectional area
must also be considered.
9.5.1(c) Clean Pitted Areas and Fill with Plastic Compound. Use of plastic compound filler,
such as epoxy, can be considered similar to 5A-2-1/9.5.1(b) because no strength credit is given to
the filler material.
9.5.1(d) Fill by Welding. Filling with welding warrants more serious consideration. Suggested
welding practices for bottom plating are noted below.
9.5.2 Pitting up to 15% of Bottom Plating Thickness (t)
No immediate remedial action is necessary. However, if the surrounding tank bottom is specially
coated, corrosion progress in the pitted areas may be very rapid due to the area ratio effect of
protected versus non-protected surfaces, therefore, as applicable, the coating is to be repaired.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 123
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

9.5.3 Scattered Pitting Up To 33% (1/3t) of Bottom Plating Thickness

These pits may be filled with epoxy or other suitable protective compounds, provided the loss of
area at any transverse section of the strake in question does not exceed 10%. Any areas that have
been repaired by this method must be “mapped” and noted for close-up survey in the Survey and
Inspection Plan required by 1-1-4/11.3 of this Guide.
9.5.4 Pitting of Any Depth may be Welded, Provided:
Pitting may be welded, provided there is at least 6 mm (0.25 in.) remaining original plating
thickness at the bottom of the cavity and there is at least 75 mm (3 in.) between adjacent pit
welding areas. The maximum nominal diameter of any pit repaired by welding may not exceed
300 mm (12 in.).
9.5.5 Requirements for the Welding of Pits
9.5.5(a) Pit Welding. It is recommended that pit welding in bottom plating be built up at least
3 mm (0.125 in.) above the level of the surrounding plating and then ground flush. This is
mandatory for: higher-strength steels grades D and E, for very small areas (less than 75 mm (3 in.)
in diameter and for such welding done afloat.
9.5.5(b) Surface Preparation. Pitted areas are to be thoroughly cleaned of rust, oil and cargo
residues prior to welding.
9.5.5(c) Filler Metal. When welding, the filler metal grade appropriate to the pitted base metal
and preheating, if applicable, are to be employed.
9.5.5(d) Welding While Installation is Afloat. For welding below the waterline of an installation
afloat, properly dried low hydrogen electrodes are to be used. The pitted areas against water
backing are to be preheated sufficiently to drive off any moisture that might be present. The
preheat is to cover at least 102 mm (4 in.) of the material surrounding the welding or four times
the material thickness, whichever is greater.
9.5.5(e) Layer of Welding Metal. A layer of weld metal is to be deposited along a spiral path to
the bottom center of the pitted excavation. The slag is to be completely removed and the next
successive layer is to be similarly deposited to build up the excavation at least 3 mm (0.125 in.)
above the level of the surrounding plating.
9.5.5(f) Extensive Pit Repairs. For extensive pit repairs (i.e., greater than 20% intensity) of steel
grades D, E and higher strength steel, welding against water backing is not recommended.
9.5.5(g) Nondestructive Examination. All welds to pitted areas in bottom plating are to be
subject to nondestructive examination with particular attention to boundaries of the welded areas
and at intersections of the welded areas and existing structural welding. Also, for welds of higher-
strength steels, the NDE method is to be suitable for detecting sub-surface defects.
9.5.5(h) Coating. In order to reduce the likelihood of possible galvanic attack at the boundaries
of built-up areas, coating over the area with a compound such as epoxy/glass flake should be
considered. Also, where the pitting is in small areas of coating breakdown, it is essential to restore
the coating intact in order to avoid the possible rapid corrosion of small bare areas in large
protected areas (area ratio effect).
9.5.5(i) Doublers. Fitting of a doubler over pits is not considered a satisfactory repair.

124 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 1 General 5A-2-1

FIGURE 1
Procedure for Hull Structure Evaluation of
Existing Vessel Converting to FPI (December 2008)
START

Is the
Existing Vessel
Is the Existing N accepted under Survey of N Is the Existing N
Vessel Classed by the Bureau but approved to the Vessel Classed by Another 1
the Bureau? Rules of another Recognized IACS Member?
Class Society
(5A-2-1/7.3)? Y
Y
Perform "Transfer of Class" Review
Y & see General Requirements for
Is the Site-specific Assessing the Desing of the Hull
Structure (5A-2-1/7).
Enviroment less severe than N
North Atlantic & are Hull 1
Girder Strength requirements
satisfied?

Is the Site-specific
Y, upon request
Enviroment less severe than N
North Atlantic & are Hull 1
Girder Strength requirements
Either Or satisfied?

Check if Hull Y, upon request

Structure fully complies Either
with ABS Rules from the
year of build of the vessel with the N
Check Hull Structure using Or
On-site Environment and apply
Bureau's permissible corrosion limits for
General Requirements (5A-2-1/3)
renewal or complies with current ABS
and Acceptance Criteria (5A-2-1/5). Check if Hull
Rules with Bureau's permissible
corrosion limits for renewal Sturcture can be accepted
(5A-2-1/7.3). N based on prior IACS Class Society's
approved scantlings (or as-built values)
using that Society's permissible
corrosion limits for renewal
(5A-2-1/7.3)
Y
Check Hull Interface Structure (Section
5A-1-4) & Remaining Fatigue Life Y
Requirements (Section 5A-2-3) and
perform "Change of Class Designation"
procedure.

END

LEGEND:
1: Apply Section 3-3-1 & Part 5A, Chapter 1 OR alternative criteria determined in consultation with the Bureau.
Y: Yes
N: No

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 125
PART Section 2: Steel Renewal Assessment

5A
CHAPTER 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions
to FPI

SECTION 2 Steel Renewal Assessment (December 2008)

1 Introduction
Major aspects associated with a conversion include an existing vessel’s original design and the basis of the
design such as design criteria, vessel’s classification, etc., its age, condition, maintenance and operational
history as well as the design, survey and maintenance requirements for the converted structure.
The relative importance of these aspects are influenced by the structure’s intended service, strength and
fatigue requirements, and regulatory/certification requirements.
The minimum renewal values as described in 5A-2-1/5 provide a baseline condition for the FPI installation
as they are the minimum scantling requirements for classification. Also, based on the future anticipated
corrosion expected to occur over the design life at the FPI site, the required minimum scantlings at the time
of conversion can be determined.

3 Steel Renewal Assessment Procedure (1 July 2009)

The first step in determining the renewal scantlings for an FPI vessel conversion requires a reassessment of
the vessel’s scantlings based on the specific site of the installation. The ABS Eagle FPSO software can be
used to perform the Initial Scantling Evaluation (ISE) phase of the reassessment and to calculate the
renewal scantlings of an existing vessel converted to an FPI. The reassessed scantlings determined in the
ISE phase, which are used to establish the renewal scantlings, must also be confirmed by finite element
analysis as part of the Total Strength Assessment (TSA).

3.1 Minimum Renewal Scantlings within 0.4L (1 July 2009)

The Initial Scantling Evaluation assesses the strength of the longitudinal scantlings for the FPI conversion.
The strength evaluation is mainly applicable for the structure within the 0.4L midship region and consists
of performing the following steps:
1. ABS Eagle FPSO SEAS software is employed for calculation of Environmental Severity Factor
(ESFs) based on the environmental conditions as specified in 3-2-3/3.
2. Determination of reassessed scantlings:
a) Assign initial input scantlings by reducing deck and bottom plating by 15%-20% of the
as-built scantlings and using as-built scantlings for stiffeners.
b) Calculate the hull girder section modulus and individual stiffener section modulus.
c) Determine the hull girder and local strength requirements for the site specific offshore
location.
d) Check if the input scantlings meet both hull girder and local strength requirements. If not,
adjust input scantlings and go back to step 2b).
e) As an option, the input scantlings can be further adjusted provided hull girder and local
strength requirements are satisfied.
f) Determine the initial reassessed scantlings as the input scantlings.

126 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

3. Establishing renewal scantlings:

a) Determine renewal scantlings of longitudinal structural members based on Rule permissible
percentage wastage allowances in 5A-2-2/Table 1.
b) Check if renewal scantlings of longitudinal members (i.e. plating and longitudinals) satisfy
local panel and stiffener buckling requirement. If not, adjust reassessed scantlings and go
back to step 2(b).
c) Calculate substantial corrosion scantlings (scantlings corroded to 75% of allowable wastage).
d) Input anticipated corrosion wastage and then calculate yard renewal value.
4. Verification of reassessed scantlings and renewal scantlings:
a) Check if reassessed scantlings meet hull girder bending strength requirement for inspection,
repair, and transit condition.
b) Check if reassessed scantlings meet global hull girder and local scantling requirements.
c) Check if reassessed scantlings meet hull girder ultimate strength requirement as per
5A-3-3/3.5.
d) Check if reassessed scantlings meet hull girder shear strength requirement.
e) Check if reassessed scantlings meet the sloshing strength requirements for tank boundary
members.
If any one of the above requirements of the ISE phase is not met, adjust reassessed scantlings and
go back to step 2(b)
5. Output renewal table, where the following information are at least included:
a) Reassessed & renewal hull girder SM for deck and bottom
b) Tabulate preliminary results of individual members as follows:
Member Identification, As-built Scantlings, Reassessed Scantlings (rounded to nearest
0.5 mm), Renewal Scantlings, Substantial Corrosion Scantlings, User-defined anticipated
corrosion and Yard Required Scantlings.
c) Check reassessed scantlings by finite element analysis (TSA)
d) Determine final results of individual members as per b)
The above procedure is an iterative procedure as it requires several strength and buckling requirements to
be satisfied. The flow chart in 5A-2-2/Figure 1 illustrates the iterative steps necessary to determine the
reassessed and renewal scantlings within 0.4L amidships
The procedure described above determines the reassessed and renewal scantlings within 0.4L amidships.
The reassessed and renewal scantlings for the entire cargo block can also be determined using a similar
procedure. To do so requires that the reassessed scantlings between 0.4L amidships and the ends of the cargo
block be calculated using the same procedure as described above, except that the bending moments and local
loads for scantling requirements at specific locations between 0.4L amidships and cargo block ends are applied
in the procedure rather than the bending moments and local loads for scantling requirements required amidships.
The reassessed scantlings in the cargo block region are to be verified by finite element analysis (TSA).

3.3 Minimal Renewal Scantlings at 0.125L from the Ends

If 0.125L from the ends is within the cargo block region, the reassessed and renewal scantlings at 0.125L
can be determined either by taking the as-built scantlings at 0.125L from the ends as the reassessed
scantlings at that location, or by applying the procedure described in 5A-2-2/3.1. If however 0.125L is
outside the cargo block region, then the as-built scantlings at 0.125L from the ends will be the reassessed
scantlings at that location. The renewal scantlings will then be determined from the reassessed scantlings
If there is an increase or decrease in vessel length due to conversion the scantlings 0.125L from the ends
should be assessed for the new length. Where an increase in length occurs it may be necessary to either
modify the structure or consider early renewal for the scantlings at the ends.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 127
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

3.5 Minimum Renewal Scantlings between 0.4L Amidships and 0.125L from the Ends
If the reassessed and renewal scantlings of the cargo block have been determined by the procedure
described in 5A-2-2/3.1, the reassessed and renewal scantlings have already been determined. If not, the
continuous longitudinal members of the hull girder are to be maintained throughout 0.4L amidships, and
then may be gradually tapered beyond 0.4L provided local strength and hull girder requirements are satisfied.
Where the scantlings are based on the still-water bending moment envelope curves, items included in the
hull girder section modulus amidships are to be extended as necessary to meet the hull girder section
modulus required at the location being considered.

128 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

FIGURE 1
Determination of Reassessed and Renewal Scantlings for Ship-Type FPI Conversions
within 0.4L Amidships – Flow Chart (1) (1 July 2009)
Note 1: See 5A-2-2/Table 1 for Individual Wastage Allowances

Calculate required global SMreq

Establish reassessed SMreq_1 (on-site) = Ms(on-site) + Mw(on-site, 100 yrs return)

scantlings σallowable
SMreq = max(SMreq_1, 5A-1-2/1 minimum SMreq)

As-built Scantlings

Assign initial input scantlings for plating and stiffeners by reducing deck and bottom plating thickness,
for example, by 15%-20% of as-built scantlings while using as-built scantlings for stiffeners.

Calculate local scantling requirements, tp,local gross for plating

Calculate the local Rule net SM, reference gross

Note 2: If the stiffener is
scantlings for web and flange of stiffeners:
bulb type, the reassessed
tw,Ref gross = min [tw,Ref ren/(1 − 20% or 25%), tw,as built]
scantling for flange of
tf,Ref gross = min [tf,Ref ren/(1 − 20% or 25%), tf,as built]
stiffeners is taken as the
where reference renewal scantlings, tw,Ref ren and
as-built scantling.
tf,Ref ren, are calculated according to Note 1
Revise input
Initial determination of reassesed scantlings: scantlings of
tp,reassess gross = tp,input plating and
tw,reassess gross = tw,input longitudinals
tf,reassess gross = tf,input

Calculate global SMreassess using reassessed gross scantlings

Global SM ≥ SMreq and local No

C
scantling requirements satisifed?

Yes

Further adjustment of Yes

reassessed scantlings needed?

No
Initial results:
y Reassessed scantlings:
tp,reassess gross for plating; tw,reassess gross, tf,reassess gross and SMstf,reassess net for longitudinals;
SMreassess for hull girder
y Rule Required scantlings:
Local scantling requirements, tp,local gross for plating; tw,Ref gross, tf,Ref gross and SMstf,Req net for
longitudinals; SMreq,gross for hull girder

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 129
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

FIGURE 1 (continued)
Determination of Reassessed and Renewal Scantlings for Ship-Type FPI Conversions
within 0.4L Amidships – Flow Chart (1 July 2009)

Calculate renewal thickness for plating and longitudinals

Establish renewal tp,ren = tp,input × (1 − 20% or 25%) Note 3: See 5A-2-2/
scantlings tw,ren = tw,input × (1 − 20% or 25%) Table 1.
tf,ren = tf,input × (1 − 20% or 25%)

Calculate critical buckling stress based on renewal scantlings according

to 5A-2-A1/5.1, where fc is critical plate buckling stress, or the minimum
among critical buckling stresses of column buckling, torsional buckling,
and local buckling for longitudinals.

Check buckling strength No

C
according to 5A-2-A1/9

Yes

Calculate substantial corrosion scantlings based on the following:

tp,substantial = tp,input × (1 − 0.75 × 20% or 25%)
tw,substantial = tw,input × (1 − 0.75 × 20% or 25%)
tf,substantial = tf,input × (1 − 0.75 × 20% or 25%)

User inputs anticipated corrosion wastage for the intended FPSO life
tp,anticip cor, tw,anticip cor, tf,anticip cor

Calculate yard required scantlings

tp,yard required = tp,substantial + tp,anticip cor
tw,yard required = tw,substantial + tw,anticip cor
tf,yard required = tf,substantial + tf,anticip cor

130 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

FIGURE 1 (continued)
Determination of Reassessed and Renewal Scantlings for Ship-Type FPI Conversions
within 0.4L Amidships – Flow Chart (1 July 2009)

Check reassessed
Verify reassessed scantlings No
scantlings against hull girder bending
and renewal scantlings C
strength for inspection, repair, and
transit conditions

Yes

Check reassessed scantlings

No
against hull girder strength and local C
scantling requiremetnts

Yes

Check hull girder ultimate No

C
strength as per 5A-3-3/3.5

Yes
No
Check hull girder shear strength C

Yes

Check reassessed scantlings No

C
against sloshing loads

Yes
Output preliminary renewal table (4)
Revise reassessed
scantlings

Check reassessed net scantlings No

using finite element analysis (5)

Yes
Final renewal table

Notes:
4 Renewal table should include at least reassessed and renewal hull girder SM for deck and bottom as well as
the following individual member information: Member Identification, As-built Scantlings, Reassessed
Scantlings (rounded to the nearest 0.5 mm), Renewal Scantlings, Substantial Scantlings, User-defined
Anticipated Corrosion, Yard Required Scantlings.
5 Reassessed net scantlings used in finite element analysis are the net scantlings of the minimum of the
reassessed (round to the nearest 0.5 mm) and as-built scantlings.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 131
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

FIGURE 1 (continued)
Determination of Reassessed and Renewal Scantlings for Ship-Type FPI Conversions
within 0.4L Amidships – Flow Chart (1 July 2009)
Note 1 Buckling Check of Longitudinal Stiffeners

Steel
Stiffener Web Plate Material
Mild HT32 HT36 HT40
Angle and T Profile dw/tw,Ref ren ≤ 70 65 60 55
Bulb Profiles dw/tw,Ref ren ≤ 36 34 31 28
Flat bars dw/tw,Ref ren ≤ 20 19 18 17
Stiffener Flanges bflg-out/tf,Ref ren ≤ 15 14 13 12
where
dw = depth of web plate, in mm
bflg-out = breadth of larger flange outstands, in mm

TABLE 1
Individual Wastage Allowances, Vessels Converted
to FPI, 90 meters and Over (1, 2, 3) (1 July 2009)
Converted 2009 or Later Converted Before 2009
Ordinary and High Strength Steel Single Bottom Single Bottom
Double Bottom with Single Side Double Bottom with Single Side
or Double Side or Double Side
Strength Deck Plating 20% 20% 20% 20%
Continuous Long’l Hatch Coamings & Above Deck 20% ----- 20% -----
Box-Girders
Deck Plates within Line of Hatches and at Ends. 30% 30% 30% 30%
Forecastle, Poop and Bridge Deck Plates; 30% 30% 30% 30%
Superstructure End Bulkheads
(December 2008) Tween Deck Plates ----- ----- ----- -----
Sheer Strake Plates 20% 20% 20% 20%
Side Shell Plates 20% 25% 25% 25%
Bilge Strake Plates 20% 20% 25% 20%
Bottom Plates 20% 20% 25% 20%
Keel Plates (4)
Outermost Strake of Inner Bottom 20% ----- 20% -----
Other Plates of Inner Bottom 20% ----- 25% -----
Top Strake of Longitudinal Bulkheads and Top Strake 20% 20% 20% 20%
of Topside Tank Sloping Plating
Bottom Strake of Longitudinal Bulkheads 20% 20% 25% 20%
Other Plates of Longitudinal Bulkheads, Topside Tank 20% 25%, 25% 25%
Sloping Plating, Hopper Tank Sloping Plating and 20% for
Transverse Bulkheads transverse
bulkheads only
Internals including Longitudinals, Girders, 20% 25% 25% 25%
Transverses, Struts, Bulkhead Webs and Stringers,
Brackets and Hatch Side Girders
Plates in way of Top of Tanks 25% 30% 30% 30%
Underdeck Box Girders (Long’l or Transverse) 20% ----- 20% -----
Hatch Covers, Hatch coamings and brackets 30% 30% 30% 30%

132 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 2 Steel Renewal Assessment 5A-2-2

TABLE 1 (continued)
Individual Wastage Allowances, Vessels Converted
to FPI, 90 meters and Over (1 July 2009)
Notes:
1 (1 July 2009) The individual wastage allowances are acceptable, provided the SM is not less than 90% of the greater
SM required: a) at the time of new construction or conversion or b) by 5A-1-2/1 of this Guide.
2 For tankers 130 m in length and above and over 10 years of age, sectional area calculations are to be carried out by
an ABS Technical Office.
3 For vessels built to other society rules, the Technical Office carrying out the initial plan review is to be contacted
for wastage allowances.
4 Keel plates are to be renewed when they reach the minimum allowed thickness for adjacent bottom plating.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 133
PART Section 3: Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life)

5A
CHAPTER 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions
to FPI

SECTION 3 Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life)

(December 2008)

1 Introduction
An existing vessel structure will have accumulated some fatigue damage due to the prior service as well as
steel wastage due to corrosion and wear. In order to account for the fatigue damage that has occurred and
to determine the remaining fatigue life, a fatigue assessment of structural connection details shall be
performed by the following steps:
• Determine the fatigue damage that has occurred due to the prior service as a trading vessel, and at a
previous installation site, if applicable.
• Determine the fatigue damage that will occur during transit to the installation site.
• Calculate the total fatigue damage exerted by the connection details during the above service.
• Calculate the remaining fatigue life in the connection details of the longitudinal stiffeners for the site
specific operation of the FPI.
• Develop renewal or reinforcement requirements for any stiffener connection that does not show adequate
remaining fatigue life at the installation site.

3 Remaining Fatigue Life

Based on the application of the Palmgren-Miner cumulative damage rule when the cumulative fatigue
damage ratio is equal to 1.0, the connection detail is assumed to fail. Considering fatigue damage ratios
for the prior service to conversion and post conversion phases, this can be expressed as:
SPriorConv/LP,PriorConv + LR,PostConv/LP,PostConv = 1
therefore
LR,PostConv = LP,PostConv × (1 – SPriorConv/LP,PriorConv)
where
LR,PostConv = remaining fatigue life for on-site operation, post conversion
LP,PostConv = predicted (design) fatigue life for on-site operation, post conversion
SPriorConv = service years prior to conversion
LP,PriorConv = predicted (design) fatigue life prior to conversion

134 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 3 Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life) 5A-2-3

5 Remaining Fatigue Life for Longitudinal Stiffener Connections

(1 July 2009)
For a vessel converted to an FPI, where historical trade routes and intended site have been specified,
fatigue lives of both prior and post conversion phases can be calculated using the ABS Eagle FPSO Initial
Scantling Evaluation (ISE) and SEAS software. The Initial Scantling Evaluation Software is used to
evaluate the fatigue response of longitudinal stiffener connections. The ABS Eagle FPSO SEAS software
calculates the environmental severity factors for fatigue (α factors) for the historical routes and intended
site. When the α factor is greater than 1.0, it describes an increase in fatigue life due to reduced
environmental conditions when compared to the North Atlantic environment (where α equals to 1.0).
Once these factors have been established, the above equation can be modified to take into account
environments other than the North Atlantic environment (unrestricted service) as follows:
LR,PostConv = (20/DMComb) × [1 – Σ(SRoute-i/αRoute-i)/LP,Tanker– Σ(SHis Site-i/αHis Site i)/LP,Site –
(STransit/αTransit)/LP,Transit]
where
LR,PostConv = site specific post conversion remaining fatigue life of the unaltered connection
SRoute-i = number of service years for the i-th historical route
SHis Site-i = number of service years for the i-th historical site
STransit = number of service years for the transit phase
LP,Tanker = predicted fatigue life for the tanker phase based on North Atlantic environment
LP,Site = predicted fatigue life for the historical site based on North Atlantic environment
LP,Transit = predicted fatigue life for the transit phase based on North Atlantic environment
αRoute-i = environmental severity factor for the i-th historical route, see 5A-3-A1/5
αHis Site i = environmental severity factor for the i-th historical site, see 5A-3-A1/5
αTransit = environmental severity factor for the transit condition, see 5A-3-A1/5
DMComb = combined fatigue damage post conversion, see 5A-3-A2/19
The expression Σ(SRoute-i/αRoute-i) and Σ(SHis Site-i/αHis Site i) are the weighted average for the various routes
and historical sites for each longitudinal stiffener connection calculated by the ABS Eagle FPSO ISE and
SEAS software.
The calculation of the remaining fatigue life is used only for the connection details that existed prior to
conversion and were not modified in any way during the conversion. For connection details on new
longitudinal members that are added or details that have been modified during the conversion, the predicted
or design fatigue life calculated for the post conversion site specific environment will be applicable.

7 Remaining Fatigue Life for Connections of Transverses and Girders

(1 July 2009)
Horizontal stringer or girder end connections on transverse bulkheads, bracket toes on side, bottom, deck
and longitudinal bulkhead should be screened for fatigue strength using a finite element based fatigue
assessment. For screening purposes the three tank length finite element model employed in the Total
Strength Assessment (TSA) can be used to estimate the nominal stress in the connections. By applying the
same nominal stress approach used for the fatigue evaluation of longitudinal stiffener connections, fatigue
lives are estimated for transverse member connections. Where details are deemed critical as a result of this
screening process, a more refined fatigue assessment based on the hot spot stress is performed using a fine
mesh finite element analysis of the connection detail. The method used to account for prior service and
remaining fatigue life is the same as described for longitudinal stiffener connections in 5A-2-3/3.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 135
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Section 3 Fatigue Consideration (Remaining Fatigue Life) 5A-2-3

The remaining fatigue life is calculated as:

LR,PostConv = (20/DMComb) × [1 – Σ((SRoute-i/20) × DMRoute-i) – Σ((SHis Site-i/20) × DMHis Site-i) –
(STransit/20) × DMTransit]
The expression Σ((SRoute-i/20) × DMRoute-i) and Σ((SHis Site-i/20) × DMHis Site-i) are the weighted average for the
various routes and historical sites calculated based on weighted beta values from the ABS Eagle FPSO
SEAS software.

136 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
PART Appendix 1: Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to Reassessed Scantling Determination (See 5A-2-2/Figure 1)

5A
CHAPTER 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions
to FPI

APPENDIX 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members

Applied to Reassessed Scantling Determination
(See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) (December 2008)

1 Application
These requirements apply to plate panels and longitudinals subject to hull girder bending and shear stresses.

3 Elastic Buckling Stresses

3.1 Elastic Buckling of Plates

3.1.1 Compression
The ideal elastic buckling stress is given by:
2
⎛ tb ⎞
σE = 0.9mE ⎜ ⎟ N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
⎝ s⎠
For plating with longitudinal stiffeners (parallel to compressive stress):
8.4
m= for (0 ≤ Ψ ≤ 1)
Ψ + 1.1
For plating with transverse stiffeners (perpendicular to compressive stress):
2
⎡ ⎛ s ⎞2 ⎤ 2.1
m = c ⎢1 + ⎜ ⎟ ⎥ for (0 ≤ Ψ ≤ 1)
⎢⎣ ⎝ l ⎠ ⎥⎦ Ψ + 1.1

where
E = 2.06 × 105 N/mm2 (21,000 kgf/mm2, 30 × 106 psi)
tb = renewal thickness of plating, in mm (in.)
s = shorter side of plate panel, in mm (in.)
l = longer side of plate panel, in mm (in.)
c = 1.3 when plating stiffened by floors or deep girders
= 1.21 when stiffeners are angles or T-sections
= 1.10 when stiffeners are bulb flats
= 1.05 when stiffeners are flat bars
Ψ = ratio of smallest to largest compressive stress, σa (see 5A-2-A1/7.1), varying
linearly across panel.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 137
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Appendix 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to Reassessed Scantling
Determination (See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) 5A-2-A1

3.1.2 Shear
The ideal elastic buckling stress is given by:
2
⎛ tb ⎞
τE = 0.9kt E ⎜ ⎟ N/mm2 ( kgf/mm2, psi)
⎝ s⎠
where
2
⎛s⎞
kt = 5.34 + 4 ⎜ ⎟
⎝l⎠
E, tb, s and l are as defined in 5A-2-A1/3.1.1.

3.3 Elastic Buckling of Longitudinals

3.3.1 Column Buckling without Rotation of the Cross Section (1 July 2009)
For the column buckling mode (perpendicular to plane of plating), the ideal elastic buckling stress
is given by:
EI a
σE = N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
c1 Al 2
where
Ia = moment of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of longitudinal, including plate flange and
calculated with renewal thickness, as specified in 5A-2-A1/3.1.1
A = cross-sectional area, in cm2 (in2), of longitudinal, including plate flange and
calculated with renewal thickness, as specified in 5A-2-A1/3.1.1
l = unsupported span, in m (ft), of longitudinal
c1 = 1000 (1000, 14.4)
E = as defined in 5A-2-A1/3.1.1
3.3.2 Torsional Buckling Mode (1 July 2009)
The ideal elastic buckling stress for the torsional mode is given by:

π 2 EI w ⎛ K ⎞ I
σE = 2
⎜ m + 2 ⎟ + 0.385E t
2
N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
10c1 I p l ⎝ m ⎠ Ip

where
Cl 4
K = c2
π 4 EI w
m = number of half waves given by 5A-2-A1/Table 1
E = as defined in 5A-2-A1/3.1.1
c2 = 106 (106, 20736)
It = St. Venant’s moment of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of profile (without plate flange)

hw t w3
= c3 for flat bars (slabs)
3

1⎡ 3 ⎛ tf ⎞⎤
⎟⎥
= c3 ⎢hw t w + b f t 3f ⎜1 − 0.63 for flanged profiles
3⎢ ⎜ bf ⎟⎥
⎣ ⎝ ⎠⎦

138 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Appendix 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to Reassessed Scantling
Determination (See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) 5A-2-A1

c3 = 10-4 (10-4, 1.0)

Ip = polar moment of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of profile about connection of stiffener
to plate

hw3 t w
= c3 for flat bars (slabs)
3

⎛ h3 t ⎞
= c3 ⎜ w w + hw2 b f t f ⎟ for flanged profiles
⎜ 3 ⎟
⎝ ⎠
Iw = warping constant, in cm6 (in6), of profile about connection of stiffener to plate

hw3 t w3
= c4 for flat bars (slabs)
36
⎛ t f b 3f hw2 ⎞
= c4 ⎜ ⎟ for “Tee” profiles
⎜ 12 ⎟
⎝ ⎠

b 3f hw2
= c4 [tf ( b 2f + 2bf hw + 4 hw2 ) + 3twbf hw] for angles and bulb
(
12 b f + hw )
2

profiles
c4 = 10-6 (10-6, 1.0)
hw = web height, in mm (in.)
tw = web renewal thickness, in mm (in.)
bf = flange width, in mm (in.)
tf = flange renewal thickness, in mm (in.). For bulb profiles the mean thickness
of the bulb may be used.
l = unsupported span of profile, in m (ft)
s = spacing of profiles, in mm (in.)
C = spring stiffness exerted by supporting plate panel
k p E t 3p
= N (kgf, lbf)
⎛ 1.33k p hw t 3p ⎞
3s⎜1 + ⎟
⎜ st w3 ⎟
⎝ ⎠
kp = 1 − ηp, not to be taken less than zero
tp = plate renewal thickness, in mm (in.)

σa
ηp =
σ Ep

σa = calculated compressive stress. For longitudinals, see 5A-2-A1/7.1

σEp = elastic buckling stress of supporting plate, as calculated in 5A-2-A1/3.1

For flanged profiles, kp need not be taken less than 0.1.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 139
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Appendix 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to Reassessed Scantling
Determination (See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) 5A-2-A1

3.3.3 Web and Flange Buckling

For web plate of longitudinals the ideal buckling stress is given by:
2
⎛t ⎞
σE = 3.8CE ⎜⎜ w ⎟
⎟ N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
⎝ hw ⎠
where
C = 1.0 for angle or tee stiffeners
= 0.33 for bulb plates
= 0.11 for flat bars
For flanges on angles and T-sections of longitudinals, the following requirements will apply:
bf
≤ 15
tf

where
bf = flange width, in mm (in.), for angles, half the flange width for T-sections.
tf = flange renewal thickness, in mm (in.)

TABLE 1
Number of Half Waves (December 2008)
0<K≤4 4 < K ≤ 36 36 < K ≤ 144 144 < K ≤ 400 (m − 1)2 m2 < K ≤ m2 (m + 1)2
m 1 2 3 4 m

5 Critical Buckling Stresses

5.1 Compression
The critical buckling stress in compression, σc, is determined as follows:
σF
σc = σE when σE ≤
2

⎛ σ ⎞ σF
= σF ⎜⎜1 − F ⎟⎟ when σE >
⎝ 4σE ⎠ 2

where
σF = yield stress of material, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi). σF may be taken as 235 N/mm2
(24 kgf/mm2, 34,000 psi) for mild steel.
σE = ideal elastic buckling stress calculated according to 5A-2-A1/3

140 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Appendix 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to Reassessed Scantling
Determination (See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) 5A-2-A1

5.3 Shear
The critical buckling stress in shear, τc, is determined as follows:
τF
τc = τE when τE ≤
2

⎛ τ ⎞ τF
= τF ⎜⎜1 − F ⎟⎟ when τE >
⎝ 4τ E ⎠ 2

where
σF
τF =
3
σF = as given in 5A-2-A1/5.1
τE = ideal elastic buckling stress in shear calculated according to 5A-2-A1/3.1.2

7 Working Stress

7.1 Longitudinal Compressive Stress (1 July 2009)

The compressive stresses are given in the following formula:
β VBM M w + M sw
σa = c5 y N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
In

= minimum 30/Q N/mm2 (3.1/Q kgf/mm2, 4400/Q psi)

where
Msw = maximum still water bending moment at installation site, in kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)
Mw = wave bending moment, as given in 3-2-1/3.7.1(a) of the Steel Vessel Rules, in kN-m
(tf-m, Ltf-ft)
In = moment of inertia of the hull girder based on the reassessed gross scantlings, in cm4 (in4)
y = vertical distance, in m (ft), from the neutral axis to the considered point
Q = as defined in 3-2-1/5.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules (1.0 for ordinary strength steel)
c5 = 105 (105, 322,560)

βVBM = ESF for vertical bending moment, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3

Mw and Msw are to be taken as sagging or hogging bending moments, respectively, for members above or
below the neutral axis.

7.3 Shear Stresses

7.3.1 Installations without Effective Longitudinal Bulkheads (1 July 2009)
The working shear stress, τa, in the side shell of installations without effective longitudinal
bulkheads is given by the following formula:
(Fsw + βVSF Fw ) ms
τa = c6 N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
2t s I

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 141
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 2 Additional Design Considerations for Conversions to FPI
Appendix 1 Buckling Strength of Longitudinal Members Applied to Reassessed Scantling
Determination (See 5A-2-2/Figure 1) 5A-2-A1

where
I = moment of inertia of the hull girder section based on the reassessed gross
scantlings, in cm4 (in4), at the section under consideration.
ms = first moment, in cm3 (in3), about the neutral axis of the area of the effective
longitudinal material between the horizontal level at which the shear stress is
being determined and the vertical extremity of effective longitudinal
material, taken at the position under consideration.
ts = gross thickness of the side shell plating, in cm (in.), at the position under
consideration.
Fsw = hull girder shearing force in still water, in kN (tf, Ltf)
Fw = Fwp or Fwn, in kN (tf, Ltf), as specified by 3-2-1/3.5.3 of the Steel Vessel
Rules, depending upon loading
c6 = 10 (10, 2240)
βVSF = ESF for vertical shear force, as defined in 5A-3-1/3

7.3.2 Installations with Two or More Effective Longitudinal Bulkheads

The working shear stress, τa, in the side shell or longitudinal bulkhead plating is to be calculated
by an acceptable method and in accordance with 3-2-1/3.9.4 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

9 Scantling Criteria

9.1 Buckling Stress

The design buckling stress, σc, of plate panels and longitudinals (as calculated in 5A-2-A1/5.1) is to be
such that:
σc ≥ βσa
where
β = 1 for plating and for web plating of stiffeners (local buckling)
= 1.1 for stiffeners
The critical buckling stress, τc, of plate panels (as calculated in 5A-2-A1/5.3) is to be such that:
τ c ≥ τa
where
τa = working shear stress in the plate panel under consideration, in N/mm2
(kgf/mm2, lbf/in2), as determined by 5A-2-A1/7.3

142 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 3: Structural Design Requirements

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General................................................................................................ 154
1 Design Considerations and General Requirements .......................154
1.1 General........................................................................................ 154
1.3 Initial Scantling Requirements ..................................................... 154
1.5 Strength Assessment – Failure Modes........................................ 154
1.7 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) ................................. 154
1.9 Application................................................................................... 157
1.11 Internal Members ........................................................................ 157
1.13 Breaks ......................................................................................... 159
1.15 Variations .................................................................................... 159
1.17 Loading Guidance ....................................................................... 159
1.19 Pressure-Vacuum Valve Setting.................................................. 159
1.21 Protection of Structure................................................................. 159
1.23 Aluminum Paint ........................................................................... 159
3 Special Requirements for Deep Loading ........................................159
3.1 General........................................................................................ 159
3.3 Machinery Casings ...................................................................... 159
3.5 Access......................................................................................... 160
3.7 Hatchways................................................................................... 160
3.9 Freeing Arrangements................................................................. 160
3.11 Flooding....................................................................................... 160
3.13 Ventilators ................................................................................... 160
5 Arrangement ...................................................................................160
5.1 General........................................................................................ 160
5.3 Subdivision .................................................................................. 160
5.5 Cofferdams.................................................................................. 160
5.7 Gastight Bulkheads ..................................................................... 160
5.9 Cathodic Protection ..................................................................... 161
5.11 Ports in Pump Room Bulkheads.................................................. 161
5.13 Location of Cargo Oil Tank Openings ......................................... 161
5.15 Structural Fire Protection............................................................. 161
5.17 Allocation of Spaces .................................................................... 162
5.19 Access to Upper Parts of Ballast Tanks on Double Hull
Ship-type Installations ................................................................. 162
5.21 Access to All Spaces in the Cargo Area ...................................... 162
5.23 Duct Keels or Pipe Tunnels in Double Bottom............................. 162
5.25 Ventilation.................................................................................... 162

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 143
 5.27 Pumping Arrangements ...............................................................163
5.29 Electrical Equipment ....................................................................163
5.31 Testing.........................................................................................163
5.33 Machinery Spaces .......................................................................163

TABLE 1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) ..........................155

FIGURE 1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) ..........................156

FIGURE 2.....................................................................................................158

SECTION 2 Loads................................................................................................... 164

1 General ...........................................................................................164
1.1 The Concept and Application of Environmental Severity
Factors.........................................................................................164
1.3 Load Components .......................................................................164
3 Static Loads ....................................................................................165
3.1 Still-water Bending Moment .........................................................165
5 Wave-induced Loads ......................................................................169
5.1 General........................................................................................169
5.2 Vertical Wave Bending Moment and Shear Force .......................169
5.3 Horizontal Wave Bending Moment and Shear Force...................170
5.5 External Pressures ......................................................................170
5.7 Internal Pressures – Inertia Forces and Added Pressure
Heads ..........................................................................................172
7 Nominal Design Loads....................................................................190
7.1 General........................................................................................190
7.3 Hull Girder Loads – Longitudinal Bending Moments and
Shear Forces ...............................................................................190
7.5 Local Loads for Design of Supporting Structures ........................190
7.7 Local Pressures for Design of Plating and Longitudinals.............191
9 Combined Load Cases ...................................................................191
9.1 Combined Load Cases for Structural Analysis ............................191
9.3 Combined Load Cases for Failure Assessment...........................191
11 Sloshing Loads ...............................................................................192
11.1 General........................................................................................192
11.3 Strength Assessment of Tank Boundary Structures ....................192
11.5 Sloshing Pressures......................................................................193
13 Impact Loads ..................................................................................202
13.1 Impact Loads on Bow ..................................................................202
13.3 Bottom Slamming ........................................................................203
13.5 Bowflare Slamming......................................................................205
13.7 Green Water on Deck ..................................................................208
15 Deck Loads .....................................................................................209
15.1 General........................................................................................209
15.3 Loads for On-Site Operation........................................................210
15.5 Loads in Transit Condition ...........................................................211

144 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 TABLE 1A Combined Load Cases .........................................................182
TABLE 1B Combined Load Cases for Inspection Condition ..................183
TABLE 1C Combined Load Cases for Repair Condition ........................184
TABLE 2 Load Cases for Sloshing.......................................................185
TABLE 3 Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Members ...........186
TABLE 4 Values of α ............................................................................204
TABLE 5 Values of Ai and Bi .................................................................205
TABLE 6 Values of Ai and Bi ................................................................207
TABLE 7 Values of Ai ...........................................................................209
TABLE 8 Correlation Factors cv, cT, cL, Cφ and Cθ.................................210

FIGURE 1A Loading Pattern – Double Hull and Double Side Single

Bottom FPSO/FSO ...............................................................166
FIGURE 1B Loading Pattern – Single Hull FPSO/FSO ............................167
FIGURE 1C Loading Pattern – Repair and Inspection Conditions for
Double Hull and Double Side Single Bottom FPSO/FSO .....168
FIGURE 1D Loading Pattern – Repair and Inspection Conditions for
Single Hull FPSO/FSO..........................................................169
FIGURE 2 Distribution Factor mh ............................................................177
FIGURE 3 Distribution Factor fh ..............................................................177
FIGURE 4 Distribution of hdi ...................................................................178
FIGURE 5 Pressure Distribution Function klo .........................................178
FIGURE 6 Illustration of Determining Total External Pressure ..............179
FIGURE 7 Definition of Tank Geometry .................................................180
FIGURE 8 Location of Tank for Nominal Pressure Calculation..............181
FIGURE 9 Vertical Distribution of EquivalentSlosh Pressure
Head, he .................................................................................197
FIGURE 10 Horizontal Distribution of Simultaneous Slosh Pressure
Heads, hc (φs θs) or ht (φs θs)....................................................198
FIGURE 11 Definitions for Opening Ratio, α ............................................199
FIGURE 12 Opening Ratios .....................................................................199
FIGURE 13 Dimensions of Internal Structures.........................................200
FIGURE 14 Loading Patterns for Sloshing Load Cases ..........................201
FIGURE 15 Definition of Bow Geometry ..................................................203
FIGURE 16 Distribution of Bottom Slamming Pressure Along the
Section Girth .........................................................................205
FIGURE 17 Definition of Bowflare Geometry for Bowflare Shape
Parameter .............................................................................207
FIGURE 18 Ship-Type Installation Stem Angle, γ ....................................208

SECTION 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation................................................................ 212

1 General ...........................................................................................212
1.1 Strength Requirement ................................................................. 212
1.3 Calculation of Load Effects.......................................................... 212
1.5 Structural Details ......................................................................... 212
1.7 Evaluation of Grouped Stiffeners................................................. 212

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 145
 3 Hull Girder Strength ........................................................................216
3.1 Hull Girder Section Modulus ........................................................216
3.3 Hull Girder Moment of Inertia.......................................................216
3.5 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength .......................................................216
5 Shearing Strength ...........................................................................217
5.1 General........................................................................................217
5.3 Net Thickness of Side Shell Plating .............................................217
5.5 Thickness of Longitudinal Bulkheads...........................................218
5.7 Calculation of Local Loads...........................................................220
5.9 Three Dimensional Analysis ........................................................221
7 Double Bottom Structures...............................................................222
7.1 General........................................................................................222
7.3 Bottom Shell and Inner Bottom Plating ........................................223
7.5 Bottom and Inner Bottom Longitudinals.......................................226
7.7 Bottom Girders/Floors..................................................................227
9 Side Shell and Deck – Plating and Longitudinals ...........................234
9.1 Side Shell Plating.........................................................................234
9.3 Deck Plating ................................................................................236
9.5 Deck and Side Longitudinals .......................................................237
11 Side Shell and Deck – Main Supporting Members .........................239
11.1 General........................................................................................239
11.3 Deck Transverses........................................................................239
11.5 Deck Girders................................................................................242
11.6 Deck Structures in Forebody .......................................................243
11.7 Web Sectional Area of Side Transverses ....................................244
11.9 Minimum Thickness for Web Portion of Main Supporting
Members......................................................................................245
11.11 Proportions ..................................................................................246
11.13 Brackets.......................................................................................247
11.15 Web Stiffeners and Tripping Brackets .........................................247
11.17 Slots and Lightening Holes ..........................................................247
13 Longitudinal and Transverse Bulkheads.........................................249
13.1 Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating .....................................................249
13.3 Transverse Bulkhead Plating.......................................................250
13.5 Longitudinals and Vertical/Horizontal Stiffeners ..........................251
15 Bulkheads – Main Supporting Members.........................................253
15.1 General........................................................................................253
15.3 Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead .......................................253
15.5 Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead..................................255
15.7 Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkhead.........................................257
15.9 Minimum Web Thickness, Proportions, Brackets, Stiffeners,
Tripping Brackets, Slots and Lightening Holes ............................258
15.11 Cross Ties ...................................................................................258
15.13 Nontight Bulkheads......................................................................259

146 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 17 Corrugated Bulkheads ....................................................................259
17.1 General........................................................................................ 259
17.3 Plating ......................................................................................... 259
17.5 Stiffness of Corrugation ............................................................... 260
17.7 Bulkhead Stools .......................................................................... 263
17.9 End Connections ......................................................................... 264

TABLE 1 Coefficient c2 For Deck Transverses.....................................248

TABLE 2 Coefficients KU and KL for Side Transverses ........................248
TABLE 3 Coefficient c for Vertical Web on Longitudinal
Bulkheads .............................................................................255
TABLE 4 Coefficients KU and KL for Vertical Web on Longitudinal
Bulkhead ...............................................................................255

FIGURE 1 Scantling Requirement Reference by Subsection ................213

FIGURE 2A Definitions of Spans (A) ........................................................214
FIGURE 2B Definitions of Spans (B) ........................................................215
FIGURE 3 Center Tank Region..............................................................222
FIGURE 4.....................................................................................................223
FIGURE 5 Unsupported Span of Longitudinal .......................................231
FIGURE 6 Effective Breadth of Plating be ...............................................232
FIGURE 7 Definitions of α3, ls and bs......................................................233
FIGURE 8 Effectiveness of Brackets......................................................248
FIGURE 9 Definition of Parameters for Corrugated Bulkhead
(Ship-type Installations without Longitudinal
Bulkhead at Centerline) ........................................................265
FIGURE 10 Definition of Parameters for Corrugated Bulkhead
(Ship-type Installations with Longitudinal
Bulkhead at Centerline) ........................................................266
FIGURE 11 Corrugated Bulkhead End Connections ...............................267

SECTION 4 Total Strength Assessment............................................................... 268

1 General Requirements....................................................................268
1.1 General........................................................................................ 268
1.3 Loads and Load Cases ............................................................... 268
1.5 Stress Components ..................................................................... 268
3 Failure Criteria – Yielding................................................................269
3.1 General........................................................................................ 269
3.3 Structural Members and Elements .............................................. 269
3.5 Plating ......................................................................................... 270
5 Failure Criteria – Buckling and Ultimate Strength...........................271
5.1 General........................................................................................ 271
5.3 Plate Panels ................................................................................ 271
5.5 Longitudinals and Stiffeners ........................................................ 273
5.7 Stiffened Panels .......................................................................... 274
5.9 Deep Girders and Webs .............................................................. 274
5.11 Corrugated Bulkheads................................................................. 275

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 147
 7 Calculation of Critical Buckling Stresses ........................................276
7.1 General........................................................................................276
7.3 Rectangular Plates ......................................................................276
7.5 Longitudinals and Stiffeners ........................................................280
7.7 Stiffened Panels...........................................................................282
7.9 Stiffness and Proportions.............................................................285
9 Fatigue Life .....................................................................................286
9.1 General........................................................................................286
9.3 Procedures ..................................................................................287
9.5 Spectral Analysis .........................................................................287
11 Calculation of Structural Responses...............................................288
11.1 Methods of Approach and Analysis Procedures ..........................288
11.3 3D Finite Element Models............................................................288
11.5 Local Structural Models ...............................................................288
11.7 Load Cases .................................................................................288
13 Critical Areas...................................................................................289
13.1 General........................................................................................289
13.3 Strength Evaluation .....................................................................289
13.5 Fatigue Evaluation .......................................................................289

TABLE 1 Buckling Coefficient, Ki .........................................................278

TABLE 2 Allowable Stresses (kgf/cm2) for Various Finite Element
Fine Mesh Sizes....................................................................289

FIGURE 1 Net Dimensions and Properties of Stiffeners........................282

FIGURE 2.....................................................................................................284
FIGURE 3 Critical Areas in Transverse Web Frame ..............................290
FIGURE 4 Critical Areas in Horizontal Girder on Transverse
Bulkhead ...............................................................................291
FIGURE 5 Critical Areas of Buttress Structure.......................................292

SECTION 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships ............................................ 293

1 General Requirements....................................................................293
1.1 General........................................................................................293
1.3 Structures within the Cargo Space Length ..................................293
3 Forebody Side Shell Structure ........................................................293
3.1 Side Shell Plating.........................................................................293
3.3 Side Frames and Longitudinals ...................................................295
3.5 Side Transverses and Stringers in Forebody...............................296
5 Transition Zone ...............................................................................303
7 Forebody Strengthening for Slamming ...........................................303
7.1 Bottom Slamming ........................................................................303
7.3 Bowflare Slamming......................................................................305

FIGURE 1 Transverse Distribution of pd .................................................296

FIGURE 2 Definition of Spans ................................................................298

148 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 SECTION 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations.......................... 306
1 General ...........................................................................................306
1.1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values............................................... 306
1.3 Load Criteria................................................................................ 306
1.5 Strength Criteria .......................................................................... 306
3 Main Supporting Structures ............................................................307
3.1 Bottom Transverses .................................................................... 307
3.3 Bottom Girders ............................................................................ 308
3.5 Side Transverses ........................................................................ 311
3.7 Deck Transverses ....................................................................... 312
3.9 Longitudinal Bulkhead Vertical Webs .......................................... 314
3.11 Other Main Supporting Members ................................................ 316
3.13 Proportions .................................................................................. 316
5 Strength Assessment......................................................................316
5.1 General........................................................................................ 316
5.3 Special Considerations................................................................ 316

TABLE 1 Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Structures..........309

TABLE 2 Coefficient c for Side Transverse ..........................................311
TABLE 3 Coefficients KU and KL for Side Transverses ........................312
TABLE 4 Coefficient c2 For Deck Transverse.......................................314
TABLE 5 Coefficient c for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead ......315
TABLE 6 Coefficients KU and KL for Vertical Web on Longitudinal
Bulkhead ...............................................................................316

FIGURE 1 Spans of Transverses and Girders .......................................310

APPENDIX 1 Determination of Environmental Severity Factors .......................... 317

1 General ...........................................................................................317
3 ESFs of the Beta (β) Type ..............................................................317
5 ESFs of the Alpha (α) Type ............................................................319

TABLE 1 The 13 Dynamic Load Parameters or ESFs (βNN) ................318

APPENDIX 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type

Installations ........................................................................................ 321
1 General ...........................................................................................321
1.1 Note............................................................................................. 321
1.3 Applicability ................................................................................. 321
1.5 Loadings...................................................................................... 321
1.7 Effects of Corrosion..................................................................... 321
1.9 Format of the Criteria .................................................................. 321
3 Connections to be Considered for the Fatigue Strength
Assessment ....................................................................................322
3.1 General........................................................................................ 322
3.3 Guidance on Locations................................................................ 322

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 5 Fatigue Strength Assessment.........................................................328
5.1 Assumptions ................................................................................328
5.3 Criteria .........................................................................................328
5.5 Long Term Stress Distribution Parameter, γ ................................328
5.7 Cumulative Fatigue Damage .......................................................329
7 Fatigue Inducing Loads and Determination of Total Stress
Ranges............................................................................................333
7.1 General........................................................................................333
7.3 Wave-induced Loads – Load Components..................................333
7.5 Fatigue Assessment – Loading Conditions..................................333
7.7 Primary Stress fd1 .........................................................................340
7.9 Secondary Stress fd2 ....................................................................340
7.11 Additional Secondary Stresses f*d2 and Tertiary Stresses fd3 ......340
9 Resulting Stress Ranges ................................................................343
9.1 Definitions....................................................................................343
11 Determination of Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs) .................344
11.1 General........................................................................................344
11.3 Sample Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs).............................344
13 Stress Concentration Factors Determined From Finite Element
Analysis...........................................................................................351
13.1 Introduction..................................................................................351
13.3 S-N Data......................................................................................351
13.5 S-N Data and SCFs .....................................................................351
13.7 Calculation of Hot Spot Stress for Fatigue Analysis.....................353
15 Fatigue Assessment of Structures Considering Low Cycle
Fatigue ............................................................................................354
15.1 Introduction..................................................................................354
15.3 Applicability..................................................................................354
15.5 Loads...........................................................................................354
15.7 Selection of Loading Conditions for Low Cycle Fatigue...............355
15.9 Acceptance Criteria .....................................................................355
15.11 Fatigue Assessment Methods .....................................................355
17 Low Cycle Fatigue Damage............................................................356
17.1 Low Cycle Fatigue Load ..............................................................356
17.3 Loading Conditions ......................................................................356
17.5 Stress Range Calculation ............................................................356
19 Combined Fatigue Damage ............................................................360
21 Fatigue Strength Assessment for Service as a Trading Vessel .....360
21.1 Cumulative Fatigue Damage for Trading Vessels .......................360
21.3 Fatigue Assessment Zones and Controlling Load Combination
for Vessels...................................................................................361
21.5 Definitions for Resulting Stress Ranges for Trading Vessels.......362

TABLE 1 Fatigue Classification for Structural Details ..........................323

TABLE 2A Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength
Assessment (Load Combination Factors for Dynamic
Load Components for Loading Condition 1) .........................336

150 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 TABLE 2B Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength
Assessment (Load Combination Factors for Dynamic
Load Components for Loading Condition 2) .........................337
TABLE 2C Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength
Assessment (Load Combination Factors for Dynamic
Load Components for Loading Condition 3) .........................338
TABLE 2D Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength
Assessment (Load Combination Factors for Dynamic
Load Components for Loading Condition 4) .........................339
TABLE 3 Ks (SCF) Values ....................................................................344

FIGURE 1 Basic Design S-N Curves .....................................................331

FIGURE 2A Loading Conditions for Fatigue Strength Assessment –
Double Hull and Double Side Single Bottom FPSO/FSO .....334
FIGURE 2B Loading Conditions for Fatigue Strength Assessment –
Single Hull FPSO/FSO..........................................................335
FIGURE 3 Cn = Cn (ψ) .............................................................................342
FIGURE 4 Cut-outs (Slots) For Longitudinal ..........................................346
FIGURE 5 Fatigue Classification for Longitudinals in way of Flat Bar
Stiffener.................................................................................348
FIGURE 6.....................................................................................................348
FIGURE 7.....................................................................................................349
FIGURE 8.....................................................................................................349
FIGURE 9.....................................................................................................350
FIGURE 10 Doublers and Non-load Carrying Members on Deck or
Shell Plating ..........................................................................350
FIGURE 11...................................................................................................353
FIGURE 12...................................................................................................353
FIGURE 13...................................................................................................354
FIGURE 14 Sample Functions of SW and SB .............................................357
FIGURE 15 A Single Loading/Offloading Cycle .......................................357
FIGURE 16 ke as a Function of SE.............................................................358
FIGURE 17 Low Cycle Fatigue Design Curve..........................................359

APPENDIX 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength............................................................ 364

1 Plate Element..................................................................................365
1.1 Yielding in Tension ...................................................................... 365
1.3 Buckling in Compression ............................................................. 365
3 Stiffener Element ............................................................................367
3.1 Yielding in Tension ...................................................................... 368
3.3 Beam-Column Buckling ............................................................... 368
3.5 Torsional-Flexural Buckling ......................................................... 369
3.7 Local Buckling of Stiffeners ......................................................... 370
5 Corner Element...............................................................................371

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 FIGURE 1 Flow Chart for the Evaluation of the Bending Moment-
Curvature Curve, M-χ............................................................366
FIGURE 2 Load-End Shortening Curve for Plate Element.....................367
FIGURE 3 Load-End Shortening Curve for Beam-Column Buckling .....368
FIGURE 4 Load-End Shortening Curve for Torsional-Flexural
Buckling.................................................................................369
FIGURE 5 Load-End Shortening Curve for Local Buckling....................370
FIGURE 6 Load-End Shortening Curve for a Corner Element...............371

APPENDIX 4 Guide for Finite Element Analysis for Ship-Type Installations ...... 372
1 Objective .........................................................................................372
3 Scope of Application .......................................................................372
5 Extent of the 3-D Global Finite Element Model...............................372
7 Coordinate System of the Model ....................................................373
9 Element Types ................................................................................373
9.1 Plate Elements ............................................................................374
9.3 Bar (or Beam) Elements for Stiffeners .........................................376
9.5 Rod (or Truss) Elements for Stiffeners ........................................377
9.7 Rod Elements for Face Plates of Primary Supporting
Members......................................................................................377
11 General Guidance for 3-D Global FE Modeling ..............................377
13 Loading Conditions .........................................................................377
13.1 Combined Load Cases and Loading Pattern ...............................377
13.3 Sloshing Load Cases...................................................................377
13.5 Hull Girder Vertical Bending Moment and Vertical Shear
Force ...........................................................................................378
13.7 Hull Girder Horizontal Wave Bending Moment ............................378
15 Procedure to Adjust Hull Girder Shear Force and Bending
Moment ...........................................................................................379
15.1 General........................................................................................379
15.3 Shear Force and Bending Moment due to Local Loads...............379
15.5 Procedure to Adjust Vertical Shear Force Distribution.................379
15.7 Procedure to Adjust Vertical and Horizontal Bending
Moments......................................................................................385
17 Boundary Conditions.......................................................................387
17.1 General........................................................................................387
17.3 Calculation of Spring Stiffness .....................................................388
19 Validation of 3-D Global Response.................................................390
19.1 Correlation with Beam Theory .....................................................390
19.3 Additional Remarks......................................................................390
21 Detailed Stress Assessment – Local FEA ......................................390
21.1 General........................................................................................390
21.3 Analysis Model ............................................................................390
21.5 Analysis Criteria...........................................................................391
23 Fatigue Assessment – Fatigue FEA ...............................................391
23.1 General........................................................................................391

152 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 TABLE 1 Shear Force Distribution Factors ..........................................385
TABLE 2 Boundary Constraints at Model Ends ...................................388
TABLE 3 Shear Areas to be Considered for the Calculation of
Spring Stiffness .....................................................................389
TABLE 4 Typical Details to be Refined ................................................390

FIGURE 1 Extent of 3-D Global Finite Element Model...........................373

FIGURE 2 Typical Finite Element Mesh on Web Frame........................375
FIGURE 3 Typical Finite Element Mesh on Transverse Bulkhead ........375
FIGURE 4 Typical Finite Element Mesh on Horizontal Transverse
Stringer on Transverse Bulkhead .........................................376
FIGURE 5 Typical Finite Element Mesh on Transverse Web Frame
Main Bracket .........................................................................376
FIGURE 6 Position of Target Shear Force and Required Shear Force
Adjustment at Transverse Bulkhead Positions .....................382
FIGURE 7 Distribution of Adjusting Vertical Force at Frames and
Resulting Shear Force Distributions .....................................383
FIGURE 8 Distribution of Adjusting Load on a Transverse Section .......384
FIGURE 9 Spring Constriants at Model Ends ........................................387

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PART Section 1: General

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

SECTION 1 General

1 Design Considerations and General Requirements

1.1 General (December 2008)

The strength requirements specified in this Chapter are based on a “net” ship approach. In determining the
required scantlings and performing structural analyses and strength assessments, the nominal design
corrosion values given in 5A-3-1/Table 1 are to be deducted.

1.3 Initial Scantling Requirements (December 2008)

The initial requirements for plating, the section modulus of longitudinals/stiffeners, and the scantlings of
the main supporting structures are to be determined in accordance with Section 5A-3-3 for the “net” ship.
These “net” ship values are to be used for further assessment as required in the following paragraph. The
relevant nominal design corrosion values are then added to obtain the full scantling requirements.

1.5 Strength Assessment – Failure Modes (December 2008)

A total assessment of the structures, determined on the basis of the initial strength criteria in Section 5A-3-3
is to be carried out against the following three failure modes.
1.5.1 Material Yielding
The calculated stress intensities are not to be greater than the yielding limit state given in 5A-3-4/3.1
for all load cases specified in 5A-3-2/9.
1.5.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength
For each individual member, plate or stiffened panel, the buckling and ultimate strength is to be in
compliance with the requirements specified in 5A-3-4/5. In addition, the hull girder ultimate
strength is to be in accordance with 5A-3-3/3.5 and Appendix 5A-3-A3.
1.5.3 Fatigue
The fatigue strength of structural details and welded joints in highly stressed regions is to be
analyzed in accordance with 5A-3-4/9.

1.7 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) (December 2008)

1.7.1 General (1 July 2009)
The “net” thickness or scantlings correspond to the minimum strength in Part 5A, Chapter 3
regardless of the design service life of the installation. In addition to the coating protection
specified in the Rules for all ballast tanks, minimum corrosion values for plating and structural
members as given in 5A-3-1/Table 1 and 5A-3-1/Figure 1 are to be applied. These minimum
values are being introduced solely for the purpose of scantling requirements and strength criteria
as indicated in 5A-3-1/1.1, and are not to be interpreted as renewal standards.
In view of the anticipated higher corrosion rates for structural members in some regions, such as
highly stressed areas, additional design margins should be considered for the primary and critical
structural members to minimize repairs and maintenance costs. The beneficial effects of these
design margins on reduction of stresses and increase of the effective hull girder section modulus
can be appropriately accounted for in the design evaluation.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

TABLE 1
Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) (December 2008)
Nominal Design Corrosion Values
in mm (in.)
Ballast Tank
Structural Element/Location Cargo Tank Effectively Coated
Deck Plating 1.0 (0.04) 2.0 (0.08)
Side Shell Plating NA 1.5 (0.06)
Bottom Plating NA 1.0 (0.04)
Inner Bottom Plating 1.5 (0.06)
Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating Between cargo tanks 1.0 (0.04) N.A.
Other Plating 1.5 (0.06)
Transverse Bulkhead Plating Between cargo tanks 1.0 (0.04) N.A.
Other Plating 1.5 (0.06)
Transverse & Longitudinal Deck Supporting Members 1.5 (0.06) 2.0 (0.08)
Double Bottom Tanks Internals (Stiffeners, Floors and Girders) N.A. 2.0 (0.08)
Vertical Stiffeners and Supporting Members Elsewhere 1.0 (0.04) 1.0 (0.04)
Non-vertical Longitudinals/Stiffeners and Supporting Members Elsewhere 1.5 (0.06) 2.0 (0.08)
Notes:
1 It is recognized that corrosion depends on many factors including coating properties, cargo composition, inert gas
properties and temperature of carriage, and that actual wastage rates observed may be appreciably different from
those given here.
2 Pitting and grooving are regarded as localized phenomena and are not covered in this table.
3 For nominal design corrosion values for single hull ship-type installations, see Section 5A-3-6.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

FIGURE 1
Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) (December 2008)
1.5m BELOW TANK TOP

E
FLANG
WEB &
2.0mm 2.0mm
SPLASH ZONE

1.0mm
1.5mm
2.0mm WEB GE 1.5mm
FL AN
WE
FLANB 1.5mm
GE 1.5
mm
1.0mm

m
1.5m m
WEB E 1.5m
AN G
FL
WEB WEB
2.0mm FLAN 1.0mm
GE 1
m .0mm
2. 0 m
FLANGE
1.0mm

1.5m
m 1.5mm WEB
FLAN 1.5mm
GE 1
.0mm
WEB
1.0m FLAN 1.0mm
m GE 1
.0mm

m
1.5m
m
1.5m

m
1.5m
m
1.0m

2.0m
m m
2.0m

m
1. 0m

WE
B2
FLA .0m
NG m
E2
.0m
m

156 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTLLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

1.9 Application
1.9.1 Installation Size and Proportion (1997)
The requirements contained in this Chapter are applicable to double hull ship-type installations
intended for unrestricted service, having lengths of 150 meters (492 feet) or more, and having
parameters within the range as specified in 3-2-1/1 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
1.9.2 Installation Types (December 2008)
The equations and formulae for determining design load and strength requirements, as specified in
Sections 5A-3-2 and 5A-3-3, are applicable to double hull ship-type installations. For single hull
ship-type installations, the parameters used in the equations are to be adjusted according to the
structural configurations and loading patterns outlined in Section 5A-3-6. The strength assessment
procedures and the failure criteria, as specified in Section 5A-3-4, are applicable to all ship-type
installations.
Double hull ship-type installation is a monohull having full depth wing water ballast tanks or
other non-cargo spaces, and full breadth double bottom water ballast tanks or other non-cargo
spaces throughout the cargo area, intended to prevent or at least reduce the liquid cargo outflow in
an accidental grounding or collision. The size and capacity of these wing/double bottom tanks or
spaces are to comply with MARPOL 73/78 and national Regulations, as applicable.
A Double side, single bottom ship-type installation is a monohull having full depth wing water
ballast tanks or other non-cargo spaces and single bottom structure.
A Single hull ship-type installation is a monohull that does not have double side and double
bottom spaces fitting the above definitions of Double hull ship-type installation.
1.9.3 Direct Calculations (1 September 2007)
Direct calculations with respect to the determination of design loads and the establishment of
alternative strength criteria based on first principles will be accepted for consideration, provided
that all the supporting data, analysis procedures and calculated results are fully documented and
submitted for review. In this regard, due consideration is to be given to the environmental
conditions, probability of occurrence, uncertainties in load and response predictions and reliability
of the structure in service.
1.9.4 SafeHull Construction Monitoring Program (1 July 2001)
A Construction Monitoring Plan for critical areas, prepared in accordance with the requirements of
Part 5C, Appendix 1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, is to be submitted for approval prior to commencement
of fabrication. See Part 5C, Appendix 1 “Guide for SafeHull Construction Monitoring Program”
of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.11 Internal Members (2002)

1.11.1 Section Properties of Structural Members (December 2008)
The geometric properties of structural members may be calculated directly from the dimensions of
the section and the associated effective plating (see 3-1-2/13.3 and 3-1-2/13.5 of the Steel Vessel
Rules or 5A-3-3/Figure 6 of this Guide, as applicable). For structural member with angle θ (see
5A-3-1/Figure 2) between web and associated plating not less than 75 degrees, the section
modulus, web sectional area and moment of inertia of the “standard” (θ = 90 degrees) section may
be used without modification. Where the angle θ is less than 75 degrees, the sectional properties
are to be directly calculated about an axis parallel to the associated plating (see 5A-3-1/Figure 2).
For longitudinals, frames and stiffeners, the section modulus may be obtained by the following
equation:
SM = αθ SM90
where
αθ = 1.45 − 40.5/θ
SM90 = the section modulus at θ = 90 degrees

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

The effective web section area may be obtained by the following equation:
A = A90 sin θ
where
A90 = effective shear area at θ = 90 degrees
The effective moment of inertia may be obtained by the following equation:
I = αθ I90
where
αθ = 1.45 − 40.5/θ
I90 = effective moment of inertia at θ = 90 degrees

In the above equation, θ is in degrees.

FIGURE 2

dw

θ = 90°

Standard

dw

1.11.2 Detailed Design

The detailed design of internals is to follow the guidance given in 3-1-2/15 of the Steel Vessel
Rules and 5A-3-3/1.5 of this Guide.
See also Appendix 5A-3-A2 “Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations”.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

1.13 Breaks
Special care is to be taken to provide against local stresses at the ends of the cargo oil spaces,
superstructures, etc., and throughout the structure in general. The main longitudinal bulkheads are to be
suitably tapered at their ends, and effective longitudinal bulkheads in the poop are to be located such as to
provide effective continuity between the structure in way of and beyond the main cargo spaces. Where the
break of a superstructure lies within the midship 0.5L, the required shell and deck scantlings for the
midship 0.4L may be required to be extended to introduce a gradual taper of the structure, and the deck
stringer plate and sheer strake are to be increased. See 5A-3-3/9.1 and 5A-3-3/9.3. Where the breaks of the
forecastle or poop are appreciably beyond the midship 0.5L, the requirements for the deck stringer plate
and sheer strake, as specified in 5A-3-3/9.1 and 5A-3-3/9.3, may be modified.

1.15 Variations
Ship-type installations of a special type or design, differing from those described in this Guide, will be
specially considered on the basis of equivalent strength.

1.17 Loading Guidance (1997)

Loading guidance is to be as required by 3-2-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules, except that 5A-3-3/5 of this
Guide will apply for allowable shear stresses.

1.19 Pressure-Vacuum Valve Setting (1993)

Where pressure-vacuum valves of cargo oil tanks are set at a pressure in excess of the pressure appropriate
to the length of the installation [see 5C-1-7/11.11.2 of the Steel Vessel Rules], the tank scantlings will be
specially considered.
Particular attention is to be given to a higher pressure setting of pressure-vacuum valves as may be required
for the efficient operation of cargo vapor emission control systems, where installed.

1.21 Protection of Structure

For the protection of structure, see 3-2-18/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.23 Aluminum Paint

Paint containing aluminum is not to be used in cargo tanks, on tank decks in way of cargo tanks, and in
pump rooms and cofferdams, nor in any other area where cargo vapor may accumulate, unless it has been
shown by appropriate tests that the paint to be used does not increase the fire hazard.

3 Special Requirements for Deep Loading

3.1 General (2003)

Where an installation is intended to operate at the minimum freeboard allowed by the International
Convention on Load Lines, 1966 for Type-A vessels, the conditions in 5A-3-1/3.3 through 5A-3-1/3.11 are
to be complied with.

3.3 Machinery Casings

Machinery casings are normally to be protected by an enclosed poop or bridge, or by a deckhouse of
equivalent strength. The height of such structure is to be not less than 2.3 m (7.5 ft). The bulkheads at the
forward ends of these structures are to have scantlings not less than required for bridge-front bulkheads
(See 3-2-11/3 of the Steel Vessel Rules). Machinery casings may be exposed, provided that they are
specially stiffened and there are no openings giving direct access from the freeboard deck to the machinery
space. A door complying with the requirements of 3-2-11/5.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules may, however, be
permitted in the exposed machinery casing, provided that it leads to a space or passageway which is as
strongly constructed as the casing and is separated from the engine room by a second door complying with
3-2-11/5.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules. The sill of the exterior door is not to be less than 600 mm (23.5 in.),
and the sill of the second door is not to be less than 230 mm (9 in.).

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

3.5 Access (1998)

Satisfactory arrangements are to be provided to safeguard the crew in reaching all areas used in the
necessary work of the installation. See 3-2-17/3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

3.7 Hatchways
Exposed hatchways on the freeboard and forecastle decks or on the tops of expansion trunks are to be
provided with efficient steel watertight covers. The use of material other than steel will be subject to special
consideration.

3.9 Freeing Arrangements

Ship-type installations with bulwarks are to have open rails fitted for at least half the length of the exposed
parts of the freeboard and superstructure decks, or other effective freeing arrangements are to be provided.
The upper edge of the sheer strake is to be kept as low as practicable. Where superstructures are connected
by trunks, open rails are to be fitted for the entire length of the exposed parts of the freeboard deck.

3.11 Flooding (2003)

Attention is called to the requirement of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, that ship-type
installations over 150 m (492 ft) in freeboard length (see 3-1-1/3.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules), to which
freeboards less than those based solely on Table B are assigned, must be able to withstand the flooding of
certain compartments.

3.13 Ventilators (2003)

Ventilators to spaces below the freeboard deck are to be specially stiffened or protected by superstructures
or other efficient means. See also 3-2-17/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5 Arrangement (1994)

5.1 General
The arrangements of the installation are to comply with the requirements in Annex 1 to the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships with regard to segregated ballast tanks (Regulation 13),
their protective locations (Regulation 13E – where the option in Regulation 13F (4) or (5) is exercised),
collision or stranding considerations (Regulation 13F), hypothetical outflow of oil (Regulation 23), limitations
of size and arrangement of cargo tanks (Regulation 24) and slop tanks [Regulation 15 (2) (c)]. A valid
International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate issued by the flag administration may be accepted as
evidence of compliance with these requirements.

5.3 Subdivision
The length of tanks, the location of expansion trunks and the position of longitudinal bulkheads are to be
arranged to avoid excessive dynamic stresses in the hull structure.

5.5 Cofferdams
Cofferdams, thoroughly oil tight and vented, and having widths as required for ready access, are to be
provided in order to separate all cargo tanks from galleys and living quarters, general cargo spaces which
are below the uppermost continuous deck, boiler rooms and spaces containing propulsion machinery or
other machinery where sources of ignition are normally present. Pump rooms, compartments arranged
solely for ballast and fuel oil tanks may be considered as cofferdams for the purpose of this requirement.

5.7 Gastight Bulkheads

Gastight bulkheads are to be provided in order to isolate all cargo pumps and piping from spaces
containing stoves, boilers, propelling machinery, electric apparatus or machinery where sources of ignition
are normally present. These bulkheads are to comply with the requirements of Section 3-2-9 of the Steel
Vessel Rules.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

5.9 Cathodic Protection (1996)

5.9.1 Anode Installation Plan
Where sacrificial anodes are fitted in cargo or adjacent ballast tanks, their material, their disposition
and details of their attachment are to be submitted for approval.
5.9.2 Magnesium and Magnesium Alloy Anodes
Magnesium and magnesium alloy anodes are not to be used.
5.9.3 Aluminum Anodes
Aluminum anodes may be used in the cargo tanks of ship-type installations, but only in locations
where the potential energy does not exceed 275 N-m (28 kgf-m, 200 ft-lb). The height of the
anode is to be measured from the bottom of the tank to the center of the anode, and the weight is
to be taken as the weight of the anode as fitted, including the fitting devices and inserts.
Where aluminum anodes are located on horizontal surfaces, such as bulkhead girders and stringers,
which are not less than 1 m (39 in.) wide and fitted with an upstanding flange or face flat projecting
not less than 75 mm (3 in.) above the horizontal surface, the height of the anode may be measured
from this surface.
Aluminum anodes are not to be located under tank hatches or Butterworth openings unless
protected from falling metal objects by adjacent tank structure.
5.9.4 Anode Attachment
Anodes are to have steel cores sufficiently rigid to avoid resonance in the anode support, and the
cores are to be designed to retain the anode even when it is wasted.
The steel cores are to be attached to the structure by means of continuous welds at least 75 mm
(3 in.) in length. Alternatively, they may be attached to separate supports by bolting. A minimum
of two bolts with locknuts is to be used.
The supports at each end of an anode are not to be attached to items of structure that are likely to
move independently.
Anode inserts and supports welded directly to the structure are to be arranged so that the welds are
clear of stress raisers.

5.11 Ports in Pump Room Bulkheads

Where fixed ports are fitted in the bulkheads between a pump room and the machinery or other
non-hazardous space, they are to maintain the gastight and watertight integrity of the bulkhead. The ports
are to be effectively protected against the possibility of mechanical damage and are to be fire resistant.
Hinged port covers of steel, having non-corrosive hinge pins and secured from the non-hazardous space
side, are to be provided. The covers are to provide strength and integrity equivalent to the unpierced
bulkhead. Except where it may interfere with the function of the ports, the covers are to be secured in the
closed position. The use of material other than steel for the covers will be subject to special consideration.
Lighting fixtures providing strength and integrity equivalent to that of the port covers will be accepted as
an alternative.

5.13 Location of Cargo Oil Tank Openings

Cargo oil tank openings, including those for tank cleaning, which are not intended to be secured gastight at
all times during the normal operation of the installation, are not to be located in enclosed spaces. For the purpose
of this requirement, spaces open on one side only are to be considered enclosed. See also 5A-3-1/5.23.

5.15 Structural Fire Protection

The applicable requirements of Section 3-4-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules are to be complied with.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 1 General 5A-3-1

5.17 Allocation of Spaces (1994)

5.17.1 Tanks Forward of the Collision Bulkhead
Tanks forward of the collision bulkhead are not to be arranged for the carriage of oil or other liquid
substances that are flammable.
5.17.2 Double Bottom Spaces and Wing Tank Spaces
For installations of 5000 metric tons (4921 long tons) deadweight and above, double bottom spaces
or wing tanks adjacent to cargo oil tanks are to be allocated for water ballast or spaces other than
cargo and fuel oil tanks.

5.19 Access to Upper Parts of Ballast Tanks on Double Hull Ship-type Installations (1993)
Where the structural configuration within ballast tanks is such that it will prevent access to upper parts of
the tanks for required close-up examination [see 7-3-2/5.13.3 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction
(Part 7)] by conventional means, such as a raft on partly filled tank, permanent means of safe access is to
be provided. Details of the access are to be submitted for review.
Where horizontal girders or diaphragm plates are fitted, they may be considered as forming part of a
permanent access. Alternative arrangements to the above may be considered upon submission.

5.21 Access to All Spaces in the Cargo Area (1 October 1994)

Access to cofferdams, ballast tanks, cargo tanks and other spaces in the cargo area is to be direct and from
the open deck. Access to double bottom spaces may be through a cargo pump room, deep cofferdam, pipe
tunnel or similar space, provided ventilation is suitable.
For access through horizontal openings, hatches or manholes, the access is to be of a size such as to allow a
person wearing a self-contained, air-breathing apparatus and protective equipment (see 4-7-3/15.5 of the
Steel Vessel Rules) to ascend or descend any ladder without obstruction and also to provide a clear opening
to facilitate the hoisting of an injured person from the bottom of the space. In general, the minimum clear
opening is not to be less than 600 mm (24 in.) by 600 mm (24 in.).
For access through vertical openings or manholes providing passage through the length and breadth of the
space, the minimum clear opening is not to be less than 600 mm (24 in.) by 800 mm (32 in.) at a height of
not more than 600 mm (24 in.) from the bottom shell plating unless gratings or other footholds are provided.

5.23 Duct Keels or Pipe Tunnels in Double Bottom (2000)

Duct keels or pipe tunnels are not to pass into machinery spaces. Provision is to be made for at least two
exits to the open deck, arranged at a maximum distance from each other. One of these exits may lead to
the cargo pump room, provided that it is watertight and fitted with a watertight door complying with the
requirements of 3-2-9/9.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules and in addition complying with the following:
i) In addition to bridge operation, the watertight door is to be capable of being closed from outside
the main pump room entrance; and
ii) A notice is to be affixed at each operating position to the effect that the watertight door is to be
kept closed during normal operations of the installation, except when access to the pipe tunnel is
required.
For the requirements of ventilation and gas detection in duct keels or pipe tunnels, see 5C-1-7/31.17.1 of
the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.25 Ventilation (1996)

Holes are to be cut in every part of the structure where otherwise there might be a chance of gases being
“pocketed”. Special attention is to be paid to the effective ventilation of pump rooms and other working
spaces adjacent to oil tanks. In general, floor plating is to be of an open type not to restrict the flow of air,
see 5C-1-7/17.1 and 5C-1-7/17.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Efficient means are to be provided for clearing
the oil spaces of dangerous vapors by means of artificial ventilation or steam. For cargo tank venting, see
5C-1-7/11 and 5C-1-7/21 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

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5.27 Pumping Arrangements

See applicable requirements in Section 5C-1-7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.29 Electrical Equipment

See 5C-1-7/31 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.31 Testing
Requirements for testing are contained in Part 3, Chapter 7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.33 Machinery Spaces

Machinery spaces aft are to be specially stiffened transversely. Longitudinal material at the break is also to
be specially considered to reduce concentrated stresses in this region. Longitudinal wing bulkheads are to
be incorporated with the machinery casings or with substantial accommodation bulkheads in the tween
decks and within the poop.

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PART Section 2: Loads

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

SECTION 2 Loads

1 General

1.1 The Concept and Application of Environmental Severity Factors (December 2008)
This Chapter referred to in Part 5A, Chapter 1 provides an explanation of the ship-type hull structural design
and analysis criteria. Previously, it was customary to specify that ship-type offshore installations were to
meet structural design and analysis criteria for unrestricted full ocean service conditions, i.e., a trading oil
tanker. In reality, many such installations were sited at locations with dynamic components of their
loading that are less than those arising from unrestricted service conditions.
At the same time, the approach to major ship design that has been developed and advocated by the Bureau
in the last decade has relied on a two phase method. In the first phase, initial design scantlings of the
installation are selected, considering nominal, maximum expected loadings that a component is likely to
experience in its lifetime for the full ocean service. This step is called the Initial Scantling Evaluation
(ISE) and is governed by the criteria contained in Sections 5A-3-2 through 5A-3-3. A second step requires
structural analyses of major portions of the hull structure to verify the adequacy of the structural system’s
performance, including strength checks for failure modes associated with yielding, buckling and ultimate
strength. This step is referred to as the Total Strength Assessment (TSA) and is governed by the criteria
specified in Section 5A-3-4.
To adjust the loadings and load effects produced by the site-specific long-term environment at the installation
site (compared to the full ocean service), a series of “Environmental Severity Factors” (ESFs) have been
derived. There are two types of ESFs, which are referred to as “Alpha” type (α) and “Beta” type (β). The
α factors are used to adjust fatigue strength performance expectations between the full ocean service (Rule
basis) and the long-term site-specific environment. The β factors are used primarily to adjust the dynamic
component of loads that are used to establish: hull girder strength (i.e., wave-induced hull girder loads),
individual scantling design equations, the loads used in the strength analyses of the hull, and ancillary
forces, such as those from the motion of equipment masses located on or above the main deck. In practice,
the hull may be loaded over a large range of tank loading patterns and external drafts. The implied value of
all ESFs of both the alpha and beta types for the full ocean service is 1.0.
The determination of the environmental severity factors is to be carried out in accordance with Appendix
5A-3-A1 using the ABS Eagle FPSO SEAS program.

1.3 Load Components (1995)

In the design of the hull structure of ship-type installations, all load components with respect to the hull
girder and local structure as specified in this Chapter and Section 3-2-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules are to be
taken into account. These include static loads in still water, wave-induced motions and loads, sloshing,
slamming, dynamic, thermal and ice loads, where applicable.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
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3 Static Loads (1995)

3.1 Still-water Bending Moment

For still-water bending moment calculations, see 3-2-1/3.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
When a direct calculation of wave-induced loads [i.e., longitudinal bending moments and shear forces,
hydrodynamic pressures (external) and inertial forces and added pressure heads (internal)] is not submitted,
envelope curves of the still-water bending moments (hogging and sagging) and shear forces (positive and
negative) are to be provided.
Except for special loading cases, the loading patterns shown in 5A-3-2/Figures 1A to 1C are to be considered
in determining local static loads.

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Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 1A
Loading Pattern – Double Hull and Double Side Single Bottom FPSO/FSO
(December 2008)

a. Load Cases No. 1 and 3 b. Load Cases No. 2 and 4

2/3 Scantling Draft 0.9 Scantling Draft

c. Load Case No. 5 g. Load Case No. 9 * d. Load Case No. 6 h. Load Case No. 10 *
2/3 Scantling Draft 1/4 Scantling Draft 2/3 Scantling Draft 1/4 Scantling Draft

e. Load Case No. 7 f. Load Case No. 8

2/3 Scantling Draft 0.9 Scantling Draft 0.95 Scantling Draft

For detailed loading information see 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C.

* For L.C. 9 and 10, where static conditions, such as tank testing, that have the same loading pattern as the center row of tanks resulting in
a draft less than 1/4 Design Draft, the actual static condition draft is to be used. The value of ks = 1.0 is to be used in all tanks. The
tanks are to be loaded considering the actual height of the overflow pipe.
(1 July 2005) For a hull structure with the main supporting members that are asymmetric forward and aft of the mid-tank transverse
bulkheads, the above load cases are to be evaluated by turning the finite element model by 180 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.
(1 July 2005) For a hull structure that is asymmetric with respect to the centerline plane, the additional load cases mirroring the above
asymmetric load case are to be evaluated.

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FIGURE 1B
Loading Pattern – Single Hull FPSO/FSO (December 2008)

a. Load Cases No. 1 and 3 b. Load Cases No. 2 and 4

2/3 Scantling Draft 0.95 Scantling Draft

c. Load Case No. 5 g. Load Case No. 9 * d. Load Case No. 6 h. Load Case No. 10 *
2/3 Scantling Draft 1/3 Scantling Draft 2/3 Scantling Draft 1/3 Scantling Draft

e. Load Case No. 7 f. Load Case No. 8

2/3 Scantling Draft 0.95 Scantling Draft

For detailed loading information see 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C.

* For L.C. 9 and 10, where static conditions, such as tank testing, that have the same loading pattern as the center row of tanks
resulting in a draft less than 1/3 Design Draft, the actual static condition draft is to be used. The value of ks = 1.0 is to be used in all
tanks. The tanks are to be loaded considering the actual height of the overflow pipe.
(1 July 2005) For a hull structure with the main supporting members that are asymmetric forward and aft of the mid-tank transverse
bulkheads, the above load cases are to be evaluated by turning the finite element model by 180 degrees with respect to the vertical
axis.

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FIGURE 1C
Loading Pattern – Repair and Inspection Conditions for Double Hull and Double Side
Single Bottom FPSO/FSO* (1 July 2009)
Unless more severe inspection or repair loading condition is specified by the operator,
the following minimum design inspection and repair loading conditions are to be used.
Inspection Loading Condition 1 Inspection Loading Condition 2 Inspection Loading Condition 3

95% Scantling Draft 95% Scantling Draft 95% Scantling Draft

Repair Loading Condition 1 Repair Loading Condition 2 Repair Loading Condition 3

Empty with
Empty with Empty with
either J- or
U-shaped U-shaped
R R U-shaped R
Ballast Ballast
Ballast
Tank Tank
Tank

2/3 Scantling Draft 2/3 Scantling Draft 2/3 Scantling Draft

* For double hull or double side structure with one cargo tank across, no loading conditions for inspection and repair are given
above as they are covered under standard loading conditions shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 1A.

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FIGURE 1D
Loading Pattern – Repair and Inspection Conditions for Single Hull FPSO/FSO
(December 2008)
Unless more severe inspection or repair loading condition is specified by the operator,
the following minimum design inspection and repair loading conditions are to be used.
Inspection Loading Condition 1 Inspection Loading Condition 2 Inspection Loading Condition 3

95% Scantling Draft 95% Scantling Draft 95% Scantling Draft

Repair Loading Condition 1 Repair Loading Condition 2 Repair Loading Condition 3

R R R

2/3 Scantling Draft 2/3 Scantling Draft 2/3 Scantling Draft

5 Wave-induced Loads (1995)

5.1 General (1 July 2009)

Where a direct calculation of the wave-induced loads is not available, the approximation equations given in
the following sections and specified in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules with Environmental Severity
Factors (ESFs) may be used to calculate the design loads.
When a direct calculation of the wave-induced loads is performed, envelope curves of the combined wave
and still-water bending moments and shear forces, covering all the anticipated loading conditions, are to be
submitted for review.

5.2 Vertical Wave Bending Moment and Shear Force (1 July 2009)
The design vertical wave bending moment and shear force may be obtained from 5A-1-2/1.

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Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

5.3 Horizontal Wave Bending Moment and Shear Force

5.3.1 Horizontal Wave Bending Moment (1 September 2007)
The horizontal wave bending moment, positive (tension port) or negative (tension starboard), may
be obtained from the following equation:
MH = ± mhβHBMK3C1L2DCb × 10-3 kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)
where
mh = distribution factor, as given by 5A-3-2/Figure 2
βHBM = ESF for horizontal bending moment, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
K3 = 180 (18.34, 1.68)
D = hull depth of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
C1, L, and Cb are as given in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
5.3.2 Horizontal Wave Shear Force (1 September 2007)
The envelope of horizontal wave shearing force, FH, positive (toward port forward) or negative
(toward starboard aft), may be obtained from the following equation:
FH = ± fhβHSFkC1LD(Cb + 0.7) × 10-2 kN (tf, Ltf)
where
fh = distribution factor, as given in 5A-3-2/Figure 3
βHSF = ESF for horizontal shear force, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
k = 36 (3.67, 0.34)
C1, L, D and Cb are as defined in 5A-3-2/5.3.1 above.

5.5 External Pressures

5.5.1 Pressure Distribution (1 September 2007)
The external pressures, pe , (positive toward inboard), imposed on the hull in seaways can be expressed
by the following equation at a given location:
pe = ρ g(hs + βEPS/EPPku hde) ≥ 0 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
where
ρg = specific weight of sea water
= 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft)
hs = hydrostatic pressure head in still water, in m (ft)
βEPS/EPP = ESF for external pressure starboard/port, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
ku = load factor, and may be taken as unity unless otherwise specified.
hde = hydrodynamic pressure head induced by the wave, in m (ft), may be
calculated as follows:
= kc hdi
where
kc = correlation factor for a specific combined load case, as given in 5A-3-2/7.1
and 5A-3-2/9
hdi = hydrodynamic pressure head, in m (ft), at location i (i =1, 2, 3, 4 or 5; see
5A-3-2/Figure 4)
= klαihdo in m (ft)

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kl = distribution factor along the length of the installation

= 1 + (klo − 1) cos μ, klo is as given in 5A-3-2/Figure 5
= 1.0 amidships
hdo = 1.36 kC1 in m (ft)
C1 = as defined in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
k = 1 (1, 3.281)
αi = distribution factor around the girth of installation at location i.
= 1.00 − 0.25 cos μ for i = 1, at WL, starboard
= 0.40 − 0.10 cos μ for i = 2, at bilge, starboard
= 0.30 − 0.20 sin μ for i = 3, at bottom centerline
= 2α3 − α2 for i = 4, at bilge, port
= 0.75 − 1.25 sin μ for i = 5, at WL, port
αi at intermediate locations of i may be obtained by linear interpolation.
μ = wave heading angle, to be taken from 0° to 90° (0° for head sea, 90° for
beam sea for wave coming from starboard)
The distribution of the total external pressure including static and hydrodynamic pressure is
illustrated in 5A-3-2/Figure 6.
5.5.2 Extreme Pressures
In determining the required scantlings of local structural members, the extreme external pressure,
pe, to be used, is as defined in 5A-3-2/5.5.1 with ku as given in 5A-3-2/7 and 5A-3-2/9.
5.5.3 Simultaneous Pressures (1 September 2007)
When performing 3D structural analysis, the simultaneous pressure along any portion of the hull
girder may be obtained from:
pes = ρ g (hs + βEPS/EPPkf ku hde) ≥ 0 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
where
βEPS/EPP = ESF for external pressure starboard/port, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
kf is a factor denoting the phase relationship between the reference station and adjacent stations
considered along the installation’s length, and may be determined as follows:
⎧⎪ ⎡ 2π ( x − x o ) ⎤ ⎫⎪
kf = k fo ⎨1 − ⎢1 − cos ⎥ cos μ ⎬
⎪⎩ ⎣ L ⎦ ⎪⎭

where
x = distance from A.P. to the station considered, in m (ft)
xo = distance from A.P. to the reference station*, in m (ft).
L = installation length, as defined in 3-1-1/3 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
μ = wave heading angle, to be taken from 0° to 90°
kfo = ±1.0, as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C
* The reference station is the point along the installation’s length where the wave
trough or crest is located and may be taken as the mid-point of the mid-hold of the
three hold model.
The simultaneous pressure distribution around the girth of the installation is to be determined
based on the wave heading angles specified in 5A-3-2/7 and 5A-3-2/9.

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5.7 Internal Pressures – Inertia Forces and Added Pressure Heads (1995)
5.7.1 Ship Motions and Accelerations (1 September 2007)
To determine the inertial forces and added pressure heads for a completely filled cargo or ballast
tank, the dominating ship motions, pitch and roll, and the resultant accelerations induced by the wave
are required. When a direct calculation is not available, the equations given below may be used.
5.7.1(a) Pitch (1997). The pitch amplitude: (positive bow up)
φ = βPMOk1(10/Cb)1/4/L, in deg., but need not to be taken more than 10 deg.
The pitch natural period:

Tp = k2 C b d i seconds.

where
βPMO = ESF for pitch motion, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
k1 = 1030 (3378) for L in m (ft)
k2 = 3.5 (1.932) for di in m (ft)
di = draft amidships for the relevant loading conditions.
L and Cb are defined in 3-1-1/3.1 and 3-1-1/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005), respectively.
5.7.1(b) Roll. The roll amplitude: (positive starboard down)
θ = CRβRMO(35 − kθ Cdi Δ/1000) if Tr > 20 seconds.

θ = CRβRMO(35 − kθ Cdi Δ/1000) (1.5375 − 0.027Tr) if 12.5 ≤ Tr ≤ 20 seconds

θ = CRβRMO(35 − kθ Cdi Δ/1000) (0.8625 + 0.027Tr) if Tr ≤ 12.5 seconds

where
θ is in degrees, but need not to be taken greater than 30°.
kθ = 0.005 (0.05, 0.051)
CR = 1.05

βRMO = ESF for roll motion, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3

Cdi = 1.06 (di/df) − 0.06

di = draft amidships for the relevant loading conditions, m (ft)
df = draft, as defined in 3-1-1/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules, m (ft)

Δ = kd LBdf Cb kN (tf, Ltf)

kd = 10.05 (1.025, 0.0286)
L and B are as defined in Section 3-1-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005).
The roll natural motion period:
Tr = k4 kr /GM1/2 seconds
where
k4 = 2 (1.104) for kr, GM in m (ft)
kr = roll radius of gyration, in m (ft), and may be taken as 0.35B for full load
conditions and 0.45B for ballast conditions.

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GM = metacentric height, to be taken as:

= GM (full) for full draft
= 1.1 GM (full) for 9/10 df
= 1.5 GM (full) for 2/3 df
= 2.0 GM (full) for 1/2 df
GM (full) = metacentric height for fully loaded condition
If GM (full) is not available, GM (full) may be taken as 0.12B for the
purpose of estimation.
5.7.1(c) Accelerations. The vertical, longitudinal and transverse accelerations of tank contents
(cargo or ballast), av, al and at may be obtained from the following formulae:

av = Cv βVAC kv ao g m/sec2 (ft/sec2) positive downward

al = Cl βLAC kl ao g m/sec2 (ft/sec2) positive forward

at = Ct βTAC kt ao g m/sec2 (ft/sec2) positive starboard

where
ao = ko (2.4/L1/2 + 34/L − 600/L2) for L in m
= ko (4.347/L1/2 + 111.55/L − 6458/L2) for L in ft
ko = 1.34 − 0.47Cb
Cv = cos μ + (1 + 2.4 z/B) (sin μ)/kv
μ = wave heading angle in degrees, 0° for head sea, and 90° for beam sea for
wave coming from starboard
βVAC = ESF for vertical acceleration, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
βLAC = ESF for longitudinal acceleration, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
βTAC = ESF for transverse acceleration, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
kv = [1 + 0.65(5.3 − 45/L)2 (x/L − 0.45)2]1/2 for L in m
= [1 + 0.65(5.3 − 147.6/L)2 (x/L − 0.45)2]1/2 for L in ft
Cl = 0.35 − 0.0005(L − 200) for L in m
= 0.35 − 0.00015 (L − 656) for L in ft
kl = 0.5 + 8y/L
Ct = 1.27[1 + 1.52(x/L − 0.45)2]1/2
kt = 0.35 + y/B
L and B are the length and breadth of the installation respectively, as defined in Section 3-1-1 of
the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005), in m (ft).
x = longitudinal distance from the A.P. to the station considered, in m (ft)
y = vertical distance from the waterline to the point considered, in m (ft),
positive upward
z = transverse distance from the centerline to the point considered, in m (ft),
positive starboard
g = acceleration of gravity = 9.8 m/sec2 (32.2 ft/sec2)

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5.7.2 Internal Pressures

5.7.2(a) Distribution of Internal Pressures (1 July 2000). The internal pressure, pi (positive
toward tank boundaries), for a completely filled tank may be obtained from the following formula:
pi = ksρ g(η + ku hd) + po ≥ 0 in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

po = (pvp − pn) ≥ 0 in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
pvp = pressure setting on pressure/vacuum relief valve ≤ 6.90 N/cm2 (0.71 kgf/cm2,
10.00 lbf/in2) for integral-gravity tanks
pn = 2.06 N/cm2 (0.21 kgf/cm2, 3.00 lbf/in2)
ρg = specific weight of the liquid, not to be taken less than 1.005 N/cm2-m
(0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft)
η = local coordinate in vertical direction for tank boundaries measuring from the
top of the tanks, as shown 5A-3-2/Figure 7, in m (ft)
For lower ballast tanks, a distance equivalent to 2/3 of the distance from the top of the tank to the
top of the overflow [minimum 760 mm (30 in.) above deck] is to be added to η.
ks = load factor – see also 5A-3-2/5.7.2(c)
= 1.0 for structural members 1 through 10 in 5A-3-2/Table 3, and for all loads
from ballast tanks
= 0.878 for ρ g of 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft) and
1.0 for ρ g of 1.118 N/cm2-m (0.114 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4942 lbf/in2-ft) and above
for structural members 11 through 17 in 5A-3-2/Table 3
For cargo ρ g between 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft)
and 1.118 N/cm2-m (0.114 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4942 lbf/in2-ft), the factor ks may be
determined by interpolation
ku = load factor and may be taken as unity unless otherwise specified
hd = wave-induced internal pressure head, including inertial force and added
pressure head.
= kc(η ai /g + Δhi ), in m (ft)
kc = correlation factor and may be taken as unity unless otherwise specified
ai = effective resultant acceleration, in m/sec2 (ft/sec2), at the point considered
and may be approximated by
ai = 0.71Cdp[wv av + wl(l/h)al + wt(b/h)at]
Cdp is as specified in 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d).
av, al and at are as given in 5A-3-2/5.7.1(c).
wv, wl and wt are weighted coefficients, showing directions, as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A
through 1C and 5A-3-2/Table 3.
Δhi = added pressure head due to pitch and roll motions at the point considered, in
m (ft), may be calculated as follows
i) for bow down and starboard down (φe < 0, θe > 0)

Δhi = ξ sin(−φe) + Cru (ζe sin θe cos φe + ηe cos θe cos φe − η)

ζe = b−ζ

ηe = η

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ii) for bow up and starboard up (φe > 0, θe < 0)

Δhi = (l − ξ) sin φe + Cru (ζe sin(-θe) cos φe + ηe cos θe cos φe − η)

ζe = ζ − δb
ηe = η − δh
ξ, ζ, η are the local coordinates, in m (ft), for the point considered with respect to the origin in
5A-3-2/Figure 7.
Cru is as specified in 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d).
δb and δh are local coordinates adjustments, in m (ft), for the point considered with respect to the
origin shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 7.
where
θe = 0.71 Cθ θ

φe = 0.71 Cφ φ

l = length of the tank, in m (ft)

h = depth of the tank, in m (ft)
b = breadth of the tank considered, in m (ft)
φ and θ are pitch and roll amplitudes, as given in 5A-3-2/5.7.1(a) and 5A-3-2/5.7.1(b).
Cφ and Cθ are weighted coefficients, showing directions as given in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C
and 5A-3-2/Table 3.
Where pressure-vacuum valves of cargo tanks are set at greater than 2.06 N/cm2 (0.21 kgf/cm2,
3 lbf/in2), the value of Pi is to be increased appropriately.
5.7.2(b) Extreme Internal Pressure. For assessing local structures at a tank boundary, the extreme
internal pressure with ku, as specified in 5A-3-2/7, is to be considered.
5.7.2(c) Simultaneous Internal Pressures (1 July 2000). In performing a 3D structural analysis,
the internal pressures may be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.7.2(a) and 5A-3-2/5.7.2(b)
above for tanks in the mid-body. For tanks in the fore or aft body, the pressures should be
determined based on linear distributions of accelerations and ship motions along the length of the
installation.
Note: In performing a 3D structural analysis, ks in 5A-3-2/5.7.2(a) is to be taken as:
ks = 1.0 for all loads from ballast tanks
= 0.878 for ρ g of 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft) and
1.0 for ρ g of 1.118 N/cm2-m (0.114 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4942 lbf/in2-ft) and above
for all loads from cargo tanks
For cargo ρ g between 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft)
and 1.118 N/cm2-m (0.114 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4942 lbf/in2-ft), the factor ks may be
determined by interpolation
5.7.2(d) Definition of Tank Shape and Associated Coefficients
i) J-shaped Tank
A tank having the following configurations is considered as a “J-shaped” tank.
b/b1 ≥ 5.0 and h/h1 ≥ 5.0

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

where
b = extreme breadth at the tank top of the tank considered
b1 = least breadth of wing tank part of the tank considered
h = extreme height of the tank considered
h1 = least height of double bottom part of the tank considered as shown in
5A-3-2/Figure 7
The coefficients Cdp and Cru are as follows:
Cdp = 0.7
Cru = 1.0
ii) Rectangular Tank
The following tank is considered as a rectangular tank:
b/b1 ≤ 3.0 or h/h1 ≤ 3.0
The coefficients Cdp and Cru of the tank are as follows:
Cdp = 1.0
Cru = 1.0
iii) U-shaped Tank
A half of a “U-shaped” tank, divided at the centerline, should satisfy the condition of a “J-shaped”
tank.
The coefficients Cdp and Cru are as follows:
Cdp = 0.5
Cru = 0.7
iv) In a case where the minimum tank ratio of b/b1 or h/h1 whichever is lesser, is greater than
3.0 but less than 5.0, the coefficients Cdp and Cru of the tank are to be determined by the
following interpolation:
J-shaped Tank in head and non-head seas, U-shaped Tank in head seas:
Cdp = 1.0 − 0.3 (the min. tank ratio - 3.0) / 2.0
U-shaped Tank in non-head seas:
Cdp = 1.0 − 0.5 (the min. tank ratio - 3.0) / 2.0
U-shaped Tank:
Cru = 1.0 − 0.3 (the min. tank ratio - 3.0) / 2.0
v) For non-prismatic tanks mentioned above, b1, h and h1 are to be determined based on the
extreme section.

176 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 2
Distribution Factor mh (1995)

1.0
Distribution m h

0.0
0.0 0.4 0.6 1.0
Aft Forward
end of L end of L
Distance from the aft end of L in terms of L

FIGURE 3
Distribution Factor fh (1995)

1.0
Distribution f h

0.7

0.0
0.0 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.60 0.7 0.8 1.0
Aft Forward
end of L end of L
Distance from the aft end of L in terms of L

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 4
Distribution of hdi (1995)
h = freeboard to W.L.
Freeboard Deck

hd5 hd1 W.L.

h or h*
whichever is lesser

h hd2
hd4 d3
View from the Stern

Note: h* = ku kc hd1 for nominal pressure

h* = kf ku hd1 for simultaneous pressure

FIGURE 5
Pressure Distribution Function klo (1995)

2.5
Distribution klo

1.5

1.0

0.0
0.0 0.2 0.7 1.0
Aft Forward
end of L end of L
Distance from the aft end of L in terms of L

178 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 6
Illustration of Determining Total External Pressure (1997)

h
hd1

h or h*
whichever is lesser

hd : Hydrodynamic Pressure Head (indicates negative)

hs : Hydrostatic Pressure Head in Still Water

: Total External Pressure Head

Note: h* = ku kc hd1 for nominal pressure

h* = kf ku hd1 for simultaneous pressure

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 7
Definition of Tank Geometry (1995)

ξ
F.P.

b1

h l

h1

Tank Shape Parameters ζ O

b

B/2
L
C
Plan View
δb ξ

δb δh
l δh
O
ζ

ζ O

b
η
B/2 Elevation
L
C

η
Isometric View

For lower ballast tanks, η is to be measured from a point located at 2/3 the distance from the top of the tank
to the top of the overflow (minimum 760 mm above deck).

180 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 8
Location of Tank for Nominal Pressure Calculation (1997)

Tanks Considered

5 4 3 2 1

AP
FP

0.4L

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 1A
Combined Load Cases* (2001)
L.C. 1 L.C. 2 L.C. 3 L.C. 4 L.C. 5 L.C. 6 L.C. 7 L.C. 8 L.C. 9 L.C. 10
A. Hull Girder Loads (See 5A-3-2/5)**
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) — —
kc 1.0 1.0 0.7 0.7 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.0 0.0
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) — —

kc 0.5 0.5 1.0 1.0 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.0 0.0
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+) — —

kc 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 1.0 1.0 0.0 0.0
Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) — —

kc 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 0.5 0.5 0.0 0.0
B. External Pressure (See 5A-3-2/5.5)
kc 0.5 0.5 0.5 1.0 0.5 1.0 0.5 1.0 0.0 0.0
kf0 -1.0 1.0 -1.0 1.0 -1.0 1.0 -1.0 1.0 0.0 0.0
C. Internal Tank Pressure (See 5A-3-2/5.7)
kc 0.4 0.4 1.0 0.5 1.0 0.5 1.0 0.5 0.0 0.0
wv 0.75 -0.75 0.75 -0.75 0.25 -0.25 0.4 -0.4 0.0 0.0

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — —
0.25 -0.25 0.25 -0.25 0.2 -0.2
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — —
-0.25 0.25 -0.25 0.25 -0.2 0.2
wt — — — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd — —
-0.75 0.75 -0.4 0.4
— — — — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd — —
0.75 -0.75 0.4 -0.4
cφ , Pitch -1.0 1.0 -1.0 1.0 0.0 0.0 -0.7 0.7 0.0 0.0

cθ , Roll 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 -1.0 0.7 -0.7 0.0 0.0
D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 0 0 90 90 60 60 — —
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up — —
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow — — Bow Bow — —
Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd — —
Down Up Down Up

* ku = 1.0 for all load components.

** Boundary forces should be applied to produce the above specified hull girder bending moment at the middle of the structural
model and the specified hull girder shear force at one end of the middle hold of the model. The sign convention for the shear
force corresponds to the forward end of the middle hold.

182 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 1B
Combined Load Cases for Inspection Condition* (December 2008)
I.L.C. 1 I.L.C. 2 I.L.C. 3 I.L.C. 4 I.L.C. 5 I.L.C. 6 I.L.C. 7 I.L.C. 8 I.L.C. 9 I.L.C. 10
A. Hull Girder Loads (See 5A-3-2/5)**
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+)
kc 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 0.15 0.15 0.70 0.70 0.60 0.60
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.55 0.55 1.00 1.00 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.30 0.30
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+)

kc 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.25 0.25 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.25 0.25 0.85 0.85 0.80 0.80
B. External Pressure (See 5A-3-2/5.5)
kc 0.85 0.85 0.70 0.70 0.90 0.90 0.80 0.80 0.95 0.95
kf0 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00
C. Internal Tank Pressure (See 5A-3-2/5.7)
kc 0.75 0.75 0.30 0.30 0.80 0.80 0.10 0.10 0.50 0.50
wv 0.85 -0.85 0.55 -0.55 0.60 -0.60 0.10 0.10 0.30 -0.30

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd
0.20 -0.20 0.65 -0.65 0.30 -0.30 1.00 -1.00
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd
-0.20 0.20 -0.65 0.65 -0.30 0.30 -1.00 1.00
wt — — — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd
-1.00 1.00 -0.05 0.05 -0.10 0.10
— — — — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd
1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.10 -0.10
cφ , Pitch -0.30 0.30 -0.60 0.60 -0.15 0.15 -0.10 0.10 -0.80 0.80

cθ , Roll 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.15 -0.15
D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 0 0 90 90 60 60 30 30
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow
Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd
Down Up Down Up Down Up

* ku = 1.0 for all load components.

** Boundary forces should be applied to produce the above specified hull girder bending moment at the middle of the structural
model and the specified hull girder shear force at one end of the middle hold of the model. The sign convention for the shear
force corresponds to the forward end of the middle hold.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 1C
Combined Load Cases for Repair Condition* (December 2008)
R.L.C. 1 R.L.C. 2 R.L.C. 3 R.L.C. 4 R.L.C. 5 R.L.C. 6 R.L.C. 7 R.L.C. 8 R.L.C. 9 R.L.C. 10
A. Hull Girder Loads (See 5A-3-2/5)**
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+)
kc 1.00 1.00 0.50 0.50 0.25 0.25 0.80 0.80 0.60 0.60
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.55 0.55 1.00 1.00 0.15 0.15 0.40 0.40 0.20 0.20
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+)

kc 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.15 0.15 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
B. External Pressure (See 5A-3-2/5.5)
kc 0.85 0.85 0.80 0.80 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.55 0.55
kf0 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00
C. Internal Tank Pressure (See 5A-3-2/5.7)
kc 0.55 0.55 0.40 0.40 0.70 0.70 0.20 0.20 0.40 0.40
wv 0.60 -0.60 0.35 -0.35 0.55 -0.55 0.15 -0.15 0.25 -0.25

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd
0.20 -0.20 0.65 -0.65 0.45 -0.45 0.75 -0.75
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd
-0.20 0.20 -0.65 0.65 -0.45 0.45 -0.75 0.75
wt — — — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd
-0.95 0.95 -0.05 0.05 -0.10 0.10
— — — — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd
0.95 -0.95 0.05 -0.05 0.10 -0.10
cφ , Pitch -0.20 0.20 -0.45 0.45 -0.05 0.05 -0.10 0.10 -0.35 0.35

cθ , Roll 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.05 -0.05
D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 0 0 90 90 60 60 30 30
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow
Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd
Down Up Down Up Down Up

* ku = 1.0 for all load components.

** Boundary forces should be applied to produce the above specified hull girder bending moment at the middle of the structural
model and the specified hull girder shear force at one end of the middle hold of the model. The sign convention for the shear
force corresponds to the forward end of the middle hold.

184 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 2
Load Cases for Sloshing (1997)
Type A: For Horizontal Girder on the Aft Side of Transverse Bulkhead
Sloshing
Hull Girder Loads (1) External Pressures Pressures (2) Reference Wave Heading and Motions
V.B.M. V.S.F. ku, kc Heading
[H.B.M. H.S.F. ku, kc ] ku kc kfo ku kc Angle Heave Pitch Roll
LC S - 1 (–) (+) 1.0 0.4 1.0 0.5 -1.0 1.0 1.0 60° Down Bow Stbd
Down Down
[(–) (+) 1.0 0.7]
LC S - 2 (+) (–) 1.0 0.4 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 60° Up Bow Up Stbd Up
[(+) (–) 1.0 0.7]

Type B: For Horizontal Girder on the Forward Side of Transverse Bulkhead

Sloshing
Hull Girder Loads (1) External Pressures Pressures (2) Reference Wave Heading and Motions
V.B.M. V.S.F. ku, kc Heading
[H.B.M. H.S.F. ku, kc ] ku kc kfo ku kc Angle Heave Pitch Roll
LC S - 1 (–) (+) 1.0 0.4 1.0 0.5 1.0 1.0 1.0 60° Up Bow Up Stbd Up
[(–) (+) 1.0 0.7]
LC S - 2 (+) (–) 1.0 0.4 1.0 1.0 -1.0 1.0 1.0 60° Down Bow Stbd
Down Down
[(+) (–) 1.0 0.7]
Notes:
1 For determining the total vertical bending moment for the above two load cases, 70% of the maximum designed
still water bending moment may be used at the specified wave vertical bending moment station.
where:
V.B.M. is vertical wave bending moment
V.S.F. is vertical wave shear force
H.B.M. is horizontal wave bending moment
H.S.F. is horizontal wave shear force
2 The vertical distribution of the sloshing pressure Pis is shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 9.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 3
Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Members
A. Plating & Longitudinals/Stiffeners
The nominal pressure, p = |pi − pe|, is to be determined from load cases “a” & “b” below, whichever is greater, with ku = 1.10
and kc = 1.0 unless otherwise specified in the table
Case “a” – At fwd end of the tank Case “b” – At mid tank/fwd end of tank
Coefficients Draft/Wave Coefficients
Structural Members/ Draft/Wave Location and Heading Location and
Components Heading Angle Loading Pattern pi pe Angle Loading Pattern pi pe

1. Bottom Plating 2/3 design Full ballast tank Ai Ae design Midtank of — Be

& Long’l draft/0° draft/0° empty ballast
tanks
2. Inner Bottom 2/3 design Full ballast tank, Ai — design Fwd end of full Ai —
Plating & draft/0° cargo tanks empty draft/0° cargo tank,
Long’l ballast tanks
empty
3. Side Shell 2/3 design Starboard side of Bi Ae design Midtank of — Be
Plating & draft/60° full ballast tank draft/60° empty ballast
Long’l tanks
4. * Deck Plating & design draft/0° Full cargo tank Di —
Long’l (Cargo
Tank)
5. Deck Plating & 2/3 design Full ballast tank Di —
Long’l (Ballast draft/0°
Tank)
6. * Inner Skin design draft/ Starboard side of Bi — 2/3 design Fwd. end and Bi —
Long’l Bhd. 60° full cargo tank, draft/60° starboard side of
Plating & ballast tank empty full ballast tank,
Long’l cargo tank
empty
7. * Centerline design draft/ Full starboard Ei —
Long’l Bhd. 60° cargo and ballast
Plating & tanks, adjacent
Long’l tank empty
8. * Other Long’l design draft/ Starboard side of Bi — design Fwd. end and Bi —
Bhd. Plating & 60° full inward cargo draft/60° starboard side of
Long’l tanks, adjacent (1997) full outboard
tank empty cargo tanks,
adjacent tank
empty
9. * Trans. Bhd. design draft/0° Fwd. bhd. of full Ai —
Plating & cargo tank,
Stiffener adjacent tanks
(Cargo Tank) empty
10. * Trans. Bhd. 2/3 design Fwd. bhd. of full Ai —
Plating & draft/0° ballast tank,
Stiffener adjacent tanks
(Ballast Tank) empty
* See note 4

186 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 3 (continued)
Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Members
B. Main Supporting Members
The nominal pressure, p = |pi − pe|, is to be determined at the mid-span of the structural member at starboard side of installation
from load cases “a” & “b” below, whichever is greater, with ku = 1.0 and kc = 1.0 unless otherwise specified in the table
Case “a” – Mid-tank for Transverses Case “b” – Mid-tank for Transverses
Coefficients Draft/Wave Coefficients
Structural Members/ Draft/Wave Location and pi pe Heading Location and pi pe
Components Heading Angle Loading Pattern Angle Loading Pattern
11. Double Bottom 2/3 design Full cargo tank, Ai Ae design Mid-tank, cargo — Be
Floor & Girder draft/0° ballast tanks empty draft/0° and ballast tanks
empty
12. Side Transverse 2/3 design Wing cargo tanks Bi — design Center cargo — Be
draft/60° full draft/60° tank full, wing
cargo tanks
empty
13. Transverse on
Long’l. Bhd.:
Ship-type 2/3 design Starboard cargo Fi —
installation with draft/60° tank full, port-
C.L. Long’l, Bhd., empty
without cross
ties, (5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-b,
5A-3-3/Figure
2A-c):
Ship-type
installation with
four Long’l. Bhds.
With cross ties:
Cross Ties in 2/3 design Center cargo tank Ci — 2/3 design Center cargo Gi —
wing cargo draft/90° full, wing cargo draft/90° tank empty,
tanks (5A-3-3/ tanks empty wing cargo
Figure 2A-d) tanks full
Cross Tie in 2/3 design Wing cargo tanks Fi — 2/3 design Center cargo Bi —
center cargo draft/60° full, center cargo draft/60° tank full, wing
tank, (5A-3-3/ tank empty cargo tanks
Figure 2A-e) empty
Ship-type 2/3 design Wing cargo tanks Fi — 2/3 design Center cargo Ci —
installation with draft/60° full, center cargo draft/60° tank full, wing
four Long’l. Bhds. tank empty cargo tanks
without cross empty
ties, (5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-f)
14. Horizontal 2/3 design Fwd Bhd. of full Bi —
Girder and draft/60° cargo tank,
Vertical Web on adjacent tanks
Transverse empty
Bulkhead
15. Cross Ties: 2/3 design Center cargo tank Ci — design Wing cargo — Be
Cross Ties in draft/90° full, wing cargo draft/60° tanks empty,
wing cargo tanks tanks empty center cargo
5A-3-3/Figure tank full
2A-d) (starboard)
Cross tie in 2/3 design Wing cargo tanks Fi —
center cargo tank draft/60° full, center cargo
(5A-3-3/Figure tank empty
2A-e)

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 3 (continued)
Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Members
B. Main Supporting Members
The nominal pressure, p = |pi − pe|, is to be determined at the mid-span of the structural member at starboard side of installation
from load cases “a” & “b” below, whichever is greater, with ku = 1.0 and kc = 1.0 unless otherwise specified in the table
Case “a” – Mid-tank for Transverses Case “b” – Mid-tank for Transverses
Coefficients Draft/Wave Coefficients
Structural Members/ Draft/Wave Location and Heading Location and
Components Heading Angle Loading Pattern pi pe Angle Loading Pattern pi pe

16. Deck Transverses: 2/3 design Cargo tank full, Bi —

Ship-type draft/60° adjacent tanks
installation empty
without cross ties
(5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-a,
5A-3-3/Figure
2A-b, 5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-c &
5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-f)
and, ship-type
installations with
cross tie in center
cargo tanks,
(5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-e)
Ship-type 2/3 design Cargo tank full, Ci —
installation draft/90° adjacent tanks
with cross ties empty
in wing cargo
tanks (5A-3-3/
Figure 2A-d)
17. Deck girders 2/3 design Cargo tank full, Ai — 2/3 design Cargo tank full, Bi —
draft/0° adjacent tanks draft/60° adjacent tanks
empty empty

188 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 3 (continued)
Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Members (2001)
Notes
1 For calculating pi and pe, the necessary coefficients are to be determined based on the following designated
groups:
a) For pi

Ai: wv = 0.75, wl(fwd bhd) = 0.25, wl(aft bhd) = −0.25, wt = 0.0, cφ= −1.0, cθ = 0.0

Bi: wv = 0.4, wl(fwd bhd) = 0.2, wl(aft bhd) = −0.2, wt (starboard) = 0.4, wt (port) = −0.4, cφ=
−0.7, cθ = 0.7
Ci : wv = 0.25, wl = 0, wt (starboard) = 0.75, wt (port) = −0.75, cφ= 0.0, cθ = 1.0

Di: wv = −0.75, wl (fwd bhd) = 0.25, wt = 0.0, cφ = −1.0, cθ = 0.0

Ei: wv = 0.4, wl (fwd bhd) = 0.2, wt (centerline) = 0.4, cφ= −0.7, cθ = −0.7

Fi: wv = 0.4, wl (fwd bhd) = 0.2, wl (aft bhd) = −0.2, wt (starboard) = −0.4, wt (port) = 0.4, cφ =
−0.7, cθ = −0.7
Gi: wv = 0.25, wl = 0, wt (starboard) = −0.75, wt (port) = 0.75, cφ = 0.0, cθ = −1.0
b) For pe

Ae: klo = 1.0, ku = 1.0, kc = −0.5

Be: klo = 1.0
2 (1997) For structures within 0.4L amidships, the nominal pressure is to be calculated for a tank located
amidships. Each cargo tank or ballast tank in the region should be considered as located amidships, as
shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 8.
3 (1 July 2000) In calculation of the nominal pressure, ρ g of the fluid cargoes is not to be taken less than
1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft).
4 For structural members 4 and 6 to 10, sloshing pressures are to be considered in accordance with 5A-3-2/11.3.
For calculation of sloshing pressures, refer to 5A-3-2/11.5 with ρ g not less than 1.005 N/cm2-m
(0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft).

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Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

7 Nominal Design Loads (1995)

7.1 General
The nominal design loads specified below are to be used for determining the required scantlings of hull
structures in conjunction with the specified permissible stresses given in Section 5A-3-3.

7.3 Hull Girder Loads – Longitudinal Bending Moments and Shear Forces (1995)
7.3.1 Total Vertical Bending Moment and Shear Force (1 September 2007)
The total longitudinal vertical bending moments and shear forces may be obtained from the
following equations:
Mt = Msw + ku kcβVBMMw kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)

Ft = Fsw + ku kcβVSFFw kN (tf, Ltf)

where
Msw and Mw are the still-water bending moment and wave-induced bending moment, respectively,
as specified in 3-2-1/3.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules for either hogging or sagging conditions.
Fsw and Fw are the still-water and wave-induced shear forces, respectively, as specified in
3-2-1/3.9 of the Steel Vessel Rules for either positive or negative shears.
ku is a load factor and may be taken as unity unless otherwise specified
kc is a correlation factor and may be taken as unity unless otherwise specified.

βVBM is ESF for vertical bending moment as defined in 5A-3-A1/3.

βVSF is ESF for vertical shear force as defined in 5A-3-A1/3.
For determining the hull girder section modulus for 0.4L amidships, as specified in 5A-3-3/3, the
maximum still-water bending moments, either hogging or sagging, are to be added to the hogging
or sagging wave bending moments, respectively. Elsewhere, the total bending moment may be
directly obtained based on the envelope curves, as specified in 5A-3-2/3.1 and 5A-3-2/5.1.
For this purpose, ku = 1.0, and kc = 1.0

7.3.2 Horizontal Wave Bending Moment and Shear Force

For non-head sea conditions, the horizontal wave bending moment and the horizontal shear force,
as specified in 5A-3-2/5.3, are to be considered as additional hull girder loads, especially for the
design of the side shell and inner skin structures. The effective horizontal bending moment and
shear force, MHE and FHE, may be determined by the following equations:
MHE = ku kc MH kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)
FHE = ku kc FH kN (tf, Ltf)
where ku and kc are a load factor and a correlation factor, respectively, which may be taken as
unity unless otherwise specified.

7.5 Local Loads for Design of Supporting Structures (December 2008)

In determining the required scantlings of the main supporting structures, such as girders, transverses,
stringers, floors and deep webs, the nominal loads induced by the liquid pressures distributed over both
sides of the structural panel within the tank boundaries should be considered for the worst possible load
combinations. In general, considerations should be given to the following two load cases accounting for
the worst effects of the dynamic load components.

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i) Maximum internal pressures for a fully filled tank with the adjacent tanks empty and minimum
external pressures, where applicable.
ii) Empty tank with the surrounding tanks full and maximum external pressures, where applicable.
Taking the side shell supporting structure as an example, the nominal loads may be determined from either:
i) pi = ksρ g (η + ku hd) max. and

pe = ρ g (hs + βEPS/EPP ku hde) min.

ii) pi = 0 and

pe = ρ g (hs + βEPS/EPP ku hde) max.

where
ku = 1.0

βEPS/EPP = ESF for external pressure starboard/port, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3

ρ g, η, hd, hs, hde, ks are as defined in 5A-3-2/5.5 and 5A-3-2/5.7.

Specific information required for calculating the nominal loads are given in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for various
structural members and configurations.

7.7 Local Pressures for Design of Plating and Longitudinals (1995)

In calculating the required scantlings of plating, longitudinals and stiffeners, the nominal pressures should
be considered for the two load cases given in 5A-3-2/7.5, using ku = 1.1 for pi and pe instead of ku = 1.0 as
shown above.
The necessary details for calculating pi and pe are given in 5A-3-2/Table 3.

9 Combined Load Cases

9.1 Combined Load Cases for Structural Analysis (December 2008)

For assessing the strength of the hull girder structure and in performing a structural analysis as outlined in
Section 5A-3-4. For the three cargo tank length model structural analysis, the combined load cases
specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C are to be considered. Additional combined load cases may be
required as warranted. The loading patterns are shown in 5A-3-2/Figures 1A through 1C for three cargo
tank lengths. The necessary correlation factors and relevant coefficients for the loaded tanks are also given
in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C. The total external pressure distribution including static and hydrodynamic
pressure is illustrated in 5A-3-2/Figure 6.
For the cargo block model structural analysis, the loading conditions in 5A-1-3/3.7.2 are to be considered.

9.3 Combined Load Cases for Failure Assessment (December 2008)

For assessing the failure modes with respect to material yielding and buckling, the following combined
load cases shall be considered.
9.3.1 Yielding, Buckling and Ultimate Strength of Local Structures
For assessing the yielding, buckling and ultimate strength of local structures, the combined load
cases as given in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C are to be considered.
9.3.2 Fatigue Strength
For assessing the fatigue strength of structural joints, the combined load cases given in 5A-3-2/9.1
are to be used for a first level fatigue strength assessment as outlined in Appendix 5A-3-A2
“Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of Ship-type Installations.”

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Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

11 Sloshing Loads

11.1 General (1995)

11.1.1 (December 2008)
Except for tanks that are situated wholly within the double side or double bottom, the natural
periods of liquid motions and sloshing loads are to be examined in assessing the strength of
boundary structures for all cargo or ballast tanks which will be partially filled between 20% and
90% of tank capacity. The sloshing pressure heads given in this Subsection may be used for
determining the strength requirements for the tank structures. Alternatively, sloshing loads may be
calculated either by model experiments or numerical simulation using three-dimensional flow
analysis for unrestricted service conditions and for sea conditions of the specific site of operation.
Methodology and procedures of tests and measurements or analysis methods are to be fully
documented and submitted for review.
11.1.2
The effects of impulsive sloshing pressures on the design of the main supporting structures of tank
transverse and longitudinal bulkheads are subject to special consideration.

11.3 Strength Assessment of Tank Boundary Structures

11.3.1 Tank Length and Pitch Induced Sloshing Loads (2002)
Tanks of length 54 m (177 ft) or greater are to satisfy requirements of either of the preventative
measures given in 5A-3-2/11.3.3 or 5A-3-2/11.3.4. Where the tank has smooth surfaces, one or
more swash bulkheads are to be fitted. Structural reinforcement is to be provided to the tank ends,
when the calculated pressure is higher than the pressure, pi, as specified in 5A-3-3/13.
Tanks of length 54 m (177 ft) or greater that have ring webs are to have a partial non-tight
bulkhead (i.e. non-full depth swash bulkhead) to eliminate the possibility of resonance at all filling
levels. The partial non-tight bulkhead may be waived if it can be demonstrated through the
application of model experiments or numerical simulation using three-dimensional flow analysis
that sloshing impacts do not occur. The height of the swash bulkhead is to be determined on the
basis of calculation using three-dimensional flow analysis as described in 5A-3-2/11.1.1.
Where the tank length is less than 54 m (177 ft), and if either of the preventative measures given
in 5A-3-2/11.3.3 or 5A-3-2/11.3.4 is not satisfied, the tank boundary structures are to be designed
in accordance with 5A-3-3/13 to withstand the sloshing pressures specified in 5A-3-2/11.5.
11.3.2 Roll Induced Sloshing Loads (2002)
Tanks that do not satisfy either of the preventative measures given in 5A-3-2/11.3.3 or 5A-3-2/11.3.4,
with respect of roll resonance, are to have their tank boundary structures designed in accordance
with 5A-3-3/13 to withstand the sloshing pressures specified in 5A-3-2/11.5.
11.3.3 (1997)
For long or wide cargo tanks, non-tight bulkheads or ring webs or both are to be designed and
fitted to eliminate the possibility of resonance at all filling levels.
Long tanks have length, l, exceeding 0.1L. Wide tanks have width, b, exceeding 0.6B.
11.3.4
For each of the anticipated loading conditions, the “critical” filling levels of the tank should be
avoided so that the natural periods of fluid motions in the longitudinal and transverse directions
will not synchronize with the natural periods of the installation’s pitch and roll motions,
respectively. It is further recommended that the natural periods of the fluid motions in the tank, for
each of the anticipated filling levels, be at least 20% greater or smaller than that of the relevant
installation’s motion.

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The natural period of the fluid motion, in seconds, may be approximated by the following equations:
Tx = (βT le)1/2/k in the longitudinal direction

Ty = (βL be)1/2/k in the transverse direction

where
le = effective length of the tank, as defined in 5A-3-2/11.5.1, in m (ft)
be = effective breadth of the tank, as defined in 5A-3-2/11.5.1 in m (ft)

k = [(tanh H1)/(4π/g)]1/2

H1 = πdl/le or πdb /be

βT, βL, dl and db are as defined in 5A-3-2/11.5.1. The natural periods given in 5A-3-2/5.7 for pitch
and roll of the installation, Tp and Tr, using the actual GM value, if available, may be used for this
purpose.

11.5 Sloshing Pressures (1995)

11.5.1 Nominal Sloshing Pressure (1 July 2009)
For cargo tanks with filling levels within the critical range specified in 5A-3-2/11.3.2, the internal
pressures pis, including static and sloshing pressures, positive toward tank boundaries, may be
expressed in terms of equivalent liquid pressure head, he, as given below:
pis = ksρ ghe ≥ 0 in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
where
ks = load factor as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.2(a)

he = ku[hc + (ht − hc)(y − dm)/(h − dm) ] for y > dm

= cmhm + kuhc for 0.15h ≤ y ≤ dm (cmhm need not

exceed h)
he calculated at y = 0.15h for y < 0.15h, but he should not be smaller than cmhm.
cm = coefficient in accordance with 5A-3-2/Figure 10
hm = static pressure head, taken as the vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from
the filling level, dm, down to the point considered. dm, the filling level for
maximum hc calculated with Cφs and Cθs equal to 1.0, should not be taken
less than 0.55h.
dm = filling level, in m (ft), as shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 9
ku = load factor, and may be taken as unity unless otherwise specified.
hc = maximum average sloshing pressure heads, in m (ft), to be obtained from
calculations as specified below for at least two filling levels, 0.55h and the
one closest to the resonant period of ship’s motions, between 0.2h and 0.9h.
hc may be taken as constant over the tank depth, h (See 5A-3-2/Figure 9)
ht = sloshing pressure heads for upper bulkhead, in m (ft), to be obtained from
calculation below
h = depth of tank, in m (ft)
y = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the tank bottom to the point
considered
ρ g is as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.2.

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The values of hc and ht may be obtained from the following equations:

hc = kc (Cφs hl2 + Cθs h b2 )1/2 in m (ft)

ht = kc (Cφs h t2l + Cθs h tb2 )1/2 in m (ft)

where
kc = correlation factor for combined load cases, and may be taken as unity unless
otherwise specified.
hl = φesleCtlβT[0.018 + Cfl(1.0 − dl/Hl)/φes]dl/Hl m (ft) for φes

hb = θesbeCtbβL[0.016 + Cfb(1.0 − db/Hb)/θes]db/Hb m (ft) for θes

Cφs and Cθs are the weighted coefficients as given in 5A-3-2/Figure 10.
where
βT represents β for transverse bulkheads and βL represents β for the longitudinal bulkheads.
φes = 0.71φ

θes = 0.71θ
The pitch amplitude φ and roll amplitude θ are as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.1 with di = 2/3df.and
V = 10 knots
le = effective tank length that accounts for the effect of deep ring-web frames, in
m (ft)

= β T* 2 l
be = effective tank width that accounts for the effect of deep ring-web frames, in
m (ft)

= β L* 2 b
β* = 1.0 for tanks without deep ring webs,
= 0.25[4.0 − (1 − α*) − (1 − α*)2] for α* to be determined at do,

β T* represents β* for transverse bulkheads.

β L* represents β* for longitudinal bulkheads.

β = (βo)(βu)(βs)
βT represents β for transverse bulkheads.
βL represents β for longitudinal bulkheads.
βo = 1.0 for tanks without a swash bulkhead
= 0.25[4.0 − (1 − αo) − (1 − αo) ] 2
for tanks with a swash bulkhead
βu = 1.0 for tanks without any deep bottom
transverse and deep bottom
longitudinal girder
= 0.25[4.0 − dl1/ h − (dl1/ h)2] for tanks with deep bottom transverses
= 0.25[4.0 − db1/ h − (db1/ h)2] for tanks with deep bottom
longitudinal girders

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
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βs = 1.0 for boundary bulkheads that:

i) do not contain any deep horizontal girder; or
ii) do contain deep horizontal girders but with an opening ratio, αs, less
than 0.2 or greater than 0.4
= 0.25[4.0 − (1 − αs) − (1 − αs)2] for bulkheads with deep horizontal girders
having an opening ratio, αs, between 0.2 and 0.4
α = opening ratio (see 5A-3-2/Figure 11)
For αo 5A-3-2/Figure 12(1), opening ratios of swash bulkheads, shall be used for all filling levels
considered. Also, 5A-3-2/Figure 12(2), local opening ratio for do = 0.7h, bounded by the range
between 0.6h and 0.9h, shall be considered for openings within the range. The smaller of the two
opening ratios calculated, based on 5A-3-2/Figure 12(1) and 5A-3-2/Figure 12(2) for this filling
level, shall be used as the opening ratio.
For α*, 5A-3-2/Figure 12(3), opening ratio of deep ring-webs, filling level do shall be used.
For αs, 5A-3-2/Figure 12(4), opening ratio of a deep horizontal girder on a boundary bulkhead, is
applicable to a filling level just above the horizontal girder in the zones illustrated in the figure.
Not to be considered for do = 0.7h, unless a sizable girder is installed between 0.7h and h. Also not
to be considered if opening area in the girder is less than 20% or greater than 40% of the area of
the girder (i.e., αs = 1)
Cfl = 0.792[dl/(βT le)]1/2 + 1.98
Cfb = 0.704[db/(βL be)]1/2 + 1.76
Ctl = 0.9 xo1/[1 + 9(1 − xo)2] ≥ 0.25
xo = Tx /Tp
xo1 = xo if xo ≤ 1.0
= 1/xo if xo > 1.0
Ctb = 0.9 yo1/[1 + 9(1 − yo)2] ≥ 0.25
yo = Ty /Tr If roll radius of gyration is not known, 0.39B may be used in the
calculation of Tr
yo1 = yo if yo ≤ 1.0
= 1/yo if yo > 1.0
Tx and Ty are as defined in 5A-3-2/11.3.4.
Tp and Tr are as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.
do = filling depth, in m (ft)
dl = do − dl1[1 – σn2(n + 1)/2]1/2 kl1 − 0.45dl2 kl2 and ≥ 0.0
db = do − db1[1 – σm2(m + 1)/2]1/2 kb1 − 0.45db2 kb2 and ≥ 0.0
Hl = h − dl1[1 – σn2(n + 1)/2]1/2 kl1 − 0.45dl2 kl2
Hb = h − db1[1 – σm2(m + 1)/2]1/2 kb1 − 0.45db2 kb2
dl1 = height of deep bottom transverses measured from the tank bottom,
(5A-3-2/Figure 13), in m (ft)
dl2 = bottom height of the lowest openings in non-tight transverse bulkhead measured
above the tank bottom or top of bottom transverses (5A-3-2/Figure 13), in m (ft)
n = number of deep bottom transverses in the tank
db1 = height of deep bottom longitudinal girders measured from the tank bottom
(5A-3-2/Figure 13), in m (ft)

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db2 = bottom height of the lowest openings in non-tight longitudinal bulkhead

measured above the tank bottom, or top of bottom longitudinal girders
(5A-3-2/Figure 13), in m (ft)
m = number of deep bottom longitudinal girders in the tank
kl1 = −1 if do ≤ dl1
= 1 if do > dl1
kl2 = −1 if do ≤ dl2
= 1 if do > dl2
kb1 = −1 if do ≤ db1
= 1 if do > db1
kb2 = −1 if do ≤ db2
= 1 if do > db2
σn = (4/π)(n + 1)/[n(n + 2)]cos[π/{2(n + 1)}]
σm = (4/π)(m + 1)/[m(m + 2)]cos[π/{2(m + 1)}]
ls (bs) shall be used in place of le (be) for a filling level below the completely solid portion of the
nontight bulkhead, i.e., the region below the lowest opening, (5A-3-2/Figure 13), where ls (bs) is
taken as the distance bounded by the solid portion of the nontight bulkhead below the lowest
opening and the tight bulkhead. dl, Hl and db, Hb need not consider the effect of dl2 and db2,
respectively.
htl = 0.0068 β T′ l e Ct′l (φes + 40) (φes)1/2 m (ft)
htb = 0.0055 β L′ be C tb′ (θes + 35) (θes)1/2 m (ft)
where
Ct′l and Ctb′ are Ctl and Ctb for hm = 0.70h; β T′ and β L′ correspond to β for do = 0.7h; φes and θes
are as defined previously.
Cφs and Cθs are weighted coefficients, as given in 5A-3-2/Figure 10.
htl shall not be less than hp; htb shall not be less than hr
hp = l sin (φes)
hr = b sin (θes)
11.5.2 Sloshing Loads for Assessing Strength of Structures at Tank Boundaries
11.5.2(a) In assessing the strength of tank boundary supporting structures, the two combined load
cases with loading pattern shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 14, with the specified sloshing loads shown in
5A-3-2/Table 2 for the respective side on which the horizontal girder is located, are to be
considered when performing a 3D structural analysis.
11.5.2(b) In assessing the strength of plating and stiffeners at tank boundaries, local bending of
the plating and stiffeners with respect to the local sloshing pressures for structural members/elements
is to be considered in addition to the nominal loadings specified for the 3D analysis in 5A-3-2/11.5.2(a)
above. In this regard, ku should be taken as 1.15 instead of 1.0, shown in 5A-3-2/11.5.2(a) above
for the combined load cases, to account for the maximum pressures due to possible non-uniform
distribution.
11.5.3 Sloshing Loads Normal to the Web Plates of Horizontal and Vertical Girders
In addition to the sloshing loads acting on the bulkhead plating, the sloshing loads normal to the
web plates of horizontal and vertical girders are to be also considered for assessing the strength of
the girders. The magnitude of the normal sloshing loads may be approximated by taking 25% of hc
or ht for ku = 1.0, whichever is greater, at the location considered.

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FIGURE 9
Vertical Distribution of EquivalentSlosh Pressure Head, he (1995)

kuht

kuhc +
[ ku (ht - hc) (y - dm) / (h - dm) ]

dm he y

kuhc Cmhm

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Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 10
Horizontal Distribution of Simultaneous Slosh Pressure Heads,
hc (φs θs) or ht (φs θs) (1995)

Cφ s = 0.0
Cm = 0.5 Cm = 1.0 Cθ s = 0.0
AFT BHD

Cφ s = 1.0
Cm = 1.25
Cθ s = 0.0
Cφ s = 0.0
Cθ s = 1.0
Cm = 1.0 Cm = 1.25 Cm = 1.5
Cφ s = 0.0 Cφ s = 1.0
Cθ s = 0.0 Cθ s = 1.0
L.C. S-1

Cφ s = 1.0 Cφ s = 0.0
Cθ s = 1.0 Cθ s = 0.0
Cm = 1.5 Cm = 1.25 Cm = 1.0
Cφ s = 0.0
Cθ s = 1.0
FWD BHD

Cφ s = 1.0 Cm = 1.25
Cθ s = 0.0

Cm = 1.0 Cm = 0.5
Cφ s = 0.0
L.C. S-2
Cθ s = 0.0

Note: hc may be taken as zero for the deck and inner bottom

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
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FIGURE 11
Definitions for Opening Ratio, α (1995)

α = A1 + A2 α = A1 + A2 + A3
A1 + A2 + B A1 + A2 + A3 + B
A3 A4

A3
A1 A2
do

A1 A2
B B
B: wetted portion of swash bulkhead

FIGURE 12
Opening Ratios (1995)

h
do

Deep Horizontal Grider

L - Type Full Swash

(1) dw
A

affected zones
45°

0.6h - 0.9h Deep Ring-Web Frame

B
dw
C

A+B
αs =
A+B+C dw
0.7h do

(2) (3)

(1) – (3) Opening Ratios of Nontight Bulkheads (4) Opening Ratio of Deep Horizontal Girders Boundary
and Deep Ring-Webs Bulkheads

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FIGURE 13
Dimensions of Internal Structures (1995)

h
dl 2
dl1
ls

h
db2

db1
bs

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 14
Loading Patterns for Sloshing Load Cases (1 July 2009)
Type A: Where the Horizontal Girder is on the Aft Side of Transverse Bulkhead

a. Load Case S-1; 2/3 Design Draft b. Load Case S-2; 2/3 Design Draft

Type B: Where the Horizontal Girder is on the Forward Side of Transverse Bulkhead

a. Load Case S-1; 2/3 Design Draft b. Load Case S-2; 2/3 Design Draft

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13 Impact Loads

13.1 Impact Loads on Bow (2000)

When experimental data or direct calculations are not available, nominal bow impact pressures due to
wave celerity above the load waterline (LWL) in the region from the forward end to the collision bulkhead
may be obtained from the following equation:
Pbij = k Ck Cij Vij2 sin γij kN/m2 (tf/m2, Lt/ft2)
where:
k = 1.025 (0.1045, 0.000888)
Cij = {1 + cos2[90(Fbi – 2aj)/Fbi]}1/2

Vij = ω1sin αij + ω2 (βWHT L)1/2

ω1 = 3.09 (10.14) for m (ft)

ω2 = 1.0 (1.8) for m (ft)

βWHT = ESF for Wave Height as defined in 5A-3-A1/3

γij = tan-1 (tan βij/cos αij) not to be taken less than 50 degrees

αij = local waterline angle measured from the centerline, see 5A-3-2/Figure 15

βij = local body plan angle measured from the horizontal, see 5A-3-2/Figure 15
Fbi = freeboard from the highest deck at side to the load waterline (LWL) at station i, see
5A-3-2/Figure 15
aj = vertical distance from LWL to WL-j, see 5A-3-2/Figure 15
i, j = station and waterline to be taken to correspond to the locations under consideration,
as required by 5A-3-5/3.1.1
Ck = 0.7 at collision bulkhead and 0.9 at 0.0125L, linear interpolation for in between
= 0.9 between 0.0125L and FP
= 1.0 at and forward of FP.

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FIGURE 15
Definition of Bow Geometry (2000)

WLj

α
waterline angle tangent line

CL

CL

highest
deck

tangent line
s body
plan
angle β
WLj
Fbi
aij

LWL

13.3 Bottom Slamming

For ship-type installations with heavy weather ballast draft forward less than 0.04L but greater than
0.025L, bottom slamming loads are to be considered for assessing strength of the flat of bottom plating
forward and the associated stiffening system in the fore body region.
13.3.1 Bottom Slamming Pressure
The equivalent bottom slamming pressure for strength formulation and assessment should be
determined based on well-documented experimental data or analytical studies. When these direct
calculations are not available, nominal bottom slamming pressures may be determined by the
following equations:

Psi = kki [ vo2 + MViEni]Ef kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2)

where
Psi = equivalent bottom slamming pressure for section i
k = 1.025 (0.1045, 0.000888)
ki = 2.2 b*/do + α ≤ 40

b* = half width of flat of bottom at the i-th ship station, see 5A-3-2/Figure 16
do = 1/
10 of the section draft at the heavy ballast condition, see 5A-3-2/Figure 16

α = a constant as given in 5A-3-2/Table 4

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

Ef = f1 ω1 (L)1/2
f1 = 0.004 (0.0022) for m (ft)
where b represents the half breadth at the 1/10 draft of the section, see 5A-3-2/Figure 16. Linear
interpolation may be used for intermediate values.
vo = co(L)1/2, in m/s (ft/s)
co = 0.29 (0.525) for m (ft)

MRi = 1.391 Ai βvm (L/Cb)1/2 for L in meters

= 8.266 Ai βvm (L/Cb)1/2 for L in feet

βvm = ESF for vertical relative motion as defined in 5A-3-A1/3

Cb = as defined in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
MVi = BiMRi
Ai and Bi are as given in 5A-3-2/Table 5.
2 2
Gei = e[ − (vo / MVi + di / M Ri )]

di = local section draft, in m (ft)

Eni = natural log of ni

ni = 5730(MVi/MRi)1/2 Gei, if ni < 1 then Psi = 0

ω1 = natural angular frequency of the hull girder 2-node vertical vibration of the
installation in the wet mode and the heavy weather ballast draft condition, in
rad/second. If not known, the following equation may be used:

= μ[B D3/(ΔS Cb3 L3)]1/2 + co ≥ 3.7

where
μ = 23400 (7475, 4094)
ΔS = Δb[1.2 +B/(3db)]
Δb = installation displacement at the heavy ballast condition, in kN (tf, Ltf)
db = mean draft of installation at the heavy ballast condition, in m (ft)
co = 1.0 for heavy ballast draft
L, B and D are as defined in Section 3-1-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

TABLE 4
Values of α (2000)
b/do α b/do α
1.00 0.00 4.00 20.25
1.50 9.00 5.00 22.00
2.00 11.75 6.00 23.75
2.50 14.25 7.00 24.50
3.00 16.50 7.50 24.75
3.50 18.50 25.0 24.75

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

TABLE 5
Values of Ai and Bi
Section i from F.P. Ai Bi
-0.05L 1.25 0.3600
0 1.00 0.4000
0.05L 0.80 0.4375
0.10L 0.62 0.4838
0.15L 0.47 0.5532
0.20L 0.33 0.6666
0.25L 0.22 0.8182
0.30L 0.22 0.8182

FIGURE 16
Distribution of Bottom Slamming Pressure
Along the Section Girth (2000)
centerline

b* do (1/10 draft)

Ps

13.5 Bowflare Slamming

For installations possessing bowflare and having a shape parameter Ar greater than 21 m (68.9 ft), in the
forebody region, bowflare slamming loads are to be considered for assessing the strength of the side
plating and the associated stiffening system in the forebody region of the installation at its scantling draft.
Ar = the maximum value of Ari in the forebody region
Ari = bowflare shape parameter at a station i forward of the quarter length, up to the FP of
the installation, to be determined between the LWL and the upper deck/forecastle, as
follows:
= (bT/H)2 ∑bj[1 + (sj /bj)2]1/2, j = 1, n; n ≥ 3

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

where
n = number of segments

bT = ∑b j

H = ∑s j

bj = local change (increase) in beam for the j-th segment at station i

(see 5A-3-2/Figure 17)
sj = local change (increase) in freeboard up to the highest deck for the j-th segment at
station i forward (see 5A-3-2/Figure 17)
13.5.1 Nominal Bowflare Slamming
When experimental data or direct calculation is not available, nominal bowflare slamming pressures
may be determined by the following equations:
Pij = Poij or Pbij as defined below, whichever is greater

Poij = k1(9MRi − hij2 )2/3 kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2)

Pbij = k2[C2 + KijMVi(1 + Eni)] kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2)

where
k1 = 9.807 (1, 0.0278)
k2 = 1.025 (0.1045, 0.000888)
C2 = 39.2 (422.46) for m (ft)

nij = 5730(MVi/MRi)1/2 Gij ≥ 1.0

Eni = natural log of nij

Gij = e
(− hij2 / M Ri )

MRi = 1.391 Ai βRVM (L/Cb)1/2 for L in meters

= 8.266 Ai βRVM (L/Cb)1/2 for L in feet

Ai = as shown in 5A-3-2/Table 6

βRVM = ESF for relative vertical motion as defined in 5A-5-A1/3

Cb = as defined in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
L = length of installation as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of Steel Vessel Rules
MVi = BiMRi, where Bi is given in 5A-3-2/Table 6
hij = vertical distance measured from the load waterline (LWL) at station i to WLj
on the bowflare. The value of hij is not to be taken less than 2.0 m (6.56 ft)
Kij = fij[rj /(bij + 0.5hij)]3/2 [lij /rj]

rj = (MRi)1/2
bij = local half beam of WLj at station i. The value of bij is not to be taken less than
2.0 m (6.56 ft)
lij = longitudinal distance of WLj at station i measured from amidships

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

fij = [90/βij − 1]2 [tan(βij)/3.14]2 cos γ

βij = local body plan angle measured from the horizontal, in degrees, need not be
taken less than 35 degrees, see 5A-3-2/Figure 17
γ = installation stem angle at the centerline measured from the horizontal,
5A-3-2/Figure 18, in degrees, not to be taken greater than 75 degrees

TABLE 6
Values of Ai and Bi * (2000)
Ai Bi
-0.05L 1.25 0.3600
FP 1.00 0.4000
0.05L 0.80 0.4375
0.10L 0.62 0.4838
0.15L 0.47 0.5532
0.20L 0.33 0.6666
0.25L 0.22 0.8182
0.30L 0.22 0.8182
* Linear interpolation may be used for intermediate values.

FIGURE 17
Definition of Bowflare Geometry for Bowflare Shape Parameter (2000)

highest deck b4

s4

s3
b3
s2
βij
(body plan angle)

b2

s1

b1
LWL
centerline

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

FIGURE 18
Ship-Type Installation Stem Angle, γ
F.P.

Stem Angle γ

13.5.2 Simultaneous Bowflare Slamming Pressure

For performing structural analyses to determine overall responses of the hull structures, the spatial
distribution of instantaneous bowflare slamming pressures on the forebody region of the hull may
be expressed by multiplying the calculated maximum bowflare slamming pressures, Pij, at forward
ship stations by a factor of 0.71 for the region between the stem and 0.3L from the FP.

13.7 Green Water on Deck (31 March 2007)

When experimental data or direct calculations are not available, nominal green water pressure imposed on
deck along the installation length, including the extension beyond the FP, may be obtained from the
following equations.
Pgi = K{[βRVMAi(B/L)1/4/Cb] – k1Fbi} kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2)
where
Pgi = Green water pressure, uniformly distributed across the deck at specified longitudinal
section i along the installation length under consideration (see 5A-3-2/Table 7 below).
Pressure in between is obtained by linear interpolation. Pgi is not to be taken less
than 20.6 kN/m2 (2.1 tf/m2, 0.192 Lt/ft2).
K = 10.052 (1.025, 0.09372)
k1 = 1.0 (3.28) for m (ft)
Ai = as shown in 5A-3-2/Table 7

βRVM = ESF factor of relative vertical motion, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

Cb = as defined in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules

L = scantling length of installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel
Rules
B = greatest molded breath of installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel
Vessel Rules
Fbi = freeboard from the highest deck at side to the load waterline (LWL) at station i, in m
(ft), see 5A-3-2/Figure 15

TABLE 7
Values of Ai (1 March 2006)
Section i from F.P. Ai
-0.05L 23.3
0 20.7
0.05L 18.2
0.10L 16.1
0.15L 14.7
0.20L 14.3
0.25L 14.2
0.30L 14.1
0.35L 14
0.40L 14
0.45L 14
0.50L 14
0.55L 14
0.60L 14
0.65L 14
0.70L 14
0.75L 14.2
0.80L 14.2
0.85L 14.2
0.90L 14.7
0.95L 17.1
1.00L 19.9

15 Deck Loads (2000)

15.1 General
For the design and evaluation of deck structures, the following loads due to on deck production facilities
are to be considered:
i) Static weight of on deck production facilities in upright condition.
ii) Dynamic loads due to ship motions.
iii) Wind load.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

15.3 Loads for On-Site Operation (December 2008)

The nominal forces from each individual deck production module at the center of gravity of the module
can be obtained from the following equations:
Fv = W [cos(0.71Cφφ) cos(0.71Cθθ) + 0.71cvav/g]

Ft = W [sin(0.71Cθθ) +0.71cTat/g] + kt Fwind

Fl = W [-sin(0.71Cφφ) + 0.71cLal/g] + kl Fwind

where
φ and θ are the pitch and roll amplitudes defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.1.
φ, in degrees, need not to be taken more than 10 degrees.
θ, in degrees, need not to be taken more than 30 degrees.
av, at and al are the vertical, transverse and longitudinal accelerations, as specified in 5A-3-2/5.7.1
for heading angles μ in 5A-3-2/Table 8
Note: The accelerations specified in 5A-3-2/5.7.1 are to be considered preliminary values and may be used
only when values from model tests or ship motion calculations are not yet available. The final design
forces from deck production modules are to be calculated using acceleration values obtained from model
test data or ship motions calculations for the site location.
Fv = vertical load from each production module, positive downward
Ft = transverse load from each production module, positive starboard
Fl = longitudinal load from each production module, positive forward
W = weight of the production module, in kN (tf, Ltf)
2
Fwind = k AwindCs Ch Vwind = wind force, in kN (tf, Ltf)
Two combinations of wave-induced and wind forces are to be considered:
Fv, Ft with factor kt = 1 and Fl with factor kl = 0
Fv, Ft with factor kt = 0 and Fl with factor kl = 1
The deck load is to be obtained for the maximum weight of on deck production facilities for head sea
(Load Case A), beam sea (Load Case B) and oblique sea (Load Case C) listed in 5A-3-2/Table 8, where
the correlation factors cv, cT, cL, Cφ and Cθ for each load case are also shown.

TABLE 8
Correlation Factors cv, cT, cL, Cφ and Cθ
LC A LC B LC C
Load Case (head sea) (beam sea) (oblique)
cv 0.8 0.4 0.7
cL 0.6 0 0.7
cT 0 0.9 0.7
Cφ -1 0 -0.7
Cθ 0 1 0.7
Wave heading 0 90 60
angle μ in deg.

210 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 2 Loads 5A-3-2

where
Vwind = wind velocity based on 1-hour average speed

Awind = projected area of windage on a plane normal to the direction of the wind, in m2 (ft2)
Cs = shape coefficient, defined in Section 3-2-4 of this Guide
Ch = height coefficient, defined in Section 3-2-4 of this Guide for 1-hour average wind
The forces from each deck production module can be obtained based on long-term prediction for the
realistic sea states of the specific site of operation. In no case are the forces Fv, Ft and Fl to be less than
those obtained using the values of Environmental Severity Factors (ESFs) established from 5A-3-A1/3.

15.5 Loads in Transit Condition

Nominal loads of the production facility modules on deck during transit condition can be obtained from the
equations in item 5A-3-2/15.3, above. Alternatively, corresponding forces can be calculated based on the
sea condition for the specific voyage. Also see Part 3, Chapter 2 of this Guide.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 211
PART Section 3: Initial Scantling Evaluation

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

SECTION 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation

1 General

1.1 Strength Requirement (1995)

This Section specifies the minimum strength requirements for hull structure with respect to the determination
of initial scantlings, including the hull girder, shell and bulkhead plating, longitudinals/ stiffeners and main
supporting members. Once the minimum scantlings are determined, the strength of the resulting design is
to be assessed in accordance with Section 5A-3-4. The assessment is to be carried out by means of an
appropriate structural analysis as per 5A-3-4/11, in order to establish compliance with the failure criteria in
5A-3-4/3. Structural details are to comply with 5A-3-3/1.5.
The requirements for hull girder strength are specified in 5A-3-3/3. The required scantlings of double
bottom structures, side shell and deck, and longitudinal and transverse bulkheads are specified in 5A-3-3/7
through 5A-3-3/17 below. 5A-3-3/Figure 1 shows the appropriate Subsections giving scantling requirements
for the various structural components of typical double hull ship-type installations. For hull structures
beyond 0.4L amidships, the initial scantlings are determined in accordance with Section 5A-3-5.

1.3 Calculation of Load Effects (1995)

Equations giving approximate requirements are given in 5A-3-3/7 through 5A-3-3/13 for calculating the
maximum bending moments and shear forces for main supporting members clear of the end brackets, and
axial loads for cross ties for typical structural arrangements and configurations (5A-5-3/Figures 2A and
2B). For designs with different structural configurations, these local load effects may be determined from a
3D structural analysis at the early design stages, as outlined in 5A-3-4/11, for the combined load cases
specified in 5A-3-2/9, excluding the hull girder load components. In this regard, the detailed analysis
results are to be submitted for review.

1.5 Structural Details (1995)

The strength criteria specified in this Section and Section 5A-3-5 are based on assumptions that all
structural joints and welded details are properly designed and fabricated and are compatible with the
anticipated working stress levels at the locations considered. It is critical to closely examine the loading
patterns, stress concentrations and potential failure modes of structural joints and details during the design
of highly stressed regions. In this exercise, failure criteria specified in 5A-3-4/3 may be used to assess the
adequacy of structural details.

1.7 Evaluation of Grouped Stiffeners (1 July 2008)

Where several members in a group with some variation in requirement are selected as equal, the section
modulus requirement may be taken as the average of each individual requirement in the group. However,
the section modulus requirement for the group is not to be taken less than 90% of the largest section
modulus required for individual stiffeners within the group. Sequentially positioned stiffeners of equal
scantlings may be considered a group.

212 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 1
Scantling Requirement Reference by Subsection (1 September 2007)
5A-3-3/3.1 5A-3-3/11.3.1 & 5A-3-3/11.5.2
5A-3-3/9.5
5A-3-3/9.3

L
C

5A-3-3/11.5.1 & 5A-3-3/11.5.2

5A-3-3/11.7

5A-3-3/5.3
5A-3-3/9.1
5A-3-3/13.3 (plate)
5A-3-3/17 (corrugated)

5A-3-3/15.7.1
5A-3-3/15.5.1
5A-3-3/11.9

5A-3-3/13.5

5A-3-3/9.5 5A-3-3/13.5

5A-3-3/5.5 5A-3-3/13.3
5A-3-3/13.1 5A-3-3/7.3.2

5A-3-3/7.7.4
5A-3-3/7.7.2 L
C

5A-3-3/7.5

5A-3-3/7.3.1 5A-3-3/7.7.3 & 5A-3-3/7.7.4

5A-3-3/7.7.3
For main supporting members, also see
5A-3-3/11.9 & 5A-3-3/11.11 for minimum
web depth and thickness requirements.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 2A
Definitions of Spans (A) (1995)

= = = =
= =

sg sg
lt ls lb lt ls
l
l

L
C
L
C

a. b.

l l
lt
he

lt he
lt lb
lb ls ls
l

L
C L
C
c. d.

l l l lt
lt l

lb lt lt
ls lb ls

L
C L
C

e. f

214 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 2B
Definitions of Spans (B) (1995)

hU
hU

lb
l l

hL
hL

L
C
a. Side Transverve and Vertical
Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead

l
lb

he

L
C

b. Horizontal Girder on
Transverse Bulkhead

he

hU

ha
lg
lst l
l

hL

c. Deck Girder and Vertical Web

on Transverse Bulkhead

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

3 Hull Girder Strength

3.1 Hull Girder Section Modulus (1995)

3.1.1 Hull Girder Section Modulus Amidships
The required hull girder section modulus amidships is to be calculated in accordance with 3-2-1/3.7,
3-2-1/5 and 3-2-1/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules and 5A-1-2/1 of this Guide. For the assessment of
ultimate strength as specified in 5A-3-3/3.5 and the determination of initial net structural scantlings,
the net hull girder section modulus amidships, SMn, is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-3/3.1.2
below.
3.1.2 Effective Longitudinal Members
The hull girder section modulus calculation is to be carried out in accordance with 3-2-1/9 of the
Steel Vessel Rules, as modified below. To suit the strength criteria based on a “net” ship concept,
the nominal design corrosion values specified in 5A-3-1/Table 1 are to be deducted in calculating
the net section modulus, SMn.

3.3 Hull Girder Moment of Inertia (1995)

The hull girder moment of inertia is to be not less than required by 3-2-1/3.7.2 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

3.5 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength (December 2008)

In addition to the strength requirements specified in 5A-3-3/3.1, the vertical hull girder ultimate strength
for either hogging or sagging conditions for the FPI design environmental condition (DEC) is to satisfy the
limit state as specified below. It need only be applied within the 0.4L amidship region.
γsMs + γwβVBM Mw ≤ Mu/γu
where
Ms = permissible still-water bending moment, in kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)
Mw = vertical wave-induced bending moment in accordance with 3-2-1/3.5.1 of the Steel
Vessel Rules, in kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)
Mu = hull girder ultimate strength, which may be determined from the equations as given in
Appendix 5A-3-A3, in kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)
βVBM = ESF for vertical wave-induced bending moment for DEC
γs = load factor for the maximum permissible still-water bending moment, but not to be
taken as less than 1.0
γw = load factor for the wave-induced bending moment, but not to be taken as less than
below for the given limits
= 1.3 for Ms < 0.2 Mt or Ms > 0.5 Mt

= 1.2 for 0.2Mt ≤ Ms ≤ 0.5 Mt

Mt = total bending moment, in kN-m (tf-m, Ltf-ft)

= Ms + βVBM Mw
γu = safety factor for the vertical hull girder bending capacity, but not to be taken as less
than 1.15

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

5 Shearing Strength (1997)

5.1 General (December 2008)

The net thickness of the side shell and longitudinal bulkhead plating is to be determined based on the total
vertical shear force, Ft, and the permissible shear stress, fs, given below, where the outer longitudinal
bulkheads (inner skin) are located no further than 0.075B from the side shell.
The nominal design corrosion values as given in 5A-3-1/Table 1 for the side shell and longitudinal bulkhead
plating are to be added to the “net” thickness thus obtained.
Ft = FS + βVSF FW kN (tf, Ltf)
t = Fm/I fs cm (in.)
where
FS = still-water shear force based on the still-water shear force envelope curve for all
anticipated loading conditions in accordance with 3-2-1/3.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules,
at location considered, in kN (tf, Ltf).
βVSF = ESF for vertical shear force, as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
FW = vertical wave shear force, as given in 3-2-1/3.5.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in kN (tf,
Ltf). FW for in-port condition may be taken as zero.
t = ts or ti (see 5A-3-3/5.3 and 5A-3-3/5.5)
F = FtDs or (Ft + Ri)Di (see 5A-3-3/5.3 and 5A-3-3/5.5 below)

m = first moment of the “net” hull girder section, in cm3 (in3), about the neutral axis, of
the area between the vertical level at which the shear stress is being determined and
the vertical extremity of the section under consideration
I = moment of inertia of the “net” hull girder section at the position considered, in cm4 (in4)
fs = 11.96/Q kN/cm2 (1.220/Q tf/cm2, 7.741/Q Ltf/in2) at sea

= 10.87/Q kN/cm2 (1.114/Q tf/cm2, 7.065/Q Ltf/in2) in port

Q = material conversion factor
= 1.0 for ordinary strength steel
= 0.78 for Grade H32 steel
= 0.72 for Grade H36 steel
= 0.68 for Grade H40 steel
For the purpose of calculating required thickness for hull girder shear, the sign of Ft may be disregarded
unless algebraic sum with other shear forces, such as local load components, is appropriate.

5.3 Net Thickness of Side Shell Plating

ts ≥ Ft Ds m/I fs cm (in.)
where
Ds = shear distribution factor for side shell, as defined in 5A-3-3/5.3.1, 5A-3-3/5.3.2 or
5A-3-3/5.3.3 below.
Ft, m, I and fs are as defined in 5A-3-3/5.1 above.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

5.3.1 Shear Distribution Factor for Ship-type Installations with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads
(inner skin only)
Ds = 0.384 − 0.167Aob/As − 0.190 bs/B
where
Aob = total projected area of the net outer longitudinal bulkhead (inner skin) plating
above inner bottom (one side), in cm2 (in2)
As = total projected area of the net side shell plating (one side), in cm2 (in2)
bs = distance between outer side longitudinal bulkhead (inner skin) and side shell,
in m (ft)
B = breadth of the installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel
Rules.
5.3.2 Shear Distribution Factor for Ship-type Installations with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads
and a Centerline Swash or Oil-tight Longitudinal Bulkhead
Ds = 0.347 − 0.057Acb /As − 0.137 Aob /As − 0.070bs /B
where
Acb = total area of the net centerline longitudinal bulkhead plating above inner
bottom, in cm2 (in2)
As, Aob, bs and B are as defined in 5A-3-3/5.3.1 above.

5.3.3 Shear Distribution Factor for Ship-type Installations with Two Outer and Two Inner Longitudinal
Bulkheads
Ds = 0.330 − 0.218Aob /As − 0.043bs /B
where As, Aob ,bs and B are as defined in 5A-3-3/5.3.1 above.

5.5 Thickness of Longitudinal Bulkheads

ti ≥ (Ft + Ri)Di m/I fs cm (in.)
where
Di = shear distribution factor
Ri = local load correction
i = ob for outer longitudinal bulkhead (inner skin)
= ib for inner longitudinal bulkhead
= cb for centerline longitudinal bulkhead
Ft, I, m and fs are as defined above.
The other parameters, depending on the configuration of the ship-type installation, are defined in 5A-3-3/5.5.1,
5A-3-3/5.5.2 and 5A-5-3/5.5.3 below.
5.5.1 Ship-type Installations with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads (Inner Skin Only)
The net thickness of the outer longitudinal bulkhead plating at the position considered:
tob ≥ FtDobm/I fs cm (in.)
where
Dob = 0.105 + 0.156Aob/As + 0.190bs/B
As, Aob, bs, B, Ft, I, m and fs are defined above.

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5.5.2 Ship-type Installations with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads and a Centerline Swash or Oil-
tight Longitudinal Bulkhead
5.5.2(a) (1999) The net thickness of the centerline longitudinal bulkhead plating at the position
considered:
tcb ≥ (Ft + Rcb)Dcbm/I fs cm (in.)
where
Rcb = Wc[(2Nwcb kcbI/3Hcb Dcbm) − 1] ≥ 0
*
kcb = 1 + Acb /Acb ≤ 1.9
Dcb = 0.229 + 0.152Acb/As − 0.10Aob/As − 0.198 bs/B
Wc = local load, in kN (tf, Ltf), calculated according to 5A-3-3/5.7 and
5A-3-3/Figure 3a
Nwcb = local load distribution factor for the centerline longitudinal bulkhead
= (0.66Dcb + 0.25) (n − 1)/n
n = total number of transverse frame spaces in the center tank
Hcb = depth of the centerline longitudinal bulkhead above inner bottom, in cm (in.)
*
Acb = total area of the net centerline longitudinal bulkhead plating above the lower
edge of the strake under consideration, in cm2 (in2)
All other parameters are as defined in 5A-3-3/5.3.
5.5.2(b) The net thickness of the outer longitudinal bulkhead plating at the position considered:
tob ≥ Ft Dobm/I fs cm (in.)
where
Dob = 0.106 − 0.093Acb/As + 0.164Aob/As + 0.202bs/B
All other parameters are as defined in 5A-3-3/5.3 and 5A-3-3/5.5.
5.5.3 Ship-type Installations with Two Outer and Two Inner Longitudinal Bulkheads
5.5.3(a) The net thickness of the inner longitudinal bulkhead plating at the position considered:
tib ≥ (Ft + Rib)Dibm/I fs cm (in.)
where
Rib = Wc1[(2Nwib1kibI/3HibDibm)− 1] + Wc2[(2Nwib2kibI/3HibDibm) − 1] ≥ 0
kib = 1 + Aib* /Aib ≤ 1.9
Dib = 0.058 + 0.173Aib/As − 0.043bs/B
Wc1, Wc2 = local load, in kN (tf, Ltf), calculated according to 5A-3-3/5.7 and
5A-3-3/Figure 3b
Aib = total area of the net inner longitudinal bulkhead plating above inner bottom,
in cm2 (in2)
Aib* = total area of the net inner longitudinal bulkhead plating above the lower edge
of the strake under consideration, in cm2 (in2)
Nwib1, Nwib2 = local load distribution factor for inner longitudinal bulkhead
Nwib1 = (0.49Dib + 0.18)(n − 1)/n for local load Wc1
Nwib2 = (0.60Dib + 0.10)(n − 1)/n for local load Wc2
Hib = depth of the inner longitudinal bulkhead above inner bottom, in cm (in.)
All other parameters are as defined above.

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5.5.3(b) The net thickness of the outer longitudinal bulkhead plating at the position considered:
tob ≥ Ft Dobm/I fs cm (in.)
where
Dob = 0.013 + 0.153Aob/As + 0.172 bs/B
All other parameters are as defined above.

5.7 Calculation of Local Loads (1995)

In determining the shear forces at the ends of cargo tanks, the local loads are to be calculated as shown in
the following example. The tank arrangement for this example is as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 3. The ballast
tanks within double bottom and double side are to be considered as being empty in calculating excess
liquid head.
5.7.1 Ship-type Installations with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads and a Centerline Swash or Oil-
tight Longitudinal Bulkhead (1 July 2000)
Local load Wc may be denoted by Wc(f) and Wc(a) at the fore and aft ends of the center tank,
respectively, in kN (tf, Ltf ).
Wc(f) = Wc (a) = 0.5ρ gbclc[ksHc + 0.71ks (av/g)Hc + 0.47kslcsin φ – 0.55(ρo /ρ)df +
0.2(ρo /ρ)C1] ≥ 0

but need not be taken greater than 0.5ksρ gbclcHc

where
ks = load factor
= 1.0 for all loads from ballast tanks
= 0.878 for ρ g of 10.05 kN/m3 (1.025 tf/m3, 0.0286 Ltf/ft3) and 1.0 for ρ g of
11.18 kN/m3 (1.14 tf/m3, 0.0318 Ltf/ft3) and above for all loads from cargo
tanks.
For cargo ρ g between 10.05 kN/m3 (1.025 tf/m3, 0.0286 Ltf/ft3) and 11.18
kN/m3 (1.14 tf/m3, 0.0318 Ltf/ft3), the factor ks may be determined by
interpolation
ρg = specific weight of the liquid, not to be taken less than 10.05 kN/m3
(1.025 tf/m3, 0.0286 Ltf/ft3)
ρog = specific weight of sea water, 10.05 kN/m3 (1.025 tf/m3, 0.0286 Ltf/ft3)
lc, bc = length and breadth, respectively, of the center tanks, in m (ft), as shown in
5A-3-3/Figure 3a
Hc = liquid head in the center tank, in m (ft)
av = vertical acceleration amidships with a wave heading angle of 0 degrees, in
m/sec2 (ft/sec2), as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.1(c)
g = acceleration of gravity = 9.8 m/sec2 (32.2 ft/sec2)
φ = pitch amplitude in degrees, as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.1(a)
df = draft, as defined in 3-1-1/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
C1 = as defined in 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

5.7.2 Ship-type Installations with Two Outer and Two Inner Longitudinal Bulkheads (1 July 2000)
Local loads Wc1, Wc2 may be denoted by Wc1(f), Wc2(f) and Wc1(a), Wc2(a) at the fore and aft ends
of the center tank, respectively, in kN (tf, Ltf).
k s ρ gbc1 l l2
Wc1(f) = [hc1l1 (l2 + 1 ) + hc2 2 ]
lc 2 2

k s ρ gbc1 l2 l
Wc1(a) = [hc1 1 + hc2l2 (l1+ 2 )]
lc 2 2

k s ρ gbc 2 l l2
Wc2(f) = [hc3l1 (l2 + 1 ) + hc4 2 ]
lc 2 2

k s ρ gbc 2 l2 l
Wc2(a) = [hc3 1 + hc4l2 (l1+ 2 )]
lc 2 2
where
ks = load factor, as defined in 5A-3-3/5.7.1
ρg = specific weight of the liquid, not to be taken less than 10.05 kN/m3
(1.025 tf/m3, 0.0286 Ltf/ft3)
lc = length of the center tank, in m (ft), as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 3b
l1, l2 = longitudinal distances from the respective center tank ends to the
intermediate wing tank transverse bulkheads, in m (ft), as shown in
5A-3-3/Figure 3b
bc1 = breadth of the center tank, in m (ft), as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 3b
bc2 = breadth of the center and wing tanks, in m (ft), as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 3b
H1, H2 = liquid heads in the wing tanks, in m (ft), as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 3b

hc1 = Hc − H1, but not to be taken less than zero

hc2 = Hc − H2, but not to be taken less than zero

hc3 = Hc or H1, whichever is lesser
hc4 = Hc or H2, whichever is lesser
Where adjacent tanks are loaded with cargoes of different densities, the heads are to be adjusted to
account for the difference in density. For locations away from the ends of the tanks, Rcb and Rib
may be determined using the calculated values of Wc at the locations considered.

5.9 Three Dimensional Analysis (1995)

The total shear stresses in the side shell and longitudinal bulkhead plating (net thickness) may be
calculated using a 3D structural analysis to determine the general shear distribution and local load effects
for the critical shear strength conditions among all of the anticipated loading conditions.

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FIGURE 3
Center Tank Region (1995)

a Tankers with Double Hull and Centerlilne Swash or Oil-tight Longitudinal Bulkhead.
lc

bs

Hc
bc

Hc
bs

b Tankers with Four Longitudinal Bulkheads

lc
l1 l2

H2 H1

bc2 bc1 Hc

H2 H1

7 Double Bottom Structures

7.1 General (1995)

7.1.1 Arrangement
The depth of the double bottom and arrangement of access openings are to be in compliance with
5A-3-1/5. Centerline and side girders are to be fitted, as necessary, to provide sufficient stiffness
and strength for docking loads as well as those specified in Section 5A-3-2.
Struts connecting the bottom and inner bottom longitudinals are not to be fitted.
7.1.2 Keel Plate
The net thickness of the flat plate keel is to be not less than that required for the bottom shell
plating at that location by 5A-3-3/7.3.1 increased by 1.5 mm (0.06 in.), except where the submitted
docking plan (see 3-1-2/11 of the Steel Vessel Rules) specifies all docking blocks be arranged away
from the keel.

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7.1.3 Bottom Shell Plating – Definition

The term “bottom shell plating” refers to the plating from the keel to the upper turn of the bilge for
0.4L amidships.
7.1.4 Bilge Longitudinals (2004)
Longitudinals around the bilge are to be graded in size from that required for the lowest side
longitudinal to that required for the bottom longitudinals. Where longitudinals are omitted in way
of the bilge, the bottom and side longitudinals are to be arranged so that the distance between the
nearest longitudinal and the turn of the bilge is not more than 0.4s (s is the spacing of bottom (Sb)
or side (Ss) longitudinals), as applicable (see 5A-3-3/Figure 4).

FIGURE 4

Ss

Ss
b
R. End
R
b ≤ Ss(2/5)

Sb Sb a

a ≤ Sb(2/5)
R. End

7.3 Bottom Shell and Inner Bottom Plating (1997)

The thickness of the bottom shell and inner bottom plating over the midship 0.4L is to satisfy the hull
girder section modulus requirements in 3-2-1/3.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules. The buckling and ultimate
strength are to be in accordance with the requirements in 5A-3-4/5. In addition, the net thickness of the
bottom shell and inner bottom plating is to be not less than the following.
7.3.1 Bottom Shell Plating (1999)
The net thickness of the bottom shell plating, tn, is to be not less than t1, t2 and t3, specified as
follows:
t1 = 0.73s(k1p/f1)1/2 mm (in.)

t2 = 0.73s(k2 p/f2)1/2 mm (in.)

t3 = cs(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.)

where
s = spacing of bottom longitudinals, in mm (in.)
k1 = 0.342
k2 = 0.500

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p = pa − puh or pb, whichever is greater, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

puh = 0.12γ(hlwttan φe)1/2 where lwt ≥ 0.20L

= 0 where lwt ≤ 0.15L
Linear interpolation is to be used for intermediate values of lwt.
pa and pb are nominal pressures, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined in load case “a” and “b” in
5A-3-2/Table 3 for bottom plating, respectively.
γ = specific weight of the ballast water, 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m,
0.4444 lbf/in2-ft)
h = height of double side ballast tank at installation’s side, in m (ft)
lwt = length at tank top of double side ballast tank, in m (ft)
L = installation length, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
φe = effective pitch amplitude, as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.2 with Cφ = 1.0
f1 = permissible bending stress in the longitudinal direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
= (1 − 0.70α1SMRB/SMB)Sm fy ≤ 0.40Sm fy

f1 = (1 − 0.70α1SMRB/SMB)Sm fy ≤ (0.40 + 0.1(190 − L)/40) Sm fy for L < 190 m

α1 = Sm1fy1/Sm fy
SMRB = reference net hull girder section modulus based on the material factor of the
bottom flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
= 0.92SM
SM = required gross hull girder section modulus at the location under consideration,
in accordance with 3-2-1/3.7 and 3-2-1/5.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, based
on the material factor of the bottom flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
SMB = design (actual) net hull girder section modulus to the bottom, in cm2-m (in2-ft),
at the location under consideration
f2 = permissible bending stress in the transverse direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
= 0.80 Sm fy
Sm = strength reduction factor
= 1 for Ordinary Strength Steel, as specified in 2-1-2/Table 2 of the
ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2)
= 0.95 for Grade H32, as specified in 2-1-3/Table 2 of the ABS Rules
for Materials and Welding (Part 2)
= 0.908 for Grade H36, as specified in 2-1-3/Table 2 of the ABS Rules
for Materials and Welding (Part 2)
= 0.875 for Grade H40, as specified in 2-1-3/Table 2 of the ABS Rules
for Materials and Welding (Part 2)
Sm1 = strength reduction factor for the bottom flange of the hull girder
fy = minimum specified yield point of the material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

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fy1 = minimum specified yield point of the bottom flange of the hull girder, in
N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
E = modulus of elasticity of the material, may be taken as 2.06 × 107 N/cm2
(2.1 × 106 kgf/cm2, 30 × 106 lbf/in2) for steel
c = 0.7N2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.4Q1/2
N = Rb(Q/Qb)1/2

Rb = (SMRBH /SMB)1/2
SMRBH = reference net hull girder section modulus for hogging bending moment based
on the material factor of the bottom flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
= 0.92SMH
SMH = required gross hull girder section modulus, in accordance with 3-2-1/3.7.1
and 3-2-1/5.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, for hogging total bending moment at
the location under consideration, based on the material factor of the bottom
flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
Q, Qb = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5.1 for the bottom shell plating under
consideration and the bottom flange of the hull girder, respectively.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material
required at the location under consideration.
In addition to the foregoing, the net thickness of the bottom shell plating, outboard of 0.3B from
the centerline of the installation, is to be not less than that of the lowest side shell plating required
by 5A-3-3/9.1 adjusted for the spacing of the longitudinals and the material factors.
7.3.2 Inner Bottom Plating (1999)
The net thickness of the inner bottom plating, tn, is to be not less than t1, t2 and t3, specified as
follows:
t1 = 0.73s(k1 p/f1)1/2 mm (in.)

t2 = 0.73s(k2 p/f2)1/2 mm (in.)

t3 = cs(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.)

where
s = spacing of inner bottom longitudinals, in mm (in.)
k1 = 0.342
k2 = 0.50

p = pa − puh or pb, whichever is greater, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

pa and pb are nominal pressures, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined in load case “a” and “b” in
5A-3-2/Table 3 for inner bottom plating, respectively.
puh is defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material
required at the location under consideration.
f1 = permissible bending stress in the longitudinal direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
= (1 − 0.52α1SMRB /SMB)Sm fy ≤ 0.57Sm fy, where SMB /SMRB is not to be taken
more than 1.4

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f2 = permissible bending stress in the transverse direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= 0.85 Sm fy

α1 = Sm1 fy1/Sm fy
Sm = strength reduction factor obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1 for the steel grade of
inner bottom material
Sm1 = strength reduction factor obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1 for the steel grade of
bottom flange material.
fy = minimum specified yield point of the inner bottom material, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fy1 = minimum specified yield point of the bottom flange material, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
c = 0.7N 2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.4Q1/2
N = Rb [(Q/Qb)(y/yn)] 1/2
Q = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5.1 for the inner bottom plating
y = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the inner bottom to the neutral
axis of the hull girder section
yn = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the bottom to the neutral axis of
the hull girder section
SMRB, SMB, Rb, Qb and E are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
Where the breadth of the center tank exceeds 0.6B, or the wing ballast tanks are U-shaped, the net
thickness of the inner bottom plating in the center tank, outboard of 0.3B from the centerline of the
tank, is also to be not less than that of the adjacent strake on the outer longitudinal bulkhead (inner
skin) required by 5A-3-3/13.1, adjusted for the spacing of the longitudinals and the material factors.

7.5 Bottom and Inner Bottom Longitudinals (1 July 2005)

The net section modulus of each bottom or inner bottom longitudinal, in association with the effective
plating to which it is attached, is to be not less than obtained from the following equations:
SM = M / fb cm3 (in3)
where
M = 1000 psl2/k N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in.)
k = 12 (12, 83.33)
s = spacing of longitudinals, in mm (in.)
l = span of the longitudinal between effective supports, as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 5, in
m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified in 5A-3-3/7.3.1 and
5A-3-3/7.3.2 for bottom and inner bottom longitudinals, respectively
fb = permissible bending stresses, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= (1.0 − 0.65α1SMRB/SMB)Sm fy ≤ 0.55Sm fy for bottom longitudinals

= (1.0 − 0.50α1SMRB/SMB)Sm fy ≤ 0.65Sm fy for inner bottom longitudinals

α1 = Sm1 fy1/Sm fy

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Sm = strength reduction factor, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1, for the material of longitudinals

considered
Sm1 = strength reduction factor, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1, for the bottom flange material
fy = minimum specified yield point for the material of longitudinals considered, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fy1 = minimum specified yield point of the bottom flange material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
SMRB and SMB are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The net section modulus of the bottom longitudinals, outboard of 0.3B from the centerline of the
installation, is also to be not less than that of the lowest side longitudinal required by 5A-3-3/9.5, adjusted
for the span and spacing of the longitudinals and the material factors.
Where the breadth of center tank exceeds 0.6B, or the wing ballast tanks are U-shaped, the net section
modulus of the inner bottom longitudinals in the center tank, outboard of 0.3B from the centerline of the
tank, is also to be not less than that of the lowest outer longitudinal bulkhead longitudinal required by
5A-3-3/13.5, adjusted for the span and spacing of the longitudinals and the material factors.
In determining compliance with the foregoing, an effective breadth, be, of attached plating is to be used in
calculation of the section modulus of the design longitudinal. be is to be obtained from line a) of
5A-3-3/Figure 6.

7.7 Bottom Girders/Floors (1997)

The minimum scantlings for bottom girders/floors are to be determined from 5A-3-3/7.7.1, 5A-3-3/7.7.2,
5A-3-3/7.7.3 and 5A-3-3/7.7.4, as follows:
7.7.1 Bottom Centerline Girder (1999)
The net thickness of the centerline girder amidships, where no centerline bulkhead is fitted, is to
be not less than t1 and t2, as defined below:
t1 = (0.045L + 4.5)R mm
= (0.00054L + 0.177)R in.
t2 = 10F1/(db fs) mm
= F1/(db fs) in.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material
required at the location under consideration.
t3 = cs(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.)
where F1 is the maximum shear force in the center girder, as obtained from the equations given
below (see also 5A-3-3/1.3). Alternatively, F1 may be determined from finite element analyses, as
specified in 5A-3-4/11, with the combined load cases in 5A-3-4/11.9. However, in no case should
F1 be taken less than 85% of that determined from the equations below:
F1 = 1000kα1γn1n2 plss1 N (kgf, lbf), for λ ≤ 1.5

F1 = 414kγn1n2 pbs s1 N (kgf, lbf), for λ > 1.5

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
α1 = 0.606 − 0.22λ

λ = ls/bs

γ = 2x/(ls − s3), ≤ 1.0

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n1 = 0.0374(s1/s3)2 − 0.326(s1/s3) + 1.289

n2 = 1.3 − (s3/12) for SI or MKS Units

= 1.3 − (s3/39.37) for U.S. Units

ls = unsupported length of the double bottom structures under consideration, in m
(ft), as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 7
bs = unsupported width of the double bottom structures under consideration, in m
(ft), as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 7
s1 = sum of one-half of girder spacing on each side of the center girder, in m (ft)
s3 = spacing of floors, in m (ft)
x = longitudinal distance from the mid-span of unsupported length (ls) of the
double bottom to the section of the girder under consideration, in m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
db = depth of double bottom, in cm (in.)

fs = permissible shear stresses, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= 0.45 Sm fy

c = 0.7N2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.4Q1/2 but need not be greater than 0.45(Q/Qb)1/2
N = Rb (Q/Qb)1/2
Q = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5 for the bottom girder
s = spacing of longitudinal stiffeners on the girder, in mm (in.)
R = 1.0 for ordinary mild steel
= fym/Sm fyh for higher strength material
fym = specified minimum yield point for ordinary strength steel, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
fyh = specified minimum yield point for higher tensile steel, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
L = length of installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
Sm, E, Rb, Qb and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

7.7.2 Bottom Side Girder (1999)

The net thickness of the bottom side girders is to be not less than t1 and t2, as defined below:
t1 = (0.026L + 4.5)R mm
= (0.00031L + 0.177)R in.
t2 = 10 F2/(db fs) mm
= F2/(db fs) in.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material
required at the location under consideration.
t3 = cs(Sm fy/E)1/2 mm (in.)

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

where F2 is the maximum shear force in the side girders under consideration, as obtained from the
equations given below (see also 5A-3-3/1.3). Alternatively, F2 may be determined from finite element
analyses, as specified in 5A-3-4/11, with the combined load cases in 5A-3-4/11.9. However, in no
case should F2 be taken less than 85% of that determined from the equations below:
F2 = 1000 kα2β1γn3n4 plss2 N (kgf, lbf), for λ ≤ 1.5

F2 = 285kβ1γn3n4 pbss2 N (kgf, lbf), for λ > 1.5

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
α2 = 0.445 − 0.17λ
β1 = 1.25 − (2z1/bs) for ship-type installations with inner skin only
[5A-3-3/Figure 7(d)]
= 1.0 for all other ship-type installations
n3 = 1.072 − 0.0715(s2/s3)

n4 = 1.2 − (s3/18) for SI or MKS Units

= 1.2 − (s3/59.1) for U.S. Units

s2 = sum of one-half of girder spacings on both sides of the side girders, in m (ft)
z1 = transverse distance from the centerline of the unsupported width bs of the
double bottom to the girder under consideration, in m (ft)
c = 0.7N2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.4Q1/2, but need not be greater than
0.45(Q/Qb)1/2
N = Rb (Q/Qb)1/2
Q = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5 for the bottom girder
s = spacing of longitudinal stiffeners on the girder, in mm (in.)
γ, ls, bs, λ, s3, p, db, fs, L, R, Sm and fy are as defined above.

7.7.3 Floors (1997)

The net thickness of the floors is to be not less than t1 and t2, as specified below:
t1 = (0.026L + 4.50)R mm
= (0.00031L + 0.177)R in.
t2 = 10F3/(db fs) mm
= F3/(db fs) in.
where F3 is the maximum shear force in the floors under consideration, as obtained from the
equation given below (see also 5A-3-3/1.3). Alternatively, F3 may be determined from finite element
analyses, as specified in 5A-3-4/11 with the combined load cases in 5A-3-4/11.9. However, in no
case should F3 be taken less than 85% of that determined from the equation below.
F3 = 1000kα3β2 pbs s3 N (kgf, lbf)
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
α3 as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 7.

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

ρ0 = η(0.66 − 0.08η), for η ≤ 2.0

= 1.0, for η > 2.0, or for structures without longitudinal

girders
β2 = 1.05(2z2/bs)2 ≤ 1.0 for ship-type installations with inner skin only
[5A-3-3/Figure 7(d)]
= 2z2/bs for all other ship-type installations

η = (ls/bs)(s0/s3)1/4
s0 = average spacing of girders, in m (ft)
z2 = transverse distance from the centerline of the unsupported width bs of the
double bottom to the section of the floor under consideration, in m (ft)
fs = 0.45 Sm fy in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

ls, bs, s3, R, p, db, L, Sm and fy are as defined above.

7.7.4 Bottom Girders under Longitudinal Bulkhead (1999)

The net thickness of the bottom centerline and side girders under longitudinal bulkheads is to be
not less than t1 and t2, as defined below:
t1 = (0.045L + 4.5)R mm
= (0.00054L + 0.177)R in.
The net thickness, t2, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material
required at the location under consideration.
t2 = cs(Sm fy/E)1/2 mm (in.)
where
c = 0.7N 2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.4Q1/2
N = Rb (Q/Qb)1/2
Q = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5 for the bottom girder
s = spacing of longitudinal stiffeners on the girder, in mm (in.)
L, R, Sm and fy are as defined above.
E, Rb and Qb are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

230 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 5
Unsupported Span of Longitudinal (1995)

Trans Trans
a) Supported by transverses

F.B. F.B.

Trans Trans
b) Supported by transverses
and flat bar stiffeners

F.B. F.B.

d/2

Trans Trans

c) Supported by transverses,
flat bar stiffeners
and brackets

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 6
Effective Breadth of Plating be (1 July 2009)

lw
l

Longitudinal

Mx
M

c l c lo
For bending For bending
at ends at midspan s = spacing of longitudinals

a) For bending at midspan

be/s = 1.219 – 0.965/(cl0/s), when cl0/s < 4.5
otherwise
be/s = 1.0

clo/s 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 and greater

be/s 0.58 0.73 0.83 0.90 0.95 0.98 1.0

b) For bending at ends

be/s = (0.124cl/s – 0.062)1/2, when cl0/s < 8.5
otherwise
be/s = 1.0

cl/s 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4.0

be/s 0.25 0.35 0.43 0.5 0.55 0.6 0.67

232 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 7
Definitions of α3, ls and bs (1 July 2009)

ls

T. Bhd T. Bhd
(a)

bs
bs bs

α3 = 0.35 po α3 = 0.55 po
α3 = 0.5 po α3 = 0.65 po L
C (inboard)
(outboard)
L
C (outboard)
α3 = 0.5 po
(inboard)

(b) (c)

bs

α3 = 0.5 po
(d) L
C

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

9 Side Shell and Deck – Plating and Longitudinals

9.1 Side Shell Plating (December 2008)

The net thickness of the side shell plating, in addition to compliance with 5A-3-3/5.3, is to be not less than
t1, t2 and t3, as specified below for the midship 0.4L:

t1 = 0.73s(k1p/f1)1/2 mm (in.)

t2 = 0.73s(k2 p/f2)1/2 mm (in.)

t3 = cs(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.)
where
s = spacing of side longitudinals, in mm (in.)
k1 = 0.342
k2 = 0.50

p = pa − puo or pb, whichever is greater, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

puo = 0.24γ(hlwtbwt tan φe tan θe)1/3 where lwt ≥ 0.20L

= 0 where lwt ≤ 0.15L
Linear interpolation is to be used for intermediate values of lwt.
pa and pb are nominal pressures at the upper turn of bilge, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined in load
case “a” and “b” 5A-3-2/Table 3 for side shell plating, respectively. Where the wing ballast tanks are
U-shaped, the nominal pressure may be taken at the lower edge of each plate, but is not to be less than that
calculated at upper turn of bilge for J-shaped ballast tanks.
bwt = breadth at tank top of double side ballast tank, in m (ft)

φe = effective pitch amplitude, as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.2, with Cφ = 0.7

θe = effective roll amplitude, as defined in 5A-3-2/5.7.2, with Cθ = 0.7

L is installation length, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005), in m (ft).
γ, h and lwt are also defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material required at
the location under consideration.
f1 = permissible bending stress, in the longitudinal direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= [0.86 − 0.50α1(SMRB/SMB)(y/yb)]Sm fy

≤ 0.43 Sm fy, for L ≥ 190 m (623 ft), below neutral axis

≤ [0.43 + 0.17(190 − L)/40]Sm fy, for L < 190 m (623 ft), below neutral axis
SMB/SMRB is not to be taken more than 1.4.

= 0.43 Sm fy, for L ≥ 190 m (623 ft), above neutral axis

= [0.43 + 0.17 (190 − L)/40]Sm fy for L < 190 m (623 ft), above neutral axis
f2 = permissible bending stress in the vertical direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.80 Sm fy

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

α1 = Sm1 fy1/Sm fy
Sm = strength reduction factor obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1 for the steel grade of side shell
plating material
Sm1 = strength reduction factor obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1 for the steel grade of bottom
flange material
fy = minimum specified yield point of the side shell material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fy1 = minimum specified yield point of the bottom flange material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
yb = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the upper turn of bilge to the neutral axis
of the section
c = 0.7N2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.4Q 1/2
N = Rd (Q/Qd)1/2 for the sheer strake
= Rd [(Q/Qd)(y/yn)]1/2 for other locations above neutral axis
1/2
= Rb [(Q/Qb)(y/yn)] for locations below neutral axis
Rd = (SMRDS/SMD)1/2
y = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the neutral axis of the hull girder transverse
section to the lower edge (upper edge) of the side shell strake, when the strake under
consideration is below (above) the neutral axis for N.
= vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the neutral axis of the hull girder transverse
section to the lower edge of the side shell strake under consideration for f1.
SMRDS = reference net hull girder section modulus for sagging bending moment, based on the
material factor of the deck flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
= 0.92SMS
SMS = required gross hull girder section modulus, in accordance with 3-2-1/3.7.1and 3-2-1/5.5
of the Steel Vessel Rules, for sagging total bending moment at the location under
consideration, based on the material factor of the deck flange of the hull girder, in
cm2-m (in2-ft)
Q, Qd = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5 for the side shell plating under consideration
and the deck flange of the hull girder, respectively.
yn = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the bottom (deck) to the neutral axis of the
section, when the strake under consideration is below (above) the neutral axis.
SMRB, SMB, Rb, Qb and E are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1. SMD is as defined in 5A-3-3/9.5.
The minimum width of the sheer strake for the midship 0.4L is to be in accordance with 3-2-2/3.11 of the
Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005).
The thickness of the sheer strake is to be increased 25% in way of breaks of superstructures, but this
increase need not exceed 6.5 mm (0.26 in.).
In addition, the net thickness of the side shell plating of FPIs subject to side offloading is not to be taken
less than t4 obtained from the following equation:
t4 = 90(s/1000 + 0.7) [B d /(Sm fy)2]1/4 +0.5 mm
where
s = spacing of side longitudinal stiffeners, in mm
B = breadth of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m
d = molded draft, as defined in 3-1-1/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m
All other parameters are as defined above.

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

The net thickness, t4, is to be applied to the following extent of the side shell plating:
• Longitudinal extent. Between a section aft of amidships where the breadth at the waterline exceed
0.9B, and a section forward of amidships where the breadth at the waterline exceeds 0.6B.
• Vertical extent. Between 300 mm below the lowest ballast waterline to 0.25d or 2.2 m, whichever is
greater, above the summer load line.
Alternatively, in lieu of the t4 requirements above, side shell strength calculations may be submitted to
demonstrate the structural adequacy of the side shell to the impact absorbing characteristics of fenders or
equivalent, and their arrangement.

9.3 Deck Plating (December 2008)

The thickness of the strength deck plating is to be not less than that needed to meet the hull girder section
modulus requirement in 3-2-1/3.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005). The buckling and ultimate
strength are to be in accordance with the requirements in 5A-3-4/5. In addition, the net thickness of deck
plating is to be not less than t1, t2 and t3, as specified below for the midship 0.4L:
t1 = 0.73s(k1p/f1)1/2 mm (in.)
1/2
t2 = 0.73s(k2 p/f2) mm (in.)
t3 = cs(Sm fy/E)1/2 mm (in.)
where
s = spacing of deck longitudinals, in mm (in.)
k1 = 0.342
k2 = 0.50
p = pn in cargo tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= pn − puh in ballast tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
In no case is p to be taken less than 2.06 N/cm2 (0.21 kgf/cm2, 2.987 lbf/in2).
pn is nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2 lbf/in2), as defined in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for deck plating.
puh is defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material required at
the location under consideration.
f1 = permissible bending stress in the longitudinal direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.15 Sm fy
f2 = permissible bending stress in the transverse direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.80 Sm fy
c = 0.5 (0.6 + 0.0015L) for SI or MKS Units
= 0.5 (0.6 + 0.00046L) for U.S. Units
c is not to be taken less than (0.7N − 0.2) for installations having length less than 267 m (876 ft)
2

L = length of installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules

(January 2005)
N = Rd (Q/Qd)1/2
Rd = (SMRDS/SMD)1/2
Q = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5 for the deck plating
Sm, fy and E are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
SMRDS and Qd are as defined in 5A-3-3/9.1.
SMD is as defined in 5A-3-3/9.5.

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

The t3 requirement for a converted ship-type FPI may be adjusted based on the ratio Mr, where Mr = total
maximum sagging bending moment as a ship-type FPI/total maximum sagging bending moment as a trading
vessel. The total sagging bending moment as a ship-type FPI is the sum of the maximum sagging still water
and wave bending moments for the on site condition. The sagging wave bending moment may be obtained
from 5A-1-2/1.1.1.
The t3 requirement for a new build ship-type FPI may be adjusted based on the ratio Mr, where Mr =
(maximum sagging still water bending moment + sagging wave bending moment for the on-site DEC)/
(maximum sagging still water bending moment + wave sagging bending moment for North Atlantic
environment).

Mr Adjusted t3
Mr < 0.7 0.85 * t3
0.7 ≤ Mr ≤ 1.0 Varies linearly between 0.85 * t3 and t3
Mr > 1.0 1.0 * t3

The thickness of the stringer plate is to be increased 25% in way of breaks of superstructures, but this
increase need not exceed 6.5 mm (0.25 in.). The required deck area is to be maintained throughout the
midship 0.4L of the installation or beyond the end of a superstructure at or near the midship 0.4L point.
From these locations to the ends of the installation, the deck area may be gradually reduced in accordance
with 3-2-1/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005). Where bending moment envelope curves are
used to determine the required hull girder section modulus, the foregoing requirements for strength deck
area may be modified in accordance with 3-2-1/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005). Where so
modified, the strength deck area is to be maintained a suitable distance from superstructure breaks and is to
be extended into the superstructure to provide adequate structural continuity.

9.5 Deck and Side Longitudinals (1 July 2005)

The net section modulus of each individual side or deck longitudinal, in association with the effective
plating to which it is attached, is to be not less than obtained from the following equation:
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 1000psl2/k N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 12 (12, 83.33)
p = pai − puo or pb, whichever is greater, for side longitudinals, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= pn for deck longitudinals in cargo tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= pn − puh for deck longitudinals in ballast tank, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
In no case is p to be taken less than 2.06 N/cm2 (0.21 kgf/cm2, 2.987 lbf/in2).
pa and pb are nominal pressures, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined in load case “a” and “b”, at the side
longitudinal considered, in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for side longitudinals, respectively.
pn is nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for deck longitudinals.
puoand puh are defined in 5A-3-3/9.1 and 5A-3-3/7.3.1, respectively.

s and l are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.

fb = permissible bending stresses, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= (1.0 − 0.60α2SMRD/SMD)Sm fy for deck longitudinals

= 1.0[0.86 − 0.52α1(SMRB/SMB)(y/yn)] Sm fy ≤ 0.75Sm fy

for side longitudinals below neutral axis

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

= 2.0[0.86 − 0.52α2(SMRD/SMD)(y/yn)] Sm fy ≤ 0.75Sm fy

for side longitudinals above neutral axis
α2 = Sm2 fy2/Sm fy

Sm, fy and α1 are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.

Sm2 = strength reduction factor, as obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1, for the steel grade of top
flange material of the hull girder.
fy2 = minimum specified yield point of the top flange material of the hull girder, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
SMRD = reference net hull girder section modulus based on the material factor of the top
flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
= 0.92 SM
SM = required gross hull girder section modulus at the location under consideration, in
accordance with 3-2-1/3.7 and 3-2-1/5.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005),
based on the material factor of the top flange of the hull girder, in cm2-m (in2-ft)
SMD = design (actual) net hull girder section modulus at the deck, in cm2-m (in2-ft), at the
location under consideration
SMRB and SMB are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
y = vertical distance in m (ft) measured from the neutral axis of the section to the
longitudinal under consideration at its connection to the associated plate
yn = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the deck (bottom) to the neutral axis of the
section, when the longitudinal under consideration is above (below) the neutral axis.
Where the wing ballast tanks are U-shaped, the net section modulus of deck longitudinals in the wing
ballast tanks is to be not less than that of the uppermost side longitudinal, adjusted for the span and spacing
of the longitudinal and the material factors.
Where the breadth of center tank exceeds 0.6B, the net section modulus of deck longitudinals in the center
tank, located outboard of 0.3B from the centerline of the tank, is also to be not less than that of the
uppermost boundary longitudinal bulkhead longitudinal required by 5A-3-3/13.5, adjusted for the span and
spacing of the longitudinal and the material factors.
In determining compliance with the foregoing, an effective breadth, be, of attached plating is to be used in
the calculation of the section modulus of the design longitudinal. be is to be obtained from line a) of
5A-3-3/Figure 6.
The net moment of inertia about the neutral axis of deck longitudinals and side longitudinals within the
region of 0.1D from the deck, in association with the effective plating (bwLtn), is to be not less than
obtained from the following equation:
io = kAel2fy/E cm4 (in4)
where
k = 1220 (1220, 17.57)
Ae = net sectional area of the longitudinal with the associated effective plating bwL tn, in
cm2 (in2)
bwL = cs
c = 2.25/β − 1.25β2 for β ≥ 1.25
= 1.0 for β < 1.25
β = (fy /E)1/2
s/tn

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

tn = net thickness of the plate, in mm (in.)

D = depth of installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules
(January 2005).
l, s and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.
E is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

11 Side Shell and Deck – Main Supporting Members

11.1 General (1 September 2007)

The main supporting members, such as transverses and girders, are to be arranged and designed with
sufficient stiffness to provide support to the installation’s hull structures. In general, the deck transverses,
side transverses and bottom floors are to be arranged in one plane to form continuous transverse rings.
Deck girders, where fitted, are to extend throughout the cargo tank spaces and are to be effectively
supported at the transverse bulkheads.
Generous transitions are to be provided at the intersections of main supporting members to provide smooth
transmission of loads and to minimize the stress concentrations. Abrupt changes in sectional properties and
sharp re-entrant corners are to be avoided. It is recommended that the intersection of the inner skin and
inner bottom be accomplished by using generous sloping or large radiused bulkheads. Stool structures,
where fitted, are to have sloping bulkheads on both sides.
The net section modulus and sectional area of the main supporting members required by Part 5A, Chapter
3 apply to those portions of the member clear of the end brackets. They are considered as the requirements
of initial scantlings for deck transverses, side transverses, vertical webs on longitudinal bulkheads and
horizontal girders and vertical webs on transverse bulkheads, and may be reduced, provided that the
strength of the resultant design is verified with the subsequent total strength assessment in Section 5A-3-4.
However, in no case should they be taken less than 85% of those determined from 5A-3-3/11 or 5A-3-3/15.
(See also 5A-3-4/11.1.) The structural properties of the main supporting members and end brackets are to
comply with the failure criteria specified in 5A-3-4/3.
The section modulus of the main supporting members is to be determined in association with the effective
plating to which they are attached, as specified in 3-1-2/13 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
(1 July 2000) In calculation of the nominal pressure, ρ g of the liquid cargoes is not to be taken less than
0.1025 kgf/cm2-m (0.4444 lbf/in2-ft) for main supporting members.
Section modulus and web sectional area of the deck transverses and deck girders may be obtained in
accordance with the procedure given below or other recognized design procedures.
Section modulus and web sectional area of the deck transverse and deck girders are not to be less than
specified below for the following loading patterns:
Loading pattern No.1 when a tank under consideration is empty and the deck transverse and/or deck girder
is loaded with reactions (forces and moments) from the topside structure (see 5A-3-3/11.3).
Loading pattern No.2 when a tank under consideration is full and the deck transverse and/or deck girder is
loaded with cargo pressure. The loads from the topside structure are not to be considered for this loading
condition (see 5A-3-3/11.5).

11.3 Deck Transverses (December 2008)

11.3.1 Section Modulus of Deck Transverses
The net section modulus of deck transverses is to be not less than obtained from the following
equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3):
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)
For deck transverses in wing cargo tanks (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a, b, c, d, e, and f):

M = k(10,000 c1ϕ ps l 2t + βs Ms) ≥ Mo N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

For deck transverses in center cargo tanks (see 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f)

M = k(10,000 c1ϕ ps l 2t + βb Mb) ≥ Mo N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where

Ms = 10,000c2 ps s l 2s

Mb = 10,000c2 pb s l 2b

Mo = 10,000kc3 ps l 2t
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid span of the deck
transverse under consideration, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3, item 16
ps = corresponding nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of
the side transverse (5A-3-2/Table 3, item 12)
pb = corresponding nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of
the vertical web on longitudinal bulkhead (5A-3-2/Table 3, item 13)
c1 for tanks without deck girders:
= 0.30 for 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c with non-tight centerline bulkhead
= 0.42 for all other cases
c1 for tanks with deck girders:
= 0.30α 2 for 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b with a non-tight centerline bulkhead, 0.05
min. and 0.30 max.
= 0.42α 2 for 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a or 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b with an oil-tight
centerline bulkhead, 0.05 min. and 0.42 max.
α = (lg/lt)[(sg/s)(It /Ig)]1/4
lg = span of the deck girder, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
lt = span of the deck transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A, but
is not to be taken as less than 60% of the breadth of the tank, except for
tankers with a non-tight centerline bulkhead (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b), for which
the span is not to be taken as less than 30% of the breadth of the tank.
Ig, It = moments of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of the deck girder and deck transverse, clear
of the brackets, respectively
sg = spacing of the deck girder, in m (ft)
s = spacing of the deck transverses, in m (ft)
When calculating α, if more than one deck girder is fitted, average values of sg, lg and Ig are to be
used when the girders are not identical.
ϕ = 1 − [5(ha/αlt)], for cargo tanks with deck girders, 0.6 minimum
= 1 − 5(ha/lt), for cargo tanks without deck girders, 0.6 minimum
ha = distance, in m (ft), from the end of the span to the toe of the end bracket of
the deck transverse, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 8
βs = 0.9[(ls /lt)(It /Is)], 0.10 min. and 0.65 max.
βb = 0.9[(lb /lt)(It /Ib)], 0.10 min. and 0.50 max.

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ls and lb = spans, in m (ft), of side transverse and vertical web on longitudinal bulkhead,
respectively, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A. Where a cross tie is fitted and
is located at a distance greater than 0.7ls or 0.7lb from the deck transverse,
the effective span of the side transverse or the vertical web may be taken as
that measured from the deck transverse to the cross tie and all coefficients
determined as if there were no cross tie.
Is and Ib = moments of inertia, in cm4 (in4), clear of the brackets, of side transverse and
vertical web on longitudinal bulkhead, respectively
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
c2 is given in 5A-3-3/Table 1.
c3 = 2.0c1 for tankers with oil-tight longitudinal bulkheads and without deck
girders (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c, d, e and f)
= 1.6c1 for tankers with non-tight centerline longitudinal bulkhead and
without deck girders (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c)
= 1.1c1 for cargo tanks with deck girders
The section modulus of the deck transverse in the wing cargo tank is to be not less than that of the
deck transverse in the center tank.
11.3.2 Sectional Area of Deck Transverses
The net sectional area of the web portion of deck transverses is to be not less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
F = 1000k[c1ps(0.50l − he) + c2DBc s] N (kgf, lbf)
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
c2 = 0.05 for wing cargo tanks of tankers with four longitudinal bulkheads
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f)
= 0 for other tanks (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a, b, c, d, e and f)
c1 for tanks with deck girders:
= 0.90α1/2 for 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a without longitudinal bulkhead and for
5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b with an oil-tight centerline bulkhead,
0.50 min. and 1.0 max.
= 0.60α1/2 for 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b with a non-tight centerline bulkhead,
0.45 min. and 0.85 max.
c1 for tanks without deck girders:
= 1.10 for 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c, with a nontight centerline longitudinal
bulkhead
= 1.30 for all other cases (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c, d, e and f)
l = span of the deck transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A
he = length of the bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c and
5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d and 5A-3-3/Figure 8
D = depth of the vessel, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules
Bc = breadth of the center tank, in m (ft)

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p, s and α, as defined in 5A-3-3/11.3.1

fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

11.5 Deck Girders (December 2008)

11.5.1 Section Modulus of Deck Girders
The net section modulus of deck girders is to be not less than obtained from the following equation
(see also 5A-3-3/1.3):
SM = M /fb cm3 (in3)
M equals M1 or M2, whichever is greater, as given below:

M1 = 4200kpsg l 2g N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

M2 = k(3000ϕpsg l 2g + 0.15Mb) N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

Mb = 10,000pst sg l 2st N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
lg = span, in m (ft), of the deck girder, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
lst = span, in m (ft), of the vertical web on transverse bulkhead, as indicated in
5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
sg = spacing, in m (ft), of the deck girder considered, as indicated in
5A-3-3/Figure 2A
ϕ = 1 − 5(ha/lg), 0.6 min.
ha = distance, in m (ft), from the end of the span to the toe of the end bracket of
the deck girder, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c and 5A-3-3/Figure 8
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3,
item 17 for the girder considered. Where three or more deck girders are fitted
in the cargo tank, p is to be not less than its value determined for the
outermost girder clear of the end bracket of the deck transverse.
pst = corresponding nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of
the vertical web on the forward transverse bulkhead of cargo tank under
consideration (5A-3-2/Table 3, item 17)
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy

= (1.0 − 0.55α2SMRD/SMD)Sm fy ≤ 0.52Sm fy for L < 190 m

Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

11.5.2 Sectional Area of Deck Girders

The net sectional area of the web portion of deck girders is to be not less than obtained from the
following equation:
A = F /fs cm2 (in2)
F = 1000kcpsg(0.5l − he) N (kgf, lbf)

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
c = 0.55 for one or two girders in the tank
= 0.67 for three or more girders in the tank
l = span of the deck girder, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
he = length of the bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c and
5A-3-3/Figure 8.
p and sg are defined in 5A-3-3/11.5.1.

fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= 0.30 Sm fy
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

11.6 Deck Structures in Forebody (31 March 2007)

11.6.1 General
The deck plating, longitudinals, girders and transverses forward of 0.25L from the FP are to meet
the requirements specified in 5A-3-3/9 and 5A-3-3/11 with the deck pressure, p = pg, where pg is
the nominal green water loading given in 5A-3-2/13.7 and the permissible stresses as specified below.
11.6.2 Deck Plating
The net thickness of deck plating is to be not less than t1 and t2, as specified in 5A-3-3/9.3, with
the following modifications:
f1 = 0.50 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for main deck within 0.1L from the FP.

f1 = 0.60 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for forecastle deck

f2 = 0.80 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
Sm = strength reduction factor obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3
fy = minimum specified yield point of deck plating material
The permissible stress, f1, for main deck between 0.25L and 0.1L from the FP is to be obtained by
linear interpolation between midship region (f1 = 0.15 Sm fy as in 5A-3-3/9.3) and the permissible
stress at 0.1L from the FP, as specified above.
In addition, the net thickness of main deck plating is also not to be less than t3, as specified below.

t3 = 0.30s(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.) for main deck within 0.1L from the FP
The net thickness, t3, between 0.30L and 0.1L from the FP is to be obtained by linear interpolation
between midship region and the t3 above. t3 in midship region is defined as:
t3 = cs(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.) .......................(5A-3-3/9.3)
where
c = 0.5(0.6 + 0.0015L) for SI or MKS Units
= 0.5(0.6 + 0.00046L) for U.S. Units
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material
required at the location under consideration.

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The net thickness of deck plating should not be less than the minimum gross thickness specified in
Section 3-2-3 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005) minus the nominal corrosion value specified
in 5A-3-1/1.7.
Finally, the net thickness of deck plating is not to be less than 85% of the net thickness requirement
based on nominal green water load, pg, calculated for North Atlantic environment.

11.6.3 Deck Longitudinals

The net section modulus is not to be less than obtained from 5A-3-3/9, with the following
modifications.
fb = 0.70 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for main deck longitudinals within 0.1L
from the FP and forecastle deck
longitudinals
fb = 0.80 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for main deck beams forward of the
foremost hatch opening (No. 1 hatch)
and forecastle deck beams
The permissible bending stress, fb, for main deck longitudinals between 0.25L and 0.1L from the
FP is to be obtained by linear interpolation between midship region (see 5A-3-3/9.5) and the
permissible stress at 0.1L from the FP, as specified above.
Finally, the net section modulus of deck longitudinals is not to be less than 85% of the net section
modulus requirement based on nominal green water load, pg, calculated for North Atlantic
environment.
11.6.4 Deck Transverse and Deck Girders
The deck girders and transverses forward of 0.25L from the FP are to be verified based on appropriate
analysis, e.g., grillage analysis, and should meet the requirements specified in the following with
the deck pressure, p = pg, where pg is the nominal green water loading given in 5A-3-2/13.7 and
the permissible stresses as specified below.
Permissible bending stress for net thickness
fb = 0.70Smfy (5A-3-3/11.3.1)
Permissible shear stress for net thickness
fb = 0.45Smfy (5A-3-3/11.3.2)
The required section modulus of members such as girders, transverse etc., is to be obtained on an
effective width of plating basis in accordance with 3-1-2/13.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005).
Finally, the net section modulus and sectional area of deck girders and transverses is not to be less
than 85% of those required based on nominal green water load, pg, calculated for North Atlantic
environment.

11.7 Web Sectional Area of Side Transverses

The net sectional area of the web portion of side transverses is to be not less than obtained from the following
equation:
A = F /fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force F, in N (kgf, lbf), for the side transverse can be obtained from the following equations (see
also 5A-3-3/1.3):
F = 1000ks[KU l(PU + PL) − hUPU] for upper part of transverse
F = 1000ks[KL l(PU + PL) − hLPL] or 350ksKL l(PU + PL) whichever is greater
for lower part of transverse
In no case is the shear force for the lower part of the transverse to be less than 120% of that for the upper
part of the transverse.

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
l = span, in m (ft), of the side transverse, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a. Where one
cross tie is fitted in the wing tank and is located at a distance of more than 0.7l from
the deck transverse, the effective span of the side transverse may be measured from
the deck transverse to the cross tie and all coefficients determined as if there were no
cross tie.
s = spacing, in m (ft), of the side transverses
PU = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of upper bracket, as
specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
PL = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of lower bracket, as
specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3.
hU = length of the upper bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a
hL = length of the lower bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-5-3/Figure 2B-a
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
KU and KL are given in 5A-5-3/Table 2.
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
For ship-type installations without cross ties in the wing cargo tank, the required sectional area of the lower
side transverse is to extend to 0.15l from the toe of the lower bracket or 0.33l from the lower end of the
span, whichever is greater.
For ship-type installations with one cross tie, the sectional area required for the lower portion of the
transverse is to be maintained up to the cross tie.

11.9 Minimum Thickness for Web Portion of Main Supporting Members (1997)
In general, the net thickness of the web plate of the main supporting members, except stringers in double
side structures, is to be not less than t, as obtained below:
t = 0.012L + 7.7 mm
= 0.144L × 10 + 0.303
-3
in.
but t need not be taken greater than 11.0 mm (0.433 in.)
The net thickness of side stringers in double side structures is not to be less than t1 and t2, as specified below:
t1 = 0.012L + 6.7 mm
= 0.144L × 10 + 0.264
-3
in.
but t1 need not be taken greater than 10.0 mm (0.394 in.)
t2 = cs(Sm fy /E)1/2 mm (in.)
where
L = length of the installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules
c = 0.7N2 − 0.2, not to be less than 0.33
s = spacing of longitudinals, in mm (in.)
Sm = strength reduction factor, obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1 for the steel grade of the side
stringer
fy = minimum specified yield point of the side stringer material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

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N = Rd [(Q/Qd)(y/yn)]1/2 for side stringers above neutral axis

= Rb [(Q/Qb)(y/yn)]1/2 for side stringers below neutral axis

Q = material conversion factor 5A-3-3/5 for the side stringer under consideration
y = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the neutral axis of the hull girder
transverse section to the side stringer under consideration
E, Rb and Qb are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1. Rd, Qd and yn are as defined in 5A-3-3/9.1.

11.11 Proportions
In general, webs, girders and transverses are not to be less in depth than specified below, as a percentage of
the span, lt, lb or lg, where applicable (see 5A-3-3/Figures 2A and 2B). Alternative designs with stiffness
equivalent to the specified depth/length ratio and the required section modulus may be considered,
provided that the calculated results are submitted for review.
11.11.1 Deck Transverse
23% for deck transverses in wing cargo tanks of ship-type installations with four side longitudinal
bulkheads where no deck girders are fitted (see 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f).
12.5% for deck transverses in center cargo tanks of ship-type installations with four side longitudinal
bulkheads where no deck girders are fitted (see 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f). In this case,
the depth is also to be not less than that of the transverse in the wing tank.
12.5% for deck transverses without deck girders for ship-type installations with centerline
longitudinal bulkhead (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c).
8.5% for deck transverses in cargo tanks with one deck girder.
5.5% for deck transverses in cargo tanks with two deck girders.
3.5% for deck transverse in cargo tanks with three or more deck girders.
11.11.2 Deck Girder
20% for deck girders where only one is fitted in a tank.
12.5% for deck girders where two are fitted in a tank.
9.0% for deck girders where three or more are fitted in a tank.
11.11.3 Longitudinal Bulkhead Webs/Girders (2005)
14% for vertical webs of longitudinal bulkheads without strut and horizontal girders of
longitudinal bulkheads.
9.0% for vertical webs of longitudinal bulkheads with one or more struts
11.11.4 Transverse Bulkhead Webs/Girders
20.0% for vertical webs of transverse bulkheads where only one is fitted in a tank.
12.5% for vertical webs of transverse bulkheads where two are fitted in a tank.
9.0% for vertical webs of transverse bulkheads where three or more are fitted in a tank.
28% for horizontal girders of transverse bulkheads in wing tanks for ship-type installations
with four side longitudinal bulkheads (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f).
20% for horizontal girders of transverse bulkheads in center tanks for ship-type installations
with four side longitudinal bulkheads (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f), but not less in
depth than horizontal girders in wing tanks
20% for horizontal girders of transverse bulkheads without vertical webs for ship-type installations
with centerline longitudinal bulkhead (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c)
10% for horizontal girders of transverse bulkhead with one vertical web in the cargo tank

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7% for horizontal girders of transverse bulkhead with two or more vertical webs in the cargo
tank, except in the case where more than two vertical webs are fitted for ship-type
installations with centerline longitudinal bulkheads (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b), or more
than five vertical webs are fitted for ship-type installations with outer longitudinal
bulkheads only (See 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a). In that case, horizontal girders are not to be
less in depth than 15% of the maximum distance between two adjacent vertical webs or
the end of span lb of the horizontal girder and next vertical web.
In no case are the depths of supporting members to be less than three times the depth of the slots
for longitudinals. The thickness of the webs is to be not less than required by 5A-3-3/11.9.

11.13 Brackets
Generally, brackets are to have a thickness not less than that of the member supported, are to have flanges
or face plates at their edges and are to be suitably stiffened.

11.15 Web Stiffeners and Tripping Brackets

11.15.1 Web Stiffeners
Stiffeners are to be fitted for the full depth of the webs of the main supporting member at the
following intervals:
Floor every longitudinal
Side every longitudinal
Bulkhead every second stiffener
Deck every third longitudinal
Special attention is to be given to the stiffening of web plate panels close to change in contour of
the web or where higher strength steel is used.
Web stiffener attachment to the deep webs, longitudinals and stiffeners is to be effected by
continuous welds.
Where depth/thickness ratio of the web plating exceeds 200, a stiffener is to be fitted parallel to
the flange or face plate at approximately one-quarter depth of the web from the flange or face plate.
Alternative system of web-stiffening of the main supporting members may be considered based on
the structural stability of the web and satisfactory levels of the shear stresses in the welds of the
longitudinals to the web plates.
11.15.2 Tripping Bracket
Tripping brackets, arranged to support the flanges, are to be fitted at intervals of about 3 m (9.84
ft), close to any changes of section, and in line with the flanges of struts.

11.17 Slots and Lightening Holes

When slots and lightening holes are cut in transverses, webs, floors, stringers and girders, they are to be
kept well clear of other openings. The slots are to be neatly cut and well rounded. Lightening holes are to
be located midway between the slots and at about one-third of the depth of the web from the shell, deck or
bulkhead. Their diameters are not to exceed one-third the depth of the web. In general, lightening holes are
not to be cut in those areas of webs, floors, stringers, girders and transverses where the shear stresses are
high. Similarly, slots for longitudinals are to be provided with filler plates or other reinforcement in these
same areas. Where it is necessary to cut openings in highly stressed areas, they are to be effectively
compensated. Continuous fillet welds are to be provided at the connection of the filler plates to the web
and at the connection of the filler plate to the longitudinals.

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FIGURE 8
Effectiveness of Brackets (1 September 2007)

Span
Span

d/2
d/4

ha ha

d d length
length
of bracket of bracket

Where face plate on the member is carried Where face plate on the member is not carried
along the face of the bracket. along the face of the bracket, and where the
face plate area on the bracket is at least one-half
the face plate area on the member.

Brackets are not to be considered effective beyond the point where the arm of the girder or web is 1.5 times the arm on
the bulkhead or base.

TABLE 1
Coefficient c2 For Deck Transverses (1995)
No cross ties Cross ties in wing cargo tank Cross ties in center cargo
Structural Arrangement (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a, b, c and (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d) tank
f) (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-e)
Location of Deck Transverse All cargo tanks Wing tank Center tank Wing tank Center tank
(1)
c2 0.40 0.37 0.13 0.40 0.14
Note
1 c2 = 0.50 for ship-type installations with an oil-tight centerline bulkhead which will be loaded from one side only.

TABLE 2
Coefficients KU and KL for Side Transverses (1995)

Arrangement of Cross Ties KU (1) KL (1)

No cross ties
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a, b, c and f)
0.13 0.30
One cross tie in center cargo tank
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-e)
One cross tie in wing cargo tank
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d) 0.09 0.21

Note:
1 For ship-type installations without cross ties in wing cargo tank
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a, b, c, e and f) and having three or more side
stringers, KU = 0.10 and KL = 0.22

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Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

13 Longitudinal and Transverse Bulkheads

13.1 Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating (December 2008)

The net thickness of the longitudinal bulkhead plating, in addition to complying with 5A-3-3/5.5, is to be
not less than t1, t2 and t3, as specified below:
t1 = 0.73s(k1 p/f1)1/2 mm (in.)
t2 = 0.73s(k2 p/f2)1/2 mm (in.)
1/2
t3 = cs(Sm fy /E) mm (in.)
but not less than 9.5 mm (0.37 in.) where
s = spacing of longitudinal bulkhead longitudinals, in mm (in.)
k1 = 0.342
k2 = 0.5
p = pressure at the lower edge of each plate, pi, or maximum slosh pressure, ps,
whichever is greater, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2).
In no case is p to be taken less than 2.06 N/cm2 (0.21kgf/cm2, 2.987 lbf/in2).
pi = pn in cargo tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= pn − puo in ballast tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
pn is nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), at the lower edge of each plate, as defined in 5A-3-2/Table 3
for longitudinal bulkhead plating.
puo is also defined in 5A-3-3/9.1.
The net thickness, t3, may be determined based on Sm and fy of the hull girder strength material required at
the location under consideration.
ps = ks pis, not to be taken less than ks pis(mid)
pis = nominal slosh pressure, as specified in 5A-3-2/11.5.1
pis(mid) = nominal slosh pressure at the mid-tank of the bulkhead at the same height as the point
under consideration
ks = bt /lt, 0.9 ≥ ks ≥ 0.65 (ks = 0.9 for pis(mid))
f1 = permissible bending stress, in the longitudinal direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= [1 − 0.28z/B − 0.52α1(SMRB /SMB)(y/yn)]Sm fy, below neutral axis
= [1 − 0.28z/B − 0.52α2(SMRD /SMD)(y/yn)]Sm fy, above neutral axis
bt and lt are the width and length, respectively, of the cargo tank being considered.
SMB/SMRB is not to be taken more than 1.2α1 or 1.4, whichever is lesser.
α1 = Sm1 fy1/Sm fy
α2 = Sm2 fy2/Sm fy
Sm = strength reduction factor of the steel grade for the longitudinal bulkhead plating
obtained from 5A-3-3/7.3.1
fy = minimum specified yield point of the longitudinal bulkhead plating, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
z = transverse distance, in m (ft), measured from the centerline of the section to the
bulkhead strake under consideration
yn = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the deck (bottom) to the neutral axis of the
section, when the strake under consideration is above (below) the neutral axis

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f2 = permissible bending stress, in the vertical direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= Sm fy
c = 0.7N 2 − 0.2
c for the top strake is not to be taken less than 0.4Q1/2, but need not be greater than 0.45.
c for other strakes is not to be taken less than 0.33, but need not be greater than 0.45(Q/Qd)1/2 for
strakes above the neutral axis nor greater than 0.45(Q/Qb)1/2 for strakes below the neutral axis.
N = Rd[(Q/Qd)(y/yn)]1/2, for strake above the neutral axis
= Rb[(Q/Qb)(y/yn)]1/2, for strake below the neutral axis
y = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the neutral axis of the hull girder transverse
section to the upper edge (lower edge) of the bulkhead strake, when the strake under
consideration is above (below) the neutral axis for N
= vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the neutral axis of the hull girder transverse
section to the lower edge of the bulkhead strake under consideration for f1
Q = material conversion factor in 5A-3-3/5.1 for the longitudinal bulkhead plating
B = installation’s breadth, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
(January 2005)
SMRB, SMB, Rb, Qb and E are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
Sm1 and fy1 are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.
Rd and Qd are as defined in 5A-3-3/9.1.
SMRD, SMD, Sm2 and fy2 are as defined in 5A-3-3/9.5.
The minimum width of the top strake for the midship 0.4L is to be obtained from the following equation:
b = 5L + 800 mm for L ≤ 200 m
= 1800 mm for 200 < L ≤ 500 m
b = 0.06L + 31.5 in. for L ≤ 656 ft
= 70.87 in. for 656 < L ≤ 1640 ft
L = length of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January
2005), in m (ft)
b = width of top strake, in mm (in.)

13.3 Transverse Bulkhead Plating (1999)

The net thickness of transverse bulkhead plating is to be not less than t, as specified below:
t = 0.73s(k2 p/f2)1/2 mm (in.)
but not less than 9.5 mm (0.37 in.)
where
s = spacing of transverse bulkhead stiffeners, in mm (in.)
k2 = 0.50
p = pi or maximum slosh pressure, ps, whichever is greater, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
In no case is p to be taken less than 2.06 N/cm2 (0.21 kgf/cm2, 2.987 lbf/in2).
pi = pn in cargo tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= pn − puh in ballast tank, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

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pn is nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), at the lower edge of each plate, as defined in 5A-3-2/Table 3
for transverse bulkhead plating.
puh is also defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
ps = ks pis, not to be taken less than ks pis(mid)
pis = nominal slosh pressure, as specified in 5A-3-3/11.5.1
pis(mid) = nominal slosh pressure at the mid-tank of the bulkhead at the same height as the point
under consideration.
ks = lt/bt, 0.9 ≥ ks ≥ 0.65 (ks = 0.9 for pis(mid))

f2 = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= 0.85 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

lt, bt are defined in 5A-3-3/13.1.

Where the wing ballast tanks are U-shaped, the net thickness of transverse bulkhead plating in the wing
ballast tanks is also to be not less than as obtained from the above equation with the following substituted
for p and f2.
where
p = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified for side shell structure
(item 3 case a) in 5A-3-2/Table 3, at the lower edge level of each transverse bulkhead
plate
f2 = Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
where the breadth of center tank exceeds 0.6B, the net thickness of transverse bulkhead plating in the
center tank ,outboard of 0.3B from the centerline of the tank, is also to be not less than as obtained from the
above equation with the following substituted for p and f2:

p = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified for inner skin longitudinal
bulkhead structure (item 6 case a) in 5A-3-2/Table 3, at the lower edge level of each
transverse bulkhead plate
f2 = Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

13.5 Longitudinals and Vertical/Horizontal Stiffeners (1 July 2005)

The net section modulus of each individual longitudinal or vertical/horizontal stiffener on longitudinal and
transverse bulkheads, in association with the effective plating to which it is attached, is to be not less than
obtained from the following equation:
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 1000c1 psl2/k N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in.)

where
k = 12 (12, 83.33)
c1 = 1.0 for longitudinals and horizontal stiffeners

= 1 + γl/10p for vertical stiffeners

γ = specific weight of the liquid, ≥ 1.005 N/cm2-m (0.1025 kgf/cm2-m, 0.4444 lbf/in2-ft)
s = spacing of longitudinals or vertical/horizontal stiffeners, in mm (in.)

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l = span of longitudinals or stiffeners between effective supports, in m (ft)

p = pressure, pi, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), at the longitudinal or stiffener considered, as
specified in 5A-3-3/13.1 and 5A-3-3/13.3, or maximum slosh pressure, ps, whichever
is greater. For vertical stiffeners, pressure is to be taken at the middle of span of each
stiffener.
ps = c3 pis, not to be taken less than c3 pis(mid)
pis(mid) = nominal slosh pressure at the mid-tank of the bulkhead at the same height as the point
under consideration
pis = nominal slosh pressure, as specified in 5A-3-2/11.5.1
c3 = as specified below:
for transverse bulkheads
0.60 for angle or T-bar, 0.68 for bulb plate or flat bar, and 0.73 for corrugation, if tank length lt is
greater than 1.4 times tank width bt and no transverse swash bulkheads in the tank.
Otherwise, c3 = cst (cst = 1.0 for pis(mid))
cst = lt/bt, 1.0 ≥ cst ≥ 0.71
for longitudinal bulkheads
0.60 for angle or T-bar, 0.68 for bulb plate or flat bar and 0.73 for corrugation, if tank width bt is
greater than 1.4 times tank length lt and no longitudinal swash bulkheads in the tank.
Otherwise c3 = csl (csl = 1.0 for pis(mid))
csl = bt /lt, 1.0 ≥ csl ≥ 0.71
fb = permissible bending stresses, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2).
= 0.70 Sm fy for transverse bulkhead stiffeners
= 1.4[1.0 − 0.28(z/B) − 0.52α1(SMRB/SMB)(y/yn)]Sm fy ≤ 0.90Sm fy for longitudinal
bulkhead longitudinals below neutral axis
= 2.2[1.0 − 0.28(z/B) − 0.52α2(SMRD/SMD)(y/yn)]Sm fb ≤ 0.90Sm fy for longitudinal
bulkhead longitudinals above neutral axis
z = transverse distance, in m (ft), measured from the centerline of the installation to the
longitudinal under consideration at its connection to the associated plate
h = vertical distance, in m (ft), measured from the tank bottom to the longitudinal under
consideration
H = depth of the tank, in m (ft)
B = installation’s breadth, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
(January 2005)
Sm, fy and α1 are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.
α2, y, yn, SMRD and SMD are as defined in 5A-3-3/9.5.
SMRB and SMB are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The effective breadth of plating, be, is as defined in line a) of 5A-3-3/Figure 6.
Where the wing ballast tanks are U-shaped, the net section modulus of transverse bulkhead stiffeners in the
wing ballast tanks is also to be not less than as obtained from the above equation with the following
substituted for p and fb:
p = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified for side shell structure
(item 3 case a) in 5A-3-2/Table 3 at each transverse bulkhead stiffener level.
fb = Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

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Where the breadth of center tank exceeds 0.6B, the net section modulus of transverse bulkhead stiffeners in
the center tank, located outboard of 0.3B from the centerline of the tank, is also to be not less than as
obtained from the above equation with the following substituted for p and fb:

p = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified for inner skin longitudinal
bulkhead structure (item 6 case a) in 5A-3-2/Table 3 at each transverse bulkhead
stiffener level.
fb = Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
The net moment of inertia of longitudinals on the longitudinal bulkhead, with the associated effective
plating, within the region of 0.1D from the deck is to be not less than io, as specified in 5A-3-3/9.5.

15 Bulkheads – Main Supporting Members (1995)

15.1 General
The main supporting members of longitudinal and transverse bulkheads are to be arranged and designed, as
indicated in 5A-3-3/11.1.

15.3 Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead

15.3.1 Section Modulus of Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead (1997)
The net section modulus of the vertical web is to be not less than obtained from the following
equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcps l 2b N-cm (kgf-m, lbf-in.)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
lb = span of member, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a. Where a cross
tie (in wing or center tank) is fitted and is located at a distance greater than
0.7lb from the deck transverse, the effective span of the vertical web may be
measured from the deck transverse to the cross tie and all coefficients
determined as if there were no cross ties. Where both the lower and upper
ends of the vertical web are fitted with a bracket of the same or larger size on
the opposite side, the span lb may be taken between the toes of the effective
lower and upper brackets.
s = spacing of vertical webs, in m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of the vertical
web, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2 lbf/in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
c is given in 5A-3-3/Table 3.
For ship-type installations without cross ties, and fitted with an oil-tight centerline bulkhead, the
required section modulus of the web is to be maintained for 0.6lb, measured from the lower end of
the web. The value of the bending moment, M, used for calculation of the required section
modulus of the remainder of the web may be appropriately reduced, but by not more than 20%.
Where the centerline bulkhead is non-tight, the required section modulus is to be maintained
throughout.

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15.3.2 Web Sectional Area of Vertical Webs on Longitudinal Bulkheads

The net sectional area of the web portion of vertical members is to be not less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force F, in N (kgf, lbf), may be obtained from the following equations (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
F = 1000ks[KU l(PU + PL) − hUPU] for upper part of vertical web

= 1000ks[KL l(PU + PL) − hLPL] for lower part of vertical web

but F for lower part of vertical web is not to be less than
= 1000γksKL l(PU + PL)
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
PU = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of upper
bracket, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
PL = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of lower
bracket, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
l = span of the vertical web, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a.
Where a cross tie (in wing or center tank) is fitted and is located at a distance
greater than 0.7l from the deck transverse, the effective span of the vertical
web may be measured from the deck transverse to the cross tie and all
coefficients determined as if there were no cross ties.
s = spacing of the vertical webs, in m (ft)
hU = length, in m (ft), of the upper bracket of the vertical web, as indicated in
5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a and 5A-3-3/Figure 8
hL = length, in m (ft), of the lower bracket of the vertical web, as indicated in
5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a and 5A-3-3/Figure 8
γ = 0.57 for ship-type installations without cross ties, (5A-5-3/Figure 2A-b, c
and f)
= 0.50 for ship-type installations with one cross tie, (5A-5-3/Figure 2A-d
and e)
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-5-3/7.3.1.
Coefficients KU and KL are given in 5A-5-3/Table 4.
For ship-type installations without cross ties, the required sectional area of the lower part of the
web is to be maintained for 0.6l measured from the lower end of the web.
For ship-type installations with one cross tie, the required sectional area of the lower part of the
web is to be maintained up to the cross tie.
In no case is the shear force for the lower part of the vertical web to be taken less than 120% of
that for the upper part of the vertical web.

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TABLE 3
Coefficient c for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkheads (2001)
Arrangement of Cross Ties For Upper Part For Lower Part
No Cross Ties
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b, c & f) 0.80
1) Tight Bhd
2) Non-tight Centerline Bhd 0.28
One Cross Tie in Center Tank,
0.14 0.31
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-e)
One Cross Tie in Wing Cargo Tank,
0.18 0.36
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d)

TABLE 4
Coefficients KU and KL for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead (2001)
Arrangement of Cross Ties KU KL
No Cross Ties
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b, c & f) 0.18 0.28
1) Tight Bhd
2) Non-tight Centerline Bhd. 0.09 0.14
One Cross Tie in Center or Wing Cargo Tank, 0.08 0.18
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d & e)

15.5 Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead

15.5.1 Section Modulus of Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead
The net section modulus of the horizontal girder is to be not less than obtained from the following
equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcps l 2b N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
lb = span of the horizontal girders, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
For ship-type installations with four longitudinal bulkheads, (5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f), lb is to
be taken not less than 60% of the breadth of the wing cargo tanks.
s = sum of the half lengths, in m (ft), of the frames supported on each side of the
horizontal girder
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), calculated at the mid-span of the
horizontal girder under consideration, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

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c for transverse bulkheads without vertical webs

= 0.73 for ship-type installations with an oil-tight centerline bulkhead
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c)
= 0.55 for ship-type installations with a non-tight centerline bulkhead
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c)
= 0.83 in wing cargo tanks of installations with four longitudinal bulkheads
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f)
= 0.63 in the center tanks of installations with four longitudinal bulkheads
(5A-3-3/Figure 2A-d, e and f)
c for transverse bulkheads with vertical webs
For 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b, ship-type installations with oil-tight centerline bulkhead and
5A-3-3/Figure 2A-a:
= 0.73α2 for α < 0.5
= 0.467α + 0.0657
2
for 0.5 ≤ α ≤ 1.0
= 0.1973α + 0.3354 for α > 1.0
c is not to be taken less than 0.013 and need not be greater than 0.73.
For 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-b, ship-type installations with a non-tight centerline bulkhead:
= 0.55α2 for α < 0.5
= 0.35α2 + 0.05 for 0.5 ≤ α ≤ 1.0
= 0.15α + 0.25 for α > 1.0
c is not to be taken less than 0.013 and need not to be greater than 0.55.
α = 0.9(lst /lb)[(I/Iv)(sv/s)]1/ 4
if more than one vertical web is fitted on the bulkhead, average values of lst,
sv and Iv are to be used when these values are not the same for each web.
lst = span of the vertical web, in m (ft) (5A-3-3/Figure 2B-b)
sv = spacing of the vertical webs, in m (ft)
I, Iv = moments of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of the horizontal girder and the vertical web
clear of the end brackets
15.5.2 Web Sectional Area of the Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead
The net sectional area of the web portion of the horizontal girder is to be not less than obtained
from the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)

F = 1000 kscp(0.5l − he) N (kgf, lbf)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
c = 0.80 for transverse bulkheads without vertical webs
= 0.72α1/2 for transverse bulkheads with vertical webs for α ≥ 0.70
= 0.887α − 0.02 for transverse bulkheads with vertical webs for α < 0.7, 0.1
min. and 0.8 max.

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l = distance, in m (ft), between longitudinal bulkheads, as indicated in

5A-3-3/Figure 2B-b
s = sum of the half lengths, in m (ft), on each side of the horizontal girder, of the
frames supported
he = length of the bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-b

p and α are as defined in 5A-3-3/15.5.1.

fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

15.7 Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkhead

15.7.1 Section Modulus of Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkhead
The net section modulus of the vertical web is to be not less than obtained from the following
equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3):
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcps l 2st N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
c = 0.83 for bulkheads without horizontal girders
= 0.83 − 0.52α (but not less than 0.3) for transverse bulkheads with horizontal
girders.
lst = span of the vertical web, in m (ft), (5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c)
s = spacing of vertical webs, in m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of the vertical
web, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
α = as defined in 5A-3-3/15.5.1, except that the values of s, lb and I are to be
averaged in the case that more than one horizontal girder is fitted on the
bulkhead
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The required section modulus for the web is to be maintained for a distance of 0.60lst from the
lower end of the span. Above that point, the value of the bending moment, M, used for the calculation
of the required section modulus may be reduced by not more than 20%.
15.7.2 Web Sectional Area of Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkheads
The net sectional area of the web portion of vertical members is to be not less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force F in N (kgf, lbf) may be obtained from the following equations (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).

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F = 1000ks[0.18cl(PU + PL) − hUPU] for upper part of vertical web

F = 1000ks[0.30cl(PU + PL) − hLPL] or whichever is greater, for lower
120kscl(PU + PL) part of vertical web
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
c = 1.0 for transverse bulkheads without horizontal girders
= 1.13 − 0.6α for transverse bulkheads with horizontal girders,
0.6 min. and 1.0 max.
PU = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of upper
bracket, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
PL = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of lower
bracket, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
l = span of the vertical web, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
s = spacing of the vertical webs, in m (ft)
hU = length, in m (ft), of the upper bracket, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
and 5A-3-3/Figure 8
hL = length, in m (ft), of the lower bracket, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
and 5A-3-3/Figure 8
α is as defined in 5A-3-3/15.7.1.
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The required sectional area of the lower portion of the web is to be maintained for a distance of
0.15l from the toe of the lower bracket or 0.33l measured from the lower end of the span,
whichever is greater.
In no case is the shear force for the lower part of the vertical web to be taken less than 120% of
that for the upper part of the vertical web.

15.9 Minimum Web Thickness, Proportions, Brackets, Stiffeners, Tripping Brackets, Slots
and Lightening Holes
Requirements for these items are given in 5A-3-3/11.9, 5A-3-3/11.11, 5A-3-3/11.13, 5A-3-3/11.15 and
5A-3-3/11.17.

15.11 Cross Ties (1997)

Where cross ties are fitted as effective supports for the tank structural members, they are to be spaced so as
to divide the supported members into spans of approximately equal length. The axial load imposed on cross
ties, W, is to be not greater than the permissible load, Wa, both are as specified below (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
Alternatively, W may be determined from finite element analyses, as specified in 5A-3-4/11, with the
combined load cases in 5A-3-2/9. However, in no case should W be taken less than 85% of that determined
from the approximate equation below. For this purpose, an additional load case is also to be investigated,
modifying load case 5 (of 5A-3-2/Table 1A) with a full design draft and Kf0 = 1.0 for external pressure
where cross ties are located in wing cargo tanks. (See also 5A-3-4/11.1).
W = pbs kN (tf, Ltf)
Wa = 0.45fy[1 − 0.0254(fy /E)(l/r) ] As
2
kN (tf, Ltf), when (r/l)2 (E/fy) > 0.0507
Wa = 4.44E(r/l)2 As kN (tf, Ltf) when (r/l)2 (E/fy) ≤ 0.0507

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where
b = mean breadth of the area supported, in m (ft)
s = spacing of transverses, in m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the center of the area supported by the
cross tie, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3, item 15
l = unsupported span of the cross tie, in cm (in.)
r = least radius of gyration of the cross tie, in cm (in.)
As = net cross section area of the cross tie, in cm2 (in2)

fy = minimum specified yield point of the material, in kN/cm2 (tf/cm2, Ltf/in2)

E = 2.06 × 104 kN/cm2 (2.1 × 103 tf/cm2, 13.4 × 103 Ltf/in2)

Special attention is to be paid to the adequacy of the welded connections for transmission of the tensile
forces and also to the stiffening arrangements at the ends, in order to provide effective means for transmission
of the compressive forces into the webs. In addition, horizontal stiffeners are to be located in line with and
attached to the first longitudinal above and below the ends of the cross ties.

15.13 Nontight Bulkheads

Nontight bulkheads referred to in 5A-3-2/11.3.1 are to be fitted in line with transverse webs, bulkheads or
other structures with equivalent rigidity. They are to be suitably stiffened. Openings in the nontight bulkhead
are to have generous radii and their aggregate area is not to exceed 33%, nor to be less than 10% of the
area of the nontight bulkhead. The net thickness of nontight bulkheads is to be not less than 11.0 mm
(0.433 in.). Section moduli of stiffeners and webs may be half of those required for watertight bulkheads in
3-2-9/5.3 and 3-2-9/5.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules (January 2005).
Alternatively, the opening ratio and scantlings may be determined by an acceptable method of engineering
analysis.

17 Corrugated Bulkheads (1997)

17.1 General
All vertically corrugated transverse and longitudinal bulkheads in cargo tanks are to be designed in
compliance with the requirements specified in this Subsection and the strength assessment criteria with
respect to yielding, buckling and ultimate strength, and fatigue, as specified in Section 5A-3-4.
In general, the approximation equations given below are applicable to vertical corrugations with corrugation
angles, φ (5A-3-3/Figure 10 or 5A-3-3/Figure 9), within the range between 60 and 90 degrees. For corrugation
angles less than 60 degrees and corrugation in the horizontal direction, direct calculations may be required.

17.3 Plating (1999)

The net thickness of the vertically corrugated plating is not to be less than t1, t2, t3 and t4, obtained from the
following equations:
t1 = 0.516k1a(pl/f1)1/2 in mm (in.) for flange and web plating

t2 = 0.42k2a(fy /E)1/2 in mm (in.) for flange plating

t3 = k(a/k3) (f3)1/2 10–3 in mm (in.) for flange plating

t4= 100F/(df4) in mm (in.) for web plating
but not less than 9.5 mm (0.37 in.)

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where
k = 0.728 (2.28, 0.605)
a = width of flange plating, in mm (in.) (5A-3-3/Figure 9 or 5A-3-3/Figure 10)
c = width of web plating, in mm (in.) (5A-3-3/Figure 9 or 5A-3-3/Figure 10)
d = depth of corrugation, in mm (in.) (5A-3-3/Figure 9 or 5A-3-3/Figure 10)
φ = corrugation angle, (5A-3-3/Figure 9 or 5A-3-3/Figure 10)
k1 = (1 − c/a + c2/a2)1/2
k2 = f2/(0.73fy)
k3 = 7.65 − 0.26(c/a)2
F = shear force, in N (kgf, lbf), imposed on the web plating at the lower end of
corrugation span
= k4sl(0.375pl + 0.125pu)
k4 = 10 (10, 12)
s = spacing of corrugation, in mm (in.), i.e., a + ccos φ, (5A-3-3/Figure 9 or
5A-3-3/Figure 10)
l = span of corrugation, in m (ft), taken as the distance between lower and upper stools at
centerline
pl, pu = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), at the lower and upper ends of span,
respectively, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
f1 = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.90 Sm fy
f2 = maximum vertical bending stress in the flange at the mid-depth of corrugation span to
be calculated from 5A-3-3/17.5 below, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
f3 = maximum vertical bending stress in the flange at the lower end of corrugation span to
be calculated from 5A-3-3/17.5 below, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
f4 = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.40 Sm fy
E, Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The plate thickness, as determined above based on the maximum anticipated pressures, is to be generally
maintained throughout the entire corrugated bulkhead, except that the net thickness of plating above 2/3 of
span, l, from the top of the lower stool may be reduced by 20%.

17.5 Stiffness of Corrugation (1999)

17.5.1 Depth/Length Ratio
The depth/length ratio (d/l) of the corrugation is not to be less than 1/15, where d and l are as
defined in 5A-3-3/17.3 above.
17.5.2 Section Modulus
The net section modulus for any unit corrugation is not to be less than obtained from the following
equation for all anticipated service loading conditions.
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 1000(Ci/Cj)ps l o2 /k N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

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where
k = 12 (12, 83.33)
lo = nominal length of the corrugation, in m (ft), measured from the mid-depth of
the lower stool to the mid-depth of the upper stool
p = (pu + pl)/2, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= 0.90 Sm fy, for lower end of corrugation span l

= ce fy ≤ 0.90Sm fy, for the mid l/3 region of the corrugation

ce = 2.25/β− 1.25/β2 for β ≥ 1.25

= 1.0 for β < 1.25

β = (fy /E)1/2 a/tf
tf = net thickness of the corrugation flange, in mm (in.)
Ci = bending moment coefficients, as given below

Values of Ci (All Bulkheads with Lower and Upper Stools)

Bulkhead Lower End of Mid-depth Upper End of
Span l Span l
Trans. Bhd:
(w/Long’l Bhd) C1 Cm1 0.80Cm1
(w/out Long’l Bhd) C2 Cm2 0.65Cm2
Long’l. Bhd. C3 Cm3 0.65Cm3

C1 = a1 + b1(kAdt /Bd)1/2 ≥ 0.6

where a1 = 0.95 − 0.26/Rb, b1 = −0.20 + 0.05/Rb

Cm1 = am1 + bm1(kAdt /Bd)1/2 ≥ 0.55

where am1 = 0.63 + 0.16/Rb, bm1 = −0.25 − 0.07/Rb

C2 = a2 + b2(kAdt /Bd)1/2 ≥ 0.6

where a2 = 0.84 − 0.07/Rb, b2 = −0.24 + 0.02/Rb

Cm2 = am2 + bm2(kAdt /Bd)1/2 ≥ 0.55

where am2 = 0.56 + 0.05/Rb, bm2 = −0.34 − 0.03/Rb

C3 = a3 + b3(kAdl/Ld)1/2 ≥ 0.6

where a3 = 1.07 − 0.21/Rb, b3 = −0.21 + 0.04/Rb

Cm3 = am3 + bm3(kAdl/Ld)1/2 ≥ 0.55

where am3 = 0.30 + 0.07/Rb, bm3 = −0.12 − 0.03/Rb

Cj = bending moment factors due to sloshing effect

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Values of Cj (All Bulkheads with Lower and Upper Stools)

Bulkhead Mid-depth Upper End of
Span l
Trans. Bhd: Cmj1 Cmj2
Long’l. Bhd. Cmj3 Cmj4

P P
Cmj1 = 1.83 − 0.74 ≥ 0.40 if < 0.95
Ps Ps

P
= 1.0 if ≥ 0.95
Ps

P Pn
Cmj2 = 3.73 − 2.36 ≥ 0.62 if < 0.90
Ps Ps

P
= 1.0 if ≥ 0.90
Ps

P P
Cmj3 = 4.14 − 3.14 ≥ 0.75 if < 1.00
Ps Ps

P
= 1.0 if ≥ 1.00
Ps

P P
Cmj4 = 2.36 − 1.71 ≥ 0.72 if < 1.15
Ps Ps

P
= 1.0 if ≥ 1.15
Ps

Ps = (psu + psl)/2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

P = (pu + pl)/2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

psl, psu = sloshing pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), at the lower and upper ends of
span, respectively, as specified in 5A-3-2/11.5, calculated at the same
locations indicated for pl and pu.
pl, pu = nominal pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), at the lower and upper ends of
span, respectively, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3, to be calculated at a
section located B/4 from the C.L. when the installation has one or no
longitudinal bulkheads. For installations with two longitudinal bulkheads,
the nominal pressure is to be calculated at a section located b/4 from the
outboard boundary of the center or the wing tank.
Rb = kHst(Bct + Bst)(1 + Lb/Bb + 0.5Hb/Lb)/(2Bb) for transverse bulkheads
= Hsl (Bcl + Bsl)(1 + Bb/Lb + 0.5Hb/Bb)/(2Lb) for longitudinal bulkheads
Adt = cross sectional area, in m2 (ft2), enclosed by the outside lines of upper stool
of transverse bulkhead
Adl = cross sectional area, in m2 (ft2), enclosed by the outside lines of upper stool
of longitudinal bulkheads
Bct = width of the bottom stool of transverse bulkhead, in m (ft), at the top
(5A-3-3/Figure 10 or 5A-3-3/Figure 9)

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Bcl = width of the bottom stool of longitudinal bulkhead, in m (ft), at the top
(5A-3-3/Figure 10
Bst = width of the bottom stool of transverse bulkhead, in m (ft), at the inner
bottom level (5A-3-3/Figure 10)
Bsl = width of the bottom stool of longitudinal bulkhead, in m (ft), at the inner
bottom level (5A-3-3/Figure 10)
Hb = double bottom height, in m (ft)
Hst = height of the bottom stool of transverse bulkhead, in m (ft), from the inner
bottom to the top (5A-3-3/Figure 10 or 5A-3-3/Figure 9)
Hsl = height of the bottom stool of longitudinal bulkhead, in m (ft), from the inner
bottom to the top (5A-3-3/Figure 10)
Bb = transverse distance, in m (ft), between hopper tanks at the inner bottom level
(5A-3-3/Figure 10 or 5A-3-3/Figure 9)
Bd = transverse distance, in m (ft), between upper wing tanks or between upper
wing tank and centerline deck structure, at the deck level (5A-3-3/Figure 10
or 5A-3-3/Figure 9).
Lb = longitudinal distance, in m (ft), between bottom stools in the loaded tanks at
the inner bottom level (5A-3-3/Figure 10 or 5A-3-3/Figure 9)
Ld = longitudinal distance, in m (ft), between upper stools in the loaded tanks at
the deck level (5A-3-3/Figure 10)
k = 1 (1, 3.2808)
B = breadth of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
b = width of tank under consideration, in m (ft)
a, l, s, pu and pl are as defined in 5A-3-3/17.3 above.
E is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.
The developed net section modulus SM may be obtained from the following equation, where a, c,
d, tf (net), and tw(net), all in cm (in.), are as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 9.
SM = d(3atf + ctw)/6 cm3 (in3)

17.7 Bulkhead Stools

17.7.1 Lower Stool (2004)
The height of the lower stool is to be not less than three times the minimum depth of corrugation
required by 5A-3-3/17.5.1 above. The net thickness and material of the stool top plate is not to be
less than that required for the bulkhead plating in 5A-3-3/17.3 above. The net thickness and
material of the upper portion of vertical or sloping stool side plate within the region of one meter
from the stool top is not to be less than the required flange plate thickness to meet the bulkhead
stiffness requirement at the lower end of the corrugation in 5A-3-3/17.5 above. The net thickness
of the stool side plating and the net section modulus of the stool side stiffeners are not to be less
than those required for plane transverse or longitudinal bulkhead plating and stiffeners in 5A-3-3/13.1,
5A-3-3/13.3 and 5A-3-3/13.5, with the corresponding tank pressure specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3.
The ends of stool side vertical stiffeners are to be attached to brackets at the upper and lower ends
of the stool.

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The extension of the top plate beyond the corrugation is not to be less than the as-built flange
thickness of the corrugation. The stool bottom is to be installed in line with double bottom floors
or girders, fitted with proper brackets, and diaphragms are to be provided in the stool to effectively
support the panels of the corrugated bulkhead. The width of the stool at the inner bottom is to be
not less than 2.5 times the mean depth of the corrugation. Scallops in the brackets and diaphragms
in way of the top and bottom connections to the plates and in the double bottom floors or girders
are to be avoided.
17.7.2 Upper Stool
The upper stool is to have a depth generally not less than twice the minimum depth of corrugation,
as specified in 5A-3-3/17.5, and is to be properly supported by girders or deep brackets.
The width of the stool bottom plate should generally be the same as that of the lower stool top
plate. The net thickness of the stool bottom plate should generally be the same as that of the
bulkhead plating, and the net thickness of the lower portion of the stool side plate is not to be less
than 80% of that required for the bulkhead plating in 5A-3-3/17.3 above for the upper one-third
portion of the bulkhead. The net thickness of the stool side plating and the net section modulus of
the stool side stiffeners are not to be less than those required for plane transverse bulkhead plating
and stiffeners in 5A-3-3/13.1, 5A-3-3/13.3 and 5A-3-3/13.5, with the corresponding tank pressure
specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3. The ends of stool side stiffeners are to be attached to brackets at the
upper and lower ends of the stool. Brackets or diaphragms are to be fitted to effectively support
the web panels of the corrugated bulkhead. Scallops in the brackets and diaphragms in way of the
connection to the stool bottom plate are to be avoided.
17.7.3 Alignment (2001)
Stool side vertical stiffeners and their brackets in the lower stool of the transverse bulkhead should
align with the inner bottom longitudinal to provide appropriate load transmission between the
stiffening members.

17.9 End Connections (1 July 2001)

The structural arrangements and size of the welding at the ends of corrugations are to be designed to
develop the required strength of the corrugated bulkhead. Where shedder plates (slanting plates) are fitted
at the end connection of the corrugation to the lower stool, appropriate means are to be provided to prevent
the possibility of gas pockets being formed in way of these plates within the cargo tanks.
Welding for all connections and joints is to be in compliance with the Rules. The welded connection of the
bulkhead to the stools within 10% of the depth of the corrugation from the outer surface of the corrugation,
d1, is to be double continuous with fillet size not less than 0.7 times the thickness of bulkhead plating or
penetration welds of equal strength (see 5A-3-3/Figure 11).

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 9
Definition of Parameters for Corrugated Bulkhead (Ship-type Installations without
Longitudinal Bulkhead at Centerline) (1 September 2007)
Bd

Bb

L
C

Adt

lo l

Bct

Hst

Hb Bst Lb

c
d tw
φ (NET)

s tf (NET)

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 10
Definition of Parameters for Corrugated Bulkhead (Ship-type Installations with
Longitudinal Bulkhead at Centerline) (1 September 2007)
Ad l
Bd

lo l
Bc l

Hs l
Bb
Bs l

L
C
Adt

Ld

lo l

Bct

Hst

Hb Bst Lb

c
d tw
φ (NET)

s tf (NET)

266 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 3 Initial Scantling Evaluation 5A-3-3

FIGURE 11
Corrugated Bulkhead End Connections
t (ACTUAL)

0.1d1
d1

0.7t (t = ACTUAL)

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PART Section 4: Total Strength Assessment

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

SECTION 4 Total Strength Assessment

1 General Requirements

1.1 General (1995)

In assessing the adequacy of the structural configuration and the initially selected scantlings, the strength
of the hull girder and the individual structural member or element is to be in compliance with the failure
criteria specified in 5A-3-4/3 below. In this regard, the structural response is to be calculated by performing a
structural analysis, as specified in 5A-3-4/11, or by other equivalent and effective means. Due consideration
is to be given to structural details, as specified in 5A-3-3/1.5.

1.3 Loads and Load Cases (December 2008)

In determination of the structural response, the combined load cases given in 5A-3-2/9.3 are to be considered
together with sloshing loads specified in 5A-3-2/11. Deck loads as specified in Sections 5A-1-4 and 5A-1-5
are also to be considered. If this information is not yet available, the deck loads as indicated in 5A-3-2/15 are
to be used. Bowflare/bottom slamming and other loads, as specified in 5A-3-2/13, are also to be considered
as necessary.

1.5 Stress Components (1995)

The total stress in stiffened plate panels are divided into the following three categories:
1.5.1 Primary
Primary stresses are those resulting from hull girder bending. The primary bending stresses may
be determined by simple beam method using the specified total vertical and horizontal bending
moments and the effective net hull girder section modulus at the section considered. These primary
stresses, designated by fL1 (fL1V, fL1H for vertical and horizontal bending, respectively), may be
regarded as uniformly distributed across the thickness of plate elements, at the same level measuring
from the relevant neutral axis of the hull girder.
1.5.2 Secondary
Secondary stresses are those resulting from bending of large stiffened panels between longitudinal
and transverse bulkheads, due to local loads in an individual cargo or ballast tank.
The secondary bending stresses, designated by fL2 or fT2, are to be determined by performing a 3D
FEM analysis, as outlined in this Section.
For stiffened hull structures, there is another secondary stress due to the bending of longitudinals
or stiffeners with the associated plating between deep supporting members or floors. The latter
secondary stresses are designated by f L*2 or f T*2 , and may be approximated by simple beam
theory.
The secondary stresses, fL2, fT2, f L*2 or f T*2 , may be regarded as uniformly distributed in the
flange plating and face plates.
1.5.3 Tertiary
Tertiary stresses are those resulting from the local bending of plate panels between stiffeners. The
tertiary stresses, designated by fL3 or fT3, can be calculated from classic plate theory. These stresses
are referred to as point stresses at the surface of the plate.

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

3 Failure Criteria – Yielding

3.1 General
The calculated stresses in the hull structure are to be within the limits given below for the entire combined
load cases specified in 5A-3-2/9.3.

3.3 Structural Members and Elements (1999)

For all structural members and elements, such as longitudinals/stiffeners, web plates and flanges, the combined
effects of all of the calculated stress components are to satisfy the following limits:
fi ≤ Sm fy
where
fi = stress intensity

= ( f L2 + f T2 − fL fT + 3 f LT
2 1/2
) N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fL = calculated total in-plane stress in the longitudinal direction including primary and
secondary stresses

= fL1 + fL2 + f L*2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

fL1 = direct stress due to the primary (hull girder) bending, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fL2 = direct stress due to the secondary bending between bulkheads in the longitudinal
direction, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
f L*2 = direct stress due to local bending of longitudinal between transverses in the
longitudinal direction, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fT = calculated total direct stress in the transverse/vertical direction, including secondary
stresses

= fT1 + fT2 + f T*2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

fLT = calculated total in-plane shear stress, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fT1 = direct stress due to sea and cargo load in the transverse/vertical direction, N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fT2 = direct stress due to the secondary bending between bulkheads in the transverse/
vertical direction, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
f T*2 = direct stress due to local bending of stiffeners in the transverse/vertical direction,
N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fy = specified minimum yield point, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Sm = strength reduction factor, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1
For this purpose, f L*2 and f T*2 in the flanges of longitudinal and stiffener at the ends of span may be
obtained from the following equation:

f L*2 ( f T*2 ) = 0.071spl2/SML(SMT) N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
s = spacing of longitudinals (stiffeners), in cm (in.)
l = unsupported span of the longitudinal (stiffener), in cm (in.)
p = net pressure load, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for the longitudinal (stiffener)
SML (SMT) = net section modulus, in cm3 (in3), of the longitudinal (stiffener)

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

3.5 Plating (December 2008)

For plating away from knuckle, horizontal girder or stringer or cruciform connections of high stress
concentrations and subject to both in-plane and lateral loads, the combined effects of all of the calculated
stress components are to satisfy the limits specified in 5A-3-4/3.3 with fL and fT modified as follows:

fL = fL1 + fL2 + f L*2 + fL3 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

fT = fT1 + fT2 + f T*2 + fT3 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
fL3, fT3 = plate bending stresses between stiffeners in the longitudinal and transverse directions,
respectively, and may be approximated as follows.
fL3 = 0.182p(s/tn)2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

fT3 = 0.266p(s/tn)2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

p = lateral pressures for the combined load case considered (see 5A-3-2/9), in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
s = spacing of longitudinals or stiffeners, in mm (in.)
tn = net plate thickness, in mm (in.)

fL1, fL2, f L*2 , fT1, fT2 and f T*2 are as defined in 5A-3-4/3.3.
For longitudinal plating within two longitudinals or stiffeners from knuckle or cruciform connections of
high stress concentrations, the combined effects of the calculated stress components are to satisfy the following
stress limit:
fi ≤ 0.80 Sm fy
For transverse plating with vertical stiffeners at locations within 1.5 m of the horizontal girder, stringer or
cruciform connections, the combined effects of the calculated stress components are to satisfy the following
stress limit:
fi ≤ 0.50 Sm fy
where
fi = stress intensity

= ( f L2 + f T2 − fL fT + 3 f LT
2 1/2
) N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fL = calculated total in-plane stress in the longitudinal direction including primary and
secondary stresses
= fL1 + fL2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fT = calculated total direct stress in the transverse/vertical direction, including secondary
stresses
= fT1 + fT2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
In addition, the failure criteria for knuckle or cruciform connections in 5A-3-4/13 are to be complied with.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

5 Failure Criteria – Buckling and Ultimate Strength (1995)

5.1 General
5.1.1 Approach
The strength criteria given here correspond to either serviceability (buckling) limit states or ultimate
limit states for structural members and panels, according to the intended functions and buckling
resistance capability of the structure. For plate panels between stiffeners, buckling in the elastic
range is acceptable, provided that the ultimate strength of the structure satisfies the specified design
limits. The critical buckling stresses and ultimate strength of structures may be determined based
on either well-documented experimental data or a calibrated analytical approach. When a detailed
analysis is not available, the equations given in 5A-3-4/7.1 may be used to assess the buckling strength.
5.1.2 Buckling Control Concepts
The strength criteria in 5A-3-4/5.3 through 5A-3-4/5.11 are based on the following assumptions
and limitations with respect to buckling control in design.
5.1.2(a) The buckling strength of longitudinals and stiffeners is generally greater than that of the
plate panels they support.
5.1.2(b) All longitudinals with their associated effective plating are to have moments of inertia
not less than io given in 5A-3-4/7.9.1.
5.1.2(c) The main supporting members, including transverses, girders and floors, with their
associated effective plating are to have the moments of inertia not less than Is given in 5A-3-4/7.9.3.
5.1.2(d) Face plates and flanges of girders, longitudinals and stiffeners are proportioned such that
local instability is prevented. (See 5A-3-4/7.9.4)
5.1.2(e) Webs of longitudinals and stiffeners are proportioned such that local instability is prevented.
(See 5A-3-4/7.9.5).
5.1.2(f) Webs of girders, floors and transverses are designed with proper proportions and stiffening
systems to prevent local instability. Critical buckling stresses of the webs may be calculated from
equations given in 5A-3-4/7.3.
For structures which do not satisfy these assumptions, a detailed analysis of buckling strength
using an acceptable method is to be submitted for review.

5.3 Plate Panels

5.3.1 Buckling Limit State (December 2008)
The buckling limit state for plate panels between stiffeners is defined by the following equation:
(fLb/fcL)2 + (fTb/fcT)2 + (fLT/fcLT)2 ≤ 1.0
where
fLb = fL1 + fL2 = calculated total compressive stress in the longitudinal direction for the plate,
in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), induced by bending of the hull girder and large
stiffened panels between bulkheads
fTb = fT1 + fT2 = calculated total compressive stress in the transverse/vertical direction, in
N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fLT = calculated total in-plane shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fcL, fcT and fcLT are the critical buckling stresses corresponding to uniaxial compression in the
longitudinal, transverse/vertical directions and edge shear, respectively, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2),
and may be determined from the equations given in 5A-3-4/7.3.
fL, fT and fLT are to be determined for the panel in question under the load cases specified in
5A-3-2/9.3.2 including the primary and secondary stresses, as defined in 5A-3-4/3.1.

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5.3.2 Effective Width

When the buckling limit state specified in 5A-3-4/5.3.1 above is not satisfied, the effective width
bwL or bwT of the plating given below is to be used instead of the full width between longitudinals,
s, for verifying the ultimate strength, as specified in 5A-3-4/5.3.3 below. When the buckling limit
state in 5A-3-4/5.3.1 above is satisfied, the full width between longitudinals, s, may be used as the
effective width, bwL, for verifying the ultimate strength of longitudinals and stiffeners specified in
5A-3-4/5.5.
5.3.2(a) For long plate:
bwL /s = C
C = 2.25/β − 1.25/β2 for β ≥ 1.25
= 1.0 for β < 1.25
β = (fy/E)1/2s/tn
s = longitudinal spacing, in mm (in.)
tn = net thickness of the plate, in mm (in.)
E = Young’s modulus, 2.06 × 107 N/cm2 (2.1 × 106 kgf/cm2, 30 × 106 lbf/in2) for
steel
fy = specified minimum yield point of the material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
5.3.2(b) (1999) For wide plate (compression in transverse direction):
bwT /l = Cs/l + 0.115(1 − s/l)(1 + 1/β2)2 ≤ 1.0
where
l = spacing of transverses, in cm (in.)
s = longitudinal spacing, in cm (in.)
C, β are as defined in 5A-3-4/5.3.2(a) above.
5.3.3 Ultimate Strength (December 2008)
The ultimate strength of a plate panel between stiffeners is to satisfy all of the following equations:
(fLb/fuL)2 + (fLT /fuLT)2 ≤ Sm

(fTb/fuT)2 + (fLT /fuLT)2 ≤ Sm

(fLb/fuL)2 + (fTb/fuT)2 − η(fLb/fuL) (fTb/fuT) + (fLT /fuLT)2 ≤ Sm

where
fLb, fTb and fLT are as defined in 5A-3-4/5.3.1 above.
Sm is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

η = 1.5 − β/2 ≥ 0
β is as defined in 5A-3-4/5.3.2 above.
fuL, fuT and fuLT are the ultimate strengths with respect to uniaxial compression and edge shear,
respectively, and may be obtained from the following equations, except that they need not be
taken less than the corresponding critical buckling stresses specified in 5A-3-4/5.3.1 above.
fuL = fybwL /s

fuT = fybwT /l

fwLT = fcLT + 0.5(fy − 3 fcLT)/(1 + α + α2)1/2

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where
α = l/s
fy, bwL, bwT, s, l and fcLT are as defined above.
For assessing the ultimate strength of plate panels between stiffeners, special attention is to be paid
to the longitudinal bulkhead plating in the regions of high hull girder shear forces and the bottom
and inner bottom plating in the mid portion of cargo tanks subject to bi-axial compression.

5.5 Longitudinals and Stiffeners

5.5.1 Beam-Column Buckling Limit States and Ultimate Strength (2002)
The buckling limit states for longitudinals and stiffeners are considered as the ultimate limit states
for these members and are to be determined as follows:
fa/(fcaAe/A) + mfb/fy ≤ Sm
where
fa = nominal calculated compressive stress
= P/A, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
P = total compressive load, N (kgf, lbf)
fca = critical buckling stress, as given in 5A-3-4/7.5.1, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
A = total net sectional area, cm2 (in2)
= As + stn
As = net sectional area of the longitudinal, excluding the associated plating, cm2 (in2)
Ae = effective net sectional area, cm2 (in2)
= As + bwLtn
bwL = effective width, as specified in 5A-3-4/5.3.2 above
E = Young’s modulus, 2.06 × 107 N/cm2 (2.1 × 106 kgf/cm2, 30 × 106 lbf/in2) for
steel
fy = minimum specified yield point of the longitudinal or stiffener under
consideration, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fb = bending stress, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= M/SMe
M = maximum bending moment induced by lateral loads
= cm psl2/12 N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)
cm = moment adjustment coefficient, and may be taken as 0.75
p = lateral pressure for the region considered, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
s = spacing of the longitudinals, cm (in.)
SMe = effective section modulus of the longitudinal at flange, accounting for the
effective breadth, be, cm3 (in3)
be = effective breadth, as specified in 5A-3-3/Figure 6, line b
m = amplification factor
= 1/[1 − fa/π2E(r/l)2] ≥ 1.0
Sm is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
r and l are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.5.1.

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5.5.2 Torsional-Flexural Buckling Limit State (2002)

In general, the torsional-flexural buckling limit state of longitudinals and stiffeners is to satisfy the
ultimate limit states given below:
fa/(fct Ae/A) ≤ Sm
where
fa = nominal calculated compressive stress in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined
in 5A-3-4/5.5.1 above
fct = critical torsional-flexural buckling stress in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), and
may be determined by equations given in 5A-3-4/7.5.2.
Ae and A are as defined in 5A-3-4/5.5.1 above and Sm is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

5.7 Stiffened Panels

5.7.1 Large Stiffened Panels between Bulkheads
For a double hull ship-type installation, assessment of buckling limit state is not required for the
large stiffened panels of the bottom and inner bottom structures, side shell and inner skin. Assessments
of the buckling limit states are to be performed for large stiffened panels of the deck structure and
other longitudinal bulkheads. In this regard, the buckling strength is to satisfy the following
condition for uniaxially or orthogonally stiffened panels.
(fL1/fcL)2 + (fT1/fcT)2 ≤ Sm
where
fL1, fT1 = calculated average compressive stresses in the longitudinal and transverse/
vertical directions, respectively, as defined in 5A-3-4/3.3 above
fcL, fcT = critical buckling stresses for uniaxial compression in the longitudinal and
transverse direction, respectively, and may be determined in accordance with
5A-3-4/7.7, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Sm = strength reduction factor, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1

5.7.2 Uniaxially Stiffened Panels between Transverses and Girders

The bucking strength of uniaxially stiffened panels between deep transverses and girders is also to
be examined in accordance with the specifications given in 5A-3-4/5.7.1 above by replacing fL1
and fT1 with fLb and fTb, respectively. fLb and fTb are as defined in 5A-3-4/5.3.1 above.

5.9 Deep Girders and Webs

5.9.1 Buckling Criteria (December 2008)
In general, the stiffness of the web stiffeners along the depth of the web plating is to be in compliance
with the requirements of 5A-3-4/7.9.2. Web stiffeners which are oriented parallel to and near the
face plate, and thus subject to axial compression, are also to satisfy the limits specified in 5A-3-4/5.5,
considering the combined effect of the compressive and bending stresses in the web. In this case,
the unsupported span of these parallel stiffeners may be taken between tripping brackets, as applicable.
The buckling strength of the web plate between stiffeners and flange/face plate is to satisfy the
limits specified below.

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5.9.1(a) For web plate:

(fLb/fcL)2 + (fb/fcb)2 + (fLT /fcLT)2 ≤ Sm
where
fLb = calculated uniform compressive stress along the length of the girder, N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fb = calculated ideal bending stresses, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fLT = calculated total in-plane shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Sm = strength reduction factor, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1
fLb, fb and fLT are to be calculated for the panel in question under the combined load cases specified
in 5A-3-2/9.3 and these stresses may be calculated from the relative displacements of four corner
nodes. This method is useful when the meshing within the panel is irregular. However, care should
be taken when one corner of the panel is located in an area of high stress concentration or the
panel shape is significantly different from a rectangular shape. The calculated stresses from the
above mentioned method tend to be on the conservative side. If one corner of the panel is highly
stressed and if the mesh is sufficiently refined, the plate panel stresses may be calculated from the
displacements slightly away from the corner point of the high stress concentration area. For a
regularly meshed plate panel, fL, fb and fLT may also be calculated directly from the components
stresses for the elements in the panel.
fcL, fcb and fcLT are critical buckling stresses with respect to uniform compression, ideal bending
and shear, respectively, and may be determined in accordance with 5A-3-4/7.
In the determination of fcL and fcLT, the effects of openings are to be considered.
For deck transverse web plating of existing vessels converted to FPIs, when the buckling limit
state specified above is not satisfied and the Survey Record Review does not indicate any buckling
problems for the deck transverse plating panels, it may be acceptable to apply the criteria specified
in 5A-3-4/5.3.2 and 5A-3-4/5.3.3..
5.9.1(b) For face plate and flange. The breadth to thickness ratio of face plate and flange is to
satisfy the limits given in 5A-3-4/7.9.
5.9.1(c) For large brackets and sloping webs. The buckling strength is to satisfy the limits
specified in 5A-3-4/5.9.1(a) above for web plate.

5.11 Corrugated Bulkheads (1997)

5.11.1 Local Plate Panels (December 2008)
5.11.1(a) Buckling criteria. The buckling strength of the flange and web plate panels is not to be
less than that specified below.
(fLb/Rl fcL )2 + ( fTb/Rt fcT )2 + ( fLT /fcLT )2 ≤ Sm for flange panels

(fLb/Rl fcL )2 + ( fb/fcb )2 + ( fLT /fcLT )2 ≤ Sm for web panels

where
Rt = reduction factor accounting for lateral load effects, and may be approximated by:

= 1.0 − 0.45(q − 0.5)

q = lateral load parameter
= pn(s/tn)4/π2E, 0.5 minimum
pn = lateral pressure for the combined load case considered (see 5A-3-2/9), in
N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
s = longitudinal spacing, in mm (in.)

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tn = net thickness of the plate, in mm (in.)

E = Young’s modulus, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for steel 2.06 × 107 (2.10 × 106,
30 × 106)
All of the parameter definitions and calculations are as specified in 5A-3-4/5.3.1 and 5A-3-4/5.9.1(a),
except that fLb is the average compressive stress at the upper and lower ends of the corrugation,
and an average value of fTb, fLT and fb, calculated along the entire length of the panel, should be
used in the above equation.
5.11.1(b) Ultimate strength. The ultimate strength of flange panels in the middle one-third of the
depth are to satisfy the following criteria, considering a portion of flange panel having a length of
three times the panel width, a, with the worst bending moments in the mid-depth region for all
load cases.
( fLb/fuL )2 + ( fTb/fuT )2 ≤ Sm
where
fLb = the calculated average compressive bending stress in the region within 3a in
length, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fTb = horizontal compressive stresses, as specified in 5A-3-4/5.11.1(a) above
fuL and fuT may be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-4/5.3.3 above.

5.11.2 Unit Corrugation

Any unit corrugation of the bulkhead may be treated as a beam column and is to satisfy the
buckling criteria (same as the ultimate strength) specified in 5A-3-4/5.5.1. The ultimate bending
stress is to be determined in accordance with 5A-3-4/7.5.3.
5.11.3 Overall Buckling
The buckling strength of the entire corrugation is to satisfy the equation given in 5A-3-4/5.7.1
with respect to the biaxial compression by replacing the subscripts “L” and “T” with “V” and “H”
for the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively.

7 Calculation of Critical Buckling Stresses (December 2008)

7.1 General
The critical buckling stresses for various structural elements and members may be determined in accordance
with this Subsection or other recognized design practices. Critical buckling stresses derived from experimental
data or analytical studies may be considered, provided that well-documented supporting data are submitted
for review.

7.3 Rectangular Plates

The critical buckling stresses for rectangular plate elements, such as plate panels between stiffeners; web
plates of longitudinals, girders, floors and transverses; flanges and face plates, may be obtained from the
following equations, with respect to uniaxial compression, bending and edge shear, respectively.
fci = fEi for fEi ≤ Pr fyi

fci = fyi[1 − Pr(1 − Pr)fyi/fEi] for fEi > Pr fyi

where
fci = critical buckling stress with respect to uniaxial compression, bending or edge shear,
separately, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fEi = Ki [π2E/12(1 − ν2)](tn/s)2, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Ki = buckling coefficient, as given in 5A-3-4/Table 1

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E = modulus of elasticity of the material, may be taken as 2.06 × 107 N/cm2 (2.1 × 106
kgf/cm2, 30 × 106 lbf/in2) for steel
ν = Poisson’s ratio, may be taken as 0.3 for steel
tn = net thickness of the plate, in cm (in.)
s = spacing of longitudinals/stiffeners, in cm (in.)
Pr = proportional linear elastic limit of the structure, may be taken as 0.6 for steel
fyi = fy, for uniaxial compression and bending

= fy / 3 , for edge shear

fy = specified minimum yield point of the material, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

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TABLE 1
Buckling Coefficient, Ki (December 2008)
For Critical Buckling Stress Corresponding to fL, fT, fb or fLT
I. Plate panel between stiffeners Ki
A Uniaxial compression l a. For f‘L, = fL: 4C1,
fL fL
1. Long plate b. For f‘L, = fL/3: 5.8C1,
l≥s S (see note)

f 'L f 'L

2. Wide plate fT a. For f‘T, = fT: [1 + (s/l)2]2C2

f 'T
l≥s b. For f‘T, = fT/3: 1.45[1 + (s/l)2]2C2
(see note)
S l

f 'T
fT

B Ideal Bending l
fb fb
1. Long plate 24C1
s
l≥s
-fb -fb

2. Wide plate a. For 1.0 ≤ l/s ≤ 2.0: 24 (s/l)2C2

fb
l≥s b. For 2.0 < l/s : 12 (s/l)C2
-fb

s l

-fb

fb

C Edge Shear fLT Ki

[5.34 + 4 (s/l)2]C1
s fLT

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TABLE 1 (continued)
Buckling Coefficient, Ki (December 2008)
D Values of C1 and C2
1. For plate panels between angles or tee stiffeners
C1 = 1.1
C2 = 1.3 within the double bottom or double side*
C2 = 1.2 elsewhere
2. For plate panels between flat bars or bulb plates
C1 = 1.0
C2 = 1.2 within the double bottom or double side*
C2 = 1.1 elsewhere
* applicable where shorter edges of a panel are supported by rigid structural members, such as bottom, inner
bottom, side shell, inner skin bulkhead, double bottom floor/girder and double side web stringer.

II. Web of Longitudinal or Stiffener Ki

A Axial compression
Same as I.A.1 by replacing s with depth of the web and l with unsupported span
a. For f‘L = fL : 4C
b. For f‘L = fL /2:
5.2C
(see note)
where
C = 1.0 for angle or tee stiffeners
C = 0.33 for bulb plates
C = 0.11 for flat bars
B Ideal Bending
Same as I.B.1 by replacing s with depth of the web and l with unsupported span 24C

III. Flange and Face Plate Ki

Axial Compression 0.44

b2 b2

s = b2
l = unsupported span
Note:
In I.A. (II.A), Ki for intermediate values of f‘L/fL (f‘T/fT) may be obtained by interpolation between a and b.

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7.5 Longitudinals and Stiffeners

7.5.1 Axial Compression
The critical buckling stress, fca, of a beam-column, i.e., the longitudinal and the associated effective
plating, with respect to axial compression may be obtained from the following equations:
fca = fE for fE ≤ Pr fy

fca = fy[1 − Pr(1 − Pr)fy /fE] for fE > Pr fy

where
fE = π2E/(l/r)2, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
l = unsupported span of the longitudinal or stiffener, in cm (in.), as defined in
5A-3-3/Figure 5
r = radius of gyration of area Ae, in cm (in.)
Ae = As + bwL tn
As = net sectional area of the longitudinals or stiffeners, excluding the associated
plating, cm2 (in2)
bwL = effective width of the plating as given in 5A-3-4/5.3.2, in cm (in.)
tn = net thickness of the plating, in cm (in.)
fy = minimum specified yield point of the longitudinal or stiffener under
consideration, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Pr and E are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3.

7.5.2 Torsional/Flexural Buckling

The critical torsional/flexural buckling stress with respect to axial compression of a longitudinal,
including its associated plating (effective width, bwL), may be obtained from the following equations:

fct = fET for fET ≤ Pr fy

fct = fy[1 − Pr(1 − Pr)fy /fET] for fET > Pr fy

where
fct = critical torsional/flexural buckling stress with respect to axial compression,
N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
fET = E[K/2.6 + (nπ/l)2Γ + Co(l/nπ)2/E]/Io[1 + Co(l/nπ)2/Io fcL], N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
K = St. Venant torsion constant for the longitudinal’s cross section, excluding the
associated plating.

= [bf t 3f + dw t w3 ]/3

Io = polar moment of inertia of the longitudinal, excluding the associated plating,

about the toe (intersection of web and plating), in cm4 (in4)

= Ix + mIy + As( xo2 + y o2 )

Ix, Iy = moment of inertia of the longitudinal about the x-and y-axis, respectively,
through the centroid of the longitudinal, excluding the plating (x-axis
perpendicular to the web), in cm4 (in4)
m = 1.0 − u(0.7 − 0.1dw /bf)

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u = unsymmetry factor
= 1 − 2b1/bf
xo = horizontal distance between centroid of stiffener, As, and centerline of the
web plate, cm (in.)
yo = vertical distance between the centroid of the longitudinal’s cross section and
its toe, cm (in.)
dw = depth of the web, cm (in.)
tw = net thickness of the web, cm (in.)
bf = total width of the flange/face plate, cm (in.)
b1 = smaller outstanding dimension of flange with respect to centerline of web
(see 5A-3-4/Figure 1), cm (in.)
tf = net thickness of the flange/face plate, cm (in.)

Co = Etn3/3s

Γ = warping constant

≅ mIyf d w2 + d w3 t w3 /36

Iyf = tf b 3f (1.0 + 3.0 u2dwtw /As)/12, cm4 (in4)

fcL = critical buckling stress for the associated plating, corresponding to n-half
waves, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= π2E(n/α + α/n)2(tn /s)2/12(1 − ν2)
α = l/s
n = number of half-wave which yield a smallest fET
fy = minimum specified yield point of the longitudinal or stiffener under
consideration, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Pr, E, s and ν are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3.

As, tn and l are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.5.1.

7.5.3 Buckling Criteria for Unit Corrugation of Transverse Bulkhead

The critical buckling stress, which is also the ultimate bending stress, fcb, for a unit corrugation,
may be determined from the following equation (See 5A-3-4/5.11.2).
fcb = fEc for fEc ≤ Pr fy

fcb = [1 − Pr(1 − Pr)fy /fEc]fy for fEc > Pr fy

where
fEc = kcE(t/a)2

kc = 0.09[7.65 − 0.26 (c/a)2]2

c and a are widths of the web and flange panels, respectively, in cm2 (in2)
t = net thickness of the flange panel, in cm (in.)
Pr, fy and E are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3.

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FIGURE 1
Net Dimensions and Properties of Stiffeners (December 2008)
bf

b2 b1
1

tf

xo
CENTROID OF WEB
AND FACE PLATE
(NET SECTION)

tw

yo
dw

tp

be

1 = point considered for

coefficient, Cn, given
in 5A-3-A2/Figure 3

7.7 Stiffened Panels

7.7.1 Large Stiffened Panels
For large stiffened panels between bulkheads or panels stiffened in one direction between transverses
and girders, the critical buckling stresses with respect to uniaxial compression may be determined
from the following equations:
fci = fEi for fEi ≤ Pr fy

fci = fy[1 − Pr(1 − Pr) fy /fEi] for fEi > Pr fy

where
fEi = kLπ 2(DLDT)1/2/tL b2 in the longitudinal direction, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

fEi = kTπ 2(DLDT)1/2/tT l2 in the transverse direction, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

kL = 4 for l/b ≥ 1

= [1/φ 2L + 2η + φ 2L ] for l/b < 1

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kT = 4 for b/l ≥ 1

= [1/φ T2 +2η + φ T2 ] for b/l < 1

DL = EIL /sL(1 − ν2)

DT = EIT /sT(1 − ν2)

DT = E t n3 /12(1 − ν2) if no stiffener in the transverse direction

l, b = length and width between transverse and longitudinal bulkheads,

respectively, in cm (in.) (See 5A-3-4/Figure 2)
tL, tT = net equivalent thickness of the plating and stiffener in the longitudinal and
transverse direction, respectively, cm (in.)
= (sLtn + AsL)/sL or (sTtn + AsT)/sT
sL, sT = spacing of longitudinals and transverses, respectively, cm (in.)
(See 5A-3-4/Figure 2)
φL = (l/b) (DT /DL)1/4

φT = (b/l) (DL /DT)1/4

η = [(IpLIpT)/(ILIT)]1/2
AsL, AsT = net sectional area of the longitudinal and transverse, excluding the associated
plating, respectively, cm2 (in2)
IpL, IpT = net moment of inertia of the effective plating alone (effective breadth due to
shear lag) about the neutral axis of the combined cross section, including
stiffener and plating, cm4 (in4)
IL, IT = net moment of inertia of the stiffener (one) with effective plating in the
longitudinal or transverse direction, respectively, cm4 (in4). If no stiffener,
the moment of inertia is calculated for the plating only.
fy, Pr, E and ν are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3. tn is as defined in 5A-3-4/7.5.1.
With the exception of deck panels, when the lateral load parameter, qo, defined below, is greater
than 5, reduction of the critical buckling stresses given below is to be considered.
qo = pnb4/(π4tTDT)

qo = pnl4/(π4tLDL)
where
pn = average net lateral pressure, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

DT, DL, b, l, tT, tL and sT are as defined above.

In this regard, the critical buckling stress may be approximated by:
f′ci = Ro fci N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
where
Ro = 1 − 0.045(qo − 5) for qo ≥ 5

For deck panels, Ro = 1.0 and f′ci = fci.

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FIGURE 2 (December 2008)

l
T.B./S.S

sT

pn
longitudinal
b sL

L.B.

T.B. transverse plating, tn T.B.

7.7.2 Corrugated Transverse Bulkheads

For corrugated transverse bulkheads, the critical buckling stresses with respect to uniaxial compression
may be calculated from the equations given in 5A-3-4/7.7.1 above by replacing the subscripts “L”
and “T” with “V” and “H” for the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively, and with the
following modifications. The rigidities DV are DH are defined as follows.
DV = EIv /s
DH = [s/(a + c)][Et3/12(1 − ν2)]
KV = 4 for l/b ≥ 0.5176(DV/DH)1/4
1
= + φV2 for l/b < 0.5176(DV/DH)1/4
φV2

KH = 4 for b/l ≥ 0.5176(DH/DV)1/4

1
= + φ 2H for b/l < 0.5176(DH/DV)1/4
φ 2H

where
Iv = moment of inertia of a unit corrugation with spacing s, s = a + ccos φ
= t/4[csin φ]2(a + c/4 + csin φ/12), in cm4 (in4)
a, c = widths of the flange and web panels, respectively, in cm (in.)
t = net thickness of the corrugations, in cm (in.)
E and ν are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3.
l = length of the corrugation, in cm (in.)
sv, sH = s
η, IpH, AsH = 0
AsV = tc sin φ
φ is as defined in 5A-3-3/Figure 9 or 5A-3-3/Figure 10.

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

7.9 Stiffness and Proportions (1 July 2009)

To fully develop the intended buckling strength of the assemblies of structural members and panels, supporting
elements of plate panels and longitudinals are to satisfy the following requirements for stiffness and proportion
in highly stressed regions.
7.9.1 Stiffness of Longitudinals
The net moment of inertia of the longitudinals, io, with effective breadth of net plating, is to be not
less than that given by the following equation:

st n3
io = γo cm4 (in4)
12(1 − v 2 )
where
γo = (2.6 + 4.0δ)α2 + 12.4α − 13.2α1/2

δ = A/stn

α = l/s
s = spacing of longitudinals, cm (in.)
tn = net thickness of plating supported by the longitudinal, cm (in.)

ν = Poisson’s ratio
= 0.3 for steel
A = net sectional area of the longitudinal (excluding plating), cm2 (in2)
l = unsupported span of the longitudinal, cm (in.)
7.9.2 Stiffness of Web Stiffeners
The net moment of inertia, i, of the web stiffener, with the effective breadth of net plating not
exceeding s or 0.33l, whichever is less, is not to be less than obtained from the following equations:
i = 0.17lt3(l/s)3 cm4 (in4) for l/s ≤ 2.0
i = 0.34lt3(l/s)2 cm4 (in4) for l/s > 2.0
where
l = length of stiffener between effective supports, in cm (in.)
t = required net thickness of web plating, in cm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners, in cm (in.)
7.9.3 Stiffness of Supporting Members
The net moment of inertia of the supporting members, such as transverses and webs, is not to be
less than that obtained from the following equation:
Is/io ≥ 0.2(Bs/l)3(Bs/s)
where
Is = moment of inertia of the supporting member, including the effective plating,
cm4 (in4)
io = moment of inertia of the longitudinals, including the effective plating, cm4 (in4)
Bs = unsupported span of the supporting member, cm (in.)

l and s are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.9.1.

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

7.9.4 Proportions of Flanges and Face Plates

The breadth-thickness ratio of flanges and face plates of longitudinals and girders is to satisfy the
limits given below:
b2 /tf = 0.4(E/fy)1/2
where
b2 = larger outstanding dimension of flange, as given in 5A-3-4/Figure 1, cm (in.)
tf = net thickness of flange/face plate, cm (in.)
E and fy are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3.
7.9.5 Proportions of Webs of Longitudinals and Stiffeners
The depth-thickness ratio of webs of longitudinals and stiffeners is to satisfy the limits given below.
dw /tw ≤ 1.5(E/fy)1/2 for angles and tee bars
dw /tw ≤ 0.85(E/fy)1/2 for bulb plates
dw /tw ≤ 0.5(E/fy) 1/2
for flat bars
where dw and tw, are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.5.2 and E and fy are as defined in 5A-3-4/7.3.
When these limits are complied with, the assumption on buckling control stated in 5A-3-4/5.1.2(e)
is considered satisfied. If not, the buckling strength of the web is to be further investigated, as per
5A-3-4/7.3.

9 Fatigue Life (1995)

9.1 General
An analysis is to be made of the fatigue strength of welded joints and details in highly stressed areas,
especially where higher strength steel is used. Special attention is to be given to structural notches, cutouts
and bracket toes, and also to abrupt changes of structural sections. A simplified assessment of the fatigue
strength of structural details may be accepted when carried out in accordance with Appendix 5A-3-A2.
The following subparagraphs are intended to emphasize the main points and to outline procedures where
refined spectral analysis techniques are used to establish fatigue strength.
9.1.1 Workmanship
As most fatigue data available were experimentally developed under controlled laboratory conditions,
consideration is to be given to the workmanship expected during construction.
9.1.2 Fatigue Data
In the selection of S-N curves and the associated stress concentration factors, attention is to be
paid to the background of all design data and its validity for the details being considered. In this
regard, recognized design data, such as those by AWS (American Welding Society), API
(American Petroleum Institute), and DEN (Department of Energy), should be considered. Sample
fatigue data and their applications are shown in Appendix 5A-3-A2 “Guide for Fatigue Strength
Assessment of Ship-Type Installations”.
If other fatigue data are to be used, the background and supporting data are to be submitted for review.
In this regard, clarification is required whether or not the stress concentration due to the weld
profile, certain structural configurations and also the heat effects are accounted for in the proposed
S-N curve. Consideration is also to be given to the additional stress concentrations.
9.1.3 Total Stress Range
For determining total stress ranges, the fluctuating stress components resulting from the load
combinations specified in 5A-3-A2/7.5 (for ship-type installations) or 5A-3-A2/21.3 (for trading
vessels) are to be considered.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

9.1.4 Design Consideration

In design, consideration is to be given to the minimization of structural notches and stress
concentrations. Areas subject to highly concentrated forces are to be properly configured and
stiffened to dissipate the concentrated loads. See also 5A-3-3/1.5.

9.3 Procedures
The analysis of fatigue strength for a welded structural joint/detail may be performed in accordance with
the following procedures.
The class designations and associated loading patterns are given in 5A-3-A2/Table 1.
9.3.1 Step 1 – Classification of Various Critical Locations
Where deemed appropriate, the total applied stress range of the structural details classified in Step 1
may be checked against the permissible stress ranges as shown in Appendix 5A-3-A2.
9.3.2 Step 2 – Permissible Stress Range Approach
9.3.3 Step 3 – Refined Analysis
Refined analyses are to be performed, as outlined in 5A-3-4/9.3.3(a) or 5A-3-4/9.3.3(b) below, for
the structural details for which the total applied stress ranges obtained from Step 2 are greater than
the permissible stress ranges, or for which the fatigue characteristics are not covered by the
classified details and the associated S-N curves.
The fatigue life of structures is generally not to be less than 20 years, unless otherwise specified.
9.3.3(a) Spectral analysis. Alternatively, a spectral analysis may be performed, as outlined in
5A-3-4/9.5 below, to directly calculate fatigue lives for the structural details in question.
9.3.3(b) Refined fatigue data. For structural details which are not covered by the detail
classifications, proposed S-N curves and the associated SCFs, when applicable, may be submitted
for consideration. In this regard, sufficient supporting data and background are also to be submitted
for review. The refined SCFs may be determined by finite element analyses.

9.5 Spectral Analysis

Where the option in 5A-3-4/9.3.3(a) is exercised, a spectral analysis is to be performed in accordance with
the following guidelines.
9.5.1 Representative Loading Patterns
Several representative loading patterns are to be considered to cover the worst scenarios anticipated
for the design service life of the installation with respect to hull girder local loads.
9.5.2 Environmental Representation (1 September 2007)
Instead of the design wave loads specified in Section 5A-3-2, a wave scatter diagram (such as
Walden’s Data for North Atlantic Environment) is to be employed to simulate a representative
distribution of all of the wave conditions expected for the design service life of the installation. In
general, the wave data is to cover a time period of not less than 20 years. The probability of
occurrence for each combination of significant wave height and mean period of the representative
wave scatter diagram is to be weighted, based on the transit time of the installation at each wave
environment within anticipated shipping routes or specific sites. Detailed environmental data
requirements are given in 5A-1-3/3.11.3.
9.5.3 Calculation of Wave Load RAOs
The wave load RAOs with respect to the wave-induced bending moments, shear forces, motions,
accelerations and hydrodynamic pressures can then be predicted by ship motion calculation for a
selected representative loading condition.

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

9.5.4 Generation of Stress Spectrum

The stress spectrum for each critical structural detail (spot) may be generated by performing a
structural analysis, accounting for all the wave loads separately for each individual wave group.
For this purpose, the 3D structural model and 2D models specified in 5A-3-4/11 may be used for
determining structural responses. The additional secondary and tertiary stresses are also to be
considered.
9.5.5 Cumulative Fatigue Damage and Fatigue Life
Based on the stress spectrum and wave scatter diagram established above, the cumulative fatigue
damage and the corresponding fatigue life can be estimated by the Palmgren-Miner linear damage
rule.

11 Calculation of Structural Responses (1995)

11.1 Methods of Approach and Analysis Procedures (December 2008)

Maximum stresses in the structure are to be determined by performing structural analyses, as outlined
below. Guidelines on structural idealization, load application and structural analysis are given in Appendix
5A-3-A4.
The strength assessment of the hull structure can be based on one of two approaches. One approach is
based on a three cargo tank lengths finite element model about midships where the strength assessment is
focused on the results obtained from structures in the middle tank. As an alternative, a complete hull
length or full cargo block length finite element model including all cargo and ballast tanks in the hull
structure can be used in lieu of the three cargo tank length model. Either approach is acceptable.
In the three tank length model the strength assessment is to be focused on the results obtained from the mid
tank structure. However, the deck transverse, the side transverse, the vertical web on longitudinal
bulkheads, the horizontal girder and the vertical web on transverse bulkheads and the cross ties are also to
be assessed using the end tanks of the three tank length model analysis.

11.3 3D Finite Element Models (December 2008)

A simplified three-dimensional finite element model, is required to determine the load distribution in the
structure.
The three hold length finite element model represents three bays of tanks within 0.4L amidships of the hull
structure. The same 3D model may be used for hull structures beyond 0.4L amidships with modifications
to the structural properties and the applied loads, provided that the structural configurations are such that
they are considered as representative of the location under consideration.
The full length or cargo block length finite element model is used for the alternative method of analysis.

11.5 Local Structural Models (December 2008)

Local 3D fine mesh model are required to:
• Determine the stress distribution in major supporting structures, particularly at intersections of two or
more structural members and/or
• Examine stress concentrations such as at bracket toes of main supporting members, at openings in way
of critical locations, at intersections of longitudinals with transverses and at cut outs.

11.7 Load Cases (December 2008)

When performing structural analysis, the combined load cases specified in 5A-3-2/9.1 are to be considered.
In general, the structural responses for the still-water conditions are to be calculated separately to establish
reference points for assessing the wave-induced responses. Additional load cases may be required for
special loading patterns and unusual design functions, such as sloshing loads, as specified in 5A-3-2/11.
For the three hold length analysis, additional load cases may also be required for hull structures beyond the
region of 0.4L amidships.

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

13 Critical Areas (December 2008)

13.1 General
The strength and fatigue capacity of the following critical areas is to be verified:
• Typical connections of transverse web frames in 5A-3-4/Figure 3
• Typical connections of horizontal girders on transverse bulkhead in 5A-3-4/Figure 4
• Typical connections buttress structure in 5A-3-4/Figure 5

13.3 Strength Evaluation

The allowable stress applicable to critical areas in 5A-3-4/13.1 is defined as a percentage of the minimum
specified yield stress, fy, times the strength reduction factor, Sm. Application of this allowable stress to rod
and beam elements is based on the axial stress while von-Mises membrane stresses are employed for
quadrilateral elements.
The allowable stress for fine mesh analysis is defined in 5A-3-4/Table 2 and depends on the mesh size. To
calculate the local stress distribution in a main supporting member, it is often necessary to model details
and discontinuities using various fine mesh sizes. In areas of high stress gradient, the allowable stresses are
to be adjusted according to mesh sizes and are listed in 5A-3-4/Table 2.
The high stress FE results should be viewed in terms of the extent of the high stresses with respect to the
mesh size and the structural arrangement in the high stress region.

TABLE 2
Allowable Stresses (kgf/cm2) for Various Finite Element
Fine Mesh Sizes (1 July 2009)
Mesh Size Stress Limit Mild Steel HT27 HT32 HT36
(Sm = 1.000) (Sm = 0.980) (Sm = 0.950) (Sm = 0.908)
1 × LS (1) 1.00 × Sm fy 2400 2646 3040 3269
(1)
1/2 × LS 1.06 × Sm fy 2544 2805 3222 3465
(1)
1/3 × LS 1.12 × Sm fy 2688 2963 3404 3661
(1)
1/4 × LS 1.18 × Sm fy 2832 3122 3587 3857
(1)
1/5 × LS ~ 1/10 × LS 1.25 × Sm fy 3000 3308 3800 4086
(1, 2)
Thickness fu or 4100 fu or 4500 4903
1.50 × Sm fy 1.50 × Sm fy
Notes
1 Stress limits greater than 1.00 × Sm fy are to be restricted to small areas in way of structural discontinuities.
2 When the fatigue strength of the detail is found satisfactory, the hot spot stress in the detail may be allowed
up to the minimum tensile strength of the material.
3 For intermediate mesh size, the stress limit may be obtained by linear interpolation.
4 (1 July 2009) LS = stiffener spacing

13.5 Fatigue Evaluation

The procedure for fatigue analysis of the critical details indicated in 5A-3-4/13.1 will follow Section 5A-3-A2
considering prior fatigue damage as a trading vessel, low cycle and high cycle fatigue damages as an FPI.

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

FIGURE 3
Critical Areas in Transverse Web Frame (1 July 2009)

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

FIGURE 4
Critical Areas in Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead
(1 July 2009)

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Section 4 Total Strength Assessment 5A-3-4

FIGURE 5
Critical Areas of Buttress Structure (1 July 2009)

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PART Section 5: Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

SECTION 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships

1 General Requirements

1.1 General
The structural configurations, stiffening systems and design scantlings of the hull structures located beyond
0.4L amidships including the forebody, aft end and machinery spaces are to be in compliance with this
Section of this Guide and 5A-4-2/17.

1.3 Structures within the Cargo Space Length (2002)

The scantlings of longitudinal structural members and elements in way of cargo spaces beyond 0.4L
amidships may be gradually reduced toward 0.125L from the ends, provided that the hull girder section modulus
complies with 3-2-1/3.7.1(a) of the Steel Vessel Rules and that the strength of the structure satisfies the
material yielding, buckling and ultimate strength criteria specified in 5A-3-4/3 and 5A-3-4/5.
The scantlings of main supporting members in way of the cargo space length beyond 0.4L amidships are to
comply with the requirements of 5A-3-3/11. Where the structural configuration is different from that amidships
due to the hull form of the installation, additional evaluation is to be performed. The structural evaluation
using the actual configuration is to be carried out to verify that the arrangement of openings necessary for
access (5A-3-1/5.21), ventilation (5A-3-1/5.25), fabrication, etc. is satisfactory.

3 Forebody Side Shell Structure (2000)

In addition to the requirements specified in other relevant sections of the Rules, the scantlings of the
structure forward of 0.4L amidships are also to satisfy the requirements in 5A-3-5/3.1, 5A-3-5/3.3 and
5A-3-5/3.5 below.
The nominal design corrosion values in the forepeak tank may be taken as 1.5 mm in determining design
scantlings.

3.1 Side Shell Plating (2002)

3.1.1 Plating Forward of Forepeak Bulkhead
The net thickness of the side shell plating forward of the forepeak bulkhead is to be not less than
t1, t2 and t3, specified below.
t1 = 0.73s(k1 p/f1)1/2 in mm (in.)
1/2
t2 = 0.73s(k2 p/f2) in mm (in.)
t3 = 0.73sk(k3k4 pb /f3)1/2 in mm (in.) for side shell and bow plating above
LWL in the region from the forward
end to the forepeak bulkhead
where
s = spacing of stiffeners, in mm (in.)
k1 = 0.342 for longitudinally and 0.50k2 for transversely stiffened plating
k2 = 0.50k2 for longitudinally and 0.342 for transversely stiffened plating

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k3 = 0.50
k4 = 0.74

k = (3.075(α)1/2 − 2.077)/( α + 0.272), (1 ≤ α ≤ 2)

= 1.0 (α > 2)
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
f1 = 0.65 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2) in the longitudinal direction

f2 = 0.85 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2) in the transverse (vertical) direction

f3 = 0.85 Sm fy, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

p = nominal pressure |pi − pe|, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified in
5A-3-2/Table 3, at the upper turn of bilge level amidships with the following
modifications:
i) Ai is to be calculated at the forward or aft end of the tank, whichever
is greater
ii) Ae is to be calculated at the center of the panel in accordance with
5A-3-2/5.5.3, using L.C.7 with kfo = 1.0 and xo located amidships
iii) Be is to be calculated at 0.05L from the FP in accordance with
5A-3-2/5.5 (ps + ku pd, full draft, heading angle = 0, ku = 1.1)
pb = maximum bow pressure = kupbij
ku = 1.1
pbij = nominal bow pressure, as specified in 5A-3-2/13.1, at the lowest point of the
panel, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
Sm and fy, as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

3.1.2 Plating between Forepeak Bulkhead and 0.125L from FP

Aft of the forepeak bulkhead and forward of 0.125L from the FP, the side shell plating is to be not
less than as given in 5A-3-5/3.1.1 with Be calculated at 0.125L and the following permissible
stress.
f1 = permissible bending stress in the longitudinal direction, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2,
lbf/in2)
= 0.50Sm fy , for L ≥ 190 m (623 ft)
= [0.50 + 0.10(190 – L)/40] Sm fy , for L <190 m (623 ft)
2 2 2
f2 = 0.80Sm fy , in N/cm (kgf/cm , lbf/in ), in the transverse (vertical) direction

3.1.3 Plating between 0.3L and 0.125L from FP

The net thickness of the side shell plating between 0.3L and 0.125L from the FP is to be determined
from the equations in 5A-3-3/5.3 and 5A-3-5/3.1.2 above with Be calculated at the longitudinal
location under consideration. Between 0.3L and 0.25L from the FP, the internal pressure need not
be greater than that obtained amidships. The permissible stress f1 between 0.3L and 0.2L from the
FP is to be obtained by linear interpolation between midship region (5A-3-3/9.1) and the permissible
stress f1, as specified in 5A-3-5/3.1.2.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

3.3 Side Frames and Longitudinals

3.3.1 Side Frames and Longitudinals Forward of 0.3L from FP
The net section modulus of side longitudinals and frames in association with the effective plating
to which they are attached is to be not less than that obtained from the following equation:
SM = M/fbi in cm3 (in3)

M = 1000psl2/k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 12 (12, 83.33)
p = nominal pressure |pi − pe|, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as specified in
5A-3-2/Table 3 with the following modifications:
i) Ai is to be calculated at the forward or aft end of the tank, whichever
is greater. Between 0.3L and 0.25L aft of the FP, the internal pressure
need not be greater than that obtained amidships.
ii) Ae is to be calculated at the center of the panel in accordance with
5A-3-2/5.5.3 using L.C.7 with kfo = 1.0 and xo located amidships.
iii) Be is to be calculated at the center of the panel in accordance with
5A-3-2/5.5 (ps + ku pd , full draft, heading angle = 0, ku = 1.1), with
the distribution of pd, as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 1, at the side
longitudinal and frame under consideration.
Longitudinal distribution of pd may be taken as constant from the FP to forepeak bulkhead as per
5A-3-5/3.1.1 and from 0.125L to the forepeak bulkhead as per 5A-3-5/3.1.2. pd is to be calculated
in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5 between 0.3L and 0.125L from the FP as per 5A-3-5/3.1.3.
fbi = 0.80 Sm fy in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for longitudinals between 0.125L and
0.2L from the FP
= 0.85 Sm fy in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for longitudinals forward 0.125L from
the FP
= 0.85 Sm fy in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for vertical frames (other than hold
frames)
Between 0.3L and 0.2L from the FP, the permissible stress is to be obtained by linear interpolation
between midship region and 0.80 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

s and l are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.

For side longitudinal/stiffener in the region forward of 0.0125L from the FP and above LWL, the
section modulus is not to be less than obtained from the above equation based on p = pb , fb = 0.95
Sm fy and k = 16 (16, 111.1), where pb is as defined in 5A-3-5/3.1 above.

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Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

FIGURE 1
Transverse Distribution of pd (2000)

Freeboard Deck

Pd1 LWL

Bilge Radius
Amidships

Pd2

L
C

3.5 Side Transverses and Stringers in Forebody (2002)

The requirements of the subparagraphs below apply to the region forward of the cargo spaces where single
side skin construction is used.
3.5.1 Section Modulus
The net section modulus of side transverse and stringer in association with the effective side shell
plating is not to be less than obtained from the following equation:
SM = M/fb in cm3 (in3)
3.5.1(a) Longitudinally Framed Side Shell
For side stringer
M = 1000c1c2 pslt ls /k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)
For side transverse, M is not to be less than M1 or M2, whichever is greater

M1 = 1000c3 ps l 2t (1.0 − c4φ)/k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

M2 = 850p1s l 2t1 /k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 0.12 (0.12, 0.446)
c1 = 0.125 + 0.875φ, but not less than 0.3
Coefficients c2, c3 and c4 are given in the tables below.

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Coefficient c2
Number of Side Stringers No Stringer One Stringer More than One
Between Platforms (Flats) Stringer
Top Stringer 0.70
Stringers Between Top and 0.0 0.90 0.75
Lowest Stringers
Lowest Stringer 0.80

Coefficient c3
Number of Side Stringers No Stringer One Stringer More than One
Between Platforms (Flats) Stringer
Transverse above Top 0.55 0.55
Stringer
Transverse Between Top 0.85 — 0.64
and Lowest Stringers
Transverse Below Lowest 0.68 0.68
Stringer

Coefficient c4
Number of Side Stringers No Stringer One Stringer More than One
Between Platforms (Flats) Stringer

Transverses 0.0 0.75 0.80

p = nominal pressure, |pi − pe|, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), over the side transverses
using the same load cases as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for side transverses
with the following modifications.
i) Ae is to be considered for case “a” and calculated in accordance with
5A-3-2/5.5.3 using L.C.7 with kfo = 1.0 and xo located amidships
ii) Be is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5 (ps + ku pd , full
draft, heading angle = 0, ku = 1) with the distribution of pd as shown
in 5A-3-5/Figure 1
Bi, Ae and Be may be taken at the center of the side shell panel under
consideration.
p1 = nominal pressure, |pi − pe|, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), using the same load
cases as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for side transverses with the following
modifications.
i) Ae is to be considered for case “a” and calculated in accordance with
5A-3-2/5.5.3 using L.C.7 with kfo = 1.0 and xo located amidships
ii) Be is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5 (ps + ku pd , full
draft, heading angle = 0, ku = 1) with the distribution of pd as shown
in 5A-3-5/Figure 1
Bi, Ae and Be, calculated at the midspan ls1 (between side stringers or between
side stringer and platform, flat as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2) of the side
transverse under consideration.

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FIGURE 2
Definition of Spans (2000)

he

he h
e SIDE
SHEL
L
he
ls1
ls

ls1

l1

TRANSV. BHD
TRANSV. BHD

a. Stringer

PLATFORM FLAT

he

l1
lt1
he

he lt l

lt1
SIDE SHELL

l1

he
PLATFORM FLAT

b. Transverse

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Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

For side transverses

s = sum of half distances, in m (ft), between side transverse under consideration
and adjacent side transverses or transverse bulkhead
For side stringers
s = 0.45ls

φ = 1/(1 + α)
α = 1.33(It /Is)(ls/lt)3
It = moment of inertia, in cm4 (in4) (with effective side plating), of side transverse.
It is to be taken as an average of those at the middle of each span lt1 between
side stringers or side stringer and platform (flat), clear of the bracket
Is = moment of inertia, in cm4 (in4) (with effective side plating), of side stringer
at the middle of the span ls, clear of the bracket
lt, ls = spans, in m (ft), of the side transverse (lt) and side girder (ls) under
consideration, as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2
lt1 = span, in m (ft), of side transverse under consideration between stringers, or
stringer and platform (flat), as shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 2b
When calculating α, if more than one side transverse or stringer is fitted and they are not identical,
average values of It and Is within side shell panel (panel between transverse bulkheads and platforms,
flats) are to be used.
fb = permissible bending stress in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.75 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
The bending moment for side transverse below stringer (or below the platform if no stringer is
fitted) is not to be less than 80% of that for side transverse above stringer (or above platform if no
stringer is fitted).
3.5.1(b) Transversely Framed Side Shell
For side transverse:
M = 1000c1psltls /k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)
For side stringer, M is not to be less than M1 or M2, whichever is greater:

M1 = 1000c2 ps l 2s (1.0 − c3φ1)/k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

M2 = 1100p1sls1/k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 0.12 (0.12, 0.446)
c1 = 0.10 + 0.7φ1, but not to be taken less than 0.085
If no side transverses are fitted between transverse bulkheads
c2 = 1.1
c3 = 0
If side transverses are fitted between transverse bulkheads
c2 = 0.8
c3 = 0.8

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p = nominal pressure, |pi − pe|, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), over the side stringers
using the same load cases as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for side transverses
in lower wing tank. Ati, Ae and Be may be taken at the center of the side shell
panel under consideration with the following modifications:
i) Ae is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5.3 using L.C.7
with kfo = 1.0 and xo located amidships
ii) Be is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5 (ps + ku pd , full
draft, heading angle = 0, ku = 1) with the distribution of pd as shown
in 5A-3-5/Figure 1
p1 = nominal pressure, |pi − pe|, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), using the same load cases
as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3 for side transverses in lower wing tank, with
Ati, Ae and Be calculated at the midspan ls1 (between side transverses or between
side transverse and transverse bulkhead, as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2a) of
the side stringer under consideration, with the following modifications:
i) Ae is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5.3 using L.C.7
with kfo = 1.0 and xo located amidships
ii) Be is to be calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/5.5 (ps + ku pd , full
draft, heading angle = 0, ku = 1) with the distribution of pd as shown
in 5A-3-5/Figure 1
For side stringers
s = sum of half distances, in m (ft), between side stringer under consideration
and adjacent side stringers or platforms (flats)
For side transverses
s = 0.45lt
φ1 = α/(1 + α)
ls1 = span, in m (ft), of the side stringer under consideration between side
transverses or side transverse and transverse bulkhead, as shown in
5A-3-5/Figure 2a
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.75 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
lt, ls and α are as defined in 5A-3-5/3.5.1(a) above.
3.5.2 Sectional Area of Web
The net sectional area of the web portion of the side transverse and side stringer is not to be less
than obtained from the following equation:
A = F/fs
3.5.2(a) Longitudinally Framed Side Shell
For side stringer:
F = 1000kc1pls in N (kgf, lbf)
For side transverse, F is not to be less than F1 or F2, whichever is greater:
F1 = 850kc2pls(1.0 − c3φ − 2he /l) N (kgf, lbf)
F2 = 1700kc2p1s(0.5l1 − he) N (kgf, lbf)
where
k = 0.5 (0.5, 1.12)

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Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

Coefficients c1, c2 and c3 are given in the tables below.

Coefficient c1
Number of Side Stringers No Stringer One Stringer More than One
Between Platforms (Flats) Stringer
Stringers 0.0 0.52 0.40

Coefficient c2
Number of Side Stringers No Stringer One Stringer More than One
Between Platforms (Flats) Stringer
Transverses Above Top 0.9 0.9
Stringer
Transverse Between Top 1.0 — 0.95
and Lowest Stringers
Transverse Below Lowest 1.0 1.0
Stringer

Coefficient c3
Number of Side Stringers No Stringer One Stringer More than One
Between Platforms (Flats) Stringer
Transverses 0.0 0.5 0.6

l = span, in m (ft), of the side transverse under consideration between platforms

(flats), as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2b
l1 = span, in m (ft), of the side transverse under consideration between side
stringers or side stringer and platform (flat), as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2b
he = length, in m (ft), of the end bracket of the side transverse, as shown in
5A-3-5/Figure 2b
To obtain F1, he is equal to the length of the end bracket at the end of span l of side transverse, as
shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2b.
To obtain F2, he is equal to the length of the end bracket at the end of span l1 of side transverse, as
shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2b.
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

p, p1, φ and s are as defined in 5A-3-5/3.5.1(a) above.

The shear force for the side transverse below the lowest stringer (or below the platform if no
stringer is fitted), is not to be less than 110% of that for the side transverse above the top stringer
(or above the platform if no stringer is fitted).
3.5.2(b) Transversely Framed Side Shell
For side transverse
F = 850kc1pls in N (kgf, lbf)
For side stringer, F is not to be less than F1 or F2, whichever is greater.
F1 = 1000kpls(1.0 − 0.6φ1 − 2he /l) in N (kgf, lbf)
F2 = 2000kp1s(0.5l1 − he) in N (kgf, lbf)

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Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

where
k = 0.5 (0.5, 1.12)
c1 = 0.1 + 0.7φ1, but not to be taken less than 0.2
l = span, in m (ft), of the side stringer under consideration between transverse
bulkheads, as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2a
l1 = span, in m (ft), of the side stringer under consideration between side
transverses or side transverse and bulkhead, as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2a
he = length, in m (ft), of the end bracket of the side stringer under consideration,
as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2a
To obtain F1, he is equal to the length of the end bracket at the end of span l of the side stringer, as
shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2a.
To obtain F2, he is equal to the length of the end bracket at the end of span l1 of the side stringer,
as shown in 5A-3-5/Figure 2a.
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
p, p1, φ1 and s are as defined in 5A-3-5/3.5.1(a) above.
3.5.3 Depth of Transverse/Stringer
The depths of side transverses and stringers, dw, are neither to be less than obtained from the
following equations nor to be less than 2.5 times the depth of the slots, respectively.
3.5.3(a) Longitudinally Framed Shell
For side transverse:
If side stringer is fitted between platforms (flats)
dw = (0.08 + 0.80α)lt for α ≤ 0.05
= (0.116 + 0.084α)lt for α > 0.05
and need not be greater than 0.2lt
If no side stringer is fitted between platforms (flats), dw is not to be less than 0.2lt or 0.06D,
whichever is greater.
For side stringer:
dw = (0.42 − 0.9α)ls for α ≤ 0.2
= (0.244 − 0.0207α)ls for α > 0.2
α is not to be taken greater than 8.0 to determine the depth of the side stringer.
lt, ls and α are as defined in 5A-3-5/3.5.1(a) above.
D is as defined in 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
3.5.3(b) Transversely Framed Side Shell
For side stringer:
If side transverse is fitted between transverse bulkheads
dw = (0.08 + 0.80α1)ls for α1 ≤ 0.05
= (0.116 + 0.084α1)ls for α1 > 0.05
and need not be greater than 0.2ls

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

If no side transverse is fitted between transverse bulkheads

dw = 0.2ls
For side transverse:
dw = (0.277 − 0.385α1)lt for α1 ≤ 0.2

= (0.204 − 0.205α1)lt for α1 > 0.2

α1 is not to be taken greater than 7.5 to determine the depth of the side transverse
where
α1 = 1/α
lt, ls and α are as defined in 5A-3-5/3.5.1(a) above.

3.5.4 Thickness
The net thickness of side transverse and stringer is not to be less than 9.5 mm (0.374 in.)

5 Transition Zone (2000)

In the transition zone between the forepeak and the No. 1 cargo tank region, due consideration is to be
given to the proper tapering of major longitudinal members within the forepeak such as flats, decks,
horizontal ring frames or side stringers aft into the cargo hold. Where such structure is in line with
longitudinal members aft of the forward cargo tank bulkhead, this tapering may be introduced by fitting of
large brackets. These brackets are to have a taper of 4:1.

7 Forebody Strengthening for Slamming (2000)

Where the hull structure is subject to slamming, as specified in 5A-3-2/13, proper strengthening will be
required as outlined below. For strengthening to account for bottom slamming, the requirements of this
subsection apply to installations with a heavy weather ballast draft forward of less than 0.04L and greater
than 0.025L. Installations with heavy weather ballast draft forward equal to or less than 0.025L will be
subject to special consideration.

7.1 Bottom Slamming

7.1.1 Bottom Plating
When bottom slamming, as specified in 5A-3-2/13, is considered, the bottom structure in the
region of the flat of bottom forward of 0.25L measured from the FP is to be in compliance with the
following requirement.
The net thickness of the flat of bottom plating forward of 0.25L measured from the FP is not to be
less than t obtained from the following equation:
t = 0.73s(k2 k3 ps/f)1/2 in mm (in.)
where
s = spacing of longitudinal or transverse stiffeners, in mm (in.)
k2 = 0.5 k2 for longitudinally stiffened plating
k3 = 0.74
k = (3.075 (α)1/2 − 2.077)/(α + 0.272), (1 ≤ α ≤ 2)
= 1.0 (α > 2)
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
ps = the design slamming pressure = ku psi

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Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

For determination of t, the pressure ps is to be taken at the center of the supported panel.
psi = nominal bottom slamming pressure, as specified in 5A-3-2/13.3.1, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
ku = slamming load factor = 1.1
The maximum nominal bottom slamming pressure occurring along the installation is to be applied
to the bottom plating between the foremost extent of the flat of bottom and 0.125L from the FP.
The pressure beyond this region may be gradually tapered to the longitudinal location where the
nominal slamming pressure is calculated as zero.
f = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.85 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

7.1.2 Bottom Longitudinals and Stiffeners

The section modulus of the stiffener, including the associated effective plating on the flat of bottom
forward of 0.25L measured from the FP, is not to be less than obtained from the following equation:
SM = M/fb in cm3 (in3)

M = 1000pssl2/k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 16 (16, 111.1)
ps = design slamming pressure = ku psi

For determination of M, the pressure ps is to be taken at the midpoint of the span l.

psi = nominal bottom slamming pressure, as specified in 5A-3-2/13.3.1, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
ku = slamming load factor = 1.1
The maximum nominal bottom slamming pressure occurring along the installation is to be applied
to the bottom stiffeners between the foremost extent of the flat of bottom and 0.125L from the FP.
The pressure beyond this region may be gradually tapered to the longitudinal location where the
nominal slamming pressure is calculated as zero.
s = spacing of longitudinal or transverse stiffeners, in mm (in.)
l = unsupported span of the stiffener, in m (ft)
fb = 0.9Sm fy for transverse and longitudinal stiffeners in the region forward of
0.125L measured from the FP
= 0.8Sm fy for longitudinal stiffeners in the region between 0.125L and 0.25L
measured from the FP
The effective breadth of plating be is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.
Struts connecting the bottom and inner bottom longitudinals are not to be fitted.
7.1.3 Bottom Floors
The arrangements and scantlings of floors are to be adequate for bottom slamming loads, as
specified in 5A-3-2/13.
The spacing of floors forward of amidships need not be less than the spacing amidships.

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Section 5 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships 5A-3-5

7.3 Bowflare Slamming

When bowflare slamming, as specified in 5A-3-2/13.5, is considered, the side shell structure above the
waterline in the region between 0.0125L and 0.25L from the FP is to be in compliance with the following
requirements.
7.3.1 Side Shell Plating
The net thickness of the side shell plating between 0.0125L and 0.25L from the FP is not to be less
than t1 or t2, whichever is greater, obtained from the following equations:

t1= 0.73s(k1 ps/f1)1/2 in mm (in.)

t2 = 0.73s(k2 ps/f2)1/2 in mm (in.)

where
ps = maximum slamming pressure = ku pij
pij = nominal bowflare slamming pressure, as specified in 5A-3-2/13.5.1, at the
lowest point of the panel, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
ku = slamming load factor = 1.1
f1 = 0.85 Sm fy for side shell plating forward of 0.125L from the FP, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.75 Sm fy for side shell plating in the region between 0.125L and 0.25L from
the FP, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
f2 = 0.85 Sm fy , in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
k1 = 0.342 for longitudinally stiffened plating
= 0.5 for transversely stiffened plating
k2 = 0.5 for longitudinally stiffened plating
= 0.342 for transversely stiffened plating
s, Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-5/7.1.1 above.

7.3.2 Side Longitudinals and Stiffeners

The section modulus of the stiffener, including the associated effective plating, is not to be less
than obtained from the following equation:
SM = M/fb in cm3 (in3)

M = 1000pssl2/k in N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 16 (16, 111.1)
l = unsupported span of the stiffener, in m (ft)
ps = maximum slamming pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), as defined in
5A-3-5/7.3.1, at the midpoint of the span l
s and fb are as defined in 5A-3-5/7.1 above.
The effective breadth of plating, be, is as defined in 5A-3-3/7.5.

7.3.3 Side Transverses and Side Stringers

The net section modulus and sectional area requirements for side transverses and side stringers, as
specified in 5A-3-5/3.5, are to be met with the bow flare slamming pressure, as specified in
5A-3-2/13.5.2, for the region between 0.0125L and 0.25L from the FP.

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PART Section 6: Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

SECTION 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations

1 General
Where due to the nature of the cargo, single hull construction is permitted, the design criteria and
evaluation procedures specified in Section 5A-3-1 may also be applied to single hull ship-type installations
with modifications as outlined in this Section.

1.1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (December 2008)

Except as modified by the following, the nominal design corrosion values given in 5A-3-1/Table 1 are
applicable to the corresponding structural elements of single hull ship-type installations based on the proposed
usage of the individual space.
For bottom plating and contiguously attached structures, the nominal design corrosion values to be used are:
Wing Ballast Tanks
Bottom Plating 1.00 mm
Bottom Longitudinals, Transverses and Girders (Web and Flange) 1.50 mm
Center or Wing Cargo Tanks
Bottom Plating 1.00 mm
Bottom Longitudinals, Transverses and Girders (Web and Flange) 1.00 mm

Consideration may be given for modifying the nominal design corrosion values, depending upon the degree
of cargo corrosiveness.

1.3 Load Criteria

The load criteria and load cases specified in 5A-3-2/1 through 5A-3-2/13 are generally applicable to single
hull ship-type installations by considering the double bottom and wing ballast tanks, such as shown in
5A-3-2/Figures 1 and 14, as null, except that the load patterns are specified in 5A-3-6/Table 1 for bottom
and side shell structures.

1.5 Strength Criteria

1.5.1 Shear Strength (1 July 2009)
For single hull ship-type installations with two or more longitudinal bulkheads, the net thickness
of side shell and longitudinal bulkhead plating is not to be less than that specified in 5A-3-3/5,
wherein the shear distribution factor, Ds and Di, and local load correction, Ri, may be derived
either from direct calculations or from Appendix 5A-4-A1.
1.5.2 Plating and Longitudinals/Stiffeners
The strength requirements for plating and longitudinals/stiffeners specified in 5A-3-3/7 through
5A-3-3/17 and Section 5A-3-5 are directly applicable to single hull ship-type installations by
determining the internal pressure in accordance with the actual tank arrangement.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Section 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-6

3 Main Supporting Structures

3.1 Bottom Transverses

3.1.1 Section Modulus of Bottom Transverses
The net section modulus of the bottom transverse, in association with the effective bottom plating,
is not to be less than obtained from the following equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcps l 2b N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
c = 0.83α2 for center tank
= 1.4 for wing tank
α = (lg /lb)[(Ib /Ig) (sg /s)]1/4 ≤ 1.0 for ship-type installations with bottom
girder
= 1.0 for ship-type installations without
bottom girder
lb = span of the bottom transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1; the
length is to be not less than 0.125B or one-half the breadth of the tank,
whichever is the greater
lg = span of the bottom girder, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
s = spacing of the bottom transverse, in m (ft)
sg = spacing of the bottom girder, in m (ft)
Ib, Ig = moments of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of the bottom transverse (Ib) and the bottom
girder (Ig) with effective plating to which they are attached (clear of bracket)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of the bottom
transverse, as specified in 5A-3-6/Table 1
fb = permissible bending stress
= 0.70 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
B = installation breadth, in m (ft)
3.1.2 Web Sectional Area of Bottom Transverse
The net sectional area of the web portion of the bottom transverse is not to be less than obtained
from the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force, F, in N (kgf, lbf), can be obtained from the following equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
F = 1000k[ps(Kbls − he) + cDBcs] N (kgf, lbf)
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
Kb = 0.5α for center tank
= 0.5 for wing tank

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c = 0 for center tank

= 0.15 for wing tank without cross ties
= 0.06 for wing tank with one cross tie
= 0.03 for wing tank with two cross ties
ls = span of the bottom transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
he = length of the bracket of bottom transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in
5A-3-6/Figure 1
D = installation depth, in m (ft)
Bc = breadth of the center tank, in m (ft)

P, s and α are as defined in 5A-3-6/3.1.1.

fs = permissible shear stress
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

3.3 Bottom Girders

3.3.1 Section Modulus of Bottom Girders
The net section modulus of the bottom girder, in association with the effective bottom plating, is
not to be less than obtained from the following equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcpsg l 2g N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
c = 1.0
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of the bottom
girder, as specified in 5A-3-6/Table 1
lg and sg are as defined in 5A-3-6/3.1.1.
fb = 0.50 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

3.3.2 Web Sectional Area of Bottom Girder

The net sectional area of the web portion of the bottom girder is not to be less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force, F, in N (kgf, lbf), can be obtained from the following equation (see 5A-3-3/1.3).
F = 1000kpsg (0.5ls − he)
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
ls = span of the bottom girder, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
he = length of bracket of bottom girder, in m (ft), as indicted in 5A-3-6/Figure 1

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sg is as defined in 5A-3-6/3.1.1.
p is as defined in 5A-3-6/3.3.1.
fs = permissible shear stress
= 0.35 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.

TABLE 1
Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Structures
A. Plating & Longitudinals/Stiffeners
The nominal pressure, p = |pi − pe|, is to be determined from load cases “a” & “b” below, whichever is greater, with ku = 1.10 and
kc = 1.0 unless otherwise specified in the table
Case “a” – At fwd end of the tank Case “b” – At mid tank/fwd end of tank
Structural Coefficients Coefficients
Members/ Draft/Wave Location and pi pe Draft/Wave Location and pi pe
Components Heading Angle Loading Pattern Heading Angle Loading Pattern
1. Bottom Plating 2/3 design Full center and Ai Ae Design draft/0° Midtank of — Be
& Long’l draft/0° wing tanks empty center
and wing tanks
2. Side Shell 2/3 design Starboard side of Bi Ae Design Midtank of — Be
Plating & draft/60° full wing tank draft/60° empty wing tank
Long’l

B. Main Supporting Members

The nominal pressure, p = |pi − pe|, is to be determined at the midspan of the structural member at starboard side of installation
from load cases “a” & “b” below, whichever is greater, with ku = 1.0 and kc = 1.0 unless otherwise specified in the table
Midtank for Transverses Midtank for Transverses
Structural Coefficients Coefficients
Members/ Draft/Wave Location and pi pe Draft/Wave Location and pi pe
Components Heading Angle Loading Pattern Heading Angle Loading Pattern
3. Bottom 2/3 design Full center and Ai Ae Design draft/0° Midtank of — Be
Transverse & draft/0° wing tanks empty center
Girder and wing tanks
4. Side 2/3 design Wing tanks full Bi — Design Midtank of — Be
Transverses draft/60° draft/60° empty wing tank
Notes:
1 For calculating pi and pe, the necessary coefficients are to be determined based on the following designated groups:
a) For pi
Ai: wv = 0.75, wl(fwd bhd) = 0.25, wl(aft bhd) = −0.25, wt = 0.0, cφ = −1.0, ce = 0.0
Bi: wv = 0.4, wl(fwd bhd) = 0.2, wl(aft bhd) = −0.2, wt(starboard) = 0.4, wt(port) = −0.4, cφ = −0.7,
ce = 0.7
b) For pe
Ae: klo = 1.0, ku = 1.0, kc = −0.5
Be: klo = 1.0
2 For structures within 0.4L amidships, the nominal pressure is to be calculated for a tank located amidships. The
longest cargo and ballast tanks in the region should be considered as located amidships
3 In calculation of the nominal pressure, ρ g of the liquid cargoes is not to be taken less than 0.1025 kgf/cm2-m
(0.4444 lbf/in2-ft) for structural members 1 and 2 and is not to be taken less than 0.09 kgf/cm2-m (0.3902 lbf/in2-ft)
for cargo tanks and 0.1025 kgf/cm2-m (0.4444 lbf/in2-ft) for ballast tanks for structural members 3 and 4.
4 For all other structures, 5A-3-2/Table 3 is applicable.

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FIGURE 1
Spans of Transverses and Girders
CL

hU

lb ls
lb
hL

he he

ls
Bottom Transverse and Side Transverse
CL

lb
lb

he he he he

ls
ls
Bottom Transverse

lg

he he
ls
Bottom Girder

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3.5 Side Transverses

3.5.1 Section Modulus of Side Transverses
The net section modulus of the side transverse, in association with the effective side plating, is not
to be less than obtained from the following equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3)
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcps l 2b N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
lb = span of side transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
s = spacing of side transverse, in m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span lb of the side
transverse, as specified in 5A-3-6/Table 1
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
c is given in 5A-3-6/Table 2.
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
For ship-type installations without cross ties, the section modulus of the side transverse, as required
above, is to extend at least up to 0.6lb from the lower end of the span. The value of the bending
moment, M, used for the calculation of the required section modulus of the remaining part of the
side transverse may be reduced, but not more than 20%.
In the case of one cross tie, the section modulus of the lower (upper) side transverse, as required
above, is to extend to the cross tie.
In the case of two cross ties, the section modulus of the lower (upper) side transverse, as required
above, is to extend to the lower (upper) cross tie and may be linearly interpolated between the
cross ties.

TABLE 2
Coefficient c for Side Transverse
Arrangement of Cross Ties For Upper Side Transverse For Lower Side Transverse
No Cross Tie 0.75
One Cross Tie in Wing Tank 0.19 0.33
Two Cross Ties in Wing Tank 0.13 0.20

3.5.2 Web Sectional Area of Side Transverses

The net sectional area of the web portion of the side transverse is not to be less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force, F, in N (kgf, lbf), for the side transverse can be obtained from the following
equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3):
F = 1000ks[KUls(PU + PL) − hUPU] for the upper part of the transverse
= 1000ks[KLls(PU + PL) − hLPL] or 350ksKLls(PU + PL),
whichever is greater, for the lower part of the transverse

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Section 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-6

In no case is the shear force for the lower part of the transverse to be less than 120% of that for the
upper part of the transverse.
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
ls = span of the side transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
s = spacing of the side transverse, in m (ft)
PU = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of the upper
bracket (hU /2), as specified in 5A-3-6/Table 1
PL = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of the lower
bracket (hL /2), as specified in 5A-3-6/Table 1
hU = length of the upper bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
hL = length of the lower bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-6/Figure 1
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
KU and KL are given in 5A-3-6/Table 3.
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
For ship-type installations without cross ties, the sectional area of the lower side transverse, as
required above, is to extend up to 0.15l from the toe of the lower bracket or 0.3ls from the lower
end of the span, whichever is greater.
In the case of one cross ties, the sectional area of the lower (upper) side transverse as required
above, is to extend to the cross tie.
In the case of two cross ties, the sectional area of the lower (upper) side transverse as required
above, is to extend to the lower (upper) cross tie and may be linearly interpolated between the
cross ties.

TABLE 3
Coefficients KU and KL for Side Transverses
Arrangement of Cross Ties KU KL
No Cross Tie 0.16 0.30
One Cross Tie in Wing Tank 0.09 0.21
Two Cross Ties in Wing Tank 0.075 0.16

3.7 Deck Transverses (December 2008)

3.7.1 Section Modulus of Deck Transverses
The net section modulus of deck transverses, in association with the effective deck plating, is not
to be less than obtained from the following equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3).
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)
For deck transverses in wing tanks:

M = k(10,000 c1ϕ ps l 2t + βsMs) ≥ Mo N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

For deck transverses in center tanks:

M = k(10,000 c1ϕ ps l 2t + βbMb) ≥ Mo N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

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Section 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-6

where

Ms = 10,000c2 ps s l 2s

Mb = 10,000c2 pb s l 2b

Mo = 10,000kc3ϕ ps l 2t
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of the deck
transverse under consideration, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3, Item 16
ps = corresponding nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of
the side transverse (5A-3-2/Table 3 , Item 16)
pb = corresponding nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-span of
the vertical web on longitudinal bulkhead (5A-3-2/Table 3 , Item 16)
c1 = 0.42 for tanks without deck girder
= 0.42α2 for tanks with deck girders, min. 0.05 and max. 0.42
α = (lg /lt )[(sg /s)(IT /Ig)]1/4
lg = span of the deck girder, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-c
lt = span of the deck transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A, but
is not to be taken as less than 60% of the breadth of the tank
Ig, It = moments of inertia, in cm4 (in4), of the deck girder and deck transverse, clear
of the brackets, respectively
sg = spacing of the deck girders, in m (ft)
s = spacing of the deck transverses, in m (ft)
When calculating α, if more than one deck girder is fitted, the average values of sg, lg and Ig are to
be used when the girders are not identical.
ϕ = 1 − 5(ha /lt )α −1, to be not less than 0.6 for cargo tanks with deck girders
= 1 − 5(ha /lt ), to be not less than 0.6 for cargo tanks without deck girders
ha = distance, in m (ft), from the end of the span to the toe of the end bracket of
the deck transverse, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 8
βs = 0.9[(ls/lt)(It /Is)], but is not to be taken less than 0.10 and need not be greater
than 0.65
βb = 0.9[(lb/lt)(It /Ib)], but is not to be taken less than 0.10 and need not be greater
than 0.50
ls and lb = spans, in m (ft), of side transverse and vertical web on longitudinal bulkhead,
respectively, as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A
Is and Ib = moments of inertia, in cm4 (in4), clear of the brackets, of side transverses and
vertical web on longitudinal bulkhead, respectively
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/ in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
c2 is given in 5A-3-6/Table 4 below.
c3 = 0.83 for tanks without deck girders
= 1.1c1 for tanks with deck girders

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Section 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-6

Where no cross ties or other effective supporting arrangements are provided for the wing tank
vertical webs, the deck transverses in the wing tanks are to have section modulus not less than
70% of that required for the upper side transverse.

TABLE 4
Coefficient c2 For Deck Transverse (December 2008)
Arrangement of Cross Ties Center Tank Wing Tank
No Cross Tie 0.4
One Cross Tie in Wing Tank 0.13 0.37
Two Cross Ties in Wing Tank 0.05 0.12

3.7.2 Web Sectional Area of Deck Transverses

The net sectional area of the web portion of deck transverses is not to be less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)

F = 1000k[c1 ps(0.50l − he) + c2 DBcs] N (kgf, lbf)

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
c1 = 1.30 for tanks without deck girder

= 0.90α1/2 for tanks with deck girder, min. 0.50 and max. 1.0
c2 = 0 for center tank
= 0.045 for wing tank
l = span of the deck transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A
he = length of the bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2A-c and d and
5A-3-3/Figure 8
D = depth of the tanker, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules
Bc = breadth of the center tank, in m (ft)

p, s and α are as defined in 5A-3-6/3.7.1.

fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
Area A is not to be less than the area obtained based on 5A-3-3/11.9 and 5A-3-3/11.11.

3.9 Longitudinal Bulkhead Vertical Webs

3.9.1 Section Modulus of Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead
The net section modulus of the vertical web, in association with the effective longitudinal bulkhead
plating, is to be not less than obtained from the following equation (see also 5A-3-3/1.3):
SM = M/fb cm3 (in3)

M = 10,000kcps l 2b N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in)

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Section 6 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-6

where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 0.269)
lb = span of vertical web, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a
s = spacing of vertical webs, in m (ft)
p = nominal pressure, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2) at mid-span lb of the vertical web,
as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
fb = permissible bending stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.70 Sm fy
c is given in 5A-3-6/Table 5.
Sm and fy are as given in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
For ship-type installations without cross ties, the section modulus of the vertical web, as required
above, is to extend at least up to 0.6l from the lower end of the span. The value of the bending
moment M, used for the calculation of the required section modulus of the remaining part of
vertical web, may be reduced, but not more than 20%.
In the case of one cross tie, the section modulus of the lower (upper) vertical web, as required
above, is to extend to the cross tie.
In the case of two cross ties, the section modulus of lower (upper) vertical web, as required above,
is to extend to the lower (upper) cross tie and may be linearly interpolated between cross ties.

TABLE 5
Coefficient c for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead
Arrangement of Cross Ties For Upper Vertical Web For Lower Vertical Web
No Cross Tie 0.75
One Cross Tie in Wing Tank 0.19 0.33
Two Cross Ties in Wing Tank 0.13 0.20

3.9.2 Web Sectional Area of Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead

The net sectional area of the web portion of the vertical web is not to be less than obtained from
the following equation:
A = F/fs cm2 (in2)
The shear force, F, in N (kgf, lbf), for the vertical web can be obtained from the following equation
(see also 5A-3-3/1.3):
F = 1000ks[KUl(PU + PL) − hUPU] for upper part of web
= 1000ks[KLl(PU + PL) − hLPL] or
= 350ksKLl(PU + PL), whichever is greater, for lower part of web
In no case is the shear force for the lower part of the web to be less than 120% of that for the
upper part of the vertical web.
where
k = 1.0 (1.0, 2.24)
l = span of the vertical web, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a
s = spacing of the vertical webs, in m (ft)
PU = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of upper
bracket (hU /2), as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3

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PL = nominal pressure, p, in kN/m2 (tf/m2, Ltf/ft2), at the mid-length of the lower

bracket (hL /2), as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 3
hU = length of the upper bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a
hL = length of the lower bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-3-3/Figure 2B-a
fs = permissible shear stress, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= 0.45 Sm fy
KU and KL are given in 5A-3-6/Table 6.
Sm and fy are as defined in 5A-3-3/7.3.1.
For ship-type installations without cross ties, the sectional area of lower vertical webs, as required
above, is to extend up to 0.15l from the toe of the lower bracket or 0.3l from the lower end of the
span, whichever is greater.
In the case of one cross tie, the sectional area of the lower (upper) vertical web, as required above,
is to extend to the cross tie.
In the case of two cross ties, the sectional area of the lower (upper) vertical web, as required above,
is to extend to the lower (upper) cross tie and may be linearly interpolated between the cross ties.

TABLE 6
Coefficients KU and KL for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead
Arrangement of Cross Ties KU KL
No Cross Tie 0.16 0.30
One Cross Tie in Wing Tank 0.09 0.21
Two Cross Ties in Wing Tank 0.075 0.16

3.11 Other Main Supporting Members

The strength and stiffness requirements specified in 5A-3-3/11 and 5A-3-3/15 for deck girders, vertical webs
and horizontal girders on transverse bulkheads and cross ties are applicable to single hull ship-type installations.

3.13 Proportions
The following minimum requirements for web depth are supplemental to those given in 5A-3-3/11.11.
20% for bottom transverses without bottom girder
14% for bottom transverses with one girder
8% for bottom transverses with three girders
20% for bottom girders
12.5% for side transverses

5 Strength Assessment

5.1 General
The failure criteria and strength assessment procedures specified in Section 5A-3-4 are generally applicable
to single hull ship-type installations, except for the special considerations outlined in 5A-3-6/5.3 below.

5.3 Special Considerations

For assessing buckling and fatigue strength in accordance with 5A-3-4/5 and 5A-3-4/9, due consideration
is to be given to the buckling characteristics of large stiffened panels of the side shell and bottom
structures, as well as the realistic boundary conditions of side and bottom longitudinals at transverse
bulkheads for calculating the total stress range with respect to fatigue strength.

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PART Appendix 1: Determination of Environmental Severity Factors

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

APPENDIX 1 Determination of Environmental Severity Factors

(December 2008)

1 General
This Appendix provides information for the determination of ESFs for ship-type installation design criteria
to account for site-specific conditions compared to unrestricted service conditions.
The formulations from Part 5A, Chapter 1 and Section 5A-3-2 are modified to reflect the incorporation of
various ESF β-types. In the modified formulations, the ESF (β) factors are applied to the dynamic load
parameters in the load components.
The general concept of ESF α-types is to compare fatigue damage resulting from different environmental
conditions. This type of ESF has two applications. First, it can be used to adjust the fatigue damage induced
by the wave-induced dynamic loads at the installation site. Second, it can be used to assess the fatigue
damage accumulated during previous services as either a trading vessel or an existing ship-type installation.
The α-type ESFs are obtained at different locations for longitudinal stiffeners of the hull structure.

3 ESFs of the Beta (β) Type (1 July 2009)

This type of ESF is used to introduce a comparison of the severity between the intended environment and a
base environment, which is the North Atlantic unrestricted service environment.
A presentation of formulations that are modified to reflect the incorporation of the various β ESFs is given
in Section 5A-3-2. In the modified formulations, the β factors apply only to the dynamic portions of the
load components, and the load components that are considered “static” are not affected by the introduction
of the β factors.
The definition of the severity measure β is as follows:
Ls
β=
Lu
where
Ls = most probable extreme value based on the intended site (100 years return period),
transit (10 years return period), and repair/inspection (1 year return period)
environments for the dynamic load parameters specified in 5A-3-A1/Table 1
Lu = most probable extreme value base on the North Atlantic environment for the dynamic
load parameters specified in 5A-3-A1/Table 1
A β of 1.0 corresponds to the unrestricted service condition of a seagoing vessel. A value of β less than
1.0 indicates a less severe environment than the unrestricted case.

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Appendix 1 Determination of Environmental Severity Factors 5A-3-A1

Extreme value analysis is to be performed for each dynamic load component to determine maximum value
during the design life. Preference is given to an Extreme Value method that follows the so-called long-term
approach commonly used for ship structure. However, the use of a validated short-term extreme value
approach, which is appropriate to the installation type and installation site’s environmental data, will also
be considered. The supplementary use of such a short-term approach to confirm or validate the sensitivity
of the long-term based design values is encouraged. The result of the short-term approach cannot be used
to reduce the long-term extreme value. If the short-term result is significantly larger, the long-term extreme
value is to be further studied and validated. The environments specified for use in the short-term approach
are “response based”, i.e., a 100-year design storm event is one that leads to the maximum responses
expected to occur in 100-years. The return period is typically required to 10 years for transit condition, and
1 year for repair and inspection conditions.
There are 13 dynamic load components in the ABS Rules for which the β adjustment factors have been
derived. These are for the following dynamic loads or load effects:

TABLE 1
The 13 Dynamic Load Parameters or ESFs (βNN) (December 2008)
No. NN Name
1 VBM Vertical Bending Moment
2 HBM Horizontal Bending Moment
3 EPP External Pressure Port
4 EPS External Pressure Starboard
5 VAC Vertical Acceleration
6 TAC Transverse Acceleration
7 LAC Longitudinal Acceleration
8 PMO Pitch Motion
9 RMO Roll Motion
10 RVM Relative Vertical Motion at Forepeak
11 WHT Wave Height
12 VSF Vertical Shear Force
13 HSF Horizontal Shear Force

As mentioned, the β values are a direct function of the long-term environmentally-induced loads at the
installation site compared to the unrestricted service environment that is the basis of the Rules. The β
values also need to address other differences and factors between the design basis of a sea going and a
moored installation/transit/repair/inspection. These include:
i) Different design basis return periods for environmental loads (20 for unrestricted seagoing vs. 100
years for intended site, 10 years for transit and 1 year for repair/inspection condition).
ii) Effects of mooring system on predicted installation load effects (including weathervaning type
behavior of a turret moored system).
iii) Different assumed wave energy spreading characterization between the open ocean and a site-
specific situation.
iv) Different basis of extreme design storm characterization (i.e., long-term winter storm vs. hurricane
dominated characterization).
v) Relative nearness of natural periods of global system response to significant environmentally-
induced loadings at such periods (i.e., possible dynamic amplification effects).

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Appendix 1 Determination of Environmental Severity Factors 5A-3-A1

If a direct analysis of a floating offshore installation were to be performed, the influences of the
mentioned factors would need to be assessed and used in the installation’s design. It is not the
intention of the alternative approach offered here to discourage direct analysis, but it is expected
that the approach based on the use of the ESFs will still be used as an important basis of structural
design/assessment of a ship-type floating offshore installation.
Note: The Bureau intends to make computer software available to clients to help establish ESFs and a version
of the ABS Eagle FPSO SEAS software that is modified to accommodate this concept. Clients are
advised to contact the Bureau regarding the availability of this software.

Notwithstanding the listed β factors and their intended usage, it is still necessary to introduce a
limit to prevent design parameters from being unrealistically low. This limit is that the result of an
application of a β factor (e.g., in the calculation of a required scantling) is not to be less than 85
percent of the unrestricted service (Rule) value. The reasons for introducing this limit are to
reflect successful service experience, a desire not to inadvertently create a reordering of the
dominant structural failure modes, and to avoid the introduction of new controlling limit states
(unacceptable deflections, vibrations, etc.).
It has also been necessary to introduce additional load cases or situations that reflect the relatively
greater importance these cases may have for floating offshore installations with possibly reduced
scantlings due to the calmer site conditions. Examples of these additional conditions are the more
rigorous check of the tank test loading condition, inspection and repair conditions, and the hull
strength assessment for the transit to site condition.

5 ESFs of the Alpha (α) Type (1 July 2009)

This type of ESF compares the fatigue damage between the specified environment and a base environment,
which is the North Atlantic environment.
First, this type of ESF is used to adjust the expected fatigue damage induced from the dynamic components
due to environmental loadings at the installation’s site. Second it can be used to assess the fatigue damage
accumulated during the historical service either as a trading vessel or as an FPI, including both the
historical site(s) and historical transit routes.
The definition of the severity measure α is as follows:
C
⎛ Du ⎞
α =⎜ ⎟
⎝ Ds ⎠
where
Du = annual fatigue damage based on the North Atlantic environment (unrestricted
service) at the details of the hull structure
Ds = annual fatigue damage based on a specified environment, for historical routes,
historical sites, transit and intended site, at the details of the hull structure
C = 0.65
For fatigue damage calculation, a closed form spectral-based fatigue analysis procedure can be used. The
fundamental task of a spectral fatigue analysis is the determination of the stress transfer function, which
express the relationship between the stress at a particular structural location per unit wave amplitude and
wave frequency and heading. The stress transfer function needs to be determined from the load transfer
function and its corresponding stress factor, which is a conversion factor to obtain the stress transfer
function from the load transfer function. The load transfer function, which depends on hull form geometry,
is to be calculated for regular waves of unit amplitude for ranges of wave frequencies and wave heading.
The stress factor can be obtained through structural analysis techniques, which can be either a simple beam
theory or finite element analysis procedures. The sophistication of the structural analysis needed depends
on the physical system to be analyzed, the type of structural detail and the type of structural loading
considered. For the longitudinal stiffener, the stress factors may be calculated by the simple beam theory.

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Appendix 1 Determination of Environmental Severity Factors 5A-3-A1

The response spectra of the stress transfer functions can be determined by given wave spectra. In the
‘short-term closed form’ approach, the stress range is normally expressed in terms of probability density
functions for different short-term sea states. These short-term probability density functions are derived by
a spectral approach based on the Rayleigh distribution method whereby it is assumed that the variation of
stress is a narrow banded random Gaussian process. When a narrow banded assumption is not valid for the
stress process, a damage correction factor, e.g. Wirsching’s “rainflow correction” factor, is applied in the
calculation of the short-term fatigue damage. Having calculated the short-term damage, the total fatigue
damage is calculated through their weighted linear summation (using Miner’s rule). More detailed
mathematical representations of the steps of the fatigue damage calculation can be found in the ABS Guide
for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures.
The α type ESFs are obtained for details of the hull structure, where these details follow those defined for
ship-type installation hull structure in Part 5A, Chapter 3.
An α of 1.0 corresponds to the unrestricted condition of a seagoing vessel. A value of α greater than 1.0
indicates a less fatigue-inducing environment than the unrestricted case.

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5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

APPENDIX 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-

Type Installations

1 General

1.1 Note
This Guide provides a designer-oriented approach to fatigue strength assessment which may be used for
certain structural details in lieu of more elaborate methods such as spectral fatigue analysis. The term
“assessment” is used here to distinguish this approach from the more elaborate analysis.
The criteria in this Guide are developed from various sources, including the Palmgren-Miner linear
damage model, S-N curve methodologies, a long-term environment data of the North-Atlantic Ocean
(Walden’s Data), etc., and assume workmanship of commercial marine quality acceptable to the Surveyor.
The capacity of structures to resist the fatigue is given in terms of fatigue damage to allow designers the
maximum flexibility possible.

1.3 Applicability (1995)

The criteria in this Guide are specifically written for ship-type installations to which Part 5A, Chapter 3 is
applicable.

1.5 Loadings (1995)

The criteria have been written for ordinary wave-induced motions and loads. Other cyclic loadings, which
may result in significant levels of stress ranges over the expected lifetime of the installation, are also to be
considered by the designer.

1.7 Effects of Corrosion (1995)

To account for the mean wastage throughout the service life, the total stress range calculated using the net
scantlings (i.e., deducting nominal design corrosion values, see 5A-3-1/Table 1) is modified by a factor Cf
(see 5A-3-A2/9.1.1).

1.9 Format of the Criteria (December 2008)

The criteria are presented as a comparison of fatigue strength of the structure (capacity) and fatigue
inducing loads (demands), in the form of a fatigue damage parameter, DM. The calculated fatigue damage,
DM, is to be less than or equal to 1 for the design life of the installation, which corresponds to a fatigue life
of 20 years.

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3 Connections to be Considered for the Fatigue Strength Assessment

3.1 General (1995)

These criteria have been developed to allow consideration of a broad variation of structural details and
arrangements, so that most of the important structural details in the installation can be subjected to an
explicit (numerical) fatigue assessment using these criteria. However, where justified by comparison with
details proven satisfactory under equal or more severe conditions, an explicit assessment can be exempted.

3.3 Guidance on Locations (1995)

As a general guidance for assessing fatigue strength for a ship-type installation, the following connections
and locations should be considered:
3.3.1 Connections of Longitudinal Stiffeners to Transverse Web/Floor and to Transverse Bulkhead
3.3.1(a) Two (2) to three (3) selected side longitudinals in the region from the 1.1 draft to about
1/ draft in the midship region and also in the region between 0.15L and 0.25L from F.P.,
3
respectively
3.3.1(b) One (1) to two (2) selected longitudinals from each of the following groups:
• Deck longitudinals, bottom longitudinals, inner bottom longitudinals and longitudinals on side
longitudinal bulkheads
• One longitudinal on each of the longitudinal bulkheads within 0.1D from the deck is to be included
For these structural details, the fatigue assessment is to be first focused on the flange of the
longitudinal at the rounded toe welds of attached flat bar stiffeners and brackets, as illustrated for
Class F item 2) and Class F2 item 1) in 5A-3-A2/Table 1.
Then, the critical spots on the web plate cut-out, on the lower end of the stiffener as well as the
weld throat are also to be checked for the selected structural detail. For illustration, see
5A-3-A2/11.3.1 and 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(a), 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(b) and 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(c).
Where the longitudinal stiffener end bracket arrangements are different on opposing sides of a
transverse web, both configurations are to be checked.
3.3.2 Shell, Bottom, Inner Bottom or Bulkhead Plating at Connections to Webs or Floors (for Fatigue
Strength of Plating)
3.3.2(a) One (1) to two (2) selected locations of side shell plating near the summer LWL
amidships and between 0.15L and 0.25L from F.P. respectively
3.3.2(b) One (1) to two (2) selected locations in way of bottom and inner bottom amidships
3.3.2(c) One (1) to two (2) selected locations of lower strakes of side longitudinal bulkhead
amidships
3.3.3 Connections of the Slope Plate to Inner Bottom and Side Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating at the
Lower Cargo Tank Corners
One selected location amidships at transverse web and between webs, respectively
For this structural detail, the value of fR, the total stress range as specified in 5A-3-A2/9.1, is to be
determined from fine mesh F.E.M. analyses for the combined load cases, as specified for Zone B
in 5A-3-A2/7.5.2.
3.3.4 End Bracket Connections for Transverses and Girders
One (1) to two (2) selected locations in the midship region for each type of bracket configuration
3.3.5 Other Regions and Locations
Other regions and locations, highly stressed by fluctuating loads, as identified from structural analysis.

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TABLE 1
Fatigue Classification for Structural Details (December 2008)

Class
Designation Description
B Parent materials, plates or shapes as-rolled or drawn, with no flame-cut edges

C 1) Parent material with automatic flame-cut edges

2) Full penetration seam welds or longitudinal fillet welds made by an automatic submerged or open arc
process, and with no stop-start positions within the length

D 1) Full penetration butt welds between plates of equal width and thickness made either manually or by an
automatic process other than submerged arc, from both sides, in downhand position
2) Welds in C-2) with stop-start positions within the length

E 1) Full penetration butt welds made by other processes than those specified under D-1)
2) Full penetration butt welds made from both sides between plates of unequal widths machined to a smooth
transition with a slope not more than 1 in 4. Plates of different thickness are to be likewise machined with
a slope not more than 1 in 3, unless a transition within the weld bead is approved.

2a 2b
E
4 1
TAPER
E
1 4
TAPER

3) Welds of brackets and stiffeners to web plate of girders

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TABLE 1 (continued)
Fatigue Classification for Structural Details (December 2008)

Class
Designation Description
F 1) Full penetration butt welds made on a permanent backing strip between plates of equal width/thickness or
between plates of unequal width/thickness, as specified in E-2.
2) Rounded fillet welds as shown below

2a 2b
TRANSVERSE OR FLOOR

Y
F
F F
LONGITUDINAL

SHELL OR BOTTOM PLATING

"Y" IS REGARDED AS A NON-LOAD CARRYING F
MEMBER

3) Welds of brackets and stiffeners to flanges

EDGE DISTANCE ≥ 10mm

4) Attachments on plate or face plate

EDGE DISTANCE ≥ 10mm

(Class G for edge distance < 10 mm)

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TABLE 1 (continued)
Fatigue Classification for Structural Details (December 2008)

Class
Designation Description
F2 1) Fillet welds as shown below with rounded welds and no undercutting

1a 1b

Y Y

F F F F
2 2 2 2

"Y" is a non-load carrying member

2) Overlapped joints with soft-toe brackets as shown below

"Y"

F2 F2

3) Fillet welds with any undercutting at the corners dressed out by local grinding

3a 3b

F2

F2

F2 F2

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TABLE 1 (continued)
Fatigue Classification for Structural Details (December 2008)

Class
Designation Description
G 1) Fillet welds in F2 − 1) without rounded toe welds or with limited minor undercutting at corners or bracket
toes
2) Overlapped joints as shown below

"Y"

G G

3) Fillet welds in F2 − 3) with minor undercutting

4) Doubler on face plate or flange

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TABLE 1 (continued)
Fatigue Classification for Structural Details (December 2008)

Class
Designation Description
W Fillet welds-weld throat

Notes:
1 For brackets connecting two or more load carrying members, an appropriate stress concentration factor (SCF)
determined from fine mesh 3D or 2D finite element analysis is to be used. In this connection, the fatigue class at
bracket toes may be upgraded to class E as shown below.

E with SCF E with SCF

2 Additional information on stress concentration factors and the selection of compatible S-N data is given in 5A-3-A2/11.

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5 Fatigue Strength Assessment

5.1 Assumptions (1995)

The fatigue strength of a structural detail under the loads specified here, in terms of fatigue damage, is to
be evaluated using the criteria contained in this Subsection. The key assumptions employed are listed
below for guidance.
• A linear cumulative damage model (i.e., Palmgren-Miner’s Rule) has been used in connection with the
S-N data in 5A-3-A2/Figure 1 (extracted from Ref. 1*).
• Cyclic stresses due to the loads in 5A-3-A2/7 have been used and the effects of mean stress have been
ignored.
• The target life of the installation is taken at 20 years.
• The long-term stress ranges on a detail can be characterized using a modified long term stress distribution
parameter (γ).
• Structural details are classified and described in 5A-3-A2/Table 1, “Fatigue Classification of Structural
Details”.
• Simple nominal stress (e.g., determined by P/A and M/SM) is the basis of fatigue assessment, rather
than more localized peak stress in way of weld.
*
Ref 1: “Offshore Installations: Guidance on Design, Construction and Certification”, Department of Energy, U.K.,
Fourth Edition—1990, London: HMSO
The structural detail classification in 5A-3-A2/Table 1 is based on the joint geometry and the direction of
the dominant load. Where the loading or geometry is too complex for a simple classification, a finite
element analysis of the details is to be carried out to determine stress concentration factors. 5A-3-A2/13
contains guidance on finite element analysis modeling to determine stress concentration factors for weld
toe locations that are typically found at longitudinal stiffener end connections.

5.3 Criteria (December 2008)

The criteria are presented as a comparison of fatigue strength of the structure (capacity), and fatigue
inducing loads (demands), in the form of a fatigue damage parameter, DM. The calculated fatigue damage,
DM, is to be less than or equal to 1 for the design life of the installation, which corresponds to a fatigue life
of 20 years.

5.5 Long Term Stress Distribution Parameter, γ (2002)

In 5A-3-A2/Table 1, the permissible stress range is given as a function of the long-term distribution
parameter, γ, as defined below.
γ = 1.40 − 0.2 αL0.2 for 150 < L < 305 m
= 1.40 − 0.16αL0.2 for 492 < L < 1000 ft
0.8 0.2
γ = 1.54 − 0.245α L for L > 305 m
0.8 0.2
= 1.54 − 0.19α L for L > 1000 ft
where
α = 1.0 for deck structures, including side shell and longitudinal bulkhead structures
within 0.1D from the deck
= 0.93 for bottom structures, including inner bottom and side shell, and longitudinal
bulkhead structures within 0.1D from the bottom
= 0.86 for side shell and longitudinal bulkhead structures within the region of 0.25D
upward and 0.3D downward from the mid-depth
= 0.80 for transverse bulkhead structures

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α may be linearly interpolated for side shell and longitudinal bulkhead structures between 0.1D and 0.25D
(0.2D) from the deck (bottom).
L and D are the installation’s length and depth, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 and 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.7 Cumulative Fatigue Damage (December 2008)

The content of this section is applicable to ship-type installations. For fatigue strength assessment for
service as a trading vessel, refer to 5A-3-A2/21.1.
Unless otherwise specified, the resultant cumulative damage is to be taken as:
DM = 0.15DM1 + 0.35DM2 + 0.35DM3 + 0.15DM4
where
DMi = cumulative fatigue damage ratio for the applicable loading condition i, where i =1 to 4,
as specified in 5A-3-A2/Figure 2, including 8 loading cases, as shown in 5A-3-A2/Tables
2A through 2D
= fi,1-2DMi,1-2 + fi,3-4DMi,3-4 + fi,5-6DMi,5-6 + fi,7-8DMi,7-8

fi,j-k Factors (1)

Loading Pair, j-k 1-2 3-4 5-6 7-8
Direction 0 90 60 30
A (2, 3, 4) fi,j-k, Spread-moored 0.40 0.10 0.20 0.30
(2)
B fi,j-k, Turret-moored 0.60 0.00 0.10 0.30
Notes:
1 If actual heading information is available and submitted, the actual heading probability can be
used in lieu of those in the above table.
2 In early stages of plan review, or if the conditions are not determined prior to the application of the rules,
both Case A and B are to be investigated and the more onerous results used.
3 Also to be used for installations with turrets located more than 25% of the installation length aft of the bow
4 Also to be used for locations with non-colinear wind, wave and current conditions regardless of the mooring
system

Assuming the long term stress ranges fit a two-parameter long term stress distribution, the cumulative
fatigue damage DMi for each relevant condition is to be taken as:

N L (0.01 f Ri ) m ⎛ m⎞
DMi,j-k = m/γ
μ i Γ⎜⎜1 + ⎟⎟
K 2 (ln N R ) ⎝ γ⎠

where
NL = number of cycles for the expected design life. Unless stated otherwise, NL to be taken as:

U
=
4 log10 L

= The value is generally between 0.6 × 108 and 0.8 × 108 cycles for a design life of 20
years
U = design life, in seconds
= 6.31 × 108 for a design life of 20 years
L = rule length, in m

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m = S-N curve parameter as defined in 5A-3-A2/Figure 1, Note a)

K2 = S-N curve parameter as defined in 5A-3-A2/Figure 1, Note a)

fRi = stress range at the representative probability level of 10-4, in N/cm2

NR = 10 000, number of cycles corresponding to the probability level of 10-4

γ = long term stress distribution parameter, as defined in 5A-3-A2/5.5

Γ = Gamma function
μi = stress coefficient taking into account the change in slope of the S-N curve

⎧ ⎛ ⎞ −
Δm
⎛ m + Δm ⎞⎫⎪
⎪ m γ
Γ
⎨ 0⎜⎜1 + , v ⎟
i⎟ − v i Γ ⎜
0⎜ 1 + , v i⎟
⎟⎬
⎪⎩ ⎝ γ ⎠ ⎝ γ ⎠⎪⎭
= 1−
⎛ m⎞
Γ⎜⎜1 + ⎟⎟
⎝ γ⎠
γ
⎛ fq ⎞
vi = ⎜ ⎟ ln N R
⎜ 0.01 f ⎟
⎝ Ri ⎠
fq = stress range at the intersection of the two segments of the S-N curve, see Table in
5A-3-A2/Figure 1, Note a), in N/mm2
Δm = slope change of the upper-lower segment of the S-N curve
= 2
Γ0(a,x) = incomplete Gamma function, Legendre form

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FIGURE 1
Basic Design S-N Curves (1995)

108
107
C
D
B

Endurance (cycles)
106
F2

W
G
F

105
1 4
10
1000

100

10

Stress Range, SB (N/mm2)

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FIGURE 1 (continued)
Basic Design S-N Curves (1995)
Notes (For 5A-3-A2/Figure 1)
a) Basic design S-N curves
The basic design curves consist of linear relationships between log(SB) and log(N). They are based upon a
statistical analysis of appropriate experimental data and may be taken to represent two standard deviations
below the mean line.
Thus the basic S-N curves are of the form:
log(N) = log(K2) − m log(SB)
where
log(K2) = log(K1) − 2σ
N is the predicted number of cycles to failure under stress range SB;
K1 is a constant relating to the mean S-N curve;

σ is the standard deviation of log N;

m is the inverse slope of the S-N curve.
The relevant values of these terms are shown in the table below.
The S-N curves have a change of inverse slope from m to m + 2 at N = 107 cycles.
Details of basic S-N curves (December 2008)
K1 Standard deviation
Class K1 log10 loge m log10 loge K2 fq N/mm2
B 2.343 × 1015 15.3697 35.3900 4.0 0.1821 0.4194 1.01 × 1015 100.2
14
C 1.082 × 10 14.0342 32.3153 3.5 0.2041 0.4700 4.23 × 1013 78.2
12 12
D 3.988 × 10 12.6007 29.0144 3.0 0.2095 0.4824 1.52 × 10 53.4
12 12
E 3.289 × 10 12.5169 28.8216 3.0 0.2509 0.5777 1.04 × 10 47.0
F 1.726 × 1012 12.2370 28.1770 3.0 0.2183 0.5027 0.63 × 1012 39.8
12 12
F2 1.231 × 10 12.0900 27.8387 3.0 0.2279 0.5248 0.43 × 10 35.0
12 12
G 0.566 × 10 11.7525 27.0614 3.0 0.1793 0.4129 0.25 × 10 29.2
W 0.368 × 1012 11.5662 26.6324 3.0 0.1846 0.4251 0.16 × 1012 25.2

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7 Fatigue Inducing Loads and Determination of Total Stress Ranges

7.1 General (1995)

This Subsection provides:
i) The criteria to define the individual load components considered to cause fatigue damage (see
5A-3-A2/7.3);
ii) The load combination cases to be considered for different regions of the hull containing the
structural detail being evaluated (see 5A-3-A2/7.5); and
iii) Procedures to idealize the structural components to obtain the total stress range acting on the
structure.

7.3 Wave-induced Loads – Load Components (1995)

The fatigue-inducing load components to be considered are those induced by the seaway. They are divided
into the following three groups:
• Hull girder wave-induced bending moments (both vertical and horizontal), see 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel
Vessel Rules and 5A-3-2/5.1 of this Guide.
• External hydrodynamic pressures, and
• Internal tank loads (inertial liquid loads and added static head due to ship’s motion).

7.5 Fatigue Assessment – Loading Conditions (December 2008)

The content in this Subsection is applicable to ship-type installations. For fatigue strength assessment for
service as a trading vessel, refer to 5A-3-A2/21.3.
Four (4) loading conditions are considered in the calculation of stress range, as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 2.
For each loading condition, eight (8) load cases, as shown in 5A-3-A2/Tables 2A through 2D, are defined
to form four (4) pairs. The combinations of load cases are to be used to find the characteristic stress range
corresponding to a probability of exceedance of 10-4, as indicated below.
7.5.1 Standard Load Combination Cases
7.5.1(a) Calculate dynamic component of stresses for load cases FLC1 through FLC8, respectively,
for each of the four loading conditions shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 2.
7.5.1(b) Calculate four sets of stress ranges, one each for the following four pairs of combined
loading cases: FLC1 and FLC2, FLC3 and FLC4, FLC5 and FLC6, and FLC7 and FLC8, for each
of the four loading conditions shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 2.
7.5.2 Installations with Either Special Loading Patterns or Special Structural Configuration
For installations with either special loading patterns or special structural configurations/features,
additional load cases via appropriate probability may be required for determining the stress range.

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FIGURE 2A
Loading Conditions for Fatigue Strength Assessment – Double Hull and Double Side
Single Bottom FPSO/FSO (1 July 2009)

Loading Condition 1 Loading Condition 2

0.4 * Scantling Draft (1) 0.57 * Scantling Draft (2)

Loading Condition 3 Loading Condition 4

0.73 * Scantling Draft (2) 0.9 * Scantling Draft (3)

Notes:
1 Ballast condition draft – if actual minimum on-site operating ballast draft is greater than 0.4 × scantling draft,
actual draft can be used (but not to exceed 0.6 × scantling draft)
This condition is also used for transit condition with actual transit draft between
0.1 × scantling draft and 0.6 × scantling draft
2 Intermediate drafts – draft equally divided between Loading Conditions 1 and 4 drafts
3 Full load condition draft – if actual maximum on-site operating full load draft is greater than 0.9 × scantling
draft, actual draft can be used

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FIGURE 2B
Loading Conditions for Fatigue Strength Assessment – Single Hull FPSO/FSO
(1 July 2009)

Loading Condition 1 Loading Condition 2

0.4 * Scantling Draft (1) 0.57 * Scantling Draft (2)

Loading Condition 3 Loading Condition 4

0.73 * Scantling Draft (2) 0.9 * Scantling Draft (3)

Notes:
1 Light draft condition – if actual minimum on-site operating light draft condition is greater than 0.4 ×
scantling draft, actual draft can be used (but not to exceed 0.6 × scantling draft)
2 Intermediate drafts – draft equally divided between Loading Conditions 1 and 4 drafts
3 Full load condition draft – if actual maximum on-site operating full load draft is greater than 0.9 × scantling
draft, actual draft can be used

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TABLE 2A
Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength Assessment (1 July 2009)
(Load Combination Factors for Dynamic Load Components for Loading Condition 1)
FLC1 FLC2 FLC3 FLC4 FLC5 FLC6 FLC7 FLC8
A. Hull Girder Loads
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+)
kc 1.00 1.00 0.30 0.30 0.75 0.75 0.70 0.70
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.60 0.60 0.30 0.30 0.55 0.55 0.10 0.10
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+)

kc 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00

Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85
B. External Pressure
kc 0.80 0.80 1.00 1.00 0.70 0.70 0.45 0.45
kf0 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00
C. Internal Tank Pressure
kc 0.40 0.40 1.00 1.00 0.75 0.75 0.40 0.40
wv 0.40 -0.40 0.75 -0.75 0.10 -0.10 0.25 -0.25

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd
0.20 -0.20 0.50 -0.50 0.80 -0.80
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd
-0.20 0.20 -0.50 0.50 -0.80 0.80
wt — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd
-0.85 0.85 -0.05 0.05 -0.05 0.05
— — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd
0.85 -0.85 0.05 -0.05 0.05 -0.05
cφ , Pitch -0.15 0.15 -0.10 0.10 -0.30 0.30 -0.45 0.45

cθ , Roll 0.00 0.00 1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.05 -0.05

D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 90 90 60 60 30 30
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow
Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd
Down Up Down Up Down Up
Notes
1 Rule vertical bending moment range = |Mws - Mwh| (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mws and Mwh)
2 Rule horizontal bending moment range = 2 × Mh (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mh)
3 For each load condition pair, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between
the stress values for Local Pressure Load Conditions. For example, for Load Condition Pair
FLC1 & FLC2, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between the stress
values for FLC1 and FLC2.
4 For each load condition pair, the stress range is the sum of the absolute stress range values due
to Vertical BM, Horizontal BM and Local Pressure Load Conditions.

336 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

TABLE 2B
Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength Assessment (1 July 2009)
(Load Combination Factors for Dynamic Load Components for Loading Condition 2)
FLC1 FLC2 FLC3 FLC4 FLC5 FLC6 FLC7 FLC8
A. Hull Girder Loads
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+)
kc 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.25 0.95 0.95 0.75 0.75
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.55 0.55 0.15 0.15 0.70 0.70 0.25 0.25
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+)

kc 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00

Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.00 0.00 0.15 0.15 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
B. External Pressure
kc 0.85 0.85 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.55 0.55
kf0 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00
C. Internal Tank Pressure
kc 0.55 0.55 0.70 0.70 0.20 0.20 0.40 0.40
wv 0.60 -0.60 0.55 -0.55 0.15 -0.15 0.25 -0.25

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd
0.20 -0.20 0.45 -0.45 0.75 -0.75
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd
-0.20 0.20 -0.45 0.45 -0.75 0.75
wt — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd
-0.95 0.95 -0.05 0.05 -0.10 0.10
— — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd
0.95 -0.95 0.05 -0.05 0.10 -0.10
cφ , Pitch -0.20 0.20 -0.05 0.05 -0.10 0.10 -0.35 0.35

cθ , Roll 0.00 0.00 1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.05 -0.05

D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 90 90 60 60 30 30
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow
Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd
Down Up Down Up Down Up
Notes
1 Rule vertical bending moment range = |Mws - Mwh| (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mws and Mwh)
2 Rule horizontal bending moment range = 2 × Mh (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mh)
3 For each load condition pair, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between
the stress values for Local Pressure Load Conditions. For example, for Load Condition Pair
FLC1 & FLC2, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between the stress
values for FLC1 and FLC2.
4 For each load condition pair, the stress range is the sum of the absolute stress range values due
to Vertical BM, Horizontal BM and Local Pressure Load Conditions.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

TABLE 2C
Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength Assessment (1 July 2009)
(Load Combination Factors for Dynamic Load Components for Loading Condition 3)
FLC1 FLC2 FLC3 FLC4 FLC5 FLC6 FLC7 FLC8
A. Hull Girder Loads
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+)
kc 1.00 1.00 0.25 0.25 0.90 0.90 0.70 0.70
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.55 0.55 0.10 0.10 0.65 0.65 0.30 0.30
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+)

kc 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00

Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.00 0.00 0.30 0.30 0.85 0.85 0.80 0.80
B. External Pressure
kc 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.75 0.75
kf0 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00
C. Internal Tank Pressure
kc 0.55 0.55 0.75 0.75 0.10 0.10 0.40 0.40
wv 0.55 -0.55 0.55 -0.55 0.15 -0.15 0.30 -0.30

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd
0.20 -0.20 0.40 -0.40 0.80 -0.80
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd
-0.20 0.20 -0.40 0.40 -0.80 0.80
wt — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd
-1.00 1.00 -0.05 0.05 -0.15 0.15
— — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd
1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.15 -0.15
cφ , Pitch -0.15 0.15 -0.15 0.15 -0.20 0.20 -0.45 0.45

cθ , Roll 0.00 0.00 1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.10 -0.10

D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 90 90 60 60 30 30
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow
Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd
Down Up Down Up Down Up
Notes
1 Rule vertical bending moment range = |Mws - Mwh| (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mws and Mwh)
2 Rule horizontal bending moment range = 2 × Mh (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mh)
3 For each load condition pair, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between
the stress values for Local Pressure Load Conditions. For example, for Load Condition Pair
FLC1 & FLC2, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between the stress
values for FLC1 and FLC2.
4 For each load condition pair, the stress range is the sum of the absolute stress range values due
to Vertical BM, Horizontal BM and Local Pressure Load Conditions.

338 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

TABLE 2D
Design Fatigue Load Cases for Fatigue Strength Assessment (1 July 2009)
(Load Combination Factors for Dynamic Load Components for Loading Condition 4)
FLC1 FLC2 FLC3 FLC4 FLC5 FLC6 FLC7 FLC8
A. Hull Girder Loads
Vertical B.M. Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+) Sag (−) Hog (+)
kc 1.00 1.00 0.15 0.15 0.80 0.80 0.70 0.70
Vertical S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.55 0.55 0.20 0.20 0.50 0.50 0.40 0.40
Horizontal B.M. (−) (+) (−) (+)

kc 0.00 0.00 0.25 0.25 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00

Horizontal S.F. (+) (−) (+) (−)
kc 0.00 0.00 0.25 0.25 0.85 0.85 0.80 0.80
B. External Pressure
kc 0.85 0.85 0.90 0.90 0.80 0.80 0.95 0.95
kf0 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00 -1.00 1.00
C. Internal Tank Pressure
kc 0.75 0.75 0.80 0.80 0.10 0.10 0.50 0.50
wv 0.85 -0.85 0.60 -0.60 0.10 0.10 0.30 -0.30

wl Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd — — Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd Fwd Bhd
0.20 -0.20 0.30 -0.30 1.00 -1.00
Aft Bhd Aft Bhd — — Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd Aft Bhd
-0.20 0.20 -0.30 0.30 -1.00 1.00
wt — — Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd Port Bhd
-1.00 1.00 -0.05 0.05 -0.10 0.10
— — Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd Stbd Bhd
1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.10 -0.10
cφ , Pitch -0.30 0.30 -0.15 0.15 -0.10 0.10 -0.80 0.80

cθ , Roll 0.00 0.00 1.00 -1.00 0.05 -0.05 0.15 -0.15

D. Reference Wave Heading and Motion of Installation
Heading Angle 0 0 90 90 60 60 30 30
Heave Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Pitch Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow Bow
Down Up Down Up Down Up Down Up
Roll — — Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd Stbd
Down Up Down Up Down Up
Notes
1 Rule vertical bending moment range = |Mws - Mwh| (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mws and Mwh)
2 Rule horizontal bending moment range = 2 × Mh (see 5A-3-2/5.3 for Mh)
3 For each load condition pair, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between
the stress values for Local Pressure Load Conditions. For example, for Load Condition Pair
FLC1 & FLC2, the stress range due to local pressure is the difference between the stress
values for FLC1 and FLC2.
4 For each load condition pair, the stress range is the sum of the absolute stress range values due
to Vertical BM, Horizontal BM and Local Pressure Load Conditions.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 339
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

7.7 Primary Stress fd1 (1995)

fd1v and fd1h may be calculated by a simple beam approach. For assessing fatigue strength of side shell and
longitudinal bulkhead plating at welded connections, the value of wave-induced primary stress is to be
taken as that of maximum principal stress at the location considered to account for the combined load
effects of the direct stresses and shear stresses. For calculating the value of fd1v for longitudinal deck
members, normal camber may be disregarded.

7.9 Secondary Stress fd2

fd2 may be obtained from orthotropic plating or grillage methods with appropriate boundary conditions.
For those connections specified in 5A-3-A2/3.3.1, the wave-induced secondary bending stress fd2 may be
ignored.

7.11 Additional Secondary Stresses f d*2 and Tertiary Stresses fd3

7.11.1 Calculation of f d*2 (December 2008)

Where required, the additional secondary stresses acting at the flange of a longitudinal stiffener,
f d*2 , may be approximated by

f d*2 = CtCyM/SM N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
M = Cd psl2/12 N-cm (kgf-cm, lbf-in), at the supported ends of
longitudinal
Where flat bar stiffeners or brackets are fitted, the bending moment, M, given above, may be
adjusted to the location of the bracket’s toe, i.e., MX in 5A-3-3/Figure 6.
Where a longitudinal has remarkably different support stiffness at its two ends (e.g., a longitudinal
connected to a transverse bulkhead on one end), considerations should be given to the increase of
bending moment at the joint.
Cd = 1.15 for longitudinal stiffener connections at the transverse bulkhead
connection including swash bulkheads
= 1.0 elsewhere
p = wave-induced local net pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for the specified
location and load cases at the mid-span of the longitudinal considered
s = spacing of longitudinal stiffener, in cm (in.)
l = unsupported span of longitudinal/stiffener, in cm (in.), as shown in
5A-3-3/Figure 5
SM = net section modulus of longitudinal with the associated effective plating, in
cm3 (in3), at flange or point considered. The effective breadth, be, in cm
(in.), may be determined as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 6.
Cy = 0.656(d/z)4 for side shell longitudinals only
where z/d ≥ 0.9, but Cy ≥ 0.30
= 1.0 elsewhere
z = distance above keel of side shell longitudinal under consideration
d = scantling draft, m (ft)

340 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

Ct = correction factor for the combined bending and torsional stress induced by
lateral loads at the welded connection of the flat bar stiffener or bracket to
the flange of longitudinal, as shown in 5A-3-3/Figure 5.
= 1.0 + αr for unsymmetrical sections, fabricated or rolled
= 1.0 for tee and flat bars
αr = CnCp SM/K

Cp = 31.2dw(e/l)2
e = horizontal distance between web centerline and shear center of the cross
section, including longitudinal and the effective plating

≈ dw b 2f tf u/(2SM) cm (in.)

K = St. Venant torsion constant for the longitudinal’s cross section, excluding the
associated plating.

= [bf t 3f + dw t w3 ]/3 cm4 (in4)

Cn = coefficient given in 5A-3-A2/Figure 3, as a function of ψ, for point (1)

shown in 5A-3-4/Figure 1
u = 1 − 2b1/bf

ψ = 0.31l (K/Γ)1/2
Γ = warping constant

= mIyf d w2 + d w3 t w3 /36 cm6 (in6)

Iyf = tf b 3f (1.0 + 3.0u2Aw/As)/12 cm4 (in4)

Aw = dwtw cm2 (in2)

As = net sectional area of the longitudinals, excluding the associated plating, cm2 (in2)
m = 1.0 − u(0.7 − 0.1dw /bf)
dw, tw, b1, bf, tf, all in cm (in.), are as defined in 5A-3-4/Figure 1.
For general applications, ar need not be taken greater than 0.65 for a fabricated angle bar and 0.50
for a rolled section.
For connection as specified in 5A-3-A2/3.3.2, the wave-induced additional secondary stress f d*2
may be ignored.
7.11.2 Calculation of fd3
For welded joints of a stiffened plate panel, fd3 may be determined based on the wave-induced
local loads as specified in 5A-3-A2/7.11.1 above, using the approximate equations given below.
For direct calculation, non-linear effect and membrane stresses in the plate may be considered.
For plating subjected to lateral load, fd3 in the longitudinal direction is determined as:

fd3 = 0.182p(s/tn)2 N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
p = wave-induced local net pressure, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
s = spacing of longitudinal stiffeners, in cm (in.)
tn = net thickness of plate, in mm (in.)

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 341
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

FIGURE 3
Cn = Cn (ψ) (1995)

4.0
3.8
3.6
3.4
3.2
3.0
2.8
2.6
2.4
2.2
2.0
ψ
For ψ ≥ 3.0, use Cn = ψ − 1.0

1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0.0
3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0
Cn

342 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

9 Resulting Stress Ranges

9.1 Definitions (December 2008)

The content in this section is applicable to ship-type installations. For fatigue strength assessment for
service as a trading vessel, refer to 5A-3-A2/21.5.
9.1.1
The total stress range, fR, is computed as the sum of the two stress ranges, as follows:

fR = kp cf (fRG + fRL) N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

where
fRG = global dynamic stress range, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= |(fd1vi − fd1vj) + (fd1hi − fd1h j)|

fRL = local dynamic stress range, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= |(fd2i + f d*2i + fd3i) − (fd2j + f d*2 j + fd3j)|

kp = load factor for adjusting the probability of exceedance

= 0.5
cf = adjustment factor to reflect a mean wasted condition
= 0.95
fd1vi, fd1vj = wave-induced component of the primary stresses produced by hull girder
vertical bending, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the
selected pairs of combined load cases, respectively
fd1hi, fd1h j = wave-induced component of the primary stresses produced by hull girder
horizontal bending, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the
selected pairs of combined load cases, respectively
fd2i, fd2j = wave-induced component of the secondary bending stresses produced by the
bending of cross-stiffened panels between transverse bulkheads, in N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the selected pairs of combined load
cases, respectively
f d*2i , f d*2 j = wave-induced component of the additional secondary stresses produced by
the local bending of the longitudinal stiffener between supporting structures
(e.g., transverse bulkheads and web frames), in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for
load case i and j of the selected pairs of combined load cases, respectively
fd3i, fd3j = wave-induced component of the tertiary stresses produced by the local
bending of plate elements between the longitudinal stiffeners in, N/cm2
(kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the selected pairs of combined load
cases, respectively
For calculating the wave-induced stresses, sign convention is to be observed for the respective
directions of wave-induced loads, as specified in 5A-3-A2/Tables 2A through 2D. The wave-
induced local loads are to be calculated with the sign convention for the external and internal
loads. However, the total of the external and internal pressures, including both static and dynamic
components, need not be taken less than zero.
These wave-induced stresses are to be determined based on the net ship scantlings (see 5A-3-A2/1.3)
and in accordance with 5A-3-A2/7.5 through 5A-3-A2/7.11. The results of direct calculation,
where carried out, may also be considered.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 343
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

11 Determination of Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs)

11.1 General (1995)

This Subsection contains information on stress concentration factors (SCFs) to be considered in the fatigue
assessment.
Where, for a particular example shown, no specific value of SCF is given when one is called for, it indicates
that a finite element analysis is needed. When the fine mesh finite element approach is used, additional
information on calculations of stress concentration factors and the selection of compatible S-N data is
given in 5A-3-A2/13.

11.3 Sample Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs) (1 July 2001)

11.3.1 Cut-outs (Slots) for Longitudinals (1995)
SCFs, fatigue classifications and peak stress ranges may be determined in accordance with
5A-3-A2/Table 3 and 5A-3-A2/Figure 4.

TABLE 3
Ks (SCF) Values
Ks (SCF)
Configuration Unsymmetrical Flange Symmetrical Flange
Location [1] [2] [3] [1] [2] [3]
Single-sided Support 2.0 2.1 — 1.8 1.9 —
Single-sided Support with F.B. Stiffener 1.9 2.0 — 1.7 1.8 —
Double-sided Support 3.0 2.6 2.4 2.7 2.4 2.2
Double-sided Support with F.B. Stiffener 2.8 2.5 2.3 2.5 2.3 2.1

Notes: a The value of Ks is given, based on nominal shear stresses near the locations under consideration.
b Fatigue classification
Locations [1] and [2]: Class C or B as indicated in 5A-3-A2/Table 1
Location [3]: Class F
c The peak stress range is to be obtained from the following equations:
1 For locations [1] and [2] (1999)
fRi = cf [Ksifsi + fni]
where
cf = 0.95
fsi = fsc + αi fswi, fsi ≥ fsc
αi = 1.8 for single-sided support
= 1.0 for double-sided support
fni = normal stress range in the web plate
fswi = shear stress range in the web plate
= Fi/Aw
Fi is the calculated web shear force range at the location considered. Aw is the area of web.
fsc = shear stress range in the support (lug or collar plate)
= CyP/(Ac + As)
fsc = shear stress range in the support (lug or collar plate)
= CyP/(Ac + As)
Cy is as defined in 5A-3-A2/7.11.1.
P = slpo
po = fluctuating lateral pressure
Ac = sectional area of the support or of both supports for double-sided support

344 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

TABLE 3 (continued)
Ks (SCF) Values
As = sectional area of the flat bar stiffener, if any
Ksi = SCFs given above
s = spacing of longitudinal/stiffener
l = spacing of transverses

2 For location [3]

2
fR3 = cf [f n 3 + (Ks fs2)2]1/2
where
cf = 0.95
fn3 = normal stress range at location [3]
fs2 = shear stress range, as defined in 1 above, near location [3].
Ks = SCFs given above

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 345
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

FIGURE 4
Cut-outs (Slots) For Longitudinal (1995)

Double - Sided Support

Web Plate
Class C or B F.B. Stiffener

[2] [2]
[1]
[1]
F1 F2 F1 F2
R R f3
f3
[1] [1]
[3] [3]
f s1 f s2 f s1 f s2

P R ≥ 35mm P

Web Plate
Class C or B F.B. Stiffener

[2] [2]
[1] [1]
F1 F2 F1 F2
R R R f3
f3
[1] [1] [3] [3]
f s1 f s2 f s2
f s1

R ≥ 35mm
P P

Single - Sided Support

Web Plate
Class C or B F.B. Stiffener

[2] [2] [1] [2]

F1 F2 F1 F2
R R R R
f3 f3
[1]
f s2 [3] f s1 f s1

R ≥ 35mm
P P

346 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

11.3.2 Flat Bar Stiffener for Longitudinals (1999)

11.3.2(a) For assessing fatigue life of a flat bar stiffener at location [1] or [2] as shown in
5A-3-A2/Figure 5, the peak stress range is to be obtained from the following equation:

fRi = [(αi fs)2 + f L2i ]1/2 (i = 1 or 2)

where
fs = nominal stress range in the flat bar stiffener.
= kp cf Cy P/(As + Ac)
P, As, Ac, cf are as defined in 5A-3-A2/11.3.1 and Cy in 5A-3-A2/7.11.1. For a flat bar stiffener
with soft-toed brackets, the brackets may be included in the calculation of As.
kp = load factor for adjusting the probability of exceedance
= 0.5
fLi = stress range in the longitudinal at Location i (i = 1 or 2), as specified in
5A-3-A2/9
αi = stress concentration factor at Location i (i = 1 or 2) accounting for
misalignment and local distortion
At location [1]
For flat bar stiffener without brackets
α1 = 1.50 for double-sided support connection
= 2.00 for single-sided support connection
For flat bar stiffener with brackets
α1 = 1.00 for double-sided support connection
= 1.25 for single-sided support connection
At location [2]
For flat bar stiffener without brackets
α2 = 1.25 for single or double-sided support connection
For flat bar stiffener with brackets
α2 = 1.00 for single or double-sided support connection
11.3.2(b) For assessing the fatigue life of the weld throat as shown in 5A-3-A2/Table 1, Class W,
the peak stress range fR at the weld may be obtained from the following equation:
fR = 1.25fs As/Asw
where
Asw = sectional area of the weld throat. Brackets may be included in the calculation
of Asw.
fs and As are as defined in 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(a) above.
11.3.2(c) For assessing fatigue life of the longitudinal, the fatigue classification given in
5A-3-A2/Table 1 for a longitudinal as the only load-carrying member is to be considered.
Alternatively, the fatigue classification shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 5, in conjunction with the
combined stress effects, fR, may be used. In calculation of fR, the αi may be taken as 1.25 for both
locations [1] and [2].

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FIGURE 5
Fatigue Classification for Longitudinals in way of Flat Bar Stiffener

45° 45°

* *

* may be used in the calculation

of As and Asw
Web Plate

Web Plate
Flat Bar

Flat Bar
[1]
Class E
fL1 [1]

fs
[2] [2]
Class E Class E
fs

[1] Class F
Class F

fL1 fL2 fL1 fL2

Longitudinal Longitudinal
Shell Plating Shell Plating
P P

F.B. without Brackets F.B. with Brackets

11.3.3 Connection Between Transverse Bulkhead Vertical Web and Double Bottom Girder (1995)
Fatigue class designation and SCFs may be determined as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 6.

FIGURE 6
E with SCF

E with SCF

Full Penetration

E with SCF
E with SCF

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11.3.4 Connection Between Transverse Bulkhead Vertical Web and Deck Girder (1995)
Fatigue class designation and SCFs may be determined as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 7.

FIGURE 7

E with SCF E with SCF

E with SCF

E with SCF

11.3.5 End Connections of Transverse Bulkhead Horizontal Girder to Longitudinal of Side Shell or
Longitudinal Bulkhead (1995)
Fatigue class designation and SCFs may be determined as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 8.

FIGURE 8
Transv. Bhd

F or F 2
H. Girder

E with SCF
E with SCF

Side Shell or Longitudinal Bulkhead

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11.3.6 Connection of Transverse Bulkhead to Longitudinal Bulkhead (1995)

Fatigue class designation and SCFs may be determined as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 9.

FIGURE 9
Long. Bhd.
Side Shell

Transverse Bulkhead

F F
E with SCF

11.3.7 Doublers and Non-load Carrying Members on Deck or Shell Plating (1995)
Fatigue class designation may be determined as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 10.

FIGURE 10
Doublers and Non-load Carrying Members on Deck or Shell Plating

G
G
C E

D E F2

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13 Stress Concentration Factors Determined From Finite Element

Analysis

13.1 Introduction (1995)

S-N data and stress concentration factors (SCFs) are related to each other and therefore should be
considered together so that there is a consistent basis for the fatigue assessment.
The following guidance is intended to help make correct decisions.

13.3 S-N Data (1995)

S-N data are presented as a series of straight-lines plotted on log-log scale. The data reflect the results of
numerous tests, which often display considerable scatter. The recommended design curves for different
types of structural details and welded connections recognize the scatter in test results in that the design
curves have been based on the selection of the lower bound, 95% confidence limit. In other words, about
2.5% of the test failure results fall below this curve. Treating the design curve in this manner introduces a
high, yet reasonable degree of conservatism in the design and fatigue evaluation processes.
Individual S-N curves are presented to reflect certain generic structural geometry or arrangements.
5A-3-A2/Table 1 and 5A-3-A2/11.3 contain sketches of weld connections and other details typically found
in ship structures, giving a list of the S-N classification. This information is needed to assess the fatigue
strength of a detail. Also needed is a consistent way to establish the demands or load effects placed on the
detail, so that a compatible assessment can be made of the available strength versus the demand. Here is
where interpretation and judgment enter the fatigue assessment.
S-N curves are obtained from laboratory sample testing. The applied reference stress on the sample which
is used to establish the S-N data is referred to as the nominal stress. The nominal stress is established in a
simple manner, such as force divided by area and bending moment divided by section modulus (P/A &
M/SM). The structural properties used to establish the nominal stress are taken from locations away from
any discontinuities to exclude local stress concentration effects arising from the presence of a weld or other
local discontinuity. In an actual structure, it is rare that a match will be found with the tested sample
geometry and loading. One is then faced with the problem of making the appropriate interpretation.

13.5 S-N Data and SCFs (2003)

Selection of appropriate S-N data appears to be rather straightforward with respect to “standard details”
offered in 5A-3-A2/Table 1 or other similar reference. However, in the case of welded connections in
complex structures, it is required that SCFs be used to modify the nominal stress range. An often quoted
example of the need to modify nominal stress for fatigue assessment purposes is one shown in
5A-3-A2/Figure 11 below, relating to a hole drilled in the middle of a flat plate traversed by a butt weld.
In this example, the nominal stress SN is P/Area, but the stress to be used to assess the fatigue strength at
point A is SA or SN · SCF. This example is deceptively simple because it does not tell the entire story. The
most obvious deficiency of the example is that one needs to have a definitive and consistent basis to obtain
the SCF. There are reference books which indicate that based on the theory of elasticity, the SCF to be
applied in this case is 3.0. However, when the SCF is computed using the finite element analysis techniques,
the SCF obtained can be quite variable depending on the mesh size. The example does not indicate which
S-N curve should be applied, nor does the example say how it may be necessary to alter the selection of the
design S-N data in consideration of the aforementioned finite element analysis issues. Therefore, if such
interpretation questions exist for a simple example, the higher difficulty of appropriately treating more
complex structures should be evident.
Referring to the S-N curves to be applied to welded connections (for example, S-N curves D-W in
5A-3-A2/Figure 1), the SCFs resulting from the presence of the weld itself are already accounted for in
these curves. If one were to have the correct stress distribution in the region – from the weld to a location
sufficiently away from the weld toe (where the stress is suitably established by the nominal stress obtained
from P/A and M/SM) – the stress distribution may be generically separated into three distinct segments, as
shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 12 below.

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• Region III is a segment where the stress gradient is controlled by the nominal stress gradient.
• Region II is a segment where the nominal stress gradient is being modified due to the presence of other
structure, such as the bracket end shown in the figure. This must be accounted for to obtain an
appropriate stress to be used in the fatigue analysis at the weld toe.
• Region I is a segment where the stress gradient is being modified due to the presence of the weld metal
itself. The stress concentration due to the weld is already accounted for in the S-N design curve and
will not be discussed further. Since the typical way to determine the stress distribution is via planar/linear
elements which ignore the weld, this is consistent with the method of analysis.
This general description of the stress distribution is again inconclusive because one does not know in
advance and with certainty the distances from the weld toe to where the indicated changes of slope for the
stress gradient occur. For this reason, definite rules need to be established to determine the slopes, and with
this knowledge, criteria established to be used to find the stress at the weld toe which should be used in the
fatigue assessment.
In this regard, two approaches can be used to find the stress at the weld toe, which reflect two methods of
structural idealization. One of these arises from the use of a conventional beam element idealization of the
structure including the end bracket connection, and the other arises from the use of a fine mesh finite
element idealization.
Using a beam element idealization, the nominal stress at any location (i.e., P/A and M/SM) can be obtained
(see 5A-3-3/Figure 6 for a sample beam element model).
In the beam element idealization, there will be questions as to whether or not the geometric stress
concentration due to the presence of other structure is adequately accounted for. This is the “Segment II”
stress gradient previously described. In the beam modeling approach shown in the figure, the influence on
stresses arising from the “carry over” of forces and bending moments from adjacent structural elements has
been accounted for (albeit approximately). At the same time, the strengthening effect of the brackets has
been conservatively ignored. Hence for engineering purposes, this approach is considered to be sufficient
in conjunction with the nominal stress obtained at the location of interest and the nominal S-N curve, i.e.,
the F or F2 Class S-N data, as appropriate.
In the fine mesh finite element analysis approach, one needs to define the element size to be used. This is
an area of uncertainty because the calculated stress distribution can be unduly affected by both the
employed mesh size and the uniformity of the mesh adjacent to the weld toe. Therefore, it is necessary to
establish “rules”, as given below, to be followed in the producing of the fine mesh model adjacent to the
weld toe. Furthermore, since the area adjacent to the weld toe (or other discontinuity of interest) may be
experiencing a large and rapid change of stress (i.e., a high stress gradient), it is also necessary to provide a
rule which can be used to establish the stress at the location where the fatigue assessment is to be made.
5A-3-A2/Figure 13 shows an acceptable method which can be used to extract and interpret the “near weld toe”
element stresses and to obtain a (linearly) extrapolated stress at the weld toe. When plate or shell elements
are used in the modeling, it is recommended that each element size is to be equal to the plate thickness.
When stresses are obtained in this manner, the use of the E Class S-N data is considered to be acceptable.
Weld hot spot stress can be determined from linear extrapolation of surface component stresses at t/2 and
3t/2 from weld toe. The principal stresses at hot spot are then calculated based on the extrapolated stresses
and used for fatigue evaluation. Description of the numerical procedure is given in 5A-3-A2/13.7 below.

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FIGURE 11
(1995)
S N = P/Area

A
P
SA

SCF = SA / SN

FIGURE 12
(1995)
Calculated Stress

Physical Stress

I Bracket
II
III

Weld

Stiffener

13.7 Calculation of Hot Spot Stress for Fatigue Analysis (December 2008)
The following method is applied to obtain the hot spot stress at the toe of a weld.
A very fine mesh is to be used in the region of the hotspot stress with a mesh size equal to plate thickness.
The hot spot stress is to be determined by using a linear extrapolation as described in 5A-3-A2/Figure 13.
Assuming that the applicable surface component stresses of the two points, P1 and P2, measured by the
distances 0.5t and 1.5t from the weld toe, respectively, have been determined from FEM analysis by the
linear interpolation of stresses at centroids of the adjacent two elements, the corresponding hot spot stress
can be extrapolated at the hot spot location from the stresses at P1 and P2. The weld toe distance, xwt, is not
to be taken larger than 0.5tgross.

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FIGURE 13
(December 2008)

Hot spot stress

t = tgross − NDCV

P1 P2

xwt

0.5t
1.5t

15 Fatigue Assessment of Structures Considering Low Cycle Fatigue

(December 2008)

15.1 Introduction
Certain duty cycles associated with operations of a ship-type installation may produce oscillatory stresses
whose magnitudes exceed the yield strength of the material. For welded joints in certain members of ship-
type installations during the loading/offloading process, the total number of cycles during the service life is
expected to be less than 104. Fatigue associated with cyclic plasticity (“low cycle fatigue”) is addressed in
the following sections. The appropriate low cycle fatigue design S-N curve is defined, the process for
computing oscillatory pseudo stress is provided, and the acceptance criterion for total damage, low cycle
plus high cycle fatigue, is specified.

15.3 Applicability
Subsections 5A-3-A2/15 and 5A-3-A2/17 define the procedure for a simplified fatigue assessment which is
to be used to evaluate the fatigue strength of critical structural details subjected to low cycle fatigue. The
fatigue assessment uses a hot spot stress approach based on FE analysis.

15.5 Loads
Traditionally, the fatigue strength analysis considers the following dynamic loads (high cycle load) for
calculation of the long term distribution of stresses:
• Hull girder loads (i.e., vertical and horizontal wave bending moments)
• Dynamic wave pressure
• Dynamic tank pressure loads resulting from installation motion
However, from low cycle fatigue point of view, fatigue due to the following static loads need to be considered:
• Static cyclic loads due to cargo loading and offloading

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15.7 Selection of Loading Conditions for Low Cycle Fatigue (1 July 2009)
Fatigue analyses are to be carried out for representative loading conditions according to the intended
installation’s operation. The following two loading conditions are to be examined:
i) For locations at longitudinal end connections:
• Full load condition with design still water bending moment, see loading condition 4 in
5A-3-A2/Figures 2A and 2B
• Ballast or light draft condition at with design still water bending moment, see loading condition
1 in 5A-3-A2/Figures 2A and 2B
ii) For locations other than longitudinal end connections:
The maximum low cycle fatigue damage calculated from the following two pairs:
Pair 1
• Full load condition with design still water bending moment, see loading condition 4 in
5A-3-A2/Figures 2A and 2B
• Ballast or light draft condition with design still water bending moment, see loading condition 1
in 5A-3-A2/Figures 2A and 2B
Pair 2
• Intermediate condition with design still water bending moment, see loading condition 3 in
5A-3-A2/Figures 2A and 2B
• Intermediate condition with design still water bending moment, see loading condition 2 in
5A-3-A2/Figures 2A and 2B

15.9 Acceptance Criteria

The criteria stated in 5A-3-A2/15 and 5A-3-A2/17 are presented as a comparison of fatigue strength of the
structural detail (capacity), and fatigue inducing loads (demands), in the form of a fatigue damage
parameter, DM. The combined fatigue damage including damages from both low cycle fatigue and high
cycle fatigue, DMcomb, is to be less than or equal to 1.0 for the design life of the installation, which is not to
be taken as less than 20 years.

15.11 Fatigue Assessment Methods

The hot spot stress approach is to be used for fatigue evaluation of the following details:
15.11.1 Connections of Longitudinal Stiffeners to Transverse Web/Floor and to Transverse Bulkhead
15.11.1(a) Two (2) to three (3) selected side longitudinals in the region from the 1.1 draft to about
1/ draft in the midship region and also in the region between 0.15L and 0.25L from F.P., respectively
3

15.11.1(b) One (1) to two (2) selected longitudinals from each of the following groups:
• Deck longitudinals, bottom longitudinals, inner bottom longitudinals and longitudinals on side
longitudinal bulkheads
• One longitudinal on each of the longitudinal bulkheads within 0.1D from the deck is to be
included
For these structural details, the fatigue assessment is to be first focused on the flange of the
longitudinal at the rounded toe welds of attached flat bar stiffeners and brackets, as illustrated for
Class F item 2) and Class F2 item 1) in 5A-3-A2/Table 1.
Then, the critical spots on the web plate cut-out, on the lower end of the stiffener as well as the weld
throat are also to be checked for the selected structural detail. For illustration, see 5A-3-A2/11.3.1
and 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(a), 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(b) and 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(c).
Where the longitudinal stiffener end bracket arrangements are different on opposing sides of a
transverse web, both configurations are to be checked.

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15.11.2 Shell, Bottom, Inner Bottom or Bulkhead Plating at Connections to Webs or Floors (for Fatigue
Strength of Plating)
15.11.2(a) One (1) to two (2) selected locations of side shell plating near the summer LWL
amidships and between 0.15L and 0.25L from F.P. respectively
15.11.2(b) One (1) to two (2) selected locations in way of bottom and inner bottom amidships
15.11.2(c) One (1) to two (2) selected locations of lower strakes of side longitudinal bulkhead
amidships
15.11.3 Connections of the Slope Plate to Inner Bottom and Side Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating at the
Lower Cargo Tank Corners
One selected location amidships at transverse web and between webs, respectively
For this structural detail, the value of fR, the total stress range as specified in 5A-3-A2/9.1, is to be
determined from fine mesh F.E.M. analyses for the combined load cases, as specified for Zone B
in 5A-3-A2/7.5.2.
15.11.4 End Bracket Connections for Transverses and Girders
One (1) to two (2) selected locations in the midship region for each type of bracket configuration.
15.11.5 Other Regions and Locations
Other regions and locations, highly stressed by fluctuating loads, as identified from structural analysis.

17 Low Cycle Fatigue Damage (December 2008)

17.1 Low Cycle Fatigue Load

When fatigue is of concern, structural responses are assumed to result from two external sources, the wave
loading on the installation and the process of loading and offloading the installation resulting in uneven
buoyancy. This loading/offloading process produces very low frequency static loads including oscillatory
still water bending moment (SWBM) and still water pressure. Some structural components experience
cyclic plasticity when the combination of the two load sources produces cyclic stresses that exceed the
yield strength of the material. Typically this occurs at the toe of a weld. Described in this section is the
process of defining damage due to low cycle fatigue.

17.3 Loading Conditions

Static cyclic loads including still-water bending moments and static pressure due to cargo loading and
offloading are considered.

17.5 Stress Range Calculation

17.5.1 Elastic Hot Spot Stress Range Calculation
In the following, all reference to stress is to be interpreted as the elastic hot spot stress at the toe of
a weld in question. Also, at the outset, it will be assumed that the S-N curve defining fatigue
strength is given in pseudo hot spot stress. In the elastic high cycle range a pseudo hot spot stress
will be the same as an elastic hot spot stress. They will differ in the low cycle range.
As shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 14, the stress process in certain structural components of an installation
can be considered as a superposition of wave induced stresses, SW(t), and stresses associated with
static load, SB(t). The cycles of SB result from the loading/offloading process.
The total or net stress process will be:
S(t) = SB(t) + SW(t)

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FIGURE 14
Sample Functions of SW and SB (December 2008)
SW(t)
Wave-induced stress

SB(t)
Static stress

FIGURE 15
A Single Loading/Offloading Cycle (December 2008)

SMi/2
S(t)

tv
SE SB
t

tp

SMj/2

In one cycle of the static process, as shown in 5A-3-A2/Figure 15, the total stress range associated
with this cycle is SE,

SE = SB + 0.5( S Mi + S Mj )
where
SB = static stress range for this cycle
S Mi = median of the largest stress range of wave induced load for i-th load
condition
S Mj = median of the largest stress range of wave induced load for j-th load
condition

From extreme value theory, the median largest stress range S Mi in n cycles is given as:

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S Mi
δ
[ (
= − ln 1 − 0.51 / n )]
1/ γ

where γ and δ are the long term stress shape and scale factors, respectively. δ can be determined
statistically from long term records of stress ranges or can be calculated by the formula:
fR
δ=
[ln(N s )]1 / γ
where fR is the stress range associated with a probability of exceedance of 1/Ns, as defined in
5A-3-A2/9.1, and Ns is equal to 104.
n may be computed by taking the estimated time for a half cycle divided by the estimated wave period.
The number of cycles for installation’s loading and unloading, nLCF, is assumed to be no less than
1200 for 20 years.
Assume there are 108 wave cycles within 20 years, n is then equal to:
10 8
n LCF × 2
In general, it is expected that the time in tension will not equal the time in compression. For a
conservative analysis, the larger of the two might be selected.
17.5.2 Pseudo Hot Spot Stress Range Calculation
To transform elastic hot spot stress range to pseudo hot spot stress range, a plasticity correction
factor, ke, is defined as:
SL
ke =
SE
where SL is the pseudo hot spot stress range.
A plot of ke as a function of SE is given in 5A-3-A2/Figure 16.

FIGURE 16
ke as a Function of SE (December 2008)
4

3.5

3 AH32
Plasticity Correction Factor

AH36
A
2.5
DH36
2

1.5

0.5

0
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500
Elastic Hot Spot Stress Range SE, (MPa)

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An approximate analytical formula derived from 5A-3-A2/Figure 16 can be used:

ke = 0.5 + km SE, but should not be less than 1.0

Values of km
Material Mild HT32 HT36 HT40
-4 -4 -4
km 11.20 × 10 9.60 × 10 9.40 × 10 8.56 × 10-4

17.5.3 Low Cycle S-N Curve and Damage Calculation

The design S-N curve in the low cycle region is defined in 5A-3-A2/Figure 17. It may be
considered to be a modified D-Curve.
The low cycle fatigue (LCF) design S-N curve is given as:
NSq = B for 100 < N < 104
where
q = 2.4
B = 3.51 × 1010 (MPa units)
It is assumed that the LCF design S-N curve is applicable to static induced stresses. Basic
application of Miner’s rule produces the expression of static stress damage DMLCF is:

N LCF S Lq
DMLCF =
B
nLCF is the total cycles of loading/offloading, which is not to be less than 1200 for a ship-type
installation to be operated for 20 years.

FIGURE 17
Low Cycle Fatigue Design Curve (December 2008)
1.00E+04
Stress Range, S (N/mm2)

1.00E+03
LCF-Curve D-Curve

1.00E+02
1.00E+02 1.00E+03 1.00E+04 1.00E+05
Endurance (cycles)

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19 Combined Fatigue Damage (December 2008)

The total fatigue damage due to both low cycle and high cycle stress can be calculated by

DMcomb =
(DM 2
LCF + 2δDM LCF DM HCF + DM HCF
2
)
2 2
DM LCF + DM HCF

where
δ = 0.02
DMLCF = low cycle fatigue damage
DMHCF = high cycle fatigue damage
For Longitudinal Stiffener Connections, the total fatigue damage due to both low cycle and high cycle
stress can be calculated by

DMcomb =
(DM 2
LCF + 2δDM LCF DM HCF / α Site + ( DM HCF / α Site ) 2 )
2
DM LCF + ( DM HCF / α Site ) 2

where
αSite = environmental severity factor for the intended site, see 5A-3-A1/5

21 Fatigue Strength Assessment for Service as a Trading Vessel

(December 2008)

21.1 Cumulative Fatigue Damage for Trading Vessels

The cumulative fatigue damage ratio, DM, as a trading vessel, is equal to 1.0 which corresponds to a fatigue
life of 20 years. The design life is not to be less than 20 years. Unless otherwise specified, the cumulative
damage is to be taken as:

N L (0.01 f R ) m ⎛ m⎞
DM = m/ γ
μΓ⎜⎜1 + ⎟⎟
K 2 (ln N R ) ⎝ γ⎠

where
NL = number of cycles for the expected design life. Unless stated otherwise, NL to be taken as:

f 0U
=
4 log10 L
The value is generally between 0.5 × 108 and 0.7 × 108 cycles for a design life of 20 years
f0 = 0.85, factor taking into account non-sailing time for operations such as loading and
unloading, repairs, etc.
U = design life, in seconds
= 6.31 × 108 for a design life of 20 years
L = rule length, in m
m = S-N curve parameter as defined in 5A-3-A2/Figure 1, Note a)
K2 = S-N curve parameter as defined in 5A-3-A2/Figure 1, Note a)
fR = stress range at the representative probability level of 10-4, in N/cm2
NR = 10,000, number of cycles corresponding to the probability level of 10-4
γ = long term stress distribution parameter, as defined in 5A-3-A2/5.5

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Γ = Gamma function
μ = stress coefficient taking into account the change in slope of the S-N curve
⎧ ⎛ m ⎞ − γ ⎛ m + Δm ⎞⎫⎪
Δm
⎪
Γ
⎨ 0⎜⎜ 1 + , v ⎟ − v Γ0 ⎜⎜1 + , v ⎟⎟⎬
⎪⎩ ⎝ γ ⎟⎠ ⎝ γ ⎠⎪⎭
= 1−
⎛ m⎞
Γ⎜⎜1 + ⎟⎟
⎝ γ⎠
γ
⎛ fq ⎞
v = ⎜ ⎟ ln N R
⎜ 0.01 f ⎟
⎝ R ⎠
fq = stress range at the intersection of the two segments of the S-N curve, see Table in
5A-3-A2/Figure 1, Note a), in N/mm2
Δm = slope change of the upper-lower segment of the S-N curve
= 2
Γ0(a,x) = incomplete Gamma function, Legendre form

21.3 Fatigue Assessment Zones and Controlling Load Combination for Vessels
Eight loading patterns are considered in the calculation of stress range, as shown in 5A-3-2/Figure 1A or
1B depending on whether the existing vessel to be converted is a single hull or double hull vessel.
Depending on the location of the structural details undergoing the fatigue assessment, different combinations of
load cases are to be used to find the appropriate stress range, as indicated below for indicated respective zones.
21.3.1 Zone A
Zone A consists of deck and bottom structures, and side shell and longitudinal bulkhead structures
within 0.1D (D is installation’s molded depth) from deck and bottom, respectively. For Zone A,
stresses are to be calculated based on the wave-induced loads specified in 5A-3-2/Table 1A, as
follows.
21.3.1(a) Calculate dynamic component of stresses for load cases LC1 through LC4, respectively.
21.3.1(b) Calculate two sets of stress ranges, one each for the following two pairs of combined
loading cases.
LC1 and LC2, and
LC3 and LC4
21.3.1(c) Use the greater of the stress ranges obtained by 5A-3-A2/21.3.1(b).
21.3.2 Zone B
Zone B consists of side shell and longitudinal bulkhead structures within the region between 0.25
upward and 0.30 downward from the mid-depth and all transverse bulkhead structures. The total
stress ranges for Zone B may be calculated based on the wave-induced loads specified in 5A-3-
2/Table 1A, as follows:
21.3.2(a) Calculate dynamic component of stresses for load cases LC5 through LC8, respectively.
21.3.2(b) Calculate two sets of stress ranges, one each for the following two pairs of combined
loading cases.
LC5 and LC6, and
LC7 and LC8
21.3.2(c) Use the greater of the stress ranges obtained by 5A-3-A2/21.3.2(b).

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21.3.3 Transitional Zone

Transitional zone between A and B consists of side shell and longitudinal bulkhead structures
between 0.1D and 0.25D (0.2D) from deck (bottom).
fR = fR(B) − [ fR(B) − fR(A)] yu /0.15D for upper transitional zone
fR = fR(B) − [ fR(B) − fR(A)] yl/0.1D for lower transitional zone
where
fR(A), fR(B) = the total stress range based on the combined load cases defined for Zone A or
Zone B, respectively
yu , y l = vertical distances from 0.25D (0.3D) upward (downward) from the mid-
depth to the location considered
21.3.4 Installations with Either Special Loading Patterns or Special Structural Configuration
For installations with either special loading patterns or special structural configurations/features,
additional load cases may be required for determining the stress range.

21.5 Definitions for Resulting Stress Ranges for Trading Vessels

The total stress range, fR, is computed as the sum of the two stress ranges, as follows:
fR = kp cf (fRG + fRL) N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
where
fRG = global dynamic stress range, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)
= |(fd1vi − fd1vj) + (fd1hi − fd1h j)|
fRL = local dynamic stress range, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2)

= cw|(fd2i + f d*2i + fd3i) − (fd2j + f d*2 j + fd3j)|

cf = adjustment factor to reflect a mean wasted condition

= 0.95
cw = coefficient for the weighted effects of the two paired loading patterns
= 0.75
kp = load factor for adjusting the probability of exceedance
= 0.5
fd1vi, fd1vj = wave-induced component of the primary stresses produced by hull girder vertical
bending, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the selected pairs of
combined load cases, respectively
fd1hi, fd1h j = wave-induced component of the primary stresses produced by hull girder horizontal
bending, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the selected pairs of
combined load cases, respectively
fd2i, fd2j = wave-induced component of the secondary bending stresses produced by the bending
of cross-stiffened panels between transverse bulkheads, in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2),
for load case i and j of the selected pairs of combined load cases, respectively
f d*2i , f d*2 j = wave-induced component of the additional secondary stresses produced by the local
bending of the longitudinal stiffener between supporting structures (e.g., transverse
bulkheads and web frames), in N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for load case i and j of the
selected pairs of combined load cases, respectively
fd3i, fd3j = wave-induced component of the tertiary stresses produced by the local bending of
plate elements between the longitudinal stiffeners in, N/cm2 (kgf/cm2, lbf/in2), for
load case i and j of the selected pairs of combined load cases, respectively

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 2 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A2

For calculating the wave-induced stresses, sign convention is to be observed for the respective directions of
wave-induced loads, as specified in 5A-3-2/Table 1A. The wave-induced local loads are to be calculated
with the sign convention for the external and internal loads. However, the total of the external and internal
pressures, including both static and dynamic components, need not be taken less than zero.
These wave-induced stresses are to be determined based on the net ship scantlings (see 5A-3-A2/1.3) and
in accordance with 5A-3-A2/7.5 through 5A-3-A2/7.11. The results of direct calculation, where carried
out, may also be considered.

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PART Appendix 3: Hull Girder Ultimate Strength

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

APPENDIX 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength (December 2008)

(1 July 2009) The hull girder ultimate strength calculation is based on the “gross” ship approach, wherein
the nominal design corrosion values are not considered. The hull girder ultimate bending capacity Mu for
the design environmental condition (DEC) is to satisfy the limit state specified in 5A-3-3/3.5.
The method for calculating the ultimate hull girder ultimate bending capacity Mu is to identify the critical
failure modes of the main longitudinal structural elements. Structural elements compressed beyond their
buckling limit have reduced strength according to their buckling and ultimate strength characteristics. All
relevant failure modes for individual structural elements, such as plate buckling, beam-column buckling,
torsional stiffener buckling, local buckling of stiffeners, and their interactions, are to be considered in order
to identify the weakest inter-frame failure mode.
In applying the incremental-iterative approach, the following assumptions and limitations are generally to
be observed:
• The ultimate strength, Mu, is calculated for the hull transverse sections between two adjacent transverse
frames;
• The transverse main supporting members, including frames, girders and floors, and their associated
effective plating are to have a moment of inertia not less than IG obtained from the following equation:
IG/io ≥ 0.2(Bs/l)3(Bs/s)
where IG, io, Bs, l and s are defined in 5A-3-4/7.9.3.
• The hull transverse section remains plane during each curvature increment application;
• The hull material has an elasto-plastic behavior;
• The element stress, fi, corresponding to the element strain, εi, is selected as the minimum stress among
the values obtained from each of the relevant load-end shortening curves, fi -εi, in Appendix 5A-3-A3;
• The hull transverse section is divided into a set of individual elements; the elements while considered
to be acting independently are combined to provide the ultimate strength resistance of the hull’s transverse
cross section. These elements are:
- Plate element, for unstiffened plates;
- Stiffener element, consisting of a stiffener with an associated effective width of plating;
- Corner element, consisting of a plate intersection with a web plate.
The procedure for calculating the hull girder ultimate capacity, Mu, based on the incremental-iterative
approach is described below.
Each step of the incremental procedure is represented by the calculation of the bending moment M j, which
acts on the hull transverse section as the effect of an imposed curvature χ j.
For each step, the value χ j is obtained by adding an increment of curvature, Δχ, to the curvature χ j–1 value
from the previous step. The increment of curvature corresponds to an increment of rotation of the hull’s
transverse section around its instantaneous horizontal neutral axis.
The rotation angle increment induces axial strain,ε, in each structural element of the hull section, whose
value depends on the distance between the element’s location and the instantaneous horizontal neutral axis.
In the sagging condition, the structural elements above the instantaneous horizontal neutral axis are
shortened, whereas the elements below the instantaneous horizontal neutral axis are lengthened. This is
reversed in the hogging condition.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

The structural element stress, fi, induced by strain, εi, is to be obtained from the load-end shortening curve
fi -εi of the element, as described in Appendix 5A-3-A3, which takes into account the nonlinear elasto-
plastic behavior of the element. The stress in each element is converted to a force. The equilibrium of the
element forces is then used in an iterative process to determine the instantaneous horizontal neutral axis
position of the hull’s transverse cross-section.
Once the position of the instantaneous horizontal neutral axis is determined with the relevant element force
distribution, the bending moment capacity of the section, M j, about the instantaneous horizontal neutral
axis, is obtained by combining the contribution from each element.
5A-3-A3/Figure 1 is a flow chart showing the main steps of the incremental-iterative approach.
The nonlinear material behavior for in-plane tension or compression is different for different element types.
When a structural element is in tension, full plasticity beyond yield (up to a rupture limit) is normally
anticipated. However, when a structural element is under compression, elasto-plastic material and nonlinear
geometric behavior occur. The tensile and compressive behavior for the different structural elements used
in calculating hull girder ultimate strength can be described by the so-called, ‘load-end shortening’ curves,
as described in detail in the following.

1 Plate Element
Unstiffened plates comprising the hull transverse sections may collapse in one of two failure modes:
• Yielding in tension
• Buckling in compression
The load-end shortening curve, fi - εi, for unstiffened plate buckling, is shown in 5A-3-A3/Figure 2 and is
defined by the following equations:

1.1 Yielding in Tension

When an unstiffened plate is stretched in tension, the load-end shortening curve, fi - εi, is idealized as the
elastic-perfectly plastic relationship:
f i ⎧ε i for 0 ≤ ε i ≤ 1
=⎨ ...................................................................................................... (A3.1)
fy ⎩1 for εi >1

1.3 Buckling in Compression

The stress acting on an unstiffened plate, fi, should be limited to its ultimate strength, fu, and not less than
critical buckling stress, fc, as specified in the following. The load-end shortening curve, fi - εi, for unstiffened
plate buckling, is defined by the following equation:
• When ε i ≤ fu/fy

f i E = fy ε i

• When ε i > fu/fy

⎧C E for α ≥ 1
f ipE ⎪⎪ 2
=⎨ s ⎛ s ⎞⎛⎜ 1 ⎞
fy ⎪C E ⋅ l + 0.1⎜1 − ⎟⎜1 + 2 ⎟⎟ for α < 1
⎪⎩ ⎝ l ⎠⎝ βE ⎠

f ciE ≤ f ipE ≤ fu

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Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

FIGURE 1
Flow Chart for the Evaluation of the Bending Moment-Curvature Curve, M-χ
(December 2008)
Start

Impose initial curvature:

⎧ f Ci f yi ⎫
χ 1 = min ⎨ , ⎬ E
zi zi ⎭
i =1,..., N ⎩

Where fCi and fyi are the critical buckling strength and specified minimum yield point of
the ith structural element, respectively; E is the elastic modulus; zi is the distance of the ith
structural element to the neutral axis and N is the total number of structural elements.

Add an increment of curvature:

χ j = χ j −1 + Δχ , j ≥ 2

Calculate the strain εij induced in each structural element at

the curvature χ j for the neutral axis NAj-1

Calculate the stress fij relevant to εij for each structural element by the
Library of fi - εi curves
interpolation method from the relevant f -ε curve as specified in the appendix
Adjustment of NAj-1

Adjust position of neutral axis NAj using the equilibrium condition:

N
∑ f i j Ai ≤ δ
i =1

Where Ai is the area of the i structural element and δ is the specified small value
th

for equilibrium check.

No Is the equilibrium
condition satisfied?

Yes
Calculate the bending moment Mj relevant to χ j:
N
Mj= ∑ fi j Ai zij Plot of M - χ
i =1

Where zij is the distance of the ith structural element to the neutral axis NAj.

No Is the maximum bending

moment reached?

Yes
End

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Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

where
CE = 1.0 for βE ≤ 1.0

= 2/βE – 1/ β E2 for βE > 1.0

βE = s / t ε in f y / E

f ei
f ciE = for fe ≤ Pr fy ε n
ε n

⎡ f y ε in ⎤
= f y ⎢1 − Pr (1 − Pr ) ⎥ for fe > Pr fy ε n
⎢⎣ f ei ⎥⎦

εi = relative strain ratio, equal to εi/εy

εi = element axial strain

εy = initial yield strain

n = exponent to ε denoting post-buckling behavior, which may be taken as 2.0 for steel
fu = plate ultimate strength ≥ fc
fc and fu are set equal to fci and fip when n = 0.

FIGURE 2
Load-End Shortening Curve for Plate Element (December 2008)
Stress ratio, fi/fy

Strain ratio, ε i

3 Stiffener Element
A longitudinal plate stiffener (i.e., axis is normal to the hull’s transverse section) may fail in one of four modes:
• Yielding in tension
• Beam-column buckling
• Torsional-flexural buckling
• Local buckling of stiffeners
The load-end shortening curves, fi - εi, for each failure mode are described below.

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

3.1 Yielding in Tension

The load-end shortening curve for yielding in tension is the same as in 5A-3-A3/1.

3.3 Beam-Column Buckling

The load-end shortening curve, fi - εi, as shown in 5A-3-A3/Figure 3 for beam-column buckling is defined
by the following equation:
• When ε i ≤ fca/fy

fci = fy ε i

• When ε i > fca/fy

As + s eE t A + se t
fci = f caE ≤ f ca s
As + st As + st
where
f E (C )
f caE = for fE(C) ≤ Pr fy ε n
ε in

⎡ f y ε ni ⎤
= f y ⎢1 − Pr (1 − Pr ) ⎥ for fE(C) > Pr fy ε n
⎢⎣ f E (C ) ⎥
⎦

s eE = CEs

CE = 1.0 for βE ≤ 1.0

= 2/βE – 1/ β E2 for βE > 1.0

fca is set equal to f caE when n =0

FIGURE 3
Load-End Shortening Curve for Beam-Column Buckling (December 2008)
Stress ratio, fi/fy

Strain ratio, ε i

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

3.5 Torsional-Flexural Buckling

The load-end shortening curves, fi - εi, as shown in 5A-3-A3/Figure 4 for torsional-flexural buckling is
defined by the following equation:
• When ε i ≤ fct/fy

fi = f y ε i

• When ε i > fct/fy

f ctE As + f ipE st
fi =
As + st
where
f ET
f ctE = for fET ≤ Pr fy ε n
ε in

⎡ f y ε in ⎤
= f y ⎢1 − Pr (1 − Pr ) ⎥ for fET > Pr fy ε n
⎢⎣ f ET ⎥⎦

f ctE should be less than fct.

fct and fET are the critical and elastic torsional/flexural buckling stresses and are calculated in 5A-3-4/7.5.2,
where gross scantlings are used.

FIGURE 4
Load-End Shortening Curve for Torsional-Flexural Buckling
(December 2008)
Stress ratio, fi/fy

Strain ratio, ε i

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

3.7 Local Buckling of Stiffeners

This failure mode should be assessed if the proportions of stiffeners specified in 5A-3-4/7.9 are not satisfied.
The load-end shortening curve, fi - εi, as shown in 5A-3-A3/Figure 5 for local buckling of stiffeners is defined
by the following equation:
• When ε i ≤ fcl/fy

fi = f y ε i

• When ε i > fcl/fy

f cEl As + f ipE st
fi =
As + st
where
f el
f cEl = for fel ≤ Pr fy ε n
ε n

⎡ f y ε in ⎤
= f y ⎢1 − Pr (1 − Pr ) ⎥ for fel > Pr fy ε n
⎢⎣ f el ⎥⎦

f cEl should be less than fcl.

fcl and fel are local critical and elastic buckling stress and are calculated in 5A-3-4/7.3, where gross
scantlings are used.

FIGURE 5
Load-End Shortening Curve for Local Buckling (December 2008)
Stress ratio, fi/fy

Strain ratio, ε i

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 3 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength 5A-3-A3

5 Corner Element
Corner elements are considered stocky elements, which collapse due to ‘fully plastic’ development. The
relevant load-end shortening curve, fi - εi, as shown in 5A-3-A3/Figure 6, is idealized by the elastic-perfectly
plastic relationship given in the following:
⎧− 1 for ε i < −1
fi ⎪
= ⎨ ε i for − 1 ≤ ε i ≤ 1
fy ⎪ 1 for
⎩ εi >1

FIGURE 6
Load-End Shortening Curve for a Corner Element (December 2008)
Stress ratio, fi/fy

Strain ratio, ε i

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PART Appendix 4: Guidance for Finite Element Analysis for Ship-Type Installations

5A
CHAPTER 3 Structural Design Requirements

APPENDIX 4 Guide for Finite Element Analysis for Ship-Type

Installations (December 2008)

1 Objective
This Appendix provides guidance for the calculation of structural responses by performing finite element
analysis of the ship structures, as required by the Total Strength Assessment (TSA) in Section 5A-3-4.
In general, this guidance is based on the requirements for a three cargo tank length model as outlined
in 5A-3-4/11. However the guidance provided on selection of element types and mesh size, and fine
mesh analysis is also applicable to a cargo block or full ship length model.
With this Guide, it is intended that the structural idealization, load application, and analysis procedure used
for the finite element structural analysis are performed in a consistent manner and based on sound
engineering judgment.

3 Scope of Application
The strength requirements specified in Section 5A-3-4 are based on a “net” ship approach. For new
construction, the nominal design corrosion margins, given in 5A-3-1/Table 1 and 5A-3-1/Figure 1 for the
double hull ship-type installations and 5A-3-6/1.1 for the single hull ship-type installations, are to be
deducted from the scantlings for the finite element analysis and strength assessment of the hull structures.
For an installation being converted from a vessel to FPI service, the reassessed net scantlings are used for
the finite element analysis and strength assessment. The reassessed net scantlings are obtained by
deducting the nominal design corrosion margins from the reassessed scantlings.
The analysis includes a three-dimensional global model of the three-hold hull girder and local fine-mesh
models as follows:
• Transverse web frames, longitudinal girders, horizontal girders, side stringers, and centerline ring
frames, etc.
These local fine-mesh models are used to determine the additional requirement for critical areas of the
main supporting members of the hull girder.
The guidelines described herein regarding structural idealization, finite element modeling techniques, and
analysis procedures are also applicable to general hull structural analyses.

5 Extent of the 3-D Global Finite Element Model

The purpose of the 3-D global FE analysis is to determine the overall structural response of the hull girder
structure, including primary and secondary bending, and also to obtain appropriate boundary conditions for
use in the local fine-mesh FE analysis of local structures. The extent of the hull structure to be modeled is
to cover three cargo tank lengths located at about amidships, as shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 1. It is to extend
two frames fore and aft of the two end bulkheads. All primary load-carrying members are to be modeled.
Secondary structural members which may affect the overall load distribution should also be appropriately
accounted for.

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FIGURE 1
Extent of 3-D Global Finite Element Model (December 2008)

7 Coordinate System of the Model

The global coordinate (right-hand) system of this reference finite element model is defined as follows:
X axis: Longitudinal direction, positive forward,
Y axis: Vertical direction, positive upwards from baseline,
Z axis: Transverse direction, positive toward starboard from centerline,
Origin: At the intersection of baseline and centerline at first watertight bulkhead of the aft
end of the model
The six degrees of freedom for the nodes are defined with respect to the Cartesian global X, Y and Z axes
of the 3-D finite element model, (See 5A-3-A4/Figure 1), as ux, uy, and uz for the three translational
degrees of freedom, and θx, θy, and θz for the three rotational degrees of freedom.

9 Element Types
The structural elements, whose geometry, configuration and stiffness approximate the actual ship’s hull
structure, are of three types commonly used.
i) Rod (or truss) elements, with axial stiffness only and constant cross-sectional area along the length
of the element.
ii) Bar (or Beam) elements without offset, with axial, torsional and bi-directional shear and bending
stiffness and with constant properties along the length of the element.
iii) Shell (or bending plate) elements, with in-plane stiffness and out-of-plane bending stiffness with
constant thickness.
Higher order element types exist, however the above three simple types of element are sufficient for a good
representation of the hull girder. The appropriate usage of the aforementioned element types in the
modeling procedure is discussed in the following sections.

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9.1 Plate Elements

For finite element modeling of a hull structure, the plating is typically represented by bending plate elements.
In general, the plate element mesh is to follow the stiffener system as far as practicable, hence representing
the actual plate panels between stiffeners. The mesh size is to satisfy the following requirements:
i) One element between every longitudinal stiffeners, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 2. Longitudinally, the element
length is not to be greater than 2 longitudinal spaces.
ii) One element between every vertical stiffener on transverse bulkheads, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 3.
iii) One element between every web stiffener on transverse and vertical web frames, cross ties and
stringers, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 2.
iv) At least three elements over the depth of double bottom girders and floors, transverse web frames,
vertical web frames and horizontal stringers on transverse bulkheads.
v) For cross tie, deck transverse and horizontal stringers on transverse wash bulkheads and longitudinal
bulkheads with a smaller web depth, representation using two elements over the depth is acceptable
provided that there is at least one element between every web stiffener. The mesh size of the adjacent
structure is to be adjusted to suit.
vi) The mesh on the hopper tank web frame shall be fine enough to represent the shape of the web
ring opening, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 2.
vii) The curvature of the free edge on large brackets of primary supporting members is to be modeled
accurately to avoid unrealistic high stress due to geometry discontinuities. In general, a mesh size
equal to the stiffener spacing is acceptable.
viii) The bracket toe may be terminated at the nearest nodal point provided that the modeled length of
bracket arm does not exceed the actual bracket arm length.
x) The bracket flange is not to be connected to the plating, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 4. An acceptable mesh
is shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 4.
x) The aspect ratio of the plate elements is in general not to exceed three. The use of triangular plate
elements is to be kept to a minimum. Where possible, the aspect ratio of plate elements in areas
where there are likely to be high stresses or a high stress gradient is to be kept close to one and the
use of triangular elements is to be avoided.
xi) Typical mesh arrangements of the cargo tank structures are shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 5.
Manholes on transverse and longitudinal structures, such as double bottom floors and longitudinal girders,
are generally ignored in the global model. Leaving out plate elements or reducing plate thicknesses to
account for such manholes in the 3-D model are not advisable, because this would sometimes result in
unrealistic shearing stresses for the thinned plates or the adjacent elements. The actual behavior of a round
or elliptical manhole with or without a flange is quite different from the modeled thin plate or element
opening which is usually rectangular.

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Appendix 4 Guide for Finite Element Analysis for Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A4

FIGURE 2
Typical Finite Element Mesh on Web Frame (December 2008)

s = stiffener spacing

FIGURE 3
Typical Finite Element Mesh on Transverse Bulkhead (December 2008)

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FIGURE 4
Typical Finite Element Mesh on Horizontal Transverse Stringer
on Transverse Bulkhead (December 2008)

FIGURE 5
Typical Finite Element Mesh on Transverse Web Frame Main Bracket
(December 2008)

9.3 Bar (or Beam) Elements for Stiffeners

All local stiffeners are to be modeled. The stiffeners may be modeled using line elements positioned in the
plane of the plating. Bar elements are to be used in areas under action of lateral loads whilst rod elements
in 5A-3-A4/9.5 may be used to represent local stiffeners on internal structural members under no lateral loads.
The bar elements are to have the following properties:
i) Stiffeners are typically modeled by bar elements without offset.
ii) The bar element cross sectional area is based on the net stiffener area excluding the area of the
attached plating.
iii) Out of plane bending properties are to represent the inertia of the combined plating and stiffener.
iv) The width of the attached plate is to be taken as half + half stiffener spacing on each side of the
stiffener.
v) The eccentricity of the neutral axis is not required to be modeled.

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9.5 Rod (or Truss) Elements for Stiffeners

Web stiffeners on primary support members are to be modeled. Where these stiffeners are not in line with
the primary FE mesh, it is sufficient to place the line element along the nearby nodal points provided that
the adjusted distance does not exceed 0.2 times the stiffener spacing under consideration. The stresses and
buckling utilization factors obtained need not be corrected for the adjustment. Buckling stiffeners on large
brackets, deck transverse and stringers parallel to the flange are to be modeled. These stiffeners may be
modeled using rod elements.

9.7 Rod Elements for Face Plates of Primary Supporting Members

All face plates should be accounted for and modeled by rod elements.
For a typical hull structure, there are numerous secondary flat bars, stiffeners, tripping brackets and panel
“breakers”. These structural members are mainly to provide local stiffness to plate panels against buckling
or vibration. These secondary stiffening members generally need not be included in the global model as
their influence on the overall response of the hull structure is negligible.

11 General Guidance for 3-D Global FE Modeling

The approach of finite element modeling adopted here is to use a 3-D global finite element model to obtain
the overall response of the hull girder under the imposed sea loading. The stress results of the global model
are used not only to assess the hull girder plating of the deck, side shell, bottom, inner bottom, longitudinal
bulkheads, transverse bulkheads and stools or deck box girders but also to assess the main supporting
members. The boundary conditions for the local FE models are the appropriate nodal displacements
obtained from the 3-D global model analysis. Therefore, in developing the 3-D global finite element
model, special attention should be paid to the following general guidance:
i) The finite element model should include all primary load-carrying members. Secondary structural
members which may affect the overall load distribution should also be appropriately accounted for.
ii) Structural idealization should be based on the stiffness and anticipated response of the structure,
not wholly on the geometry of the structure itself.
iii) A common mistake is to simply match the finite element mesh with the configuration of the structure.
Very often a finite element model, created in this way, which “looks good” and represents the structural
geometry well, but in reality it represents the structural properties and performance poorly.
iv) It is desirable to have consistent modeling throughout the entire length of the three cargo tanks
considered. However, the middle tank should always have the desired mesh, where more accurate
results are expected (due to boundary effects) and are therefore used in the strength assessment. If
approximations have to be made, do so only in the two end-tanks.
v) It is important to consider the relative stiffness between associated structural members and their
anticipated response under the specified loading.
vi) Bottom transverses in single-hull vessels and double bottom floors in double-hull vessels usually
have high restraint at the ends, and therefore require an adequate mesh to achieve reasonable accuracy.

13 Loading Conditions

13.1 Combined Load Cases and Loading Pattern

The standard combined load cases as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C with the corresponding
loading pattern specified in 5A-3-2/Figure 1 are to be used in the FE analysis.

13.3 Sloshing Load Cases

In assessing the strength of tank boundary supporting structures, the two combined load cases as specified
in 5A-3-2/Table 2 with the corresponding loading pattern specified in 5A-3-2/Figure 14 are to be considered
in the FE analysis.

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13.5 Hull Girder Vertical Bending Moment and Vertical Shear Force
13.5.1 Hull Girder Vertical Bending Moment
The hull girder vertical bending moment is to reach the following required value, Mv-targ, at a
section within the length of the middle tank of the three tanks FE model:
Mv-targ = Msw + kukcβVBM Mwv
where
Msw = still water bending moment to be applied to the FE load case, as specified in
3-2-1/3.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules
Mwv = vertical wave bending moment for the dynamic load case under consideration,
calculated in accordance with 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
βVBM = ESF for vertical bending moments as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
ku = load factor, is taken as 1.0 as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C and
5A-3-2/Table 3
kc = correlation factor, is taken value as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C
and 5A-3-2/Table 3
13.5.2 Hull Girder Vertical Shear Force
The hull girder vertical shear force is to reach the following required Ftarg value at the forward
transverse bulkhead position of the middle tank:
Ftarg = Fsw + kukcβVSF Fwv
where
Fsw = vertical still water shear force to be applied to the FE load case, as specified
in 3-2-1/3.9 of the Steel Vessel Rules
Fwv = vertical wave shear force for the dynamic load case under consideration,
calculated in accordance with 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
βVSF = ESF for vertical shear force as defined in 5A-3-A1/3
ku = load factor, is taken as 1.0 as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C and
5A-3-2/Table 3
kc = correlation factor, is taken value as specified in 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C
and 5A-3-2/Table 3
13.5.3 Balance of Hull Girder Bending Moment and Shear Force
The required hull girder vertical bending moment and shear force are to be achieved in the same
load case where required by 5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C and 5A-3-2/Table 3. The procedure to
apply the required shear force and bending moment distributions is described in 5A-3-A4/15.1.

13.7 Hull Girder Horizontal Wave Bending Moment

The hull girder horizontal wave bending moment at a section within the length of the middle tank of the
three tanks FE model is to reach the value required by the dynamic load case where required by
5A-3-2/Tables 1A through 1C and 5A-3-2/Table 3, calculated in accordance with 5A-3-2/7.3.2.
The procedure to adjust the required hull girder horizontal bending moment is described in 5A-3-A4/15.1.

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15 Procedure to Adjust Hull Girder Shear Force and Bending Moment

15.1 General
The procedure described in this Subsection is to be applied to adjust the hull girder horizontal bending
moment, vertical shear force and vertical bending moment distributions on the three cargo tanks FE model
to achieve the required values.
Vertical distributed loads are applied to each frame position, together with a vertical bending moment
applied to the model ends to produce the required value of vertical shear force at the forward bulkhead of
the middle tank of the FE model, and the required value of vertical bending moment at a section within the
length of the middle tank of the FE model. The required values are specified in 5A-3-A4/13.5.
A horizontal bending moment is applied to the ends of the model to produce the required target value of
horizontal bending moment at a section within the length of the middle tank of the FE model. The required
values are specified in 5A-3-A4/13.7.

15.3 Shear Force and Bending Moment due to Local Loads

15.3.1 Vertical Shear Forces
The vertical shear forces generated by the local loads are to be calculated at the transverse
bulkhead positions of the middle tank of the FE model. The vertical bending moment distribution
generated by the local loads is to be calculated along the length of the middle tank of the three
cargo tank FE model. The FE model can be used to calculate the shear forces and bending
moments. Alternatively, a simple beam model representing the length of the 3-tank FE model with
simply supported ends may be used to determine the shear force and bending moment values.
15.3.2 Horizontal Bending Moment Distribution
For beam and oblique sea conditions, the horizontal bending moment distribution due to dynamic
sea pressure and dynamic tank pressure is to be calculated along the length of the middle tank of
the FE model.
15.3.3 Local Loads
The following local loads are to be applied for the calculation of hull girder shear forces and
bending moments:
i) Ship structural weight distribution over the length of the 3-tank model (static loads). Where
a simple beam model is used, the weight of the structure of each tank can be distributed
evenly over the length of the cargo tank. The structural weight is to be calculated based
on a thickness of the net scantlings to be considered as used in the construction of the
cargo tank FE model, see 5A-3-A4/3.
ii) Weight of cargo and ballast (static loads)
iii) Static sea pressure and dynamic wave pressure
iv) Dynamic tank pressure

15.5 Procedure to Adjust Vertical Shear Force Distribution

15.5.1 Adjustment in Shear Forces at Transverse Bulkhead Positions
The required adjustment in shear forces at the transverse bulkhead positions (ΔQaft and ΔQfwd as
shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 6) are to be generated by applying vertical load at the frame positions as
shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 7. It is to be noted that vertical correction loads are not to be applied to
any transverse tight bulkheads, any frames forward of the forward tank and any frames aft of the
aft tank of the FE model. The sum of the total vertical correction loads applied is equal to zero.

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15.5.2 Adjustment in Shear Forces at Aft and Forward Transverse Bulkheads of Middle Tank of FE
Model
The required adjustments in shear forces at the aft and forward transverse bulkheads of the middle
tank of the FE model in order to generate the required shear forces at the bulkheads are given by:
ΔQaft = –Qtarg – Qaft

ΔQfwd = Qtarg – Qfwd

where
ΔQaft = required adjustment in shear force at aft bulkhead of middle tank

ΔQfwd = required adjustment in shear force at forward bulkhead of the middle tank
Qtarg = required shear force value to be achieved at forward bulkhead of middle
tank, see 5A-3-A4/13.5.2
Qaft = shear force due to local loads at aft bulkhead of middle tank
Qfwd = shear force due to local loads at fore bulkhead of middle tank

15.5.3 Vertical Loads to be Applied to Each Frame

The value of the vertical loads to be applied to each frame to generate the increase in shear force at
the bulkheads may be calculated using a simple beam model. For the case where an uniform frame
spacing is used within each tank, the amount of vertical force to be distributed at each frame may
be calculated in accordance with the equations below. The length and frame spacing of individual
cargo tanks may be different.
ΔQaft (2l − l 2 − l 3 ) + ΔQ fwd (l 2 + l 3 )
δw1 =
(n1 − 1)(2l − l 1 − 2l 2 − l 3 )

(W 1 + W 3) (ΔQaft − ΔQ fwd )
δw2 = =
(n 2 − 1) (n 2 − 1)

−ΔQ fwd (2l − l 1 − l 2 ) − ΔQaft (l 1 + l 2 )

δw3 =
(n3 − 1)(2l − l 1 − 2l 2 − l 3 )

⎛ W 1(l 2 + l 1 ) − W 3(l 2 + l 3 ) ⎞
F = 0.5⎜ ⎟
⎝ l ⎠
where
l1 = length of aft cargo tank of model

l2 = length of middle cargo tank of model

l3 = length of forward cargo tank of model

ΔQaft = required adjustment in shear force at aft bulkhead of middle tank, see
5A-3-A4/Figure 6
ΔQfwd = required adjustment in shear force at fore bulkhead of middle tank, see
5A-3-A4/Figure 6
F = end reactions due to application of vertical loads to frames.
W1 = total evenly distributed vertical load applied to aft tank of FE model
= (n1 – 1) δw1

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W2 = total evenly distributed vertical load applied to middle tank of FE model

= (n2 – 1) δw2
W3 = total evenly distributed vertical load applied to forward tank of FE model
= (n3 – 1) δw3
n1 = number of frame spaces in aft cargo tank of FE model
n2 = number of frame spaces in middle cargo tank of FE model
n3 = number of frame spaces in forward cargo tank of FE model
δw1 = distributed load at frame in aft cargo tank of FE model
δw2 = distributed load at frame in middle cargo tank of FE model
δw3 = distributed load at frame in forward cargo tank of FE model
Δlend = distance between end bulkhead of aft cargo tank to aft end of FE model
Δlfore = distance between fore bulkhead of forward cargo tank to forward end of FE
model
l = total length of FE model (beam) including portions beyond end bulkheads:
= l1 + l2 + l3 +Δlend +Δlfore
Notes
1 Positive direction of loads, shear forces and adjusting vertical forces in the
formulae is in accordance with 5A-3-A4/Figure 6 and 5A-3-A4/Figure 7.
2 W1 + W3 = W2
15.5.4 Adjusting Load to be Applied to Structural Parts of Transverse Frames
The amount of adjusting load to be applied to the structural parts of each transverse frame section
to generate the vertical load, δwi, is to be in accordance with 5A-3-A4/Figure 8. This load is to be
distributed at the finite element grid points of the structural parts. Where 4-node or 3-node finite
plate elements are used, the load to be applied at each grid point of a plate element is given by:
n
∑ 0.5 Ai−elem
1
Fi − grid = Fs
As
where
Fi-grid = load to be applied to the i-th FE grid point on the individual structural
member under consideration (i.e., side shell, longitudinal bulkheads and
bottom girders, inner hull longitudinal bulkheads, hopper plates, upper slope
plates of inner hull and outboard girders as defined in 5A-3-A4/Figure 8)
Ai-elem = sectional area of each plate element in the individual structural member
under consideration (see 5A-3-A4/Figure 8), which is connected to the i-th
grid point
n = number of plate elements connected to the i-th grid point
Fs = total load applied to an individual structural member under consideration, as
specified in 5A-3-A4/Figure 8
As = plate sectional area of the individual structural member under consideration
(i.e., side shell, longitudinal bulkheads, bottom girders, inner hull
longitudinal bulkheads, hopper plates, upper slope plates of inner hull and
outboard girders as defined in 5A-3-A4/Figure 8)

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FIGURE 6
Position of Target Shear Force and Required Shear Force Adjustment
at Transverse Bulkhead Positions (December 2008)
Condition Target Aft Bhd Fore Bhd
Bhd
BM SF SF ΔQaft SF ΔQfwd
pos

Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd

Target BM
-Target SF (hogging)

ΔQaft Qfwd
Hog –ve Fore –Qtarg –Qtarg – Qaft Qtarg (–ve) Qtarg – Qfwd
ΔQfwd
Qaft

Target SF (-ve)

Target BM
(hogging)
Bkhd -Target SF Bkhd Bkhd
ΔQaft
Qaft

Hog –ve Fore –Qtarg –Qtarg – Qaft Qtarg (–ve) Qtarg – Qfwd

Qfwd
ΔQfwd
Bkhd
Target SF (-ve)
Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd
Target SF (+ve)
ΔQfwd
Qfwd

Sag +ve Fore –Qtarg –Qtarg – Qaft Qtarg (+ve) Qtarg – Qfwd

Qaft
ΔQaft
Bkhd
-Target SF
Target BM
(sagging)

Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd

Target SF (+ve)
Qaft
ΔQfwd

ΔQaft Qfwd
Sag +ve Fore –Qtarg –Qtarg – Qaft Qtarg (+ve) Qtarg – Qfwd

-Target SF Target BM
(sagging)

Note
For definition of symbols, see 5A-3-A4/15.5.2.

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FIGURE 7
Distribution of Adjusting Vertical Force at Frames and Resulting
Shear Force Distributions (December 2008)
Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd
l1 l2 l3

Δlend δw1 = W1/(n1 - 1) δw2 = W2/(n2 - 1) δw3 = W3/(n3 - 1) Δlfore

W1 = total load applied W2 = total load applied W3 = total load applied
n1 = number of frame spaces n2 = number of frame spaces n3 = number of frame spaces
F in aft tank of FE model in middle tank of FE in forward tank of FE F
model model

δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3
Simply Simply
Support δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 Support
end end

Note: Transverse bulkhead frames not loaded

Frames beyond aft transverse bulkhead of aft most tank and forward bulkhead of forward most tank not loaded
F = Reaction load generated by supported ends
Bkhd ΔQaft + F Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd

SF distribution generated
(end reactions not included)

δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw1 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3 δw3
Simply Simply
Support δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 δw2 Support
end end

ΔQfwd + F

Shear Force distribution due to adjusting vertical force at frames

Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd Bkhd

Shear Force generated

by reaction force
F F

Simply Simply
Support Support
end end

Note: F = 0 if l1 = l3 and Δlfore = Δlend , and loads are symmetrical about mid-length of model

Note
For definition of symbols, see 5A-3-A4/15.5.3.

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FIGURE 8
Distribution of Adjusting Load on a Transverse Section (December 2008)

Structural Member Applied Load Fs

Side Shell f · δwi

Longitudinal bulkhead including bottom girder beneath f · δwi

AIh
Inner hull longitudinal bulkhead (vertical part) f ⋅ δwi ⋅
A2

AHp
Hopper plate f ⋅ δwi ⋅
A2

AUsp
Upper slope plating of inner hull f ⋅ δwi ⋅
A2

AOg
Outboard girder f ⋅ δwi ⋅
A2

Where
δwi, = vertical load to be applied to each transverse frame section, see 5A-3-A4/15.5.3
f = shear force distribution factor of structural part calculated at the mid-tank
position in accordance with 5A-3-A4/Table 1
AIh = plate sectional area of individual inner hull longitudinal bulkhead
AHp = plate sectional area of individual hopper plate
AUsp = Plate sectional area of individual upper slope plate of inner hull
AOg = plate sectional area of individual outboard girder
A2 = plate sectional area calculated in accordance with 5A-3-A4/Table 1

Notes
1 Adjusting load is to be applied in plane to the hopper slope plate and upper slope plate of inner hull.
2 Adjusting load given is to be applied to individual structural member.

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TABLE 1
Shear Force Distribution Factors (December 2008)
A1 A
Side Shell f = 0.055 + 0.097 + 0.020 2
A2 A3

A1 A
Inner hull f = 0.193 − 0.059 + 0.058 2
A2 A3

CL longitudinal A1 A
f = 0.504 − 0.076 − 0.156 2
bulkhead A2 A3

A1 A
Side Shell f = 0.028 + 0.087 + 0.023 2
A2 A3

A1 A
Inner hull f = 0.119 − 0.038 + 0.072 2
A2 A3

Longitudinal A1 A
f = 0.353 − 0.049 − 0.095 2
bulkhead A2 A3
Where
A1 = plate sectional area of individual side shell (i.e., on one side), including bilge
A2 = plate sectional area of individual inner hull longitudinal bulkhead (i.e., on one side),
including hopper slope plate, double bottom side girder in way and, where fitted, upper
slope plating of inner hull.
A3 = plate sectional area of individual longitudinal bulkhead, including double bottom girder
in way

Notes
1 Where part of the structural member is not vertical, the area is to be calculated using the projected area in the
vertical direction.
2 All plate areas are to be calculated based on the modeled thickness of the cargo tank FE model.

15.7 Procedure to Adjust Vertical and Horizontal Bending Moments

15.7.1 End Vertical Bending Moment
An additional vertical bending moment is to be applied at both ends of the cargo tank finite
element model to generate the required vertical bending moment in the middle tank of the model.
This end vertical bending moment can be calculated as follows:
Mv-end = Mv-targ – Mv-peak
where
Mv-end = additional vertical bending moment to be applied at both ends of finite
element model
Mv-targ = required hogging (positive) or sagging (negative) vertical bending moment,
as specified in 5A-3-A4/13.5.1

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Mv-peak = maximum or minimum bending moment within the length of the middle tank
due to the local loads described in 5A-3-A4/15.3.3 and the additional vertical
loads applied to generate the required shear force, see 5A-3-A4/15.5. Mv-peak
is to be taken as the maximum bending moment if Mv-targ is hogging (positive)
and as the minimum bending moment if Mv-targ is sagging (negative). Mv-peak
can be obtained from FE analysis. Alternatively, Mv-peak may be calculated as
follows based on a simply supported beam model:
= max{Mo + xF + Mlineload}
Mo = vertical bending moment at position x, due to the local loads described in
5A-3-A4/15.3.3
Mlineload = vertical bending moment at position x, due to application of vertical line
loads at frames to generate required shear force, see 5A-3-A4/15.5
F = reaction force at ends due to application of vertical loads to frames, see
5A-3-A4/15.5
x = longitudinal position of frame in way of the middle tank of FE model from
end, see 5A-3-A4/15.5
15.7.2 End Horizontal Bending Moment
For beam and oblique sea load cases, an additional horizontal bending moment is to be applied at
the ends of the cargo tank FE model to generate the required horizontal bending moment at a
section within the length of the middle tank of the model. The additional horizontal bending
moment can be calculated as follows:
Mh-end = Mh-targ – Mh-peak
where
Mh-end = additional horizontal bending moment to be applied to ends of FE model
Mh-targ = required positive or negative horizontal bending moment, see 5A-3-A4/13.7
Mh-peak = maximum or minimum horizontal bending moment within the length of the
middle tank due to the local loads described in 5A-3-A4/13.3.3. Mh-peak is to
be taken as the maximum horizontal bending moment if Mh-targ is positive
(starboard side in tension) and as the minimum horizontal bending moment if
Mh-targ is negative (port side in tension).
15.7.3 Application of End Bending Moments
The vertical and horizontal bending moments should be calculated over the length of the middle
tank of the FE model to identify the position and value of each maximum/minimum bending
moment as specified in 5A-3-A4/15.7.1 and 5A-3-A4/15.7.2.
The additional vertical bending moment, Mv-end, and horizontal bending moment, Mh-end, are to be
applied to both ends of the cargo tank model.
The vertical and horizontal bending moments may be applied at the model ends by distributing
axial nodal forces to all longitudinal elements according to the simple beam theory as follows:
M v −end Ai
( Fx ) i = zi for vertical bending moment
Iy ni

M h −end Ai
( Fx ) i = yi for horizontal bending moment
Iz ni

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where
Mv-end = vertical bending moment to be applied to the ends of the model
Mh-end = horizontal bending moment to be applied to the ends of the model
(Fx)i = axis force applied to a node of the i-th element
Iy = hull girder vertical moment of inertial of the end section about its horizontal
neutral axis
Iz = hull girder horizontal moment of inertial of the end section about its vertical
neutral axis (normally centerline)
zi = vertical distance from the neutral axis to the centre of the cross sectional area
of the i-th element
yi = horizontal distance from the neutral axis to the centre of the cross sectional
area of the i-th element
Ai = cross sectional area of the i-th element
ni = number of nodal points of i-th element on the cross section, ni = 2 for 4-node
plate element

17 Boundary Conditions

17.1 General
All boundary conditions described in this Subsection are in accordance with the global co-ordinate system
defined in 5A-3-A4/7. The boundary conditions to be applied at the ends of the cargo tank FE model are
given in 5A-3-A4/Table 2. The analysis may be carried out by applying all loads to the model as a
complete load case or by combining the stress responses resulting from several separate sub-cases.
Ground spring elements, i.e., spring elements with one end constrained in all 6 degrees of freedom, with
stiffness in global y degree of freedom are to be applied to the grid points along deck, inner bottom and
bottom shell as shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 9.
Ground spring elements with stiffness in global z degree of freedom are to be applied to the grid points
along the vertical part of the side shells, inner hull longitudinal bulkheads and oil-tight longitudinal
bulkheads as shown in 5A-3-A4/Figure 9.

FIGURE 9
Spring Constriants at Model Ends (December 2008)

Independent
Independent point
point
NA NA

C C

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TABLE 2
Boundary Constraints at Model Ends (December 2008)
Translation Rotation
Location
δx δy δz θx θy θz
Aft End
Aft end (all longitudinal elements) RL – – – RL RL
Independent point aft end, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 9 Fix – – – Mv-end Mh-end
Deck, inner bottom and outer shell – Springs – – – –
Side, inner skin and longitudinal bulkheads – – Springs – – –
Fore End
Fore end (all longitudinal elements) RL – – – RL RL
Independent point fore end, see 5A-3-A4/Figure 9 – – – – Mv-end Mh-end
Deck, inner bottom and outer shell – Springs – – – –
Side, inner skin and longitudinal bulkheads – – Springs – – –
Where:
– No constraint applied (free)
RL Nodal points of all longitudinal elements rigidly linked to independent point at neutral axis on centerline

Notes:
1 All translation and rotation displacements are in accordance with the global coordinate system defined in 5A-3-A4/7.
2 Where Mh-end is not applied, the independent points at the fore and aft ends are to be free in θz.
3 Where Mv-end is not applied, the independent points at the fore and aft ends are to be free in θy.
4 Where no bending moment is applied, the independent points at the fore and aft ends are to be free in θy and θz.
5 Where bending moment is applied as nodal forces, the independent points at the fore and aft ends are to be free in
the corresponding degree of freedom of rotations (i.e. θy and/or θz).

17.3 Calculation of Spring Stiffness

The springs are typically represented by rod elements, having only axial stiffness. The stiffness is equivalent
to the support given to the considered end bulkhead by the cutout longitudinal structural members. The
resulting cross-sectional can be determined by the following formula:
⎛ 1 ⎞ As l Al
A=⎜ ⎟ = 0.77 s cm2
⎝ 1 + ν ⎠ l tk n l tk n
where
A = cross-sectional area of the bar, in cm2
As = shearing area of the individual structural member under consideration (i.e., plating of
deck, inner bottom, bottom shell, side shell, inner hull longitudinal bulkheads or oil-
tight longitudinal bulkhead). As is to be calculated based on the thickness of the cargo
tank finite element model for areas indicated in 5A-3-A4/Table 3 for the appropriate
structural member under consideration, in cm2
ν = Poisson's ratio of the material, taken as 0.3
ltk = length of cargo tank, between bulkheads of the middle tank of the FE model, in cm
n = number of nodal points to which the spring elements are applied to the structural
member under consideration
l = length of the bar, in cm

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The bar area A is determined by a given bar length l, which can be any value. In practice, however, all
values of l in the finite element model are conveniently chosen to be the same round figure, for example,
equal to 100 cm.
One end of the rod is to be constrained in all six degrees of freedom.

TABLE 3
Shear Areas to be Considered for the Calculation of Spring Stiffness (December 2008)
Vertical springs

Side Area of side shell plating, including

bilge

Inner hull Area of inner skin plating, including

longitudinal hopper slope plate and double bottom
bulkheads side girder in way

Longitudinal Area of longitudinal bulkhead

bulkheads plating, including double bottom
girder in way

Note: Where part of the structural member is not

vertical, the area is to be calculated using the
projected area in the vertical direction.

Horizontal springs

Deck Area of deck plating

Inner bottom Area of inner bottom plating,

including hopper slope plate and
horizontal stringer in way

Bottom shell Area of bottom shell plating,

including bilge

Note: Where part of the structural member is not

horizontal the area is to be calculated using the
projected area in the horizontal direction.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 4 Guide for Finite Element Analysis for Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A4

19 Validation of 3-D Global Response

19.1 Correlation with Beam Theory

It has been shown that the primary hull girder bending stress and deflection obtained by the finite element
analysis are in good agreement with classical beam theory results, even with the open deck configuration
of the hull girder. In order to verify that proper modeling of the hull structure has been made, and that
appropriate loading and boundary conditions have been imposed on the model, it is useful to compare the
results with that obtained by beam theory. The check is usually carried out for the vertical bending moment
since it is the most predominate bending moment and for which a high proportion of the hull girder section
modulus is used.
The comparison should be made in areas where local loads have minimal effects and also at the minimum
section modulus, i.e., mid-hold. The best correlation is obtained at the deck at side where the section
modulus is calculated for and also has the minimum effect of local loading.
Because of secondary bending, shear lag, or stresses due to alternate hold or upper wing ballast loading,
some variation in hull girder bending stresses can be expected between the resultant FEA stresses as
compared to classical beam theory stresses.

19.3 Additional Remarks

When comparison of hull girder stresses shows good correlation with beam theory, it can be concluded that
the overall response of the finite element model to applied loads is correct.
However, it is still possible that at some local areas of the model, stress levels and deflections are not
consistent with the applied loading. A large-scale local deflection display of the questionable area will
usually provide some clues as to the cause for such unreasonable results. If it is a problem of element
connectivity, the display will clearly show a separation of adjoining members. Certainly, errors in element
properties are always a possibility, and can be easily checked in the appropriate display of the model.
In general, the experienced or knowledgeable user should be able to predict the structural behavior and
stress level distributions under the specified loading. There will be logical conclusions for any variance in
the predicted stress and deformation patterns of the finite element model.
If possible, it is recommended that before starting the structural analysis, the engineer should take the time
to review previously-performed structural analyses on similar installations, in order to better visualize the
analysis procedures and resultant structural response.

21 Detailed Stress Assessment – Local FEA

21.1 General
21.1.1 Application
This Subsection describes the procedure for the detailed stress assessment with refined meshes to
evaluate highly stressed areas of primary supporting members.

21.3 Analysis Model

21.3.1 Areas to be Refined
Where the global cargo hold analysis is carried out using a model complying with the modeling
criteria of this Appendix, the areas listed in 5A-3-A4/Table 4 are to be refined at the locations
whose calculated stresses exceed 95% of the allowable stress as specified in 5A-3-4/3.3.

TABLE 4
Typical Details to be Refined (December 2008)
• Critical Areas in Transverse Web Frame
• Critical Areas in Horizontal Girders on Transverse Bulkhead
• Critical Areas of Buttress Structure

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Chapter 3 Structural Design Requirements
Appendix 4 Guide for Finite Element Analysis for Ship-Type Installations 5A-3-A4

21.3.2 Refining Method

Two methods can be used for refining the high stressed areas:
• Detailed stresses in refined areas can be analyzed by separate sub-models.
• Refined areas can be directly included in FE model used for the global cargo hold analysis.
21.3.3 Modeling
21.3.3(a) Element Type. Each structural member is to be modeled by using proper element type
for the structure in accordance with the principle in this guidance.
21.3.3(b) Mesh. The element size in refined areas is to be approximately one fourth of the
representative spacing of ordinary stiffeners in the corresponding area (i.e., 200 × 200 mm mesh
size for structures whose ordinary stiffener spacing is 800 mm). In addition, the web height of
primary supporting members is to be divided at least into 3 elements.
The aspect ratio of element is not to exceed 3. Quad elements are to have 90° angles as much as
practicable, or to have angles between 45° and 135°.
21.3.3(c) Extent of Sub-model. The minimum extent of sub-model is to be such that the
boundaries of the sub-model correspond to the locations of adjacent supporting members.
21.3.4 Loading Conditions
Loading conditions, which are applied to the 3-D FE model for the global cargo hold analysis, are
to be considered in the detailed stress assessment.
21.3.5 Boundary Conditions
Nodal forces or nodal displacements obtained from the global cargo hold analysis are to be
applied to the sub-models. Where nodal forces are given, the supporting members located at the
boundaries of a sub-model are to be included in the sub-model. Where nodal displacements are
given and additional nodes are provided in sub-models, nodal displacements at the additional
nodes are to be determined by proper interpolations.

21.5 Analysis Criteria

21.5.1 Allowable Stress
Von Mises equivalent stresses in plate elements and axial stresses in line elements within refined
areas are not to exceed 278/Q N/mm2, where Q is the material factor defined in 5A-3-3/5.1.
In the case where elements significantly smaller than the size defined in 5A-3-A4/21.3.3 are used,
the criteria apply to the average stress of all elements included in an area corresponding to a single
element having the size specified in 5A-3-A4/21.3.3.

23 Fatigue Assessment – Fatigue FEA (1 July 2009)

23.1 General
23.1.1 Application
The Hot Spot Stresses are to be calculated based on the method specified in Appendix 5A-3-A2
for the critical details addressed in 5A-3-4/13 for fatigue evaluation.
Detailed description of fatigue assessment (e.g., loading conditions, acceptance criteria, S-N curve,
etc.) is also specified in Appendix 5A-3-A2.

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PART Chapter 4: Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length

5A
CHAPTER 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters
(492 feet) in Length

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Introduction ........................................................................................ 395
1 General ...........................................................................................395
1.1 Classification ...............................................................................395
1.3 Application ...................................................................................395
1.5 Detail Design of Internal Members...............................................395
1.7 Breaks .........................................................................................396
1.9 Variations.....................................................................................396
1.11 Loading Guidance........................................................................396
1.13 Higher-strength Materials ............................................................396
1.15 Pressure-Vacuum Valve Setting ..................................................396
1.17 Protection of Structure .................................................................396
1.19 Aluminum Paint ...........................................................................396
1.21 Tank Design Pressures ...............................................................396
3 Special Requirements for Deep Loading ........................................397
3.1 Machinery Casings ......................................................................397
3.3 Access .........................................................................................397
3.5 Hatchways ...................................................................................397
3.7 Freeing Arrangements .................................................................397
3.9 Flooding.......................................................................................397
3.11 Ventilators....................................................................................397
5 Arrangement ...................................................................................397
5.1 Subdivision ..................................................................................397
5.3 Cofferdams ..................................................................................397
5.5 Gastight Bulkheads......................................................................398
5.7 Cathodic Protection .....................................................................398
5.9 Ports in Pump Room Bulkheads ..................................................398
5.11 Location of Cargo Oil Tank Openings..........................................399
5.13 Structural Fire Protection .............................................................399
5.15 Allocation of Spaces ....................................................................399
5.17 Access to Upper Parts of Ballast Tanks on Double Hull
Ship-Type Installations ................................................................399
5.19 Access to All Spaces in the Cargo Area ......................................399
5.21 Duct Keels or Pipe Tunnels in Double Bottom.............................399
5.23 Ventilation....................................................................................400
5.25 Pumping Arrangements ...............................................................400
5.27 Electrical Equipment ....................................................................400
5.29 Testing.........................................................................................400
5.31 Machinery Spaces .......................................................................400

392 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCITION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 SECTION 2 Hull Structure ..................................................................................... 401
1 Hull Girder Strength ........................................................................401
1.1 Normal-strength Standard ........................................................... 401
1.3 Still-water Bending Moment Calculations .................................... 401
3 Shell Plating ....................................................................................401
3.1 Amidships.................................................................................... 401
3.3 Sheer Strake ............................................................................... 403
3.5 Keel Plate .................................................................................... 403
3.7 Flat of Bottom Forward ................................................................ 403
3.9 Plating Outside Midship 0.4L....................................................... 403
3.11 Installations under 76 m (250 ft) .................................................. 403
3.13 Bilge Keels .................................................................................. 403
5 Deck Plating....................................................................................403
5.1 Amidships.................................................................................... 403
5.3 Installations under 76 m (250 ft) .................................................. 404
7 Bulkhead Plating .............................................................................404
7.1 Plating Thickness ........................................................................ 404
9 Long or Wide Tanks........................................................................404
9.1 Oiltight Bulkheads ....................................................................... 404
9.3 Nontight Bulkheads ..................................................................... 404
11 Double Bottom Structure.................................................................405
11.1 General........................................................................................ 405
11.3 Floors and Girders....................................................................... 405
11.5 Inner Bottom................................................................................ 405
11.7 Inner-bottom Longitudinals .......................................................... 405
11.9 Bottom Longitudinals ................................................................... 405
13 Deep Supporting Members .............................................................405
13.1 General........................................................................................ 405
13.3 Section Modulus.......................................................................... 406
13.5 Local Loading Conditions ............................................................ 407
13.7 Web Portion of Members............................................................. 407
13.9 Proportions .................................................................................. 408
13.11 Brackets ...................................................................................... 409
13.13 Stiffeners and Tripping Brackets ................................................. 409
13.15 Slots and Lightening Holes.......................................................... 409
13.17 Struts ........................................................................................... 410
15 Frames, Beams and Bulkhead Stiffeners .......................................410
15.1 Arrangement................................................................................ 410
15.3 Structural Sections ...................................................................... 411
15.5 Bilge Longitudinals ...................................................................... 412
15.7 Installations under 76 m (250 ft) .................................................. 412
17 Structure at Ends ............................................................................412

TABLE 1 Values of q for Ordinary Strength Steel ................................415

TABLE 2 Minimum Thickness for Web Portions of Members ..............415

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 FIGURE 1 Coefficients and Lengths for Transverses ............................412
FIGURE 2 Lengths with Brackets ...........................................................413
FIGURE 3 Spans of Members and Effective Lengths or Heights of
Brackets ................................................................................414

SECTION 3 Cargo Oil and Associated Systems .................................................. 416

APPENDIX 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Ship-Type

Installations ........................................................................................ 417
1 Introduction .....................................................................................417
3 Allowable Still-water Shearing Force ..............................................417
3.1 Considering the Side Shell Plating...............................................417
3.3 Considering Various Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating ....................417
3.5 Reduction for Local Loads ...........................................................418
5 Distribution Factors .........................................................................419
5.1 For Installations Having Two Longitudinal Bulkheads..................419
5.3 For Installations Having Three Longitudinal Bulkheads ...............419

FIGURE 1 Center Tank Region ..............................................................420

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PART Section 1: Introduction

5A
CHAPTER 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters
(492 feet) in Length

SECTION 1 Introduction

1 General

1.1 Classification (1 September 2007)

See Section 1-1-2 of this Guide.

1.3 Application (1995)

1.3.1 Structural Arrangement
The requirements contained in this section are intended to apply to longitudinally framed, all-
welded tank installations having proportions in accordance with 3-1-2/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules,
machinery aft and two or more continuous longitudinal bulkheads. Where the arrangement differs
from that described, the scantlings may require adjustment to provide equivalent strength.
1.3.2 Installations of Similar Type and Arrangement (December 2008)
The requirements are also intended to apply to other installations of similar type and arrangement.
Double hull ship-type installation: A monohull having full depth wing water ballast tanks or other
non-cargo spaces and full-breadth double bottom water ballast tanks or other non-cargo spaces
within cargo area to prevent liquid cargo outflow in stranding/collision. The size and capacity of
these wing/double bottom tanks or spaces are to comply with MARPOL 73/78 and national
Regulations, as applicable.
Double side, single bottom ship-type installation: A monohull having full depth wing water ballast
tanks or other non-cargo spaces and single bottom structure.
Single hull ship-type installation: A monohull that does not have double side and double bottom
spaces fitting the definition of Double hull ship-type installation.
1.3.3 Engineering Analysis
It is recommended that compliance with the following requirements be accomplished through a
detailed investigation of the magnitude and distribution of the imposed longitudinal and transverse
forces by using an acceptable method of engineering analysis. The following paragraphs are to be
used as a guide in determining scantlings. Where it can be shown that the calculated stresses using
the loading conditions specified in 5A-4-2/13.5 are less than those stated to be permissible,
consideration will be given to scantlings alternative to those recommended by this Section.

1.5 Detail Design of Internal Members

The detail design of internals is to follow the guidance given in 3-1-2/15 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
See also Appendix 5A-3-A2, “Guide for the Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-Type Installations”.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 1 Introduction 5A-4-1

1.7 Breaks
Special care is to be taken throughout the structure to provide against local stresses at the ends of the oil
spaces, superstructures, etc. The main longitudinal bulkheads are to be suitably tapered at their ends, and
effective longitudinal bulkheads in the poop are to be located to provide effective continuity between the
structure in way of and beyond the main cargo spaces. Where the break of a superstructure lies within the
midship 0.5L, the required shell and deck scantlings for the midship 0.4L may be required to be extended
to effect a gradual taper of structure, and the deck stringer plate and sheer strake are to be increased. See
5A-4-2/3.3 and 5A-4-2/5.1. Where the breaks of the forecastle or poop are appreciably beyond the midship
0.5L, the requirements of 5A-4-2/3.3 and 5A-4-2/5.1 may be modified.

1.9 Variations
Ship-type installations of special type or design differing from those described in the following will be
specially considered on the basis of equivalent strength.

1.11 Loading Guidance

Loading guidance is to be as required by 3-2-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.13 Higher-strength Materials

In general, applications of higher-strength materials for installations intended to carry oil in bulk are to
meet the requirements of this section, but may be modified generally as outlined in the following Sections:
• Section 3-2-4 of the Steel Vessel Rules for longitudinals
• Section 3-2-7 of the Steel Vessel Rules for longitudinals
• 3-2-8/9.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules for deep longitudinal members
• Section 3-2-10 of the Steel Vessel Rules for bulkhead plating
• Section 3-2-2 of the Steel Vessel Rules for shell plating
• Section 3-2-3 of the Steel Vessel Rules for deck plating
In such cases, the allowable shearing stresses will be specially considered.

1.15 Pressure-Vacuum Valve Setting (1993)

Where pressure-vacuum valves of cargo oil tanks are set at a pressure in excess of the pressure appropriate
to the length of the installation [see 5C-1-7/11.11.2 of the Steel Vessel Rules], the tank scantlings will be
specially considered. Particular attention is to be given to a higher pressure setting of pressure-vacuum valves
as may be required for the efficient operation of cargo vapor emission control systems, where installed.

1.17 Protection of Structure

For the protection of structure, see 3-2-18/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.19 Aluminum Paint

Paint containing aluminum is not to be used in cargo tanks, on tank decks in way of cargo tanks, in pump
rooms and cofferdams, or in any other area where cargo vapor may accumulate, unless it has been shown
by appropriate tests that the paint to be used does not increase the fire hazard.

1.21 Tank Design Pressures (1993)

The requirements of this section are for tanks intended for the carriage of liquid cargoes with specific
gravities not greater than 1.05. Where the specific gravity is greater than 1.05, the design heads, h, are to
be increased by the ratio of specific gravity to 1.05. See also 5C-1-7/11 of the Steel Vessel Rules with
regard to pressure-vacuum valve setting and liquid level control.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 1 Introduction 5A-4-1

3 Special Requirements for Deep Loading (2003)

Where an installation is intended to operate at the minimum freeboard allowed by the International
Convention on Load Lines, 1966, for Type-A installations, the conditions in 5A-4-1/3.1 through 5A-4-1/3.9
are to be complied with.

3.1 Machinery Casings

Machinery casings are normally to be protected by an enclosed poop or bridge, or by a deckhouse of equivalent
strength. The height of such structure is to be at least 1.8 m (5.9 ft) for installations up to and including 75 m
(246 ft) in length, and 2.3 m (7.5 ft) for installations 125 m (410 ft) or more in length. The minimum height
at intermediate lengths is to be obtained by interpolation. The bulkheads at the forward ends of these structures
are to be of not less scantlings than required for bridge-front bulkheads. (See 3-2-11/3 of the Steel Vessel Rules)
Machinery casings may be exposed, provided that they are specially stiffened and there are no openings
giving direct access from the freeboard deck to the machinery space. A door complying with the requirements
of 3-2-11/5.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules may, however, be permitted in the exposed machinery casing, provided
that it leads to a space or passageway which is as strongly constructed as the casing and is separated from
the engine room by a second door complying with 3-2-11/5.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules. The sill of the exterior
door is not to be less than 600 mm (23.5 in.), and of the second door not less than 230 mm (9 in.).

3.3 Access (1998)

Satisfactory arrangements are to be provided to safeguard the crew in reaching all parts used in the
necessary work of the installation. See 3-2-17/3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

3.5 Hatchways
Exposed hatchways on the freeboard and forecastle decks or on the tops of expansion trunks are to be
provided with effective watertight covers of steel. The use of material other than steel will be subject to
special consideration.

3.7 Freeing Arrangements

Ship-type installations with bulwarks are to have open rails fitted for at least half the length of the exposed
parts of the freeboard and superstructure deck or other effective freeing arrangements. The upper edge of
the sheer strake is to be kept as low as practicable. Where superstructures are connected by trunks, open
rails are to be fitted for the whole length of the exposed parts of the freeboard deck.

3.9 Flooding (2003)

For reference only, attention is called to the requirement of the International Convention on Load Lines,
1966, that tankers over 150 m (492 ft) in freeboard length (see 3-1-1/3.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules) to which
freeboards less than those based solely on Table B are assigned must be able to withstand the flooding of
certain compartments.

3.11 Ventilators (2003)

Ventilators to spaces below the freeboard deck are to be specially stiffened or protected by superstructures
or other efficient means. See also 3-2-17/9 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5 Arrangement (1994)
The arrangements of the installation are to comply with the requirements in Annex 1 to International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, with regard to segregated ballast tanks (Regulation 13),
their protective locations (Regulation 13E – where the option in Regulation 13F (4) or (5) is exercised),
collision or stranding considerations (Regulation 13F), hypothetical outflow of oil (Regulation 23), limitations
of size and arrangement of cargo tanks (Regulation 24) and slop tanks [Regulation 15 (2)(c)]. A valid
International Oil Pollution Certificate issued by the Administration maybe accepted as an evidence for
compliance with these requirements.

5.1 Subdivision
The length of the tanks, location of expansion trunks, and position of longitudinal bulkheads are to be
arranged to avoid excessive dynamic stresses in the hull structure.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 1 Introduction 5A-4-1

5.3 Cofferdams
Cofferdams, thoroughly oiltight and vented, having widths as required for ready access, are to be provided
for the separation of all cargo tanks from galleys and living quarters, general cargo spaces which are below
the uppermost continuous deck, boiler rooms, and spaces containing propulsion machinery or other
machinery where sources of ignition are normally present. Pump rooms, compartments arranged solely for
ballast and fuel-oil tanks may be considered as cofferdams in compliance with this requirement.

5.5 Gastight Bulkheads

Gastight bulkheads are to be provided for the isolation of all cargo pumps and piping from spaces containing
stoves, boilers, propulsion machinery, electric apparatus or machinery where sources of ignition are normally
present. These bulkheads are to comply with the requirements of Section 3-2-9 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.7 Cathodic Protection (1996)

5.7.1 Anode Installation Plan
Where sacrificial anodes are fitted in cargo or adjacent ballast tanks, their material, disposition and
details of their attachment are to be submitted for approval.
5.7.2 Magnesium and Magnesium Alloy Anodes
Magnesium and magnesium alloy anodes are not to be used.
5.7.3 Aluminum Anodes
Aluminum anodes may be used in cargo tanks of ship-type installations, only in locations where
the potential energy does not exceed 275 N-m (28 kgf-m, 200 ft-lb). The height of the anode is to
be measured from the bottom of the tank to the center of the anode, and its weight is to be taken as
the weight of the anode as fitted, including the fitting devices and inserts.
Where aluminum anodes are located on horizontal surfaces, such as bulkhead girders and stringers,
not less than 1 m (39 in.) wide and fitted with an upstanding flange or face flat projecting not less than
75 mm (3 in.) above the horizontal surface, the height of the anode may be measured from this surface.
Aluminum anodes are not to be located under tank hatches or Butterworth openings unless protected
from falling metal objects by adjacent tank structure.
5.7.4 Anode Attachment
Anodes are to have steel cores sufficiently rigid to avoid resonance in the anode support and are to
be designed to retain the anode even when it is wasted.
The steel cores are to be attached to the structure by means of continuous welds at least 75 mm
(3 in.) in length. Alternatively, they may be attached to separate supports by bolting. A minimum
of two bolts with locknuts are to be used.
The supports at each end of an anode are not to be attached to items of structure which are likely
to move independently.
Anode inserts and supports welded directly to the structure are to be arranged so that the welds are
clear of stress raisers.

5.9 Ports in Pump Room Bulkheads

Where fixed ports are fitted in the bulkheads between a pump room and the machinery or other safe space,
they are to maintain the gastight and watertight integrity of the bulkhead. The ports are to be effectively
protected against the possibility of mechanical damage and are to be fire resistant. Hinged port covers of
steel, having non-corrosive hinge pins and secured from the safe space side, are to be provided. The covers
are to provide strength and integrity equivalent to the unpierced bulkhead. Except where it may interfere
with the function of the port, the covers are to be secured in the closed position. The use of material other
than steel for the covers will be subject to special consideration. Lighting fixtures providing strength and
integrity equivalent to that of the port covers will be accepted as an alternative.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 1 Introduction 5A-4-1

5.11 Location of Cargo Oil Tank Openings

Cargo oil tank openings, including those for tank cleaning, which are not intended to be secured gastight at
all times during the normal operation of the installation are not to be located in enclosed spaces. For the purpose
of this requirement, spaces open on one side only are to be considered enclosed. See also 5A-4-1/5.21.

5.13 Structural Fire Protection

The applicable requirements of Section 3-4-1 of the Steel Vessel Rules are to be complied with.

5.15 Allocation of Spaces (1994)

5.15.1 Tanks Forward of the Collision Bulkhead
Tanks forward of the collision bulkhead are not to be arranged for the carriage of oil or other liquid
substances that are flammable.
5.15.2 Double Bottom Spaces and Wing Tank Spaces
For installations of 5000 tons deadweight and above, double bottom spaces or wing tanks adjacent
to cargo oil tanks are to be allocated for water ballast or spaces other than cargo and fuel oil tanks.

5.17 Access to Upper Parts of Ballast Tanks on Double Hull Ship-Type Installations (1993)
Where the structural configuration within the ballast tank is such that it will prevent access to upper parts
of tanks for required close-up examination [see 7-3-2/5.13.3 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction
(Part 7)] by conventional means, such as a raft on partly filled tank, permanent means of safe access is to
be provided. The details of access are to be submitted for review.
Where horizontal girders or diaphragm plates are fitted, they may be considered as a part of permanent
access. Alternative arrangements to the above may be considered upon submission.

5.19 Access to All Spaces in the Cargo Area (1 October 1994)

Access to cofferdams, ballast tanks, cargo tanks and other spaces in the cargo area is to be direct and from
the open deck. Access to double bottom spaces may be through a cargo pump room, deep cofferdam, pipe
tunnel or similar space, provided ventilation is suitable.
For access through horizontal openings, hatches or manholes, the access is to be of a size such as to allow a
person wearing a self-contained, air-breathing apparatus and protective equipment (see 4-7-3/15.5 of the
Steel Vessel Rules) to ascend or descend any ladder without obstruction and also to provide a clear opening
to facilitate the hoisting of an injured person from the bottom of the space. In general, the minimum clear
opening is not to be less than 600 mm (24 in.) by 600 mm (24 in.).
For access through vertical openings or manholes providing passage through the length and breadth of the
space, the minimum clear opening is not to be less than 600 mm (24 in.) by 800 mm (32 in.) at a height of
not more than 600 mm (24 in.) from the bottom shell plating, unless gratings or other footholds are provided.
For installations less than 5000 tons deadweight, smaller dimensions than above may be approved, provided
that the ability to remove an injured person can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.

5.21 Duct Keels or Pipe Tunnels in Double Bottom (2000)

Duct keels or pipe tunnels are not to pass into machinery spaces. Provision is to be made for at least two
exits to the open deck, arranged at a maximum distance from each other. One of these exits may lead to
the cargo pump room, provided that it is watertight and fitted with a watertight door complying with the
requirements of 3-2-9/9.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules and in addition with the following:
i) In addition to bridge operation, the watertight door is to be capable of being closed from outside
the main pump room entrance; and
ii) A notice is to be affixed at each operating position to the effect that the watertight door is to be kept
closed during normal operations of the installation, except when access to the pipe tunnel is required.
For the requirements of ventilation and gas detection in duct keels or pipe tunnels, see 5C-1-7/31.17.1 of
the Steel Vessel Rules.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 1 Introduction 5A-4-1

5.23 Ventilation (1996)

Holes are to be cut in every part of the structure where, otherwise, there might be a chance of gases being
“pocketed”. Special attention is to be paid to the effective ventilation of pump rooms and other working
spaces adjacent to the oil tanks. In general, floor plating is to be of an open type not to restrict the flow of
air. See 5C-1-7/17.1 and 5C-1-7/17.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Efficient means are to be provided for
clearing the oil spaces of dangerous vapors by means of artificial ventilation or steam. For the venting of
the cargo tanks, see 5C-1-7/11 and 5C-1-7/21 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.25 Pumping Arrangements

See applicable requirements in Section 5C-1-7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.27 Electrical Equipment (2004)

See 5C-1-7/31 and 5C-1-7/33 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.29 Testing
Requirements for testing are contained in Part 3, Chapter 7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5.31 Machinery Spaces

Machinery spaces aft are to be specially stiffened transversely. Longitudinal material at the break is also to
be specially considered to reduce concentrated stresses in this region. Longitudinal wing bulkheads are to
be incorporated with the machinery casings or with substantial accommodation bulkheads in the tween
decks and within the poop.

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PART Section 2: Hull Structure

5A
CHAPTER 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters
(492 feet) in Length

SECTION 2 Hull Structure

1 Hull Girder Strength

1.1 Normal-strength Standard

The longitudinal hull girder strength is to be not less than required by the equations given in 3-2-1/3.7 and
3-2-1/3.9 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.3 Still-water Bending Moment Calculations

For still-water bending moment calculations, see 3-2-1/3.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

3 Shell Plating

3.1 Amidships
Shell plating within the midship 0.4L is to be of not less thickness than is required for longitudinal hull
girder strength, or than that obtained from 5A-4-2/3.1.1 through 5A-4-2/3.1.3.
3.1.1 Bottom Shell Thickness
The thickness t of the bottom shell plating is not to be less than obtained from 5A-4-2/3.1.1(a) and
5A-4-2/3.1.1(b).
3.1.1(a)
t = S(L + 8.54)/(42L + 2318) mm
t = S(L + 28)/(42L + 7602) in.
where
S = frame spacing, in mm (in.), but is not to be taken as less than 88% of that given
in 3-2-5/1.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules or 864 mm (34 in.), whichever is less
L = length of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
Where the bottom hull girder section modulus SMA is greater than required by 3-2-1/3.7.1 of the
Steel Vessel Rules, and still-water bending moment calculations are submitted, the thickness of
bottom shell may be obtained from the above equation multiplied by the factor, Rb. Special
consideration will be given to installations constructed of higher-strength steel.

SM R
Rb = is not to be taken less than 0.85
SM A

where
SMR = hull girder section modulus required by 3-2-1/3.7.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules,
in cm2-m (in2-ft)
SMA = bottom hull girder section modulus of installation, in cm2-m (in2-ft), with the
greater of the bottom shell plating thickness obtained when applying Rn or Rb

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

3.1.1(b)

t = 0.006s 0.7 d + 0.02( L − 50) + 2.5 mm

t = 0.00331s 0.7d + 0.02( L − 164) + 0.1 in.

Where the bottom hull girder section modulus, SMA, is greater than required by 3-2-1/3.7.1 of the
Steel Vessel Rules, and still-water bending moment calculations are submitted, the thickness of
bottom shell may be obtained from the above equation multiplied by the factor, Rn. Special
consideration will be given to installations constructed of higher-strength steel.

1
Rn = is not to be taken less than 0.85
fp ⎛ SM R ⎞
⎜⎜1 − ⎟ +1
σ t ⎝ SM A ⎟⎠

where
fp = nominal permissible bending stress, in kN/cm2 (tf/cm2, Ltf/in2), as given in
3-2-1/3.7.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules
σt = KPt(s/t)2, in kN/cm2 (tf/cm2, Ltf/in2)
K = 0.34 for longitudinal framing
Pt = (0.638H + d)a kN/cm2 (tf/cm2, Ltf/in2)

a = 1.005 × 10-3 (1.025 × 10-4, 1.984 × 10-4)

t = bottom shell plating thickness required by the equation in 5A-4-2/3.1.1(b)
above, in mm (in.)
H = wave parameter defined in 3-2-2/3.13.2 of the Steel Vessel Rules
SMR and SMA are as defined in 5A-4-2/3.1.1(a) and L, s and d are as defined in 5A-4-2/3.1.2(b).
SMR /SMA is not to be taken as less than 0.70.

3.1.2 Side Shell Thickness

The thickness t of the side shell plating is not to be less than obtained from 5A-4-2/3.1.2(a) and
5A-4-2/3.1.2(b).
3.1.2(a)
t = 0.01L(6.5 + 21/D) mm
t = 0.0003937L(2.0 + 21/D) in.
3.1.2(b)

t = 0.0052s 0.7 d + 0.02 L + 2.5 mm

t = 0.00287s 0.7 d + 0.02 L + 0.1 in.

where
L = length of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules
d = molded draft to the summer load line, as defined 3-1-1/9 of the Steel Vessel
Rules, in m (ft)
D = molded depth, as defined in 3-1-1/7.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
s = spacing of bottom longitudinals or spacing of side longitudinals or vertical
side frames, in m (ft)

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

3.1.3 Shell Thickness

Where a double bottom is fitted and is not to be used for the carriage of cargo oil, the bottom shell
thickness may be in accordance with 3-2-2/3.13 of the Steel Vessel Rules, and if a double skin is
provided and is not to be used for the carriage of cargo oil, the side shell thickness may be in
accordance with 3-2-2/3.9 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

3.3 Sheer Strake

The thickness of the sheer strake is to be not less than the thickness of the side-shell plating, nor less than
required by 5A-4-2/5.1.2. The thickness is to be increased 25% in way of breaks of superstructures, but
this increase need not exceed 6.5 mm (0.25 in.). See 5A-4-1/1.7.

3.5 Keel Plate

The thickness of the flat plate keel is to be not less than that required for the bottom shell plating at that
location increased by 1.5 mm (0.06 in.), except where the submitted docking plan (see 3-1-2/11 of the Steel
Vessel Rules) specifies all docking blocks be arranged away from the keel.

3.7 Flat of Bottom Forward (2002)

Where the heavy weather ballast draft forward is less than 0.04L, the plating on the flat of bottom forward
of the location in 3-2-4/Table 1 of the Steel Vessel Rules is to be not less than required in 3-2-2/5.5 of the
Steel Vessel Rules. For this assessment, the heavy weather ballast draft forward is to be determined by using
segregated ballast tanks only.

3.9 Plating Outside Midship 0.4L

The bottom and side shell, including the sheer strake beyond the midship 0.4L, is generally to be in
accordance with the requirements of 3-2-2/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules and is to be gradually reduced from
the midship thickness to the end thickness.

3.11 Installations under 76 m (250 ft)

In installations under 76 m (250 ft) in length, the thickness of the bottom shell is to be obtained from
3-2-2/3 of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length.

3.13 Bilge Keels

Bilge keels are to comply with 3-2-2/13 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

5 Deck Plating

5.1 Amidships
The strength deck within the midship 0.4L is to be of not less thickness than is required to provide the deck
area necessary for longitudinal strength in accordance with 5A-4-2/1; nor is the thickness to be less than
determined by the following equations for thickness of deck plating.
5.1.1
L
t = 0.0016s L − 53 + 0.32 − 2.5 mm
D
L
t = 0.000883s L − 174 + 0.0126 − 0.1 in.
D
5.1.2
s (30.48 + L)
t= L < 150 m
4981 + 40 L
s (100 + L )
t= L < 492 ft
16339 + 40 L

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

where
t = plate thickness, in mm (in.)
s = spacing of deck longitudinals, in mm (in.)
L = length of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/3.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
D = molded depth, as defined in 3-1-1/7.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
The thickness of the stringer plate is to be increased 25% in way of breaks of superstructures, but
this increase need not exceed 6.5 mm (0.25 in.). See 5A-4-1/1.7. The required deck area is to be
maintained throughout the midship 0.4L of the installation or beyond the end of a superstructure at
or near the midship 0.4L point. From these locations to the ends of the installation, the deck area
may be gradually reduced in accordance with 3-2-1/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Where bending
moment envelope curves are used to determine the required hull girder section modulus, the
foregoing requirements for strength deck area may be modified in accordance with 3-2-1/11.3 of
the Steel Vessel Rules. Where so modified, the strength deck area is to be maintained a suitable
distance from superstructure breaks and is to be extended into the superstructure to provide
adequate structural continuity.

5.3 Installations under 76 m (250 ft)

In installations under 76 m (250 ft) in length, the thickness of deck plating is to be obtained from 3-2-3/3
of the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Steel Vessels Under 90 meters (295 feet) in Length.

7 Bulkhead Plating

7.1 Plating Thickness

The plating is to be of not less thickness than is required for deep-tank bulkheads by 3-2-10/3 of the Steel
Vessel Rules, where h is measured from the lower edge of the plate to the top of the hatch or to a point located
1.22 m (4 ft) above the deck at side amidships, whichever is greater. The upper strakes are to be increased
above these requirements to provide a proper margin for corrosion. It is recommended that the top strake of
a complete longitudinal bulkhead be not less than 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) in installations of 91.5 m (300 ft) length,
and 12.5 mm (1/2 in.) in installations of 150 m (492 ft) length, and that the strake below the top strake be
not less than 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) in installations of 122 m (400 ft) length and 10.5 mm (13/32 in.) in installations
of 150 m (492 ft) in length, with intermediate thicknesses for intermediate lengths. See also 5A-4-1/1.15.

9 Long or Wide Tanks

9.1 Oiltight Bulkheads

In installations fitted with long tanks, the scantlings of oiltight transverse bulkheads in smooth-sided tanks
are to be specially considered when the spacing between tight bulkheads, nontight bulkheads or partial
bulkhead exceeds 12 m (40 ft) in the case of corrugated-type construction, or 15 m (50 ft) in the case of
flat-plate type of construction. Special consideration is to be given to the scantlings of longitudinal oiltight
bulkheads forming the boundaries of wide tanks. Where the length of the smooth-sided tanks exceeds 0.1L
or the breadth exceeds 0.6B, nontight bulkheads are to be fitted, unless calculations are submitted to prove
that no resonance due to sloshing will occur in service.
Alternatively, reinforcements to the bulkheads and decks, without nontight bulkheads, may be determined
by an acceptable method of engineering analysis.

9.3 Nontight Bulkheads

Nontight bulkheads are to be fitted in line with transverse webs, bulkheads or other structures with
equivalent rigidity. They are to be suitably stiffened. Openings in the nontight bulkhead are to have
generous radii and their aggregate area is not to exceed 33%, nor be less than 10% of the area of the
nontight bulkhead. Plating is to be of not less thickness than that required by 5A-4-2/Table 2. Section
moduli of stiffeners and webs may be one half of the requirements for watertight bulkheads in 3-2-9/5.3
and 3-2-9/5.7 of the Steel Vessel Rules. Alternatively, the opening ratio and scantlings may be determined
by an acceptable method of engineering analysis.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

11 Double Bottom Structure

11.1 General
Where a double bottom is fitted, it is generally to be arranged with a centerline girder, or equivalent, and,
where necessary, with full depth side girders similar to Section 3-2-4 of the Steel Vessel Rules. The
arrangements and scantlings of the double bottom structure as given in Section 3-2-4 of the Steel Vessel
Rules may be used, except where modified by this section. Increases in scantlings may be required where
tanks other than double bottom tanks are designed to be empty with the installation in a loaded condition.
Alternatively, consideration will be given to arrangements and scantlings determined by an acceptable
method of engineering analysis, provided that the stresses are in compliance with 5A-4-2/13. Where ducts
forming a part of the double bottom structure are used as a part of the piping system for transferring cargo
oil or ballast, the structural integrity of the duct is to be safeguarded by suitable relief valves or other
arrangement to limit the pressure in the system to the value for which it is designed.

11.3 Floors and Girders

In general, the thickness of floors and girders is to be as required by Section 3-2-4 of the Steel Vessel
Rules. Where tanks adjacent to the double bottom are designed to be empty with the installation in a loaded
condition, the floors and girders in the double bottom are to be specially considered. Where the heavy
weather ballast draft forward is less than 0.04L the fore-end arrangement of floors and side girders is to
comply with 3-2-4/13.1 and 3-2-4/13.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

11.5 Inner Bottom

The thickness of the inner-bottom plating is to be not less than required by Section 3-2-10 of the Steel
Vessel Rules, with a head to 1.22 m (4 ft) above the deck at side amidships or to the top of the hatch, whichever
is greater.

11.7 Inner-bottom Longitudinals

Scantlings for inner-bottom longitudinals are to be not less than required in 5A-4-2/15.3, using c = 1.00.
Where effective struts are fitted between inner-bottom and bottom longitudinals, the inner-bottom longitudinals
are not to be less than required in 5A-4-2/15.3, using c = 0.55, or 85% of the requirement in 3-2-4/11.3 of
the Steel Vessel Rules for bottom longitudinals, using c = 0.715, whichever is greater.

11.9 Bottom Longitudinals

Scantlings for bottom longitudinals are to be not less than required by 3-2-4/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules.
Where effective struts are fitted between bottom and inner-bottom longitudinals, the bottom longitudinals
are to be not less than 90% of the inner-bottom longitudinal requirement in 5A-4-2/15.3, using c = 0.55, or
the requirement in 3-2-4/11.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules, using c = 0.715, whichever is greater. Where the
heavy weather ballast draft forward is less than 0.04L, the flat of bottom-forward longitudinals are to be
not less than required by 3-2-4/13.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

13 Deep Supporting Members

13.1 General
Webs, girders and transverses which support longitudinal frames, beams or bulkhead stiffeners, generally
are to be in accordance with the following paragraphs. It is recommended that deep girders be arranged in
line with webs and stringers to provide complete planes of stiffness. In installations without a longitudinal
centerline bulkhead or effective centerline supporting member, a center vertical keel having sufficient
strength to serve as one line of support is to be provided where centerline keel blocks are used in
drydocking operations.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

13.3 Section Modulus

Each member is to have a section modulus, SM, in cm3 (in3), not less than that obtained from the following
equation:
SM = M/f cm3 (in3)
where
M = maximum bending moment along the member between the toes of the end brackets as
computed by an acceptable method of engineering analysis, in kN-cm (kgf-cm, Ltf-in.)
f = permissible maximum bending stress, as determined from the following table.
Values of f (Ordinary-strength Steel)
kN/cm2 kgf/cm2 Ltf/in2
Transverse members 13.9 1420 9
Longitudinal members 9.3 947 6
Note: Local axial loads on webs, girders or transverses are to be accounted for by reducing the maximum permissible
bending stress.

In addition, the following equation is to be used in obtaining the required section modulus SM.

SM = 4.74chs l 2b cm3 SM = 0.0025chs l 2b in3

c for bottom and deck transverses as shown in 5A-4-2/Figure 1.
= 2.00 for bottom girders, vertical webs on transverse bulkheads, horizontal girders
and stringers
= 2.50 for deck girders
c for side transverses and vertical webs on longitudinal bulkheads
= 1.50 without struts
= 0.85 with one horizontal strut
= 0.65 with two horizontal struts
= 0.55 with three horizontal struts
= Where a centerline longitudinal bulkhead is fitted, the value of c for side-shell
transverses and vertical webs on longitudinal wing bulkheads will be subject to
special consideration.
Where no struts or other effective supporting arrangements are provided for the wing-tank vertical transverses,
the deck transverses in the wing tanks are to have section modulus values not less than 70% of that for the
vertical side transverses. In no case are the deck transverses in the wing tank to have less than 70% of the
section modulus for the corresponding members in the center tanks.
s = spacing of transverses, or width of area supported, in m (ft)
h = bottom transverses and girders of the depth of the installation, D, in m (ft). See also
5A-4-1/1.15.
= side transverses and vertical webs on longitudinal bulkheads, vertical webs on transverse
bulkheads and horizontal girders and stringers, the vertical distance, in m (ft) from the
center of the area supported to a point located 1.22 m (4 ft) above the deck at side
amidships in installations 61 m (200 ft) in length, and to a point located 2.44 m (8 ft)
above the deck at side amidships in installations 122 m (400 ft) in length and above;
for intermediate lengths, intermediate points may be used. The value of h is to be not
less than the vertical distance from the center of the area supported to the tops of the
hatches, in m (ft). See also 5A-4-1/1.15.
= deck transverses and girders, in m (ft), is to be measured as indicated above for side
transverses, etc., except that in no case is it to be less than 15% of the depth of installation.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

lb = span of the member, in m (ft), measured between the points of support as indicated in
5A-4-2/Figure 1. Where effective brackets are fitted, the length lb is to be measured
as indicated in 5A-4-2/Figure 2a and 5A-4-2/Figure 2b; nor is the length for deck and
bottom transverses in wing tanks to be less than 0.125B or one-half the breadth of the
wing tank, whichever is the greater. Where a centerline longitudinal bulkhead is also
fitted, this minimum length will be specially considered.

13.5 Local Loading Conditions

In addition to withstanding the loads imposed by longitudinal hull girder shearing and bending action, the
structure is to be capable of withstanding the following local loading conditions without exceeding the
permissible bending and average shearing stresses stated in 5A-4-2/13.3 and 5A-4-2/13.7.
• Center tank loaded; wing tanks empty; 1/3 summer load line draft
• Center tank empty; wing tanks loaded; 1/3 summer load line draft
• Center and wing tanks loaded; 1/3 summer load line draft
Note: For loaded tanks, the head h is to be measured to a point located 2.44 m (8 ft) above the deck at side, except in the
case of installations less than 122 m (400 ft) in length, as explained in 5A-4-2/13.3. See also 5A-4-1/1.15.
In addition, where the arrangement of the installation involves tanks of relatively short length, or tanks
designated as permanent ballast tanks, it is recommended that the following appropriate loading conditions
also be investigated:
• Center tank loaded; wing tanks empty; summer load line draft
• Center tank empty; wing tank loaded; summer load line draft
In all cases, the structure is to be reviewed for other realistic loading conditions associated with the installation’s
intended service.

13.7 Web Portion of Members

The net sectional area of the web portion of the member, including effective brackets where applicable, is
not to be less than that obtained from the following equation.
A = F/q cm2 (in2)
where
F = shearing force at the point under consideration, kN (kgf, Ltf)
q = allowable average shearing stress in the web of the supporting member, as
determined from 5A-4-2/Table 1.
For longitudinal supporting members, the value of q is to be 80% of the value shown in 5A-4-2/Table 1.
Where individual panels exceed the limits given in 5A-4-2/Table 1, detailed calculations are to be submitted
in support of adequate strength against buckling.
The thickness of the web portions of the members is not to be less than given in 5A-4-2/Table 2 for
minimum thickness. Reduced thickness may be considered for higher strength materials if the buckling and
fatigue strength is proven adequate.
It is recommended that compliance with the foregoing requirement be accomplished through a detailed
investigation of the magnitude and distribution of the imposed shearing forces by means of an acceptable
method of engineering analysis. Where this is not practicable, the following equations may be used as
guides in approximating the shearing forces.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

F = csD(Kls _ he) for bottom transverses

⎡ ⎛ l h ⎞⎤
F = cs ⎢ K L l s h − he ⎜ h + s − e ⎟⎥ for lower side transverses or vertical
⎣ ⎝ 2 2 ⎠⎦ transverses on longitudinal bulkheads
⎡ ⎛ l h ⎞⎤
F = cs ⎢ K U l s h − he ⎜⎜ h − s + e ⎟⎟⎥ for upper side transverses or vertical
⎣ ⎝ 2 2 ⎠⎦ transverses on longitudinal bulkheads
where
c = 10.05 (1025, 0.0285)
s = spacing of transverses, in m (ft)
D = depth of installation, as defined in 3-1-1/7 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
B = breadth of installation as defined in 3-1-1/5 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in m (ft)
ls = span of transverse, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-4-2/Figure 3
he = effective length or height of bracket, in m (ft), as indicated in 5A-4-2/Figure 3. In no
case is he to be greater than 0.33ls
h = vertical distance, in m (ft), as defined in 5A-4-2/13.3, for the particular member in
question. See also 5A-4-1/1.15.
K = bottom members, K is as shown in 5A-4-2/Figure 3 for the point under consideration
KL = lower side transverses or vertical transverses on longitudinal bulkheads
= 0.65 without struts
= 0.55 with one strut
= 0.43 with two struts
= 0.38 with three or more struts
KU = upper side transverses or vertical transverses on longitudinal bulkheads
= 0.35 without struts
= 0.25 with one strut
= 0.20 with two struts
= 0.17 with three or more struts
Where a centerline longitudinal bulkhead is fitted, the tabulated values of KL and KU will be specially
considered.
The net sectional area of the lower side transverse, as required by the foregoing paragraphs, should be
extended up to the lowest strut, or to 0.33ls, whichever point is the higher. The required sectional area of
the upper side transverse may be extended over the upper 0.33ls of the member.

13.9 Proportions
Webs, girders and transverses are to be not less in depth than required by the following, where the required
depth of member is expressed as a percentage of the span.
12.5% for side and deck transverses, for webs and horizontal girders of longitudinal bulkheads, and for
stringers.
20% for deck and bottom centerline girders, bottom transverses, and webs and horizontal girders of
transverse bulkheads.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

The depth of side transverses and vertical webs is to be measured at the middle of lb, as defined in 5A-4-2/13.3,
and the depth may be tapered from bottom to top by an amount not exceeding 8 mm per 100 mm (1 in. per ft).
In no case are the depths of members to be less than three (3) times the depth of the slots for longitudinals.
The thickness of webs is to be not less than required by 5A-4-2/13.7, nor is it to be less than the minimum
thickness given in 5A-4-2/Table 2.

13.11 Brackets
Brackets are generally to be of the same thickness as the member supported, are to be flanged at their edges
and are to be suitably stiffened.

13.13 Stiffeners and Tripping Brackets

13.13.1 Web Stiffeners
Stiffeners are to be fitted for the full depth of the deep supporting member at the following intervals,
unless specially approved based on the structural stability of deep supporting members:

Location Interval
Bottom every longitudinal
Side every second longitudinal
Bulkhead every second stiffener
Deck every third longitudinal

Special attention is to be given to the stiffening of web plate panels close to change in contour of
web or where higher strength steel is used.
The moment of inertia, I, of the above stiffener, with the effective width of plating not exceeding s
or 0.33l, whichever is less, is not to be less than the following equations:
I = 0.19lt3 (l/s)3 cm4 (in4) for l/s ≤ 2.0
I = 0.38lt3 (l/s)2 cm4 (in4) for l/s > 2.0
where
l = length of stiffener between effective supports, in cm (in.)
t = required thickness of web plating, in cm (in.), but need not be greater than s/80
s = spacing of stiffeners, in cm (in.)
Web stiffeners are to be attached to the deep webs, longitudinals and stiffeners by continuous fillet
welds.
Where depth/thickness ratio of the web plating exceeds 200, a stiffener is to be fitted parallel to
the flange at approximately one-quarter depth of the web from the face plate. Special attention is
to be given to providing for compressive loads.
13.13.2 Tripping Bracket
Tripping brackets, arranged to support the flanges, are to be fitted at intervals of about 3 m (10 ft),
close to change of section, and in line with or as near as practicable to the flanges of struts.

13.15 Slots and Lightening Holes

Slots and lightening holes, where cut in webs, are to be kept well clear of other openings. The slots are to
be neatly cut and well rounded. Lightening holes are to be located midway between the slots and at about
one-third of the depth of the web from the shell, deck or bulkhead. Their diameters are not to exceed one-
fourth the depth of the web. In general, lightening holes are not to be cut in those areas of webs, girders
and transverses where the shear stresses are high. Similarly, slots for longitudinals are to be provided with
filler plates or other reinforcement in these same areas. Where openings are required in high shear stress
areas, they are to be effectively compensated. Continuous fillet welds are to be provided at the connection
of the filler plates to the web and of the filler plate to the longitudinals.

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Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

13.17 Struts (1994)

Where one or more struts are fitted as an effective supporting system for the wing-tank members, they are
to be spaced so as to divide the supported members into spans of approximately equal length. The value of
W for struts is obtained from the following equation:
W = nbhs kN (tf, Ltf)
where
n = 10.5 (1.07, 0.03)
b = mean breadth, in m (ft), of the area supported
h = vertical distance, in m (ft), from the center of the area supported to a point located
1.22 m (4 ft) above the deck at side amidships in installations 61 m (200 ft) in length
and to a point located 2.44 m (8 ft) above the deck at side amidships in installations
122 m (400 ft) in length and above; for intermediate lengths, intermediate points may
be used. The value of h is not to be less than the vertical distance, in m (ft), from the
center of the area supported to the tops of the hatches.
The permissible load of struts, Wa, is to be determined by the following equation and is to be equal to or
greater than the calculated W as determined above.

Wa = (k _ nl/r)A kN (tf, Ltf)

where
k = 12.09 (1.232, 7.83) ordinary strength steel
= 16.11 (1.643, 10.43) HT32
= 18.12 (1.848, 11.73) HT36
l = unsupported span of the strut, in cm (ft)
r = least radius of gyration, in cm (in.)
A = cross sectional area of the strut, in cm (in.)
n = 0.0444 (0.00452, 0.345) ordinary strength steel
= 0.0747 (0.00762, 0.581) HT32
= 0.0900 (0.00918, 0.699) HT36
Special attention is to be paid to the end connections for tension members, as well as to the stiffening
arrangements at their ends, to provide effective means for transmission of the compressive forces into the
webs. In addition, horizontal stiffeners are to be located in line with and attached to the first longitudinal
above and below the ends of the struts.

15 Frames, Beams and Bulkhead Stiffeners

15.1 Arrangement
The sizes of the longitudinals or stiffeners as given in this paragraph are based on the transverses or webs
being regularly spaced. Longitudinals or horizontal stiffeners are to be continuous or attached at their ends
to effectively develop their sectional area. This requirement may be modified in the case of stiffeners on
transverse bulkheads. Longitudinals and stiffeners are to be attached to the transverses or webs to
effectively transmit the loads onto these members. Consideration is to be given to the effective support of
the plating in compression when selecting the size and spacing of longitudinals.

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

15.3 Structural Sections

15.3.1 Section Modulus
Each structural section for longitudinal frames, beams or bulkhead stiffeners, in association with
the plating to which it is attached, is to have a section modulus SM not less than obtained from the
following equation:
SM = 7.8chsl2 cm3 SM = 0.0041chsl2 in3
where
c = 1.40 for bottom longitudinals
= 0.95 for side longitudinals
= 1.25 for deck longitudinals
= 1.00 for vertical frames
= 1.00 for horizontal or vertical stiffeners on transverse bulkheads and
vertical stiffeners on longitudinal bulkheads
= 0.90 for horizontal stiffeners on longitudinal bulkheads.
h = distance, in m (ft), from the longitudinals, or from the middle of l for vertical
stiffeners, to a point located 1.22 m (4 ft) above the deck at side amidships in
installations of 61 m (200 ft) length, and to a point located 2.44 m (8 ft) above
the deck at side amidships in installations of 122 m (400 ft) length and above;
at intermediate lengths, h is to be measured to intermediate heights above the
side of the installation. The value of h for bulkhead stiffeners and deck
longitudinals is not to be less than the distance, in m (ft), from the longitudinal,
or stiffener to the top of the hatch. See also 5A-4-1/1.15.
s = spacing of longitudinals or stiffeners, in m (ft)
l = length between supporting points, in m (ft)
The section modulus SM of the bottom longitudinals may be obtained from the above equation
multiplied by R1 where,
15.3.1(a) The bottom hull girder section modulus, SMA, is greater than required by 3-2-1/3.7.1, at
least throughout 0.4L amidships,
15.3.1(b) Still-water bending moment calculations are submitted, and
15.3.1(c) Adequate buckling strength is maintained.
The bottom longitudinals with this modified section modulus are to meet all other Rule requirements.
R = n/[n + f (1 _ SM /SM )]
1 p R A but is not to be taken less than 0.69
where
n = 7.69 (0.784, 4.978)
fp = nominal permissible bending stress, as given in 3-2-1/3.7.1 of the Steel
Vessel Rules
SMR = hull girder section modulus required by 3-2-1/3.7.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules,
in cm2-m (in2-ft)
SMA = bottom hull girder section modulus, cm2-m (in2-ft), with the longitudinals
modified as permitted above.
Where the heavy weather ballast draft forward is less than 0.04L, the flat of bottom forward
longitudinals are not to be less than required by 3-2-4/13.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules
15.3.2 Web Thickness (1993)
In addition to the requirements in 3-1-2/13.5.2 of the Steel Vessel Rules, the thickness of web
portion is to be not less than the thickness given in 5A-4-2/Table 2, reduced by 1.0 mm (0.04 in.).

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

15.5 Bilge Longitudinals

Longitudinals around the bilge are to be graded in size from that required for the lowest side longitudinals
to that required for the bottom longitudinals.

15.7 Installations under 76 m (250 ft)

In installations under 76 m (250 ft) in length, the coefficient c for use in the above equation for bottom
longitudinals may be reduced to 1.30.

17 Structure at Ends
Beyond the cargo spaces, the scantlings of the structure may be as required in way of the oil spaces, in
association with the values of h in the various equations measured to the upper deck, except that in way of
deep tanks, h is to be not less than the distance, in m (ft), measured to the top of the overflow. In way of
dry spaces, the deck beams and longitudinals are to be as required in Section 3-2-7 of the Steel Vessel
Rules. The value of h for deck transverses in way of dry spaces is to be obtained from Section 3-2-7 of the
Steel Vessel Rules and the section modulus SM is to be obtained from the following equation:
SM = 4.74chsl2 cm3 SM = 0.0025chsl2 in3
where
c = 1.23
s = spacing of transverses, in m (ft)
l = span, in m (ft)
The transition from longitudinal framing to transverse framing is to be effected in as gradual a manner as
possible, and it is recommended that a system of closely spaced transverse floors be adopted in way of the
main machinery.

FIGURE 1
Coefficients and Lengths for Transverses
L
C
c = 2.50 c = 3.50
L bhd
C
c = 1.80

lb lb
lb

lb

lb lb lb

c = 2.40
c = 1.50
c = 1.75 for CL girder only
c = 1.15 for three girders
a b
L
C
c = 1.80

lb

lb

c = 1.50
c

412 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

FIGURE 2
Lengths with Brackets

lb

d/4

he

Where face plate area on the member is

carried along the face of the bracket
a

lb

d/2

he

Where face plate area on the member is not

carried along the face of the bracket, and
where face plate area on the bracket is at
least one-half the face plate area on the
member
b

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

FIGURE 3
Spans of Members and Effective Lengths or Heights of Brackets
L
C L bhd
C

he

ls ls ls
ls

he he
he
he

K = 0.60 K = 0.60 K = 0.25 B/ls

but not less than 0.50
a b

L
C L
C

ls ls

he

K = 0.50
K = 0.43
c d

414 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Section 2 Hull Structure 5A-4-2

TABLE 1
Values of q for Ordinary Strength Steel
s = spacing of stiffeners or depth of web plate, whichever is the lesser, in cm (in.)
t = thickness of web plate, in cm (in.)
s/t kN/cm2 kgf/cm2 Ltf/in2
80 and less 8.5 870 5.5
160 maximum 5.4 550 3.5

TABLE 2
Minimum Thickness for Web Portions of Members
L is the length of the installation, in m (ft), as defined in 3-1-1/3 of the Steel Vessel Rules. For installations of lengths
intermediate to those shown in the table, the thickness is to be obtained by interpolation.
L t L t
meters mm feet in.

61 8.5 200 0.34

82 9 270 0.36
118 10 390 0.40
150 11 492 0.44

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PART Section 3: Cargo Oil and Associated Systems

5A
CHAPTER 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters
(492 feet) in Length

SECTION 3 Cargo Oil and Associated Systems

See Section 5C-1-7 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

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PART Appendix 1: Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Ship-Type Installations

5A
CHAPTER 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters
(492 feet) in Length

APPENDIX 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for

Ship-Type Installations

1 Introduction
This Guide is a supplement to 3-2-1/3.5 of the Steel Vessel Rules and is intended to provide a simplified
method for determining the allowable still-water shearing forces, in accordance with the Rule requirements,
for ship-type installations having two or three longitudinal oil-tight bulkheads, where the wing bulkheads
are located no closer than 20% of the breadth from the side shell.
The computational method presented in this Guide is deduced from shear flow and three-dimensional finite
element calculation results and is applicable to ship-type installations having single bottom construction
with deep bottom transverses and swash transverse bulkheads. For ship-type installations having either
double bottom, double skin or deep bottom girders, the allowable still-water shearing force will be subject
to special consideration.
With the present Rule side shell thickness, local load effects are not considered for the side shell, as the
longitudinal bulkhead generally governs the permissible shear force at any particular location.

3 Allowable Still-water Shearing Force

The allowable still-water shearing force, in kN (tf, Ltf), at any transverse section of the installation is the
lesser of the SWSF obtained from 5A-4-A1/3.1 and 5A-4-A1/3.3 with any applicable modification as
specified in 5A-4-A1/3.5.

3.1 Considering the Side Shell Plating

0.935 f s t s D s _
SWSF = Fw
Ns

3.3 Considering Various Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating

1.05 f s t b Db _
SWSF = Fw
K1 N b
In general, in the absence of a local load, two locations need be checked for each bulkhead: the lower edge
of the thinnest strake and at the neutral axis of the section. When a local load is present, the SWSF should
be computed at the base of each longitudinal bulkhead strake for use with 5A-4-A1/3.5. For installations
having three longitudinal bulkheads, the SWSF should be calculated considering both the centerline and
wing bulkheads.
Fw = wave induced shear force, as specified by 3-2-1/3.5.3 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in kN
(tf, Ltf)
fs = permissible total shear stress, as specified in 3-2-1/3.9.1 of the Steel Vessel Rules, in
kN/cm2 (tf/cm2, Ltf/in2)
ts = thickness of the side shell plating at the neutral axis of the section in, cm (in.)

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Appendix 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Tankers 5A-4-A1

tb = thickness of the centerline or wing longitudinal bulkhead plating at the location under
consideration, in cm (in.)
Ds = depth of the hull girder at the section under consideration, in cm (in.)
Db = depth of the longitudinal bulkhead at the section under consideration, in cm (in.)
Ns, Nb = shear distribution factors for side shell and longitudinal bulkheads, respectively, and
may be determined by 5A-4-A1/5.
K1 = 1 + y/(8 y )
y = distance measured from the deck or bottom (depending on whether the strake
considered is above or below the neutral axis of the section) to the lower edge of the
bulkhead strake under consideration, in cm (in.)
y = distance measured from the deck (bottom) to the neutral axis of the section, when the
strake under consideration is above (below) the neutral axis, in cm (in.)

3.5 Reduction for Local Loads

When the loading head in the center tank is different from that in an adjacent wing tank, then the allowable
SWSF computed at the various bulkhead locations in 5A-4-A1/3.3 may have to be reduced, as follows.
3.5.1
For the case of a two longitudinal bulkhead installation, when the center tank head is less than that
in any adjacent wing tank, no reduction need be made.
3.5.2
For two and three bulkhead installations, when the center tank head exceeds that in a wing tank, within
the center tank region, a hull girder shear force reduction, R, should be computed at the corresponding
locations on the bulkheads used in 5A-4-A1/3.3. These reductions should be determined for both
wing and centerline bulkheads, and may be calculated as follows.
⎛ 2.1K 2 N w ⎞
R = Wc ⎜⎜ − 1⎟⎟ kN (tf, Ltf)
⎝ 3K 1 N b ⎠
If 2.1K2Nw is less than or equal to 3K1Nb, R should be taken as zero.

K1, Nb = as previously defined

Nw = distribution factor for local loads, as specified in 5A-4-A1/5
K2 = 1 + (A/Ab)
A = total area of the longitudinal bulkhead plating above the lower edge of the
strake under consideration, in cm2 (in2)
Ab = total area of the longitudinal bulkhead plating under consideration, in cm2 (in2)
Wc = effective local load which may be denoted by Wc1 and Wc2, at the fore and aft
ends of the center tank, respectively

wbc ⎡ ⎛ l1 ⎞ l 22 ⎤
Wc1 = ⎢hc1l 1 ⎜ l 2 + ⎟ + hc 2 ⎥
l c ⎣⎢ ⎝ 2⎠ 2 ⎥⎦

wbc ⎡ l 12 ⎛ l ⎞⎤
Wc2 = h
⎢ c1 + hc 2 l 2 ⎜ l 1 + 2 ⎟ ⎥
lc ⎣⎢ 2 ⎝ 2 ⎠ ⎦⎥

w = density of the cargo (ballast), in kgf/m3 (tf/m3, Ltf/ft3)

lc, bc = length and breadth, respectively, of the center tank, in m (ft)

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Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Appendix 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Tankers 5A-4-A1

hc1, hc2 = excess fluid heads in the center tank. Should the head in a wing tank exceed
that in the center tank, see 5A-4-A1/3.5.3 below.
l1, l2 = longitudinal distances from the respective center tank ends to the succeeding
wing tank transverse bulkheads
3.5.3
When the head in wing tanks exceeds that in the center tank, within the center tank region, hc
should be taken as zero for two longitudinal bulkhead installations. However, a reduction should
be applied only to the SWSF computed while considering the centerline bulkhead in 5A-4-A1/3.3.
This reduction may be computed by the equations in 5A-4-A1/3.5.2, except that bc is to be taken
as the combined breadth of both wing tanks (bc = 2bw), and hc is the excess head in the wing tank
above that in the center tank.
3.5.4
Where adjacent tanks are loaded with cargoes of different densities, the heads in 5A-4-A1/3.5 are
to be corrected to account for the difference in density.

5 Distribution Factors
The distribution factors Ns, Nb and Nw may be determined by the following equations.

5.1 For Installations Having Two Longitudinal Bulkheads

Nb = 0.32 _ 0.06(As/Ab)
N = 0.5 _ N
s b

Nw = 0.31(n _ 1)/n
where
As = total projected area of the side shell plating, in cm2 (in2)
Ab = as previously defined
n = total number of transverse frame spaces in the center tank

5.3 For Installations Having Three Longitudinal Bulkheads

Nb (center) = 0.26 _ 0.044(As /Ab) + C1
N (wing) = 0.25 _ 0.044(A /A ) _ C
b s b 2

Ns = 0.5 _ 0.5Nb (center) _ Nb (wing)

Nw (center) = (0.7N + 0.15)(n _ 1)/n
b

Nw (wing) = (1.5Nb _ 0.1)(n _ 1)/n

As, Ab, n are as previously defined, however, Ab should be either the center or wing bulkhead area, depending
on which is being considered.
C1 = 0 for K > 0.9
C1 = 0.1 (1 _ K) _ 0.005 for K ≤ 0.9
K = Ab (wing)/Ab (center)
C2 = 0 for K > 0.9
C2 = 0.04 (1 _ K) for K ≤ 0.9

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 419
Part 5A Ship-Type Installations
Chapter 4 Ship-Type Installations Under 150 meters (492 feet) in Length
Appendix 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Tankers 5A-4-A1

FIGURE 1
Center Tank Region
lc

l2 l1

bw

Longitudinal wing bulkhead

bc
Centerline bulkhead

420 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Part 5B: Other Installation Types

5B
Other Installation Types

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Column-Stabilized Installations ........................................................ 422
Section 1 General Requirements.......................................................424
Section 2 Structures...........................................................................428
Section 3 Stability ..............................................................................437
Section 4 Machinery and Systems.....................................................438

CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms....................................................................... 440

Section 1 General Requirements.......................................................442
Section 2 Stability ..............................................................................446
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures...............................................448
Section 4 Other Structures.................................................................457
Section 5 Materials and Welding .......................................................462
Section 6 Machinery and Systems.....................................................464

CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations ............................................................................... 466

Section 1 General Requirements.......................................................468
Section 2 Stability ..............................................................................472
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures...............................................476
Section 4 Other Structures.................................................................486
Section 5 Materials and Welding .......................................................487
Section 6 Machinery and Systems.....................................................489

APPENDIX 1 Wave Impact Criteria.......................................................................... 492

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PART Chapter 1: Column-Stabilized Installations

5B
CHAPTER 1 Column-Stabilized Installations

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General Requirements ....................................................................... 424
1 General ...........................................................................................424
3 Definitions .......................................................................................424
5 Loading Criteria...............................................................................424
5.1 Loads...........................................................................................424
5.3 Environmental Conditions............................................................425
7 Global Performance Analyses ........................................................425
7.1 General........................................................................................425
7.3 Frequency Domain Analyses .......................................................426
7.5 Time Domain Analyses................................................................426
7.7 Deck Clearance ...........................................................................426
7.9 Model Testing ..............................................................................427

SECTION 2 Structures ........................................................................................... 428

1 Structural Design ............................................................................428
1.1 Scantlings ....................................................................................428
1.3 Deckhouses .................................................................................428
1.5 Helicopter Deck ...........................................................................428
1.7 Protection of Openings in Decks and Columns ...........................428
1.9 Guards and Rails .........................................................................428
3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure ............................................428
3.1 Hull – Pontoons, Columns, and Braces .......................................428
3.3 Watertight Boundary Formula ......................................................429
3.5 Tank Boundary Formula ..............................................................430
5 Engineering Analysis of the Installation’s Primary Structure ..........432
5.1 Hull and Topside Deck Structure .................................................432
7 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures..............................434
7.1 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Porches, Supports,
and Guides) .................................................................................434
7.3 Hull Interface with Mooring System (Fairlead, Chain Stopper,
and Winch Foundations)..............................................................435
7.5 Topside Deck Structure Interface with Deckhouses and Deck
Mounted Equipment/ Machinery ..................................................435
9 Materials and Welding ....................................................................435
9.1 Hull and Topside Deck Structure .................................................435
9.3 Corrosion Protection and Control.................................................436

TABLE 1 Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors ............432

TABLE 2 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull, Integrated Deck,
and Column Top Frame ........................................................434

422 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 SECTION 3 Stability ............................................................................................... 437
1 Stability............................................................................................437
1.1 Transit Voyage Stability............................................................... 437
1.3 On-Site Stability........................................................................... 437

SECTION 4 Machinery and Systems .................................................................... 438

1 Marine Piping Systems ...................................................................438
3 Electrical Systems...........................................................................438
5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment............................................438
7 Machinery and Equipment ..............................................................438
9 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks................................................438
11 Additional Plans and Data to be Submitted ....................................438

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PART Section 1: General Requirements

5B
CHAPTER 1 Column-Stabilized Installations

SECTION 1 General Requirements (1 July 2009)

1 General
The design and construction of column-stabilized type installations are to be based on the applicable
requirements of the MODU Rules. However, the design criteria, as given in the MODU Rules, can be
modified to reflect the different structural performance and demands expected of a mobile installation,
compared to an installation positioned at a particular site on a long-term basis. In addition, the applicable
criteria contained in the Load Line, SOLAS and MARPOL Conventions issued by the International Maritime
Organization are to be considered. It is further suggested that the local authorities having jurisdiction
where the installation is to operate be contacted to obtain any further criteria that are applicable to the
Floating Installation.

3 Definitions
A column stabilized floating production installation consists of a main deck connected to the underwater
hull or footings by columns or caissons. The deck is noted in this Guide as “Topside Deck Structure”.
The installation depends upon the buoyancy of columns or caissons for flotation and stability. Lower hulls
or footings are normally provided at the bottom of the columns for additional buoyancy and the most
common arrangements are either twin pontoons connected by braces or a ring (continuous) pontoon. The
topside deck structure can be of an enclosed hull type or an open space truss frame construction. The
topside deck structure is interconnected with the stability columns of the hull to form the installation’s
overall strength.

5 Loading Criteria

5.1 Loads
An installation’s modes of operation in pre-service (loadout, transportation, installation) and in-service
(in-place) conditions should be investigated using anticipated loads, including gravity loads together with
relevant environmental loads due to the effects of wind, waves, currents, and, where deemed necessary by
the Owner or designer, the effects of earthquake, temperature, fouling, ice, etc.
These loads are to include, as applicable, but should not be limited to, the following loads:
i) Environmental loads. Loads due to wind, waves, and current are to be considered. Directionality
of wind, waves, and current may be considered if accurate data is available. Where there is no accurate
data available, the directionality of wind, waves, and current that generates the most severe local
and global load effects are to be used for design. Adequate headings for the environment are to be
analyzed such that the most critical heading for the environment has been covered.
ii) Hydrostatic pressures and buoyancy. Hydrostatic pressures and buoyancy are to be considered for
all submerged structural members.
iii) Gravity. Gravity of the structure and equipment steel and the variables in the topside deck
structure and hull are to be considered.
iv) Inertia loads. Inertia loads due to motions of the column-stabilized installation are to be considered.
v) Operational loads. Loads induced by operations of drilling and production are to be considered.

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Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-1-1

vi) Mooring and riser loads. Loads due to mooring and riser systems are to be considered.
vii) Marine operation loads. Loads encountered during transportation and installation are to be taken
into account in the design. These loads include loads exposed during transport (wet or dry), launch,
or float-off.
viii) Slamming. Wave slamming loads are to be considered for members such as pontoons, columns,
braces, and members forming the underside of the topside deck structure that are subject to wave
slamming during transportation and operation. Breaking wave slamming loads are also to be
considered, if applicable.
Combinations of these loads that produce the most severe local and global effects on the installation, as
determined by the operational and installation requirements of the in-service and pre-service conditions, should
be used. The global effects that are critical to the installation’s global strength are given in 5B-1-2/5.1.2(a).
A loading plan is to be prepared to show the maximum uniform and concentrated loadings to be considered
for the decks of the topside deck structure for each mode of operation. In the preparation of this plan, the
following loadings are to be considered as minimums.
• Crew spaces (walkways, general traffic area, etc.)
4510 N/m2 (460 kgf/m2, 94 lbf/ft2) or 0.64 m (2.1 ft) head
• Work areas
9020 N/m2 (920 kgf/m2, 188 lbf/ft2) or 1.28 m (4.2 ft) head
• Storage areas
13000 N/m2 (1325 kgf/m2, 272 lbf/ft2) or 1.84 m (6.0 ft) head.

5.3 Environmental Conditions

A column-stabilized installation is to be designed to withstand a specified extreme storm in the Design
Environmental Condition and operate in the Design Operating Condition. The environmental conditions
required are defined in 3-2-3/1.1 and 3-2-3/1.3 and the environmental criteria required for these design
conditions are defined in Section 3-2-4. Additionally, the column-stabilized installation is to be designed
for all operations in pre-service conditions such as loadout, transportation, and installation. The environmental
conditions for loadout and installation are to be specified by the designers or Owners. The environmental
condition for transportation is to be of a 10-year return event of the selected transit route, unless a weather
routing plan is to be implemented for the voyage.
In the design of the column-stabilized installation in-service and pre-service strength, the following
environmental conditions are to be considered:
• Design Environmental Conditions (DEC). Please refer to 3-2-3/1.1. For structural strength design,
environmental conditions that produce responses having a minimum return period of 100 years are to
be used.
• Design Operating Conditions (DOC). Please refer to 3-2-3/1.3. For structural design, environmental
conditions that produce responses having a minimum return period of 1 year are to be used.
• Calm Conditions. Environmental conditions such that the effects of wind, waves and current are
insignificant and can be ignored. Where such a situation exists, the design case is permitted to use
calm conditions.

7 Global Performance Analyses

7.1 General
Global performance analyses of a column-stabilized installation are aimed at determining the global effects
of environmental loads on the overall installation and its components, such as mooring lines, risers, etc.
The key function of the analyses is to establish that the column-stabilized installation meets all of the pre-
service and in-service requirements. It is suggested that global response analysis be performed for each of
the most critical design phases. The following aspects are to be included in the global performance analyses:

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-1-1

i) Installation motions in six degrees of freedom

ii) Mooring line tensions, including the maximum and minimum tensions and mooring line fatigue
loads for mooring component design
iii) Equivalent design wave heights and periods for the global structural analysis
iv) Hull hydrodynamic pressure loads for global structural analysis
v) Installation accelerations for the determination of inertia loads
vi) Deck clearance – please refer to 5B-1-1/7.7.
Global analyses with various loading conditions are required because complex motion characteristics of the
column-stabilized installation will have different impacts on different structural components. Therefore,
the topside deck structure, hull, moorings and risers are to be included in these analyses. Several analytical
methods with varying degrees of complexity may be used to achieve this goal. Loading and response
predictions for the topside deck structure and hull, and those for the moorings and risers can be performed
either separately or in an integrated form. Methods and models employed in the analyses are to account for
the relevant nonlinear and motion coupling effects. Due to numerical efficiency and limitations of each
method, frequency domain analyses are usually performed for all of the load cases. For those cases that are
determined to be critical to the column-stabilized installation global performance or to have highly
nonlinear effects, a time-domain analysis should be performed. For the detailed discussion of various
available global analysis methods of column-stabilized installations, refer to API RP 2SK.

7.3 Frequency Domain Analyses

Frequency domain analyses include those in six degrees of freedom of the column-stabilized installation in
both the wave frequency and the low frequency domains.
In order to evaluate the first-order installation and mooring responses, linear wave theory is usually
employed in the wave frequency analysis. However, an alternative method may be applied to evaluate the
effects of finite amplitude waves. The low frequency analysis is also to be carried out to evaluate the
effects caused by wind dynamics and wave drift forces. The damping levels used in the analyses are to be
properly determined and documented.

7.5 Time Domain Analyses

Time domain analysis is a preferable approach to include the nonlinear effects in global response analyses
of the column-stabilized installation. These nonlinear effects include hull drag forces, finite wave
amplitude effects, nonlinear restoring forces from moorings and risers, and coupling effects of hull,
moorings, and risers in deep waters. In time domain analysis, a relevant wave spectrum is to be transferred
to random time series for simulating irregular wave elevations and kinematics.
For deepwater applications, a time domain analysis of fully coupled motions of installation, moorings, and
risers may be required for the load cases that are shown to govern the column-stabilized installation’s
global performance. When strong nonlinear responses are expected, a time domain mooring analysis is to
be performed and submitted for review.
In an area with a strong current extending deep into the ocean, possible VIV effects are to be assessed and
documented.

7.7 Deck Clearance

Unless topside deck structures are satisfactorily designed for wave impact, reasonable clearance between
the bottom of the topside deck structures and the wave crests is to be ensured for all afloat modes of
operation, taking into account the predicted motion of the installation relative to the surface of the sea.
A clearance is to be maintained between the lowest point of the topside deck and the wave crest. The deck
clearance is normally determined by an appropriate model test. Alternatively, the deck clearance can also
be determined by a detailed hydrodynamic analysis that accounts for relative motions between the column-
stabilized installation and waves. The following items are to be considered to determine the deck clearance:

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Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-1-1

i) Various environmental headings

ii) All motions due to wind, waves, and current
iii) Nonlinearity of wave profile
iv) Wave diffraction and run-up
v) Tide and water level effects
Deck clearance is also to be checked at various points on the underside of the topside deck for all of the
critical environmental conditions.
The deck clearance analysis establishes the elevation of topside deck structure in still water condition so
that the bottom of topside deck structure is not subjected to wave impact in Design Environmental
Conditions (DEC), unless the topside deck structure bottom is designed for such loading.
Where topside deck structural members are designed for passage of waves or if wave impact on the
underside of the topside deck structure is anticipated, local strengthening of these members is required.
Structures and equipment subject to wave run-up or green water are to be designed for the associated forces.

7.9 Model Testing

Model testing for deriving some of the design parameters, such as deck clearance and nonlinear effects, is
recommended as the final check of column-stabilized installation designs if innovative components emerge
in the design. Relevant environmental conditions are to be covered in the model testing. The primary
objectives of model tests are listed below:
i) To determine the responses of a particular design, such as to calibrate low-frequency damping
coefficients.
ii) To verify analysis tools for prediction of system responses or simply to correlate the analysis results.
iii) To derive design information as a substitute for numerical analysis.

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PART Section 2: Structures

5B
CHAPTER 1 Column-Stabilized Installations

SECTION 2 Structures (1 July 2009)

1 Structural Design
The design of the installation is to be based on the applicable portions of the MODU Rules. Where the
conditions at the installation site are less than those for a mobile installation that are the bases of the
MODU Rules, the design criteria for various components of the installation structure may be reduced to
reflect these differences. However, when the installation site conditions produce more arduous demands, it
is mandatory that the design criteria be increased appropriately.

1.1 Scantlings
Installation’s scantlings, including topside deck structure, columns, braces, and pontoons are to be designed
in accordance with 5B-1-2/3.

1.3 Deckhouses
Deckhouses such as living quarters, utility buildings, etc., which are not an integral part of the upper deck
structure are to have sufficient strength for their size, function, and location, with due consideration given
to the environmental conditions to which the installation may be exposed. Special considerations should be
given to deckhouses which act as foundations for vital machinery or equipment.

1.5 Helicopter Deck

The design of the helicopter deck is to comply with the requirements of 3-2-2/3 of the MODU Rules.

1.7 Protection of Openings in Decks and Columns

All openings in decks or column tops, hatch covers and companionway sills are to comply with 5A-4-1/3
of this Guide. Portlights or other similar openings are not to be fitted in columns.

1.9 Guards and Rails

Guards and rails are to comply with the requirements of 5-3-1/5 of the MODU Rules.

3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure

The initial scantling design of the hull is to be based on the applicable portions of the MODU Rules and the
Steel Vessel Rules. The aspects that are not covered by these Rules are to be based on the recognized codes
and standards. For curved shells, the minimum scantlings of shell plating and ring girders are to be
determined on the basis of established shell analysis methods, using the heads given in 5B-1-2/3.1 and
safety factors appropriate to the method employed. As a minimum, a detailed local analysis is to be
performed, with failure modes meeting the criteria in 5B-1-2/5.1.6.

3.1 Hull – Pontoons, Columns, and Braces

Pontoons, columns, and braces may be considered either as framed or unframed shells. Ring girders, bulkheads,
or other suitable diaphragms are to be adequate to maintain shape and stiffness under all anticipated
loadings in association with established analysis methods.

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Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations
Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

3.1.1 Scantlings of Framed Shells

Where the components of braces, columns, or pontoons incorporate stiffened plating, the minimum
scantlings of plating, stiffeners, girders, etc., for shells and interior boundary bulkheads and flats
may be determined in accordance with the requirements for tanks, as given in 5B-1-2/3.5, in
association with the following.
3.1.1(a) Tank Space. Where the internal space is a tank, the head, h, is to be taken to a point
located at two-thirds of the distance from the top of the tank to the top of the overflow, or to a
point 0.91 m (3 ft) above the top of the tank, whichever is greater. For tanks intended to carry
contents with a specific gravity in excess of 1.05, the head is to be suitably increased by a factor
equal to the ratio of the specific gravity to 1.0.
3.1.1(b) Void Compartment Spaces. Where the internal space is a void compartment, the head is
to be taken to the maximum permissible draft of the installation in service.
3.1.1(c) Areas Subject to Wave Immersion. For all areas subject to wave immersion, the
minimum head is to be 6.1 m (20 ft).
3.1.1(d) Minimum Scantlings. In general, the scantlings of boundaries are not to be less than
those required by 5B-1-2/3.3, in association with a head to the maximum damaged waterline.
3.1.2 Scantlings of Unframed Shells
Where braces, columns, or pontoons do not incorporate framing members, the minimum scantlings
of shell plating and ring girders are to be determined on the basis of established shell analysis
methods using the heads given in 5B-1-2/3.1.1 and safety factors appropriate to the methods employed.
Interior boundary bulkheads and flats are to be considered on the basis of framed shells, as given
in 5B-1-2/3.1.1.
3.1.3 Additional Structural Requirements for Scantlings
Scantlings of braces, columns, and pontoons as determined above are minimum requirements for
hydrostatic loads. Where wave and current loadings are superimposed, the scantlings of the local
structure of the shell are to be increased as necessary, to meet the strength requirements of
5B-1-2/5.1.6.

3.3 Watertight Boundary Formula

3.3.1 Plating
The plating thickness of watertight boundaries is not to be less than that obtained from the
following equation:

t = sk qh /290 + 1.5 mm t = sk qh /525 + 0.06 in.

but not less than 6 mm (0.24 in.) or s/200 + 2.5 mm (s/200 + 0.10 in.), whichever is greater.
where
t = thickness in mm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners in mm (in.)

k = (3.075 α − 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
q = 235/Y (24/Y, 34,000/Y)
Y = specified minimum yield point or yield strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
h = distance, in m (ft), from the lower edge of the plating to a point defined in
5B-1-2/3.1

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Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations
Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

3.3.2 Stiffeners and Beams

The section modulus, SM, of each bulkhead stiffener or beam on a watertight flat, in association
with the plating to which it is attached, is not to be less than that obtained from the following
equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
Q = 49.92/(Y + 2U/3) (SI Units)
Q = 70900/(Y + 2U/3) (US Units)
f = 7.8 (0.0041)
c = 0.56 for stiffeners with ends attached
= 0.60 for stiffeners with no end attachment
h = distance, in m (ft), from the middle of l to a point defined in 5B-1-2/3.1
s = spacing of stiffeners, in m (ft)
l = length of stiffeners, in m (ft); where brackets are fitted with a slope of
approximately 45 degrees and thickness given in 3-2-2/Table 2 of the
MODU Rules, the length of l maybe measured to a point on the bracket
equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Y = specified minimum yield strength, in kgf/mm2 (psi)
U = specified minimum tensile strength of the higher-strength material, in
kgf/mm2 (psi)
3.3.3 Girders and Webs
The section modulus, SM, of each girder or web is not to be less than that obtained from the following
equation:
SM = Q f h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 4.7 (0.0025)
h = distances, in m (ft), from the middle of the area supported to a point defined
in 5B-1-2/3.1
s = sum of half lengths, in m (ft) (on each side of girder or web), of the stiffeners
or beams supported
l = length, in m (ft), between supports, where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length l
may be measured to a point on the bracket located at the distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-1-2/3.3.2

3.5 Tank Boundary Formula

3.5.1 Plating
Plating is to be the thickness derived from the following equation:

t = sk qh /254 + 2.5 mm t = sk qh /460 + 0.10 in.

but not less than 6.5 mm (0.25 in.) or s/150 + 2.5 mm (s/150 + 0.10 in.), whichever is greater.

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Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

where
t = thickness, in mm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners, in mm (in.)

k = (3.075 α − 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
q = 235/Y (24/Y, 34,000/Y)
Y = specified minimum yield point or yield strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
h = distance, in m (ft), from the lower edge of the plating to a point defined in
5B-1-2/3.1
When the specific gravity of the liquid contents of a tank is greater than 1.05, the head, h, specified
above is to be increased by a factor equal to the ratio of the specific gravity to 1.0.
3.5.2 Stiffeners and Beams
The section modulus, SM, of each bulkhead stiffener or beam on a flat, in association with the
plating to which it is attached, is not to be less than that obtained from the following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 7.8 (0.0041)
c = 0.9 for stiffeners having clip attachments to decks or flats at the ends or
having such attachments at one end with the other end supported by
girders
= 1.0 for stiffeners supported at both ends by girders
h = distance, in m (ft), from the middle of l to a point defined in 5B-1-2/3.1
s = spacing of stiffeners, in m (ft)
l = length, in m (ft), between supports; where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length,
l, may be measured to a point on the bracket located at a distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-1-2/3.3.2
3.5.3 Girders and Webs
The section modulus, SM, of each girder or web is not to be less than that obtained from the
following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 4.74 (0.0025)
c = 1.5
h = distances, in m (ft), from the middle of the area supported to a point defined
in 5B-1-2/3.1
s = sum of half lengths, in m (ft) (on each side of girder or web), of the stiffeners
or beams supported

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Chapter 1 Column-Stabilized Installations
Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

l = length in m (ft), between supports, where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length,
l, may be measured to a point on the bracket located at the distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-1-2/3.3.2

5 Engineering Analysis of the Installation’s Primary Structure

5.1 Hull and Topside Deck Structure

5.1.1 General
Documents necessary to verify the structural strength of the installation, including yielding,
buckling, and fatigue of the hull, topside deck structure and main intersections of primary structural
components of the hull and topside deck structure are to be submitted for review. The criteria in
this Subsection relate to the analyses required to verify the scantlings selected in the basic design
in 5B-1-2/3. The results of analysis that are required in this Subsection cannot be used to reduce
the scantlings established from 5B-1-2/3. Depending on the specific features of the offshore
installations, additional analyses to verify and help design other portions of the installation structural
components will be required. Such additional analyses include those for the topside deck
structural components supporting deck-mounted equipment/machinery and the installation structure
interface with the position mooring and riser systems. Analysis criteria for interface structures are
given in 5B-1-2/7.
5.1.2 Global Strength Analysis
The primary structural components of the hull and topside deck structure are to be analyzed using
the loading and environmental conditions stipulated below. Conditions representative of all
modes of operation are to be considered to determine critical cases. Calculations for critical
conditions are to be submitted for review. The analyses are to be performed using recognized
calculation methods and fully documented and referenced.
Design conditions are to be developed in accordance with Section 3-2-3, “Design Conditions” and
Section 3-2-4, “Environmental Conditions”. 5B-1-2/Table 1 below shows the required environmental
events and safety factors to be considered for each design condition in the global strength analysis:

TABLE 1
Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors (1 July 2009)
Design Conditions Environmental Events Safety Factors
Loadout Calm or specified by designer or Owner 1.67
Ocean Transit (Dry Tow) 10 year return storm for the selected route condition or specified by 1.25
designer or Owner if weather routing plan is to be implemented for the
voyage
Field Transit (Wet Tow) 1 year return storm for the selected route condition or specified by 1.25
designer or Owner
In-place Design Operating 1 year return storm (minimum) 1.67
In-place Design Environmental 100 year return storm 1.25
In-place Damaged 1-year return storm 1.25

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Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

5.1.2(a) Critical Responses for Global Strength. The global strength of the installation is to be
designed for withstanding the maximum global effects (noted in this Guide as “critical responses”)
induced by the loads specified in 5B-1-1/5.1. The critical responses that control the installation
strength design are prying/squeezing loads, deck inertia loads, torsional moments, and longitudinal
shear forces between pontoons. The critical responses that control the topside deck structure
strength design are the deck inertia loads. As indicated in 5B-1-2/Table 1, the in-place intact
strength is to be designed for these critical responses with a return period of 100 years in the
Design Environmental Condition (DEC).
The highest wave may not always produce the most critical responses. So that the most critical
responses are captured, a sufficient number of design cases are to be used, considering the following
permutations:
i) Variation in environmental conditions and headings
ii) Variation in variables (deck payloads)
iii) Variation in ballasting distributions
iv) Variation in riser arrangements
5.1.3 Major Joint Analysis – Analysis for Main Intersections of Primary Structures
Since it is difficult to adequately capture the details of the main intersections in the global strength
model, local FEM analyses are to be used, as required, to design these areas. These main intersections
include connections of pontoon to pontoon, column to pontoon, and column to topside deck
structure. For twin-pontoon column stabilized installations, special attention should be given to
brace connections to braces, columns, pontoons, and topside deck structure.
5.1.4 Fatigue Analysis
Fatigue analysis is to be performed to verify adequate strength against fatigue failure within its
design life. The fatigue analysis is to consider the loading history of the column-stabilized installation
including transport and in-place conditions. Special attention is to be given to the major joints
mentioned above. Attention is also to be given to the designs of structural notches, cutouts,
brackets, toes, and abrupt changes of structural sections where they are prone to fatigue damages.
5.1.5 Structural Redundancy Analysis
The hull structural redundancy analysis is required to verify that there is adequate redistribution of
stress in the damaged condition defined in 5B-1-2/Table 1. The damaged conditions are to
consider loss of one compartment buoyancy and loss of one brace for twin-pontoon column
stabilized installations.
For topside deck structures constructed with open space trusses, the redundancy analysis is also
required for the damaged condition with loss of one primary member in association with a factor
of safety of 1.0.
5.1.6 Acceptance Criteria
The total assessment of the structure and details is to be performed against the design conditions in
5B-1-2/Table 1 and failure modes of material yielding, buckling, ultimate strength and fatigue.
The acceptance criteria of each mode are given as follows.
5.1.6(a) Material Yielding. For the hull and topside deck structure, the yielding criteria based on
the safety factors in 5B-1-2/Table 1 of this Guide are to be used.
Note: The yield strength is to be based on the specified minimum yield point or yield stress as defined in
2-1-1/13 of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2) for higher strength material or 72 percent
of the specified minimum tensile strength, whichever is the lesser.
5.1.6(b) Buckling and Ultimate Strength. For the hull and topside deck structure, the criteria
specified in ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength Assessment for Offshore Structures are
to be used. Alternatively, the criteria specified in the API Bulletin 2U and 2V and other recognized
standards acceptable to ABS can be used. The safety factors are to be based on 5B-1-2/Table 1 of
this Guide.

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Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

5.1.6(c) Fatigue. For the hull, including the main intersections defined in 5B-1-2/5.1.3, the
fatigue damages can be calculated using the ABS Offshore S-N curves for environment in air, in
seawater with cathodic protection, and free corrosion, as specified in Section 3 of the ABS Guide
for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures. The S-N curves are applicable to thicknesses
that do not exceed the reference thickness of 22 mm (7/8 in.). For members of greater thickness,
thickness correction is to be applied with an exponent of 0.25. Other recognized standards
equivalent to ABS requirements are also acceptable.
For topside deck structure, ABS Offshore S-N curves and AWS S-N curves can be used.
The fatigue life is determined by safety factors and the design life of the column-stabilized installation.
Safety factors depend on the inspectability, repairability, redundancy, the ability to predict failure
damage, as well as the consequence of failure of the structure. Minimum safety factor requirements
are listed in 5B-1-2/Table 2.

TABLE 2
Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull, Integrated Deck,
and Column Top Frame (1 July 2009)
Importance Inspectable and Field Repairable
Yes No
Non-critical 3 5
Critical 5 10
Note: “Critical” implies that failure of these structural items would result
in the rapid loss of structural integrity and produce an event of
unacceptable consequence.

For existing installations, the remaining fatigue life of the installation is to be assessed and the
supporting calculations are to be submitted for review. Special consideration is to be given to the
effects of corrosion and wastage on the remaining fatigue life of existing structures.
Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free of cracks, and the effects of stress
risers is to be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.

7 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures

The analysis and design criteria to be applied to the other pertinent features of the installation structural
design are to conform to recognized practices acceptable to the Bureau. For installations, there will be a
need to consider in the hull and topside deck structure design the interface between the mooring system
and the installation, the interface between the riser system and the installation, and the effects of structural
support reactions from deckhouses and deck-mounted equipment/machinery. The criteria to be applied for
these cases are presented below.

7.1 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Porches, Supports, and Guides)
The riser porches, guides, and supports, including the hull backup structures (the reinforcements for the
hull), are to be designed for the maximum anticipated riser loads with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design
Environmental Condition (DEC) and with a safety factor of 1.67 in the Design Operating Condition (DOC).
Fatigue strength is to be designed to meet the requirements in 5B-1-2/5.1.6(c), taking into account the
effects of both local drag and inertia loads on the risers and the global motions of the installation.

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Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

7.3 Hull Interface with Mooring System (Fairlead, Chain Stopper, and Winch Foundations)
Each individual foundation and back-up structure of the fairlead, chain jack, and winch is to be designed
for the breaking strength of the mooring line with a safety factor of 1.25. The foundation and back-up
structure for multiple fairleads, chain jacks, or winches is to be designed for the maximum anticipated
mooring loads with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design Environmental Condition (DEC) and with a safety
factor of 1.67 in the Design Operating Condition (DOC).
Fatigue strength is to be designed to meet the requirements in 5B-1-2/5.1.6(c), taking into account the
effects of both local drag and inertia loads on the moorings and the global motions of the installation.

7.5 Topside Deck Structure Interface with Deckhouses and Deck Mounted Equipment/
Machinery
The topside deck structure may require reinforcements to resist the reaction forces from equipment/
machinery foundations or deck modules. The reinforcements of the topside deck structure are referred to as
backup structures. The forces to be resisted by the backup structures of the topside deck structure are to be
designed for the maximum anticipated gravity, functional, and environmental loads together with the inertia
loads induced by the installation motions with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design Environmental
Condition and 1.67 in the Design Operating Condition. If deemed necessary, the fatigue strength is to meet the
requirements of 5B-1-2/5.1.6(c). Special attention should also be given to the following interface structures:
7.5.1 Lifeboat Platform
The strength of a lifeboat platform is to be designed to meet the following requirement:
• The most adverse combination of list and trim of 20° with Safe Working Load (total weight of
lifeboat, passengers and supplies) with allowable stresses equal to Ultimate Tensile stress
divided by a factor of 4.5.
7.5.2 Crane Pedestal and Foundation
The crane pedestal is to be designed in accordance with the recognized standard that the crane is
certified to, such as Chapter 2, “Guide for Certification of Cranes” of the ABS Guide for Certification
of Lifting Appliances or API Spec. 2C.

9 Materials and Welding

9.1 Hull and Topside Deck Structure

Sections 3-2-6 and 3-2-7 of the MODU Rules are to be used to establish the welding requirements for the
hull. The weld type and size are to be shown on the scantling drawings or in the form of a welding
schedule, and are to comply with the Rules that govern the steel selection. Special attention is to be given
to the weld details for fatigue sensitive areas, if necessary. Weld improvements by means of toe grinding
and weld profiling are to be used if required by fatigue analysis results.
Section 3-1-3 of the MODU Rules is to be used for the material selections for the hull and topside deck
structure. The hull and topside deck structure are grouped into the following material application
categories for the purpose of material grade selection:

Special Application • External shell structure in way of main intersections of columns, topside deck
Structure structure, pontoons, braces, mooring foundations, and riser porches
• Portions of topside deck structure which receive major concentrated loads
• Intersections of topside deck structure’s main truss members
• External brackets, portions of bulkheads, flats, and frames which receive
concentrated loads at main intersections of columns, topside deck structure,
pontoons, braces, mooring foundations, and riser porches
• “Through” material used at main intersections of columns, topside deck structure,
pontoons, braces, mooring foundations, and riser porches, which provide proper
alignment and adequate load transfer

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Section 2 Structures 5B-1-2

Primary Application • External shell structure of columns, pontoons, braces, topside deck structure (barge
Structure hull), and riser porches
• Topside deck structure’s main truss members
• Bulkheads, flats, and framing which provide local reinforcement or continuity of
structure in way of main intersections, except where the structure is considered
special application
• Bulkheads, girders, decks that are designed to provide global strength to the
installation
Secondary Application • Internal structure, including bulkheads and girders in columns, topside deck
Structure structure, and pontoons, except where the structure is considered primary or
special applications
• Decks of topside deck structure, except where the structure is considered primary
or special applications

9.3 Corrosion Protection and Control

A corrosion protection and control system utilizing anodes and coating in accordance with the recognized
industry standards such as API and NACE is to be provided. The design life of the corrosion protection
and control system is to be the design life of the installation. In the splash zone, corrosion allowance is to
be added to the external shell plating.

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PART Section 3: Stability

5B
CHAPTER 1 Column-Stabilized Installations

SECTION 3 Stability

1 Stability

1.1 Transit Voyage Stability

During transit voyages to and from the operational site, the installation is to meet the stability requirements
of the MODU Rules.

1.3 On-Site Stability

All installations are to have positive metacentric height in calm water equilibrium position for all afloat
conditions, including temporary positions during fabrications, installations, ballasting and deballasting.
All installations are to have sufficient stability at intact, as well as damage, condition. The intact and the
damage stability to withstand the overturning effect of the force produced by the defined “operating intact
wind,” “severe storm intact wind” and “damaged wind” are to be investigated in accordance with the MODU
Rules under which the installation was classed. Additional current requirements located in 3-3-1/3.3 of the
MODU Rules are to be addressed in the operating manual required by 5B-1-4/11 of this Guide. The wind
velocities for calculating the wind overturning moments are to be established using the site-specific
environmental report and are to be identified in the design basis. The wind velocities used in the
classification of Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit for unrestricted service are quoted below for reference.
Conditions Minimum Wind Velocity
Damaged 25.8 m/s ( 50 kts)
Operating Intact 36.0 m/s ( 70 kts)
Severe Storm Intact 51.5 m/s (100 kts)

For the purpose of determining compliance with these stability requirements, it is to be assumed that the
installation is floating free of mooring restraints. However, detrimental effects of catenary mooring systems
or of the thrusters for dynamically positioned installations are to be considered.
Installations designed to ballast or deballast through designated draft ranges or “zones” need only comply
with the above positive metacentric height requirement when ballasting or deballasting through these designated
“zones.”
The Owner is responsible for ensuring that such operations are performed only with proper loading conditions
and during periods of acceptable weather.
Alternative stability criteria following the guidelines set forth in 3-3-1/3.9 of the MODU Rules may be
considered acceptable by the Bureau.

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PART Section 4: Machinery and Systems

5B
CHAPTER 1 Column-Stabilized Installations

SECTION 4 Machinery and Systems

1 Marine Piping Systems

Marine piping systems are those systems (such as bilge, ballast, fuel oil and tank venting) that are required to
conduct marine operations and are not associated with process facilities. Marine piping systems are to comply
with Part 4, Chapter 2 of the MODU Rules and Chapter 3, Section 5 of the Facilities Guide, as applicable.

3 Electrical Systems
Electrical systems are to comply with Part 4, Chapters 1 and 3 of the MODU Rules and Chapter 3, Section 6
of the Facilities Guide. Where the Flag Administration permits, the minimum number of required main power
sources may be reduced to one. For area classification requirements, refer to Section 4-1-9 of this Guide.

5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment

Fire fighting systems and equipment for installation service functions not associated with the process
facilities are to be in accordance with Part 5, Chapter 2 of the MODU Rules. Fire fighting systems and
equipment for protection of hydrocarbon process and associated systems are to be in accordance with
Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Facilities Guide.

7 Machinery and Equipment

Machinery and equipment not associated with the process facilities are to be in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 1 of the MODU Rules, and Part 4, Chapters 2, 4, and 6 of the
Steel Vessel Rules, as applicable. Machinery and equipment forming a part of the hydrocarbon processing
facilities are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of the Facilities Guide. (See 5A-1-3/1.15
of this Guide regarding machinery and equipment foundations.)

9 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks (1 July 2009)

If the TLP is designed to store hydrocarbons in hull tanks, criteria for hull storage of hydrocarbons are to
meet flag and coastal state requirements and applicable international requirements. The designs for
scantlings and strength for such storage tanks are to be in accordance with 5B-1-2/1. See 3-5/5.9 of the
Facilities Guide for the storage facility arrangement requirements.

11 Additional Plans and Data to be Submitted

The following information is to be submitted and appropriate relevant information is to be provided in the
Operating Manual:
i) Inspection plans for all compartments below the maximum immersion line.
ii) Closure means for external openings whose lower edges are below the levels to which weathertight
integrity is to be ensured, as shown by the diagrams submitted in accordance with Section 1-1-4 of
the MODU Rules Supplement to the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units
and Structures (Part 1), defining their appropriate extent for each mode of operation afloat, for
example, Normal Operating, Severe Storm Conditions and Transit Condition. (See 3-3-1/3.3.1 of
the MODU Rules.)

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Section 4 Machinery and Systems 5B-1-4

iii) A plan identifying the disposition (open or closed) of all non-automatic closing devices and
locations of all watertight and weathertight closures for each mode of operation afloat is to be
submitted for review prior to the installation’s delivery. Upon satisfactory review, the plan is to be
incorporated into the Operating Manual. (See Section 1-1-4 and 3-3-1/9 of the MODU Rules.)
iv) Means for detection of and recovery from flooding of compartments that lie partly or completely
below the operating or survival drafts and are adjacent to the sea or contain salt water piping or
pumping equipment. (See 3-3-1/3.3.3 of the MODU Rules.)
v) The estimated time to deballast the installation from operating to survival draft. (See 4-2-4/13 of
the MODU Rules.)
vi) Means of preventing progressive flooding via sounding tubes, tank vents and overflows, ventilating
systems, trunks, etc., from compartments within the assumed damaged areas. (See 3-3-1/7.3 and
3-3-1/9 and 4-2-3/1.3 of the MODU Rules.)
vii) Means of detecting flooding of and means of water removal from void spaces not connected to the
bilge or ballast systems. (See 3-3-1/1.3.3 and 4-2-4/3.3 of the MODU Rules.)
viii) Means of closure and evacuation of water from chain lockers. (See 4-2-4/1.1 of the MODU Rules.)
ix) The remaining or “residual” range of stability resulting from the damaged condition and the type
and location of appropriate closures to prevent downflooding. (See 3-3-1/3.3.3 of the MODU
Rules for the definition of “residual” stability.)
x) Means of sounding tanks. (See 4-2-3/3 of the MODU Rules.)
xi) A description of the ballast piping and control system describing the items listed below.
(See 4-2-1/7.19, 4-2-2/21.9 and 4-2-4/13 of the MODU Rules.)
1. Redundancy of pumps, valves and controls and alternate means of valve operation.
2. Valve operating and indicating means.
3. Means of manual and remote operation of ballast pumps and valves.
4. Communication means between ballast control spaces and pump rooms, including those
means of communication that are independent of the ship’s service communication system.
5. Means of determining the failure of critical ballast system components and means to
overcome their failure.

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PART Chapter 2: Tension Leg Platforms

5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General Requirements ....................................................................... 442
1 General ...........................................................................................442
3 Definitions .......................................................................................442
5 Loading Criteria...............................................................................442
5.1 Loads...........................................................................................442
5.3 Environmental Conditions............................................................443
7 Global Performance Analyses ........................................................443
7.1 General........................................................................................443
7.3 Frequency Domain Analyses .......................................................444
7.5 Time Domain Analyses................................................................444
7.7 Deck Clearance ...........................................................................444
7.9 Model Testing ..............................................................................445
9 Corrosion Protection and Control....................................................445

SECTION 2 Stability ............................................................................................... 446

1 Stability............................................................................................446
1.1 Intact and Damaged Stability.......................................................446
1.3 Weight Control .............................................................................446
3 Watertight/Weathertight Integrity ....................................................447
3.1 Weathertight Integrity...................................................................447
3.3 Watertight Integrity.......................................................................447
3.5 Penetrations ................................................................................447

SECTION 3 Hull and Primary Structures .............................................................. 448

1 Structural Design ............................................................................448
1.1 General........................................................................................448
1.3 Hull Scantlings .............................................................................448
1.5 Modules and Buildings on the Topside Deck...............................448
1.7 Helicopter Deck ...........................................................................448
1.9 Protection of Openings on Top of Columns .................................448
1.11 Guards and Rails .........................................................................449
1.13 Machinery and Equipment Foundations ......................................449
1.15 Appurtenances ............................................................................449
1.17 Temporary Structures ..................................................................449
3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure ............................................449
3.1 Hull – Pontoons and Columns .....................................................449
3.3 Watertight Boundary Formula ......................................................450
3.5 Tank Boundary Formula ..............................................................451

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 5 Structural Strength Analysis and Design of Primary Structures .....452
5.1 Hull, Integrated Deck and Top Column Frame ............................ 452
5.3 Non-integrated Deck ................................................................... 455

TABLE 1 Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors ............453

TABLE 2 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull, Integrated Deck
and Column Top Frame ........................................................454
TABLE 3 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Topside Deck
Structures..............................................................................456

SECTION 4 Other Structures................................................................................. 457

1 Tendon System Design...................................................................457
1.1 General........................................................................................ 457
1.3 Loading Conditions...................................................................... 457
1.5 Tendon Analysis Procedure ........................................................ 458
1.7 Tendon Loads ............................................................................. 458
1.9 Tendon Components ................................................................... 458
1.11 Installation Analyses.................................................................... 458
1.13 Allowable Stresses ...................................................................... 459
1.15 Fatigue Analysis .......................................................................... 459
1.17 Fracture Mechanics Calculations ................................................ 459
1.19 Corrosion Protection.................................................................... 459
3 Foundation ......................................................................................459
3.1 General........................................................................................ 459
3.3 Site Investigations ....................................................................... 460
3.5 Foundation Design ...................................................................... 460
5 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures..............................461
5.1 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Porches, Supports
and Guides)................................................................................. 461
5.3 Hull Interface with Tendons (Tendon Porches) ........................... 461
5.5 Topside Deck Interface with Deck Modules................................. 461

TABLE 1 Safety Factors for Pile Foundation Design ...........................460

SECTION 5 Materials and Welding ....................................................................... 462

1 Materials and Welding ....................................................................462
1.1 Hull Including Integrated Deck Structures ................................... 462
1.3 Non-integrated Deck Structures .................................................. 463

SECTION 6 Machinery and Systems .................................................................... 464

1 Marine Piping Systems ...................................................................464
1.1 Bilge System ............................................................................... 464
1.3 Ballast System............................................................................. 464
1.5 Vents and Sounds ....................................................................... 465
1.7 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks............................................. 465
3 Electrical Systems...........................................................................465
5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment............................................465
7 Machinery and Equipment ..............................................................465

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PART Section 1: General Requirements

5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

SECTION 1 General Requirements

1 General
The design and construction of a Tension Leg Platform (TLP) are to be based on all applicable requirements
of the MODU Rules, Offshore Installations Rules and API RP 2T. However, the design criteria, as given in
the MODU Rules and Offshore Installations Rules, can be modified to reflect the different structural
performance and demands expected of a TLP in offshore service. In addition, in the absence of equivalent
Coastal State requirements, the applicable criteria contained in the Load Line, SOLAS and MARPOL
Conventions issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) may be considered. It is further
suggested that the local authorities having jurisdiction where the installation is to operate be contacted to
obtain any further criteria that are applicable to the TLP installations.

3 Definitions
A TLP consists of structural components of hull, column top frame, topside deck, tendon system and
foundation system. The hull consists of buoyant pontoons and columns. The tops of the columns are
connected to a column top frame or a topside deck forming the global strength of the hull. For the hull with
a column top frame, the topside deck is not integrated as part of the global strength of the hull. This topside
deck is noted as “Non-integrated Deck” in this Guide. The topside deck integrated with the hull to form the
global strength of the hull is noted as “Integrated Deck” in this Guide.
Tendon System: A vertical mooring system that forms the link between the hull and the foundation for the
purpose of mooring the TLP.
Foundation System: The foundations used to anchor the tendon legs to the seafloor.

5 Loading Criteria

5.1 Loads
The TLP’s modes of operation in pre-service (loadout, transportation, installation) and in-service (in-place)
conditions are to be investigated using anticipated loads, including gravity loads together with relevant
environmental loads due to the effects of wind, waves, current and other phenomena such as earthquake,
temperature, fouling, ice, etc., depending upon the specific installation site.
The TLP is to be designed for the loading conditions that produce the most severe local and global effects
on the structure, as determined by the most severe operational or installation requirements.
Applied loading combinations considered for structural design are to include, as applicable, but not be
limited to, the following loads:
i) Environmental loads. Loads due to wind, waves and current are to be considered. Directionality
of wind, waves and current may be considered if accurate data is available. Where there is no accurate
data available, the directionality of wind, waves and current that generates the most severe local
and global load effects are to be used for design. Adequate headings for the environment are to be
analyzed such that the most critical heading for the environment has been covered.
ii) Hydrostatic pressures and buoyancy. Hydrostatic pressures and buoyancy are to be considered for
all submerged structural members.

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iii) Gravity. Gravity of the structure and equipment steel and the variables in the topside deck and
hull are to be considered.
iv) Inertia loads. Inertia loads due to motions of the TLP are to be considered.
v) Operational loads. Loads induced by operations of drilling and production are to be considered.
vi) Tendon and riser loads. Loads due to tendon and riser systems are to be considered, as applicable.
vii) Marine operation loads. Loads encountered during transportation and installation are to be taken
into account in the design. These loads include loads exposed during transport (wet or dry), launch
or float-off and during ballasting and deballasting operations when the topside deck is being installed
and during tendon installation procedure.
viii) Slamming. Wave slamming loads are to be considered for members such as pontoons, columns,
top column frame members and members forming the underside of the topside deck that are subject
to wave slamming during transportation and operation.

5.3 Environmental Conditions (1 September 2007)

The TLP is to be designed to withstand a specified extreme storm in the Design Environmental Condition
and operate in the Design Operating Condition. The environmental conditions required are defined in
3-2-3/1.1 and 3-2-3/1.3 and the environmental criteria required for these design conditions are defined in
Section 3-2-4. Additionally, the TLP is to be designed for all operations in pre-service conditions such as
loadout, transportation and installation. The environmental conditions for loadout and installation are to be
specified by the designers or Owners. The environmental condition for transportation is to be of a 10-year
return event of the selected transit route, unless a weather routing plan is to be implemented for the voyage.
In the design of the TLP in-service and pre-service strength, the following environmental conditions are to
be considered:
Design Environmental Conditions (DEC). Please refer to 3-2-3/1.1. For structural strength design,
environmental conditions that produce the responses having a minimum return period of 100 years are to
be used.
Design Operating Conditions (DOC). Please refer to 3-2-3/1.3. For structural design, environmental conditions
that produce TLP responses having a minimum return period of 1 year are to be used.
Reduced Extreme Conditions (REC). Environmental conditions that have a low probability of being exceeded
when the hull is damaged or a tendon is removed/flooded. For structural strength design, joint statistics
may be used to determine a return period which, combined with the probability of damage, produces a risk
level equal to that of the Design Environmental Conditions (DEC).
Calm Conditions. Environmental conditions such that the effects of wind, waves and current are insignificant
and can be ignored. Where such a situation exists, the design case is permitted to use calm conditions.
In assessing the minimum tendon tension and topside deck clearance the following environmental condition
should be considered:
Survival Environmental Conditions (SEC). Environmental conditions that produce TLP responses having
a minimum return period of 1000 years.

7 Global Performance Analyses

7.1 General
Global performance analyses of the TLP are aimed at determining the global effects of environmental loads
on the overall platform and its components, such as tendons, risers, etc. The key function of the analyses is
to establish that the TLP meets all of the pre-service and in-service requirements. It is suggested that
global response analysis be performed for each of the most critical design phases. The following aspects
are to be included in TLP global performance analyses:

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Chapter 2 Tension Leg Platforms
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-2-1

i) Platform motions in six degrees of freedom

ii) Tendon tensions, including the maximum and minimum tensions and tendon fatigue loads for
tendon design
iii) Equivalent design wave heights and periods for the global structural analysis
iv) Hull hydrodynamic pressure loads for global structural analysis
v) Platform accelerations for the determination of inertia loads
Global analyses with various loading conditions are required because complex motion characteristics of
the TLP will have different impacts on different structural components. Therefore, the deck, hull, tendons
and risers are to be included in these analyses. Several analytical methods with varying degrees of complexity
may be used to achieve this goal. Loading and response predictions for the deck and hull, and those for the
tendons and risers can be performed either separately or in an integrated form. Methods and models
employed in the analyses are to account for the relevant nonlinear and motion coupling effects. Due to
numerical efficiency and limitations of each method, frequency domain analyses are usually performed for
all of the load cases. For those cases that are determined to be critical to the TLP global performance or to
have highly nonlinear effects, a time-domain analysis should be performed. For the detailed discussion of
various available global analysis methods of TLP, refer to API RP 2T.

7.3 Frequency Domain Analyses

Frequency domain analyses include the wave frequency analysis in six degrees of freedom of the TLP
system, and the low frequency analysis in surge, sway and yaw of the TLP system.
In order to evaluate the first-order platform and tendon responses, linear wave theory is usually employed
in the wave frequency analysis. However, an alternative method may be applied to evaluate the effects of
finite amplitude waves. In case where second-order sum-frequency effects are determined to be significant,
the high frequency springing analyses are to be carried out to evaluate the springing responses of the
platform and tendons. The low frequency analysis is also to be carried out to evaluate the slow drift effects
caused by wind and wave drift. The damping levels used in the above analyses are to be properly
determined and documented.

7.5 Time Domain Analyses

Time domain analysis is a preferable approach to evaluate the nonlinear effects in global response analyses
of the TLP. These nonlinear effects include hull drag forces, finite wave amplitude effects, nonlinear
restoring forces from tendons and risers, ringing (the high frequency vertical vibration of a TLP excited by
impulsive loading) and springing (the high frequency vertical vibration of the TLP excited by cyclic
loading at or near the resonant periods), and coupling effects of hull, tendons and risers in deep waters. In
time domain analysis, a relevant wave spectrum is to be transferred to random time series for simulating
irregular wave elevations and kinematics.
For deepwater applications, a time domain analysis of fully coupled motions of platform, tendons and
risers may be required and documented for the load cases that are shown to govern the TLP global
performance. When strong nonlinear responses are expected, a time domain ringing response analysis is to
be performed and submitted for review.
In areas with a strong current extending deep into the ocean, possible VIV effects are to be assessed and
documented.

7.7 Deck Clearance (1 September 2007)

A clearance meeting the following criteria is recommended to be maintained between the underside of the
topside deck and the wave crest:
i) 5 ft minimum in Design Environmental Conditions (DEC).
ii) A reasonable clearance in Survival Environmental Conditions.

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Section 1 General Requirements 5B-2-1

The deck clearance is normally determined by an appropriate model test. Alternatively, the deck clearance
can also be determined by a detailed hydrodynamic analysis that accounts for relative motions between the
TLP and waves. The following items are to be considered to determine the deck clearance:
i) Various environmental headings
ii) Offset due to wind, waves and current
iii) Nonlinearity of wave profile
iv) Wave diffraction, run-up
v) Platform set-down
vi) Tide and water level effects
vii) Seabed subsidence
Deck clearance is also to be checked at various points on the underside of the topside deck.
Unless the recommended deck clearance can be maintained to avoid impact, the TLP including topside
deck, hull, tendons and foundations should be designed for the anticipated local and global wave forces
(including slamming) and resulting responses. Structures and equipment on the topside deck, which may
subject to wave run-up or green water, should also be designed for the associated forces.

7.9 Model Testing

Model testing for deriving some of the design parameters, such as deck clearance and nonlinear effects, is
recommended as the final check of TLP designs if innovative components emerge in the design. Relevant
environmental conditions are to be covered in the model testing. The primary objectives of model tests are
listed below:
i) To determine the responses of a particular design, such as to calibrate factors for ringing and springing.
ii) To verify analysis tools for prediction of system responses or simply to correlate the analysis results.
iii) To derive design information as a substitute for numerical analysis.

9 Corrosion Protection and Control

A corrosion protection and control system utilizing anodes and coating in accordance with the recognized
industry standards such as API and NACE is to be provided. The design life of the corrosion protection
and control system is to be the design life of the TLP. In the splash zone, corrosion allowance is to be
added to the external shell plating.

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PART Section 2: Stability

5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

SECTION 2 Stability

1 Stability

1.1 Intact and Damaged Stability (1 September 2007)

The intact and damaged stability under free-floating conditions is to meet the requirements described in the
MODU Rules.
Under in-place conditions, positive tendon tension is to be maintained to ensure integrity of the platform
and tendons, and account for tendon slacking. The intact condition is to include the full range of possible
center of gravity variations permitted by acceptable operating procedures during severe conditions.
The TLP is to maintain positive tendon tension in Design Operating Condition (DOC) after sustaining any
one of the following flooding scenarios:
i) Any one compartment at or below the still water line, or
ii) Damage is assumed to be 3 m (10 ft) wide and 3 m (10 ft) high with a horizontal penetration of
1.5 m (5 ft) inboard of the hull plating. This extent of damage is to be considered at all levels
between 3 m (10 ft) below to 5 m (16.4 ft) above the waterline in consideration. No vertical
bulkhead needs to be considered damaged unless the nearest vertical bulkhead is placed closer
than 1/8 of the perimeter of the column at the waterline or 3 m (10 ft), whichever is less, or
iii) Any one tendon compartment.
The environmental condition is to be assumed as Design Operating Condition at the time of flooding.
Positive tendon tension is to be demonstrated through analysis. Ballast pump capacity is to meet API RP 2T
specifications.
The ability to compensate for damage incurred, by pumping out or ballasting other compartments, is not to
be considered when determining whether positive tendon tension can be maintained.

1.3 Weight Control (1 September 2007)

An inclining test or an equivalent procedure is to be conducted to accurately determine the platform weight
and the position of the center of gravity. Changes of onboard load conditions after the inclining test and
during service are to be carefully accounted for. The operations manual is to provide guidance for the
maintenance of a weight change log and periodical correlation between calculated and measured tendon
tension. The weight log and the records of the periodical correlations are to be kept onboard.
Weighing is to be supported by calculated weights, and may include a combination of afloat lightship
surveys and use of certified load cells to the satisfaction of the Bureau. When the vertical position of the
center of gravity of each component can not be measured, it is to be placed on an indisputably conservative
location with due consideration to the calculated position.
A global weighing plan and procedures for each individual weighing are to be submitted for approval
together with the weight calculations. Reports of the weighing are to be submitted for review.

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Section 2 Stability 5B-2-2

3 Watertight/Weathertight Integrity (1 September 2007)

A plan, identifying the disposition (open or closed) of all non-automatic closing devices and locations of
all watertight and weathertight closures, and unprotected openings is to be submitted for review prior to the
installation’s delivery. Upon satisfactory review the plan is to be incorporated into the Operating Manual.

3.1 Weathertight Integrity

External closing appliances are to be in accordance with the requirement of the 1966 International Convention
on Load Lines.
In all cases, external openings whose lower edges are below the levels to which weathertight integrity is to
be ensured are to have weathertight closing appliances.
Openings fitted with appliances to ensure weathertight integrity are to effectively resist the ingress of water
due to intermittent immersion of the closure.

3.3 Watertight Integrity

For watertight integrity requirements, see 3-3-1/9.3 of the MODU Rules.

3.5 Penetrations
See 3-3-1/9.5 of the MODU Rules.

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PART Section 3: Hull and Primary Structures

5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

SECTION 3 Hull and Primary Structures

1 Structural Design

1.1 General
The design of the TLP is to be based on the applicable portions of the MODU Rules. Where the conditions
at the installation site are less than those for full ocean service that are the basis of the MODU Rules, the
design criteria for various components of the TLP may be reduced to reflect these differences. However,
when the installation site conditions produce more arduous demands, it is mandatory that the design criteria
be increased appropriately. The TLP strength can be obtained by initially designing each component’s
scantlings for local load effects and, subsequently, verifying the initial scantlings for the global load effects.
This subsection provides requirements for the designs of initial scantlings and secondary structures. 5B-2-3/5
of this Guide provides requirements for verification of the initial scantlings.

1.3 Hull Scantlings

Scantlings of TLP structural components, including columns and pontoons, are to be designed in accordance
with 5B-2-3/3.

1.5 Modules and Buildings on the Topside Deck

The structural design of modules and buildings on the topside deck is to be in accordance with 5B-2-3/5.3,
wherever applicable. The relative deformations among module and building supports are to be included in
the analysis if their effects on the module are significant.
The module and building supporting structures on the topside deck are to be analyzed and shown explicitly
on the drawings so that the construction of the module and building supports can be consistent with those
assumed in the structural analysis. Means are to be provided to verify that the module and building design
reactions and conditions are identical with those used in the topside deck design.
The structural fire protection aspects of the design of topsides modules and buildings, including the
arrangement of the hydrocarbon process area, are to be in accordance with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the
Facilities Guide.
The designs of piping system on the topside deck are to comply with Part 4, Chapter 2 of the MODU Rules
and applicable requirements of the Facilities Guide.

1.7 Helicopter Deck

The design of the helicopter deck is to comply with the requirements of 3-2-2/3 of the MODU Rules and
3-8/9.9 of the Facilities Guide.

1.9 Protection of Openings on Top of Columns

All openings of the top of columns are to comply with Section 3-2-15 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

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Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-2-3

1.11 Guards and Rails

Guards and rails are to comply with the requirements of 5-3-1/5 of the MODU Rules. The above mentioned
section is to be used for the perimeters of the TLP. Alternative arrangements, such as a minimum 42-inch
high and two tiers evenly spaced handrail with a kickboard, may be considered by the Bureau, provided
they are also acceptable to local authorities.

1.13 Machinery and Equipment Foundations

Foundations for machinery or equipment subject to high concentrated or cyclic loading, such as drilling
facilities, cranes, tendon porches, riser porches, if applicable, are to be designed to provide satisfactory
strength and fatigue resistance for the reaction forces specified by the manufacturer or the maximum
anticipated loads during the design life of the TLP, in accordance with safety factors outlined in
5B-2-3/5.1. The global load effects, TLP motion-induced inertia loads are also to be considered in addition
to the reaction forces. The backup structures, reinforcements on hull or topside deck, are also to be
designed for the same loads and safety factors, as a minimum.

1.15 Appurtenances
Main appurtenances attached to the exterior of the hull are to be evaluated, taking into account the effects
of both local drag and inertia loads. Responses resulting from these loads, together with any appropriate
consideration of global action of the TLP, are to be considered with respect to yield, buckling and fatigue
strength. The backup structures are also to be designed for the same loads and safety factors, as a minimum.

1.17 Temporary Structures

Structures built for temporary use in the pre-service conditions are not subjected to ABS review. However,
the arrangements and details of these structures are to be submitted for reference to verify the adequacy of
the local and global strength of the hull and topside deck to support these temporary structures during
operation in the pre-service condition. The backup structures are to be designed for the safety factors
outlined in 5B-2-3/5.1.

3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure

The initial scantling design of the hull is to be based on the applicable portions of the MODU Rules and the
Steel Vessel Rules. The aspects that are not covered by these Rules are to be based on the recognized codes
and standards. For curved shells, the minimum scantlings of shell girders are to be determined on the basis
of established shell analysis methods, using the heads given in 5B-2-3/3.1 and safety factors appropriate to
the method employed. As a minimum, a detailed local analysis is to be performed, with failure modes
meeting the criteria in 5B-2-3/5.1.6.

3.1 Hull – Pontoons and Columns

Pontoons and columns may be considered either as framed or unframed shells. Ring stiffeners, bulkheads
or other suitable diaphragms which are used are to be adequate to maintain shape and stiffness under all
anticipated loadings in association with established shell analysis methods.
3.1.1 Scantlings of Framed Shells
Where the components of columns or pontoons incorporate stiffened plating, the minimum scantlings
of plating, framing, girders, etc., for shells and interior boundary bulkheads and flats may be
determined in accordance with the requirements for tanks, as given in 5B-2-3/3.5, in association
with the following.
3.1.1(a) Tank Space. Where the internal space is a tank, the head, h, is to be taken to a point
located at two-thirds of the distance from the top of the tank to the top of the overflow, or to a
point 0.91 m (3 ft) above the top of the tank, whichever is greater. For tanks intended to carry
contents with a specific gravity in excess of 1.05, the head is to be suitably increased by a factor
equal to the ratio of the specific gravity to 1.0.
3.1.1(b) Void Compartment Spaces. Where the internal space is a void compartment, the head is
to be taken to the maximum permissible draft of the unit in service.

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3.1.1(c) Areas Subject to Wave Immersion. For all areas subject to wave immersion, the minimum
head is to be 6.1 m (20 ft).
3.1.1(d) Minimum Scantlings. In general, the scantlings of boundaries are not to be less than
those required by 5B-2-3/3.3, in association with a head to the maximum damaged waterline.
3.1.2 Scantlings of Unframed Shells
Where columns or pontoons do not incorporate framing members, the minimum scantlings of shell
plating and ring stiffeners are to be determined on the basis of established shell analysis methods
using the heads given in 5B-2-3/3.1.1 and safety factors appropriate to the methods employed.
Interior boundary bulkheads and flats are to be considered on the basis of framed shells, as given
in 5B-2-3/3.1.1.
3.1.3 Additional Structural Requirements for Scantlings
Scantlings of columns and pontoons as determined above are minimum requirements for hydrostatic
loads. Where wave and current loadings are superimposed, the scantlings of the local structure of
the shell are to be increased as necessary, to meet the strength requirements of 5B-2-3/5.1.6.

3.3 Watertight Boundary Formula

3.3.1 Plating
The plating thickness of watertight boundaries is not to be less than that obtained from the following
equation:

t = sk qh /290 + 1.5 mm t = sk qh /525 + 0.06 in.

but not less than 6 mm (0.24 in.) or s/200 + 2.5 mm (s/200 + 0.10 in.), whichever is greater.
where
t = thickness in mm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners in mm (in.)

k = (3.075 α − 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
q = 235/Y (24/Y, 34,000/Y)
Y = specified minimum yield point or yield strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
h = distance, in m (ft), from the lower edge of the plating to a point defined in
5B-2-3/3.1
3.3.2 Stiffeners and Beams
The section modulus, SM, of each bulkhead stiffener or beam on a watertight flat, in association
with the plating to which it is attached, is not to be less than that obtained from the following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
Q = 49.92/(Y + 2U/3) (SI Units)
Q = 70900/(Y + 2U/3) (US Units)
where
f = 7.8 (0.0041)
c = 0.56 for stiffeners with ends attached
= 0.60 for stiffeners with no end attachment
h = distance, in m (ft), from the middle of l to a point defined in 5B-2-3/3.1

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s = the spacing of stiffeners, in m (ft)

l = the length of stiffeners, in m (ft); where brackets are fitted with a slope
of approximately 45 degrees and thickness given in 3-2-2/Table 2 of the
MODU Rules, the length of l maybe measured to a point on the bracket
equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Y = specified minimum yield strength, in kgf/mm2 (psi)
U = specified minimum tensile strength of the higher-strength material, in
kgf/mm2 (psi)
3.3.3 Girders and Webs
The section modulus, SM, of each girder or web is not to be less than that obtained from the following
equation:
SM = Q f h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 4.7 (0.0025)
h = distances, in m (ft), from the middle of the area supported to a point defined
in 5B-2-3/3.1
s = sum of half lengths, in m (ft) (on each side of girder or web), of the stiffeners
or beams supported
l = length, in m (ft), between supports, where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length l
may be measured to a point on the bracket located at the distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-2-3/3.3.2

3.5 Tank Boundary Formula

3.5.1 Plating
Plating is to be the thickness derived from the following equation:

t = sk qh /254 + 2.5 mm t = sk qh /460 + 0.10 in.

but not less than 6.5 mm (0.25 in.) or s/150 + 2.5 mm (s/150 + 0.10 in.), whichever is greater.
where
t = thickness, in mm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners, in mm (in.)

k = (3.075 α − 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
q = 235/Y (24/Y, 34,000/Y)
Y = specified minimum yield point or yield strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
h = distance, in m (ft), from the lower edge of the plating to a point defined in
5B-2-3/3.1
When the specific gravity of the liquid contents of a tank is greater than 1.05, the head, h, specified
above is to be increased by a factor equal to the ratio of the specific gravity to 1.0.

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3.5.2 Stiffeners and Beams

The section modulus, SM, of each bulkhead stiffener or beam on a flat, in association with the
plating to which it is attached, is not to be less than that obtained from the following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 7.8 (0.0041)
c = 0.9 for stiffeners having clip attachments to decks or flats at the ends or
having such attachments at one end with the other end supported by
girders
= 1.0 for stiffeners supported at both ends by girders
h = distance, in m (ft), from the middle of l to a point defined in 5B-2-3/3.1
s = spacing of stiffeners, in m (ft)
l = length, in m (ft), between supports; where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length,
l, may be measured to a point on the bracket located at a distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-2-3/3.3.2
3.5.3 Girders and Webs
The section modulus, SM, of each girder or web is not to be less than that obtained from the following
equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 4.74 (0.0025)
c = 1.5
h = distances, in m (ft), from the middle of the area supported to a point defined
in 5B-2-3/3.1
s = sum of half lengths, in m (ft) (on each side of girder or web), of the stiffeners
or beams supported
l = length, in m (ft), between supports, where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length,
l, may be measured to a point on the bracket located at the distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-2-3/3.3.2

5 Structural Strength Analysis and Design of Primary Structures

5.1 Hull, Integrated Deck and Top Column Frame

5.1.1 General
Documents necessary to verify the structural strength, including yielding, buckling and fatigue of
the hull, integrated deck, column top frame and main intersections of primary structures are to be
submitted for review. The criteria in this subsection relate to the analyses required to verify the
scantlings selected in the basic design in 5B-2-3/3. Except as provided in the MODU Rules, the
results of analyses that are required in this subsection cannot be used to reduce the scantlings
established from 5B-2-3/3 of this Guide.

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Depending on the specific features of the TLP, additional analyses to verify and help design other
portions of the TLP structural components will be required. Such additional analyses include the
hull interfaces with tendons, riser systems, machinery/equipment foundations and appurtenances.
Analysis criteria for these additional hull structural components are given in 5B-2-4/5.
5.1.2 Global Strength Analysis
The primary structures of the hull, integrated deck and column top frame are to be analyzed using
the loading and environmental conditions stipulated below. Conditions representing all modes of
operation are to be considered to determine the critical cases. Calculations for critical conditions
are to be submitted for review. The analyses are to be performed using recognized calculation
methods and fully documented and referenced.
5B-2-3/Table 1 below shows the required environmental events and safety factors to be considered
for each design condition in the global strength analysis:

TABLE 1
Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors
Design Conditions Environmental Events Safety Factors
Loadout Calm or specified by designer or Owner 1.67
Ocean Transit (Dry Tow) 10 year return storm for the selected route condition or specified by 1.25
designer or Owner if weather routing plan is to be implemented for the
voyage
Field Transit (Wet Tow) 1 year return storm for the selected route condition or specified by 1.25
designer or Owner
Deck Installation Calm or specified by designer or Owner 1.67
In-place Design Operating 1 year return storm (minimum) 1.67
In-place Design Environmental 100 year return storm 1.25
In-place Damaged 1-year return storm 1.25

5.1.2(a) Critical Responses for Global Strength. The global strength of the hull is to be designed
to withstand the responses induced by the loads specified in 5B-2-1/5.1. The responses of the hull
induced by these loads that control the hull strength design are prying/squeezing loads, inertia
loads and torsional moments. The responses that control the topside deck strength design are the
accelerations induced by the waves in addition to those responses that control the hull. As
indicated in 5B-2-3/Table 1, the in-place intact strength is to be designed for these responses with
a 100-year return period in the Design Environmental Condition (DEC).
The highest wave may not always produce the most critical responses. To ensure that the most
critical responses are captured, a sufficient number of design cases are to be used, considering the
following permutations:
i) Variation in environmental conditions and headings
ii) Variation in variables (deck payloads)
iii) Variation in ballasting distributions
iv) Variation in riser arrangements
5.1.3 Major Joint Analysis – Analysis for Main Intersections of Primary Structures
Since the details of the main intersections are difficult to adequately capture in the global strength
model, local FEM analyses are to be used, as required, to design these areas. These main
intersections include connections of pontoon to pontoon, column to pontoon, column to topside
deck, column to column top frame, and joints of column top frame and topside deck structures.

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5.1.4 Fatigue Analysis

Fatigue analysis is to be performed to ensure adequate strength against fatigue failure within the
TLP’s design life. The fatigue analysis is to consider all loading history of the TLP including transport
and in-place conditions. Special attention is to be given to the major joints mentioned above.
Attention is also to be given to the designs of structural notches, cutouts, attachments and abrupt
changes of structural sections where they are prone to fatigue damages.
5.1.5 Structural Redundancy Analysis
Redundancy analysis is required to ensure that there is adequate redistribution of stress in the
damaged conditions defined in 5B-2-3/Table 1. The damaged conditions are also to consider loss
of buoyancy in one compartment or removal of one tendon.
5.1.6 Acceptance Criteria
The total assessment of the structure and details is to be performed against the design conditions in
5B-2-3/Table 1 and failure modes of material yielding, buckling, ultimate strength and fatigue.
The acceptance criteria of each mode are given as follows.
5.1.6(a) Material Yielding. For the hull, integrated deck and column top frame, the yielding
criteria indicated in 3-2-1/3 of the MODU Rules is to be used. The safety factors are to be based
on 5B-2-3/Table 1 of this Guide.
The yield strength is to be based on the specified minimum yield point or yield stress, as defined
in 2-1-1/13 of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2) for higher strength material.
5.1.6(b) Buckling and Ultimate Strength. For the hull, integrated deck and column top frame, the
buckling criteria in API Bulletin 2V and 2U or other recognized standards are to be used. The
safety factors are to be based on 5B-2-3/Table 1 of this Guide.
5.1.6(c) Fatigue. For the hull, including the main intersections defined in 5B-2-3/5.1.3, the
fatigue damages can be calculated using the ABS Offshore S-N curves for environment in air, in
seawater with cathodic protection and free corrosion, as specified in Section 3 of the ABS Guide
for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures. The S-N curves are applicable to thicknesses
that do not exceed the reference thickness of 22 mm (7/8 in.). For members of greater thickness,
thickness correction is to be applied with an exponent of 0.25. Other recognized standards
equivalent to ABS requirements are also acceptable.
For integrated deck and column top frame, ABS Offshore S-N curves and AWS S-N curves can be
used.
The fatigue life is determined by safety factors and the design life of the TLP. Safety factors
depend on the inspectability, repairability, redundancy, the ability to predict failure damage, as
well as the consequence of failure of the structure. Minimum safety factor requirements are listed
in 5B-2-3/Table 2.

TABLE 2
Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull,
Integrated Deck and Column Top Frame
Importance Inspectable and Field Repairable
Yes No
Non-critical 3 5
Critical 5 10
Note: “Critical” implies that failure of these structural items would
result in the rapid loss of structural integrity and produce an event
of unacceptable consequence.

Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free from cracks, and stress concentration
factors are to be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.

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5.3 Non-integrated Deck

5.3.1 General
The designs of non-integrated deck structural members, such as deck girders, columns, beams,
braces, stiffeners, deck plating, etc., are to be based on the applicable sections of the Offshore
Installation Rules. To this end, the loads on the structure, as indicated in 5B-2-3/5.3.2, as applicable,
are to be determined, and the resulting structural responses are not to exceed the safety criteria
given in 5B-2-3/5.3.4.
The use of design methods and associated safety criteria, other than those specifically covered in
this section, is permitted where it can be demonstrated that the use of such alternative methods
will result in a structure possessing a level of safety equivalent to or greater than that provided by
the direct application of these requirements.
5.3.2 Loading Conditions
Loadings which produce the most unfavorable effects on the non-integrated deck structure for the
pre-service and in-service conditions are to be considered. The environmental conditions and
applicable loads described in 5B-2-1/5 are to be used to establish the design load cases for the in-
service and pre-service conditions. The environmental events included in 5B-2-3/Table 1 are also
to be considered for the deck design. For a given topside payload, the most critical responses for
the topside deck may be the accelerations induced by the TLP’s motions and the inclination-
induced loads.
5.3.3 Structural Analysis
A space frame analysis of the deck structure is to be performed to obtain the structural response.
The structural model can be either the overall TLP with a detailed deck model or a stand alone
deck structural model. In the latter case, the boundary conditions of the model are to be properly
simulated in the analysis. In modeling the deck structures, all relevant structural components are to
be included. The nature of loads and loading combinations, as well as the local environmental
conditions, are to be taken into consideration in the selection of design methods. Methods of
analysis and their associated assumptions are to be compatible with the overall design principles.
Linear, elastic methods (working stress methods) are generally employed in design and analysis.
For the use of other methods, reference is to be made to 3/4.7 of the Offshore Installations Rules.
5.3.4 Allowable Stresses
The safety criteria are to be expressed in terms of appropriate basic allowable stresses, in accordance
with requirements specified below:
5.3.4(a) For tubular members, stress limits are to be in accordance with the API RP 2A. The
basic allowable stresses for the other type of members are to be obtained using the American
Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Manual of Steel Construction, ASD. For plated structures,
the design is to be in accordance with API RP 2U and API RP 2V or other recognized industry
standards.
5.3.4(b) Where stresses in members described in 5B-2-3/5.3.4(a) are shown to be due to forces
imposed by the Design Environmental Condition (DEC) acting in combination with dead and live
loads, the basic allowable stresses cited in 5B-2-3/5.3.4(a) may be increased by one-third, provided
the resulting structural member sizes are not less than those required for the operating environment
loading combined with dead and live loads without the one-third increase in allowable stresses.
5.3.4(c) (1 July 2009) The allowable stresses specified in 5B-2-3/5.3.4(b) are to be regarded as
the limits for stresses in all structural parts for the marine operations covered in 5B-2-1/5.1, except
for lifting, where the one-third increase in the basic allowable stress is not permitted. The one-third
increase in the basic allowable stress is also not permitted in loadout operations. The lifting
analysis is to adequately account for equipment and fabrication weight increase with dynamic
amplification factors recommended in API RP 2A. Other lift analysis methods can be considered
on a case-by-case basis.

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5.3.4(d) For any two- or three-dimensional stress field within the scope of the working stress
formulation, the equivalent stress (e.g., the von Mises stress intensity) is to be used in the design.
The allowable von Mises stress is to be 0.6 of the yield strength for the Design Operating
Condition (DOC). A one-third increase in the allowable stress is allowed for the Design
Environmental Condition (DEC). For highly localized areas, local yielding of the structure may be
accepted, provided it can be demonstrated that such yielding does not lead to progressive collapse
of the overall structure and that the general structural stability is maintained.
5.3.4(e) Whenever elastic instability, overall or local, may occur before the stresses reach their
basic allowable levels, appropriate allowable buckling stresses govern.
5.3.5 Fatigue Assessment
A detailed fatigue analysis is to be performed for deck structures. Rational fatigue analysis
methods are acceptable if the forces and member stresses can be properly represented. The
dynamic effects are to be taken into consideration if they are significant to the structural response.
For the frame members of the deck, the S-N curves specified in the ABS Guide for the Fatigue
Assessment of Offshore Structures and API RP 2A are recommended. The Stress Concentration
Factors (SCFs) for tubular joints can be calculated based on applicable empirical formulas. For the
complex critical connections, the SCFs should be calculated by means of a fine mesh finite
element analysis.
The results of the assessment are to indicate a minimum expected fatigue life of three times the
design life of the structure where sufficient structural redundancy exists to prevent catastrophic
failure of the structure of the member or connection under consideration. Where such redundancy
does not exist or where the desirable degree of redundancy is significantly reduced as a result of
fatigue damage, the result of a fatigue assessment is to indicate a minimum expected fatigue life of
three or more times the design life of the structure. 5B-2-3/Table 3 provides general safety factor
requirements for fatigue life. For the deck to hull connections, see 5B-2-3/5.1.6(c).

TABLE 3
Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Topside Deck Structures
Importance Inspectable and Field Repairable
Yes No
Non-critical 3 5
Critical 3 10
Note: “Critical” implies that failure of these structural items would result in the rapid loss
of structural integrity and produce an event of unacceptable consequence.

Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free from cracks, and stress concentration
factors are to be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.
5.3.6 Stresses in Connections (1 July 2009)
Connections of structural members are to be developed to ensure effective load transmission
between connected members, to minimize stress concentration and to prevent excessive punching
shear. Connection details are also to be designed to minimize undue constraints against overall
ductile behavior and to minimize the effects of post-weld shrinkage. Undue concentration of
welding is to be avoided. The design of tubular joints is to be in accordance with the API RP 2A,
including pinching shear. AISC Manual of Steel Construction, ASD can be used for the design of
non-tubular joints.

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5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

SECTION 4 Other Structures

1 Tendon System Design

1.1 General
The tendon system provides a vertical mooring system to the TLP by linking the TLP hull to the foundation
system. The tendon system provides axial stiffness to control the heave natural period of the TLP and also
provides sufficient axial strength to restrain the TLP motions under the environmental loading.
The tendon system may consist of a different number of tendons, depending on the platform configuration,
loading conditions, intended service life requirement and redundancy requirement specified by the Owner.
Generally, the design life of the tendon is to be taken as the service life of the TLP. In special situations,
the tendons may also be designed to be removable for maintenance and/or inspections.
Each tendon consists of a top section for attaching the tendon to the TLP hull-mounted tendon porches, a
tendon main body to span the water column and a tendon bottom termination assembly for attaching the
tendon to the foundation system. The main body of the tendon is generally made up of steel tubulars. Any
other form of tendons such as solid rods, bars or wire ropes and any other materials such as non-metallic
materials and composites that meet the service requirements may also be specially considered.
The tendon main body may consist of a number of tendon elements connected by tendon connectors.
Tendon connectors can be mechanical couplings, welded joints or any other form of structural connection
that meets the service requirements. The tendons may also have special components such as corrosion
protection system components, tendon load and performance monitoring devices and VIV suppression
devices. The term “tendon”, as used here, refers to all of the components of the tendon system between the
hull porch and the foundation system.

1.3 Loading Conditions

Loading conditions which produce the most unfavorable effects on the tendons for pre-service and in-
service conditions are to be considered. The in-service condition analyses are to consider TLP intact and
damaged conditions. The TLP intact condition analyses are to consider different TLP configurations such
as drilling with rig, production with or without rig, different number of risers attached to the TLP, etc.
TLP damaged condition analyses are to consider accidental flooding of a compartment in the platform or
tendon and tendon removed condition. The environmental conditions described in 5B-2-1/5 are to be used
in these analyses. TLP analyses, as a minimum, are to consider loading conditions associated with the
following:
i) Maximum tension
ii) Minimum tension
iii) Largest flex element rotational angle
iv) Lifetime fatigue conditions
v) Hydrostatic collapse

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1.5 Tendon Analysis Procedure

Tendon static loads may be determined from the equilibrium condition of the TLP. Tendon static loads arise
from pretension, tide, platform offset due to wind and current and due to foundation installation position errors.
Tendon dynamic loads arise from platform motions under hydrodynamic loads and seismic motions and
direct hydrodynamic forces acting on the tendons. Tendon dynamic loads may be determined by TLP
global performance analysis described in 5B-2-1/7 if the analysis is coupled, that is, the transverse
(bending) response of the tendon is calculated simultaneously with the platform response. If the global
performance analysis is uncoupled, that is, the tendons are represented by springs, then separate tendon
analysis is to be carried out to evaluate the tendon responses along the length of the tendon. Procedures
described in API RP 2T can be used for detailed tendon analysis.

1.7 Tendon Loads (1 September 2007)

For each loading condition, the maximum and minimum tendon tensions are to be evaluated. In general,
the following factors are to be considered in the evaluation of the maximum and minimum tendon tensions.
i) Design pretension at mean water level
ii) Variation in tendon tension due to tide and storm surge
iii) Variation in tendon tension due to variations in load and ballast condition
iv) Tension due to overturning moment from wind and current forces
v) Tension due to set down and slowly varying offset caused by wind, wave drift and current
vi) Tension due to wave forces and wave-induced platform motions about the mean offset
vii) Tension due to high frequency heave, pitch and roll oscillations (ringing and springing)
viii) Tension due to vortex-induced responses.
For special situations, tendon loads arising from other sources such as thermal stresses may have to be
considered.
Tendon loads include axial, bending, shear, torque, radial and hoop loads. While the tendon loads are
primarily axial, other types of loads should also be evaluated, as appropriate, to assure adequacy of the
design. Axial and bending stresses are to be combined in the evaluation of the maximum stresses in the
tendon. Axial, bending and hoop stresses are to be considered in the evaluation of the adequacy of the
tendons to withstand hydrostatic loads.
The minimum tendon bottom tension is to be positive for all intact conditions. For damage conditions, if
the tendon minimum bottom tension is less than zero, both scenarios of tendon buckling and downstroke of
the bottom flex element connector are to be evaluated. In addition, the tendon stresses resulting from
reengagement of the bottom connector are to be evaluated. A static overload analysis may be required to
show that the TLP does not rotate or heave to unlatch the tendons when a small overload is applied.
The tendon tension requirements under platform damaged conditions due to different flooding scenarios
are described in 5B-2-2/1.

1.9 Tendon Components

The adequacy of the tendon components such as top and bottom connectors, couplings, flex element, etc.,
are to be verified by detailed finite element analysis (FEA) and testing, where necessary, to support and
validate the FEA. The loads for the finite element analyses are to be obtained from the tendon global
analysis. Worst case analyses are to be run to quantify the effects of fabrication tolerances on fit-up and
component stresses. Axisymmetric modeling may be used for FEA. Three-dimensional modeling is to be
used to quantify three-dimensional effects in critically stressed areas, where appropriate. Von Mises
equivalent stresses of net section stress and local bending stress are to be evaluated for critical sections.
Peak stresses are to be evaluated for fatigue analysis of the components.

1.11 Installation Analyses

The effects which may be induced in the tendons during transportation, lifting and installation are to be
considered in the design. If the tendons are pre-installed, analysis is to be carried out for the freestanding
condition to verify structural stability and tendon interference.

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1.13 Allowable Stresses

The allowable stresses of the tendons are to be in accordance with API RP 2T. The interaction between the
net section stresses and local bending stresses is to be considered, where applicable.
The allowable stresses against hydrostatic buckling are to be in accordance with API RP 2A.

1.15 Fatigue Analysis

Fatigue damage calculations are to be carried out to verify the adequacy of the fatigue life of the tendon.
The fatigue calculations are to consider all of the sea states expected over the lifetime of the tendons and
any fatigue damage due to vortex-induced vibrations during the in-place and installation conditions.
Frequency domain or time domain analysis may be used to evaluate the tendon loads. The tendon fatigue
loading is to consider total tendon stresses, including axial and bending stresses, due to wave frequency,
low frequency and high frequency loads. Appropriate material S-N curves based on the lower bound of a
two-sided 95 percent prediction interval are to be selected according to the material, welding detail and
workmanship, level of quality control and level of cathodic protection. For the use of different S-N curves,
please refer to the ABS Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures. Appropriate stress
concentration factors (SCF) for tendon pipe and components are to be determined based on parametric
formulas or local finite element analyses considering local mismatch tolerances, geometry and loading.
For tendon receptacles and other components attached to the pile while it is driven, fatigue damage due to
pile driving is also to be considered. Fatigue damage is to be accumulated using the linear Palmgren-Miner rule.
The minimum fatigue life of the tendon is to be ten (10) times the tendon service life.

1.17 Fracture Mechanics Calculations

The tendons are to have sufficient fracture toughness to prevent fracture unstable crack growth from
surface, sub-surface or through-wall flaws under extreme design loads within a period less than five (5)
times the tendon service life or tendon inspection period, whichever is less. Fracture mechanics analyses
are to be performed in accordance with BS7910 or other equivalent standard to demonstrate that the
smallest reliably detectable initial flaws will not grow by fatigue to a critical size for fracture failure within
this period, where the preferred critical flaw is a through-thickness fatigue crack rather than a surface or
sub-surface fatigue crack. Initial flaws of various aspect ratios and no threshold for fatigue crack growth
(ΔKth = 0) are to be considered in these analyses.

1.19 Corrosion Protection (1 July 2009)

The tendons are to be protected from the effects of corrosion by the use of coatings and cathodic
protection. The system is to be effective from the time the structure is initially installed. When the sea
environment contains unusual contaminants, any special corrosive effects of such contaminants are also to
be considered. For the design of coatings and cathodic protection systems, reference is to be made to the
appropriate National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) standards, such as SP0108 or SP0176 or
other recognized standards.

3 Foundation

3.1 General
The primary function of the foundation system is to anchor the tendons to the seafloor. TLP foundation
system may consist of individual piles directly attached to the tendons or template structures anchored by
piles or a gravity base. TLP foundation design and site investigation requirements in general are to be in
accordance with Part 3, Section 6 of the Offshore Installation Rules. Detailed geological surveys, seafloor
and sub-bottom geophysical surveys and geotechnical investigations are to be carried out for each TLP
site. Special design considerations for foundation systems subject to tensile loading and in deepwater sites
are given in the following sections. Fabrication, transportation, installation and materials of foundation
systems are also to be in accordance with Offshore Installation Rules.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 459
Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 2 Tension Leg Platforms
Section 4 Other Structures 5B-2-4

3.3 Site Investigations

Requirements for site investigations are to be guided by the quality of data from prior site surveys and the
consequence of foundation failure. For soil samples obtained from deep water sites, the measured
properties under laboratory conditions may be different from in-situ values due to relief of hydrostatic pore
pressure and its associated effects on dissolved gases. Therefore, in-situ or special laboratory testing is
required to determine soil properties for deepwater sites. Since installation sites may be distant from areas
for which extensive site data are available, regional and local site studies are to be carried out to adequately
establish soil characteristics. A less extensive site investigation may be acceptable, provided that previous
site investigation and experience are available.
TLP foundations experience upward static and dynamic loadings that are different from those typically
experienced by the foundations of a jacket-type structure. In order to predict soil-structure interaction due
to cyclic loading, soil tests are to be carried out to define the dynamic and cyclic behavior of the soil. In
addition, TLP foundations are subject to sustained tensile loads together with cyclic tensile load components,
which can result in tensile creep of the foundation. Therefore, additional tests are to be carried out to
determine long-term soil-pile response when subjected to these loadings. Consideration should be given to
the performance of permeability and consolidation tests to assist in the evaluation of the soil-pile setup.

3.5 Foundation Design

The loadings used for the foundation design are to be obtained from the tendon analyses. The loads
resulting from the extreme, normal, platform or tendon damaged and tendon removed conditions are to be
considered in the foundation design. The application of the loads to the foundation system should also
consider the foundation installation tolerances, as applicable.
The design of the foundation systems consisting of driven piles, in general, is to be in accordance with
ABS Offshore Installation Rules. The axial capacity of piles subject to tension is to be equal to skin
friction alone. In the evaluation of the axial capacity, consideration should be given to cyclic degradation
about a sustained tension load, axial flexibility of the pile, the effects of sustained tension loading such as
creep, group effects and the potential of near surface axial capacity reduction from gapping caused by
lateral deflection, scouring or liquefaction.
Pile set-up analyses are to be carried out to evaluate the time required for the piles to gain the ultimate
strength. The pile design penetration is to be determined based on the pile axial capacity at the completion
of TLP installation. For the duration between the tendon hook up and completion of TLP installation, the
adequacy of the piles capacity will be determined based on the project specifications.
TLP piles are subject to cyclic tensile loads during the life of the structure. Therefore, for TLP foundation
systems, a fatigue analysis is to be carried out to evaluate the fatigue life. The fatigue analysis is to
consider fatigue damage due to in-place loading, as well as fatigue damage during pile driving.
Pile installation analyses are to be carried out in accordance with API RP 2A. The effect of ocean currents
on the freestanding portion of the pile and hammer are to be considered in these analyses.
The analysis of piled template structures and gravity-based structures is to be in accordance with ABS
Offshore Installation Rules, API RP 2T and API RP 2A.
The safety factors for TLP foundations are specified in 5B-2-4/Table 1.

TABLE 1
Safety Factors for Pile Foundation Design
Description Safety Factors
Design Operating Condition 3.0
Design Environmental Condition 2.25
Tendon Removed with Reduced Extreme Condition 2.25
Foundation Fatigue Life w.r.t. Design Service Life 10

460 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 2 Tension Leg Platforms
Section 4 Other Structures 5B-2-4

5 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures

The analysis and criteria to be applied to the other pertinent features of the TLP structural design are to
conform to recognized practices acceptable to the Bureau. For TLPs, there will be a need to consider in the
hull and topside deck design: the interface between the tendon system and the hull, the interface between
the riser system and the hull and the effects of structural support reactions from deck modules. The criteria
to be applied for these cases are presented below.

5.1 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Porches, Supports and Guides)
The riser porches, guides and supports, including the hull backup structures (the reinforcements for the
hull), are to be designed for the maximum anticipated riser loads with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design
Environmental Condition and with a safety factor of 1.67 in the Design Operating Condition.
Fatigue strength is to be designed to meet the requirements in 5B-2-3/5.1.6(c), taking into account the
effects of both local drag and inertia loads on the risers and the global motions of the TLP.

5.3 Hull Interface with Tendons (Tendon Porches)

The tendon porches, including the hull backup structures, are to be designed for the maximum anticipated
tendon loads with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design Environmental Condition and with a safety factor of
1.67 in the Design Operating Condition.
Fatigue strength is to be designed to meet the requirements in 5B-2-3/5.1.6(c), taking into account the
effects of both local drag and inertia loads on the tendons and the global motions of the TLP.

5.5 Topside Deck Interface with Deck Modules

The topside deck may require reinforcements to resist the reaction forces from equipment/machinery
foundations or deck modules. The reinforcements of the topside deck are referred to as backup structures.
The forces to be resisted by the backup structures of the topside deck are to be designed for the maximum
anticipated load together with the inertia loads induced by the TLP motions with a safety factor of 1.25 in
the Design Environmental Condition and with a safety factor of 1.67 in the Design Operating Condition. If
deemed necessary, the fatigue strength is to meet the requirements of 5B-2-3/5.1.6(c).

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 461
PART Section 5: Materials and Welding

5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

SECTION 5 Materials and Welding

1 Materials and Welding

1.1 Hull Including Integrated Deck Structures

Sections 3-2-6 and 3-2-7 of the MODU Rules are to be used to establish the welding requirements for the
hull. The weld type and sizing are to be shown on the scantling drawings or in the form of a welding
schedule, and are to comply with the Rules that govern the steel selection. Special attention is to be given
to the weld details for fatigue sensitive areas, if necessary. Weld improvements by means of toe grinding
and weld profiling are to be used if required by fatigue analysis results.
Section 3-1-3 of the MODU Rules is to be used for the material selections for the hull including integrated
deck. The TLP hull structures are grouped into the following material application categories for the purpose
of material grade selection:

Special Application • External shell structure in way of main intersections of columns, topside deck,
Structure pontoons, column top frame, tendon porches and riser porches
• Portions of topside deck which receive major concentrated loads
• Intersections of topside deck main truss members
• External brackets, portions of bulkheads, flats and frames which receive
concentrated loads at main intersections of columns, topside deck, pontoons,
column top frame, tendon porches and riser porches
• “Through” material used at main intersections of columns, topside deck, pontoons,
column top frame, tendon porches and riser porches, which provide proper
alignment and adequate load transfer

Primary Application • External shell structure of columns, pontoons, column top frame, tendon porches
Structure and riser porches
• Integrated topside deck main truss members
• Bulkheads, flats and framing which provide local reinforcement or continuity of
structure in way of main intersections, except where the structure is considered
special application
• Bulkhead girders, decks that are designed to provide global strength to the TLP

Secondary Application • Internal structure, including bulkheads and girders in columns, integrated topside
Structure deck, pontoons and top column frame, except where the structure is considered
primary or special applications
• Decks of topside deck, except where the structure is considered primary or special
applications

462 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 2 Tension Leg Platforms
Section 5 Materials and Welding 5B-2-5

1.3 Non-integrated Deck Structures

Part 2 of the Offshore Installation Rules can be used to establish the material selections and welding
requirements for the truss deck of the topside. The deck structures are categorized into the following four
groups, in association with the Charpy toughness test described in Table 2/1.3 of the Offshore Installation
Rules:
i) Deck lifting points, deck-to-hull cans
ii) Major truss row girders, major truss row columns, major truss row bracing
iii) Intermediate girders, intermediate bracing
iv) Deck stringer beams, deck plating
Alternatively, Section 3-1-3 of the MODU Rules may be used for material selections.
Note: Items such as handrails, walkways, access platforms do not require the above material requirements.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 463
PART Section 6: Machinery and Systems

5B
CHAPTER 2 Tension Leg Platforms

SECTION 6 Machinery and Systems

1 Marine Piping Systems

Marine piping systems are those systems that are required for maintaining the normal operations of a
floating unit (such as power generation, bilge, ballast, tank vent and sounding, etc.). Subsection 4-2-1/3 of
the MODU Rules lists these systems. Systems installed in the hull are to be designed to minimize the
requirements for equipment and machinery to be installed in hull compartments and to limit as much as
possible systems requiring piping or cable runs in the TLP hull.
Marine piping systems are to be in accordance with the requirements of the MODU Rules, except as
modified herein.

1.1 Bilge System

The design of bilge systems is to meet applicable requirements of Section 4-2-4 of the MODU Rules. For
the bilge suction sizing purposes, column-stabilized units and self-elevating units sizing criteria listed in
4-2-4/9.3 of the MODU Rules are applicable.

1.3 Ballast System

The system fitted is to provide the capability to ballast and deballast all ballast tanks. All pumps and
valves are to be fitted with a remote means of operation situated above the uppermost watertight deck. The
capabilities of the pumping system are to meet the requirements of APR RP 2T. The normal or emergency
operation of the ballast system is not to introduce a greater risk of progressive flooding due to the opening
of hatches, manholes etc. in watertight boundaries.
1.3.1 Pumping Systems
Where ballast systems powered by pumping systems are installed, at least two ballast pumps are to
be provided, one of which is to be permanently connected to the installation’s ballast system. The
second pump may be a spare held in reserve or an eductor type arrangement permanently
connected to the system. If submersible ballast pumps are installed in each ballast tank, one spare
pump must be stored onboard at all times.
1.3.2 Compressed Air Systems
Where ballast systems powered by compressed air are installed, a satisfactory quantity of compressed
air is to be available to the system at all times. If two compressors are installed, one compressor is
to be powered by either the emergency switchboard or a dedicated engine. Each compressor is to
be capable of providing 100% of the required capacity of compressed air, as defined in 5B-2-6/1.3.2(a).
If only one compressor is provided, this compressor is to be powered by either the emergency
switchboard or a dedicated engine, and a quantity of stored compressed air equivalent to the required
capacity called out in 5B-2-6/1.3.2(a) is to be provided.
1.3.2(a) Quantity of Compressed Air. A quantity of air capable of bringing the installation from
its worst case damage or accidental flooding condition, as defined by 5B-2-2/1.1, to normal
operating tension.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 2 Tension Leg Platforms
Section 6 Machinery and Systems 5B-2-6

1.5 Vents and Sounds

Except for comparatively small compartments that are not fitted with a fixed means of drainage, vent pipes
are to be fitted on all tanks, cofferdams, voids, tunnels and compartments which are not fitted with other
ventilation arrangements.
The requirements for sounding are to comply with the MODU Rules. However, to prevent duplication of
pipe runs, it would be acceptable to sound the void spaces through the vent lines. In the case of a sealed
vent, a sounding plug would need to be provided to permit void space sounding.

1.7 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks

If the TLP is designed to store hydrocarbons in hull tanks, criteria for hull storage of hydrocarbons are to
meet flag and coastal state requirements and applicable international requirements. The designs for scantlings
and strength for such storage tanks are to be in accordance with 5B-2-3/3 and 5B-2-3/5. See 3-5/5.9 of the
Facilities Guide for the storage facility arrangement requirements.

3 Electrical Systems
The design criteria of electrical systems associated with marine systems (and drilling systems) are to be in
accordance with applicable requirements described in Part 4, Chapters 1 and 3 of the MODU Rules.
The design criteria of electrical systems strictly devoted to the hydrocarbon processing facilities are to be
in accordance with applicable requirements described in Chapter 3 of the Facilities Guide.
The design criteria of electrical systems associated with both marine systems and hydrocarbon processing
facilities are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements described in Part 4, Chapters 1 and 3 of
the MODU Rules.

5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment

The fire fighting systems and equipment for the TLP service functions not associated with the process
facilities are to be in accordance with Part 5, Chapter 2 of the MODU Rules. Fire fighting systems and
equipment for protection of hydrocarbon process and associated systems, including fire pumps, are to be in
accordance with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Facilities Guide.

7 Machinery and Equipment

Machinery and equipment not associated with the process facilities are to be in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 1 of the MODU Rules. Machinery and equipment forming a part
of the hydrocarbon processing facilities are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of
Chapter 3, Section 3 of the Facilities Guide. Machinery and equipment forming a part of the permanent
drilling facility are to be in accordance with Part 4, Chapter 1 of the MODU Rules.

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PART Chapter 3: Spar Installations

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General Requirements ....................................................................... 468
1 General ...........................................................................................468
3 Definitions .......................................................................................468
3.1 Upper Hull – Hard Tank ...............................................................468
3.3 Mid-section – Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates or Free
Flooded Cylindrical Column.........................................................468
3.5 Lower Hull – Soft Tank (or Keel Tank).........................................468
5 Loading Criteria...............................................................................469
5.1 Loads...........................................................................................469
5.3 Environmental Conditions............................................................469
7 Global Performance Analyses ........................................................470
7.1 General........................................................................................470
7.3 Frequency Domain Analyses .......................................................470
7.5 Time Domain Analyses................................................................471
7.7 Deck Clearance ...........................................................................471
7.9 Model Testing ..............................................................................471
9 Corrosion Protection and Control....................................................471

SECTION 2 Stability ............................................................................................... 472

1 Stability............................................................................................472
1.1 Wet Tow ......................................................................................472
1.3 Installation ...................................................................................472
1.5 In-Service Stability .......................................................................472
1.7 Lightweight and Center of Gravity................................................474
3 Watertight/Weathertight Integrity ....................................................475
3.1 Weathertight Integrity...................................................................475
3.3 Watertight Integrity.......................................................................475
3.5 Penetrations ................................................................................475

FIGURE 1 Zones of Weathertight and Watertight Integrity ....................474

SECTION 3 Hull and Primary Structures .............................................................. 476

1 Structural Design ............................................................................476
1.1 Scantlings ....................................................................................476
1.3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure .........................................476
1.5 Modules and Buildings on the Topside Deck...............................476
1.7 Helicopter Deck ...........................................................................476
1.9 Protection of Spar Deck Openings...............................................476

466 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 1.11 Guards and Rails......................................................................... 476
1.13 Machinery and Equipment Foundations ...................................... 477
1.15 Vortex Shedding Strakes............................................................. 477
1.17 Appurtenances ............................................................................ 477
1.19 Temporary Structures.................................................................. 477
3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure ............................................477
3.1 Hull Structure............................................................................... 477
5 Structural Analysis and Design of Primary Structures....................481
5.1 Hull Structure............................................................................... 481
5.3 Topside Deck .............................................................................. 483

TABLE 1 Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors ............482

TABLE 2 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull Structures .................483
TABLE 3 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Topside Deck
Structures..............................................................................485

SECTION 4 Other Structures................................................................................. 486

1 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures..............................486
1.1 Hull Interface with Mooring System (Fairlead, Chain Stopper
and Winch Foundations).............................................................. 486
1.3 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Guides and Riser
Supports)..................................................................................... 486
3 Mooring and Foundation System....................................................486
3.1 Mooring System .......................................................................... 486
3.3 Foundation System ..................................................................... 486

SECTION 5 Materials and Welding ....................................................................... 487

1 Hull Structures ................................................................................487
3 Topside Deck Structures.................................................................488

SECTION 6 Machinery and Systems .................................................................... 489

1 Marine Piping Systems ...................................................................489
1.1 Bilge System ............................................................................... 489
1.3 Ballast System............................................................................. 489
1.5 Vents and Sounds ....................................................................... 490
1.7 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks............................................. 490
3 Electrical Systems...........................................................................490
5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment............................................491
7 Machinery and Equipment ..............................................................491

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 467
PART Section 1: General Requirements

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

SECTION 1 General Requirements

1 General
A Spar is a deep draft installation consisting of a hull and a topside deck, where the topside deck sits on top
of the hull. The hull can be divided into upper hull, mid-section and lower hull, as described in the
following Subsection. The topside deck is a space frame truss deck that provides space for the production
equipment, workover or drilling rig (if any), accommodations and marine support systems, and supports
the loads of this equipment, including operational loads.
The design and construction of the hull are to be based on all applicable requirements of the MODU Rules.
The design and construction of topside deck are to be based on the Offshore Installation Rules. However,
the structural performance and demand of a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) in ocean service are
different from those of a Spar positioned at a particular site on a long-term basis. Therefore, the design
criteria given in the MODU Rules can be modified to reflect the differences. In addition, in the absence of
equivalent Coastal State requirements, the applicable criteria contained in the Load Line, SOLAS and
MARPOL Conventions issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) may be considered. It is
further suggested that the local authorities having jurisdiction where the installation is to operate be
contacted to obtain any further criteria that are applicable to the Spar installations.

3 Definitions

3.1 Upper Hull – Hard Tank

The Upper Hull is also known as the Hard Tank, which serves to provide buoyancy to support the topside
deck and provide spaces for variable ballast and in some cases for diesel oil, drill water, or methanol
storage. The Spar Deck is the uppermost deck of the hard tank.

3.3 Mid-section – Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates or Free Flooded Cylindrical
Column
The Mid-section connects the upper hull with the lower hull. The mid-section can be a truss space frame
with heave plates or a cylindrical column. Normally, the cylindrical column mid-section is free flooded
and the truss space frame is buoyant. The heave plates are a series of horizontal decks between each bay of
the truss space frame that trap water mass providing added mass and hydrodynamic damping to limit heave
motions and act as guides for the risers.

3.5 Lower Hull – Soft Tank (or Keel Tank)

The Lower Hull, also known as the Soft Tank (or Keel Tank), normally consists of a fixed ballast tank and,
in the case of a truss Spar, a flotation tank. The fixed ballast tank provides temporary buoyancy during a
horizontal wet tow and provides the needed ballast in upending by flooding the tank. After upending, the
ballast water may be replaced by fixed ballast (a substance with a density higher than water) to lower the
Spar center of gravity. The ballast in the fixed ballast tank results in a vertical center of gravity well below
the center of buoyancy, which provides Spar with sound stability, as well as motion characteristics. The
flotation tank is located adjacent to the fixed ballast tank to provide additional buoyancy for wet tow and
ballast in upending.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-3-1

5 Loading Criteria

5.1 Loads
The Spar’s modes of operation in pre-service (load-out, transportation, installation) and in-service (in-
place) conditions are to be investigated using anticipated loads, including gravity loads together with relevant
environmental loads due to the effects of wind, waves, current and other phenomena such as earthquake,
temperature, fouling, ice, etc., depending upon the specific installation site.
The Spar is to be designed for the loading conditions that produce the most severe local and global effects
on the structure, as determined by the most severe operational or installation requirements. Applied loading
combinations considered for structural design are to include, as applicable, but not limited to the following
loads:
i) Environmental Loads. Loads due to wind, waves and current are to be considered. Directionality
of wind, waves and current may be considered if accurate data is available. Where there is no accurate
data available, the directionality of wind, waves and current that generates the most severe local
and global load effects are to be used for design. Adequate headings for the environment are to be
analyzed such that the most critical heading for the environment has been covered.
ii) Hydrostatic Pressures and Buoyancy. Hydrostatic pressures and buoyancy are to be considered
for all submerged structural members.
iii) Gravity and Inclination Induced Loads. Gravity with appropriate components due to Spar heeling
and trimming is to be considered.
iv) Inertia Loads. Inertia Loads due to motions of the Spar are to be considered.
v) Operational Loads. Loads induced by operations of drilling, production, storage and offloading,
as applicable, are to be considered.
vi) Mooring and Riser Loads. Loads due to mooring and riser systems are to be considered.
vii) Marine Operation Loads. Loads encountered during transportation and installation are to be taken
into account in the design. These loads include loads exposed during transport (wet or dry), launch
or float-off, upending, and during ballasting and deballasting operations when the deck is being
installed.
viii) VIV Loads. Vortex-Induced-Vibration (VIV) is incurred by vortex shedding behind slender
bodies and the Spar hull itself in current. Loads and fatigue strength are to be fully assessed for
structures and the mooring system subject to VIV effects.
ix) Green Water Loads on Spar Deck. Green water effects are to be considered for the strength of
affected structures on the top of the hull, as applicable.
x) Slamming. Wave slamming loads are to be considered for members subject to wave slamming
during transportation and operation.

5.3 Environmental Conditions

The Spar is to be designed to withstand a specified extreme storm in the Design Environmental Condition
and operate in the Design Operating Condition. The environmental conditions required for these conditions
are defined in 3-2-3/1.1 and 3-2-3/1.3 and the environmental criteria required for these design conditions
are defined in Section 3-2-4. Additionally, the spar is also to be designed for all operations in pre-service
conditions such as load out, transportation and installation. The environmental conditions for load out and
installation are to be specified by the designers or Owners. The environmental conditions for transportation
is to be of a 10-year return event of the selected transit route, unless a weather routing plan is implemented
for the voyage.
In the design of the Spar in-service and pre-service strength, the following environmental conditions are to
be considered:

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 469
Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-3-1

Design Environmental Conditions (DEC). Please refer to 3-2-3/1.1. For structural strength design,
environmental conditions that produce the responses having a minimum return period of 100 years are to
be used.
Design Operating Conditions (DOC). Please refer to 3-2-3/1.3. For structural design, environmental
conditions that produce the responses having a minimum return period of 1 year are to be used.
Reduced Extreme Conditions (REC). Environmental conditions that have a low probability of being
exceeded when the hull is damaged. For structural strength design, joint statistics may be used to determine
a return period which, combined with the probability of damage, produces a risk level equal to that of the
Design Environmental Conditions (DEC).
Calm Conditions. Environmental conditions such that the effects of wind, waves and current are insignificant
and can be ignored. Where such a situation exists, the design case is permitted to use calm conditions.

7 Global Performance Analyses

7.1 General
Global performance analyses of a Spar are aimed at determining the global effects of environmental loads
on the overall platform and its components. The principal scope of the analyses includes calculation of
external loads for global structural analysis for in-place condition and critical pre-service conditions, as
well as analysis/confirmation of:
i) Hydrodynamic loads, shear forces and bending moments for global strength analyses
ii) The Spar in-place motions and accelerations, including those for the structural design of the deck
structure and topside modules, hull appurtenances, and those for risers and mooring lines
iii) The Spar freeboard and deck clearance
The hydrodynamic models used in the global performance analysis may include:
i) Diffraction equation or simulated diffraction equation using Morison members for cylindrical sections
ii) Morison equation for truss element and external hull appurtenances (with well documented drag
coefficients Cd and inertia coefficients Cm)
iii) Computational fluid dynamics, diffraction theory, and/or model test of multiple heave plate, or
simulated using Morison members with Cd and Cm computed by CFD/Diffraction theory
Global motions of a Spar are quite different from traditional offshore floating structures due to the deep
draft of the Spar. The vertical modes of motions, i.e., pitch, roll and heave of the Spar are important design
parameters for deriving inertia loads and are to be included in the mooring analysis due to the increased
line tensions induced by vertical motions of the Spar. Among these, the effects due to rotational modes are
more pronounced. The static rotational modes of motions are due to the mean loads of wind, current and
waves, while the low frequency rotational modes of motions are induced by the slowly varying low
frequency waves, wind and current excitations. The motion responses of the Spar in six degrees of freedom
are usually solved in a time domain analysis for the nonlinear effects described below. Hydrodynamic
coefficients, except the drag coefficients used in a time-domain analysis, are usually taken from frequency
domain wave diffraction/radiation calculations. For classic spars, Cd for heave will significantly impact the
heave motions and needs to be carefully chosen, accounting for the potential damping, drag from the
bottom as well as from the strakes and other hull appurtenances. Both industry-recognized software and in-
house software may be used for the analyses. In-house software needs to be adequately calibrated against
model tests or industry-recognized software.

7.3 Frequency Domain Analyses

Frequency domain analyses include the six degrees of freedom analysis of a Spar system in wave frequency
range for motion Response Amplitude Operators (RAOs) and hydrodynamic coefficients such as wave exciting
forces and moments, added masses and moments of inertia, and radiation damping. The hydrodynamic
coefficients are to be passed to time domain analysis for the prediction of installation motions and mooring
line tensions with the combined effects of wave frequency and low frequency excitations.

470 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 1 General Requirements 5B-3-1

7.5 Time Domain Analyses

For a Spar, due to nonlinear effects and large displacements in surge/sway and pitch/roll motions, a time
domain analysis is generally required in order to obtain more accurate loads and global motion responses
for the design.
The nonlinear effects include hull drag forces, finite wave amplitude effects, nonlinear restoring forces from
mooring lines and risers, Vortex-Induced Motions (VIM), dynamics of heave plates and coupling effects.
For deepwater applications, a time domain analysis of fully coupled motions of the Spar hull, mooring lines
and risers is desirable. The most probable maximum response is to be predicted using adequate simulations
and appropriate distribution curves fitted to the simulation results or other recognized statistical techniques.
The most critical SCR and/or TTR cases are to be included in the loading conditions of the analysis.
Typically, it is recommended that at least five simulations with different seeds for a storm duration of three
hours each are to be conducted. In the time domain analysis, relevant wave and wind spectra are to be
transferred to random time series in order to simulate irregular wave elevations and wind gustiness.

7.7 Deck Clearance

A clearance is to be maintained between the lowest point of the topside deck and the highest point on the
wave surface. The clearance can be determined by an appropriate model test or a detailed hydrodynamic
analysis that accounts for relative motions between the Spar and wave surfaces. The analysis is to be
performed for various environmental headings and to include static heeling due to mean wind, wave,
current loads (including long period oscillations), mooring and riser loads, nonlinearity of wave profile,
wave diffraction, wave run-up, hull set down and tide elevation effects. The clearance is to be checked at
various points on the underside of the topside deck for all of the relevant environmental conditions.
If wave impact on the underside of the lower deck is anticipated, local strengthening of these members is
required. Structures and equipment subject to wave run-up or green water are to be designed for the
associated forces.

7.9 Model Testing

Model testing can be used to calibrate analytical tools. It may also be an alternative for analytical tools.
Whenever analytical tools have difficulties or a significant level of uncertainty in determining hydrodynamic
properties such as wind and current drag force coefficients (Cd), heeling moments, etc., wind tunnel tests
are preferred. In addition, wave basin testing may be carried out to evaluate the Spar performance,
including deck clearance, in-place motion and mooring responses, VIM effects, horizontal tow, upending
and vertical tow.
Adequate heading angles and wind profiles are to be considered in wind tunnel testing. For wave basin
tests, a calibration analysis may be required to correlate the results obtained from the model tests with the
software being used for different analyses.

9 Corrosion Protection and Control

A corrosion protection and control system utilizing anodes and coating, in accordance with the recognized
industry standards such as API and NACE, is to be provided. The design life of the corrosion protection
and control system is to be the design life of the Spar. In the splash zone, a corrosion allowance is to be
added to the external shell plating.

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PART Section 2: Stability

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

SECTION 2 Stability

1 Stability (1 September 2007)

1.1 Wet Tow

An intact and damaged stability analysis for the wet tow to location is to be submitted. The stability
criteria are to be submitted to and approved by the Bureau. The criteria are to give consideration to the
specific aspects of the transit operation, including environmental conditions and Coastal State requirements.
Dismissal of damage stability criteria may be considered by the Bureau, provided the operation does not
constitute a hazard to life, the environment and the operations of other vessels.

1.3 Installation
After the upending and during the installation phase, the installation is to have a positive metacentric
height (GM). If the installation is to accommodate personnel during the installation and commissioning the
installation’s stability are to fully comply with in-service stability specified on 5B-3-2/1.5. The installation
analysis is to be submitted for review.
Coastal State requirements are to be analyzed separately.

1.5 In-Service Stability

The stability calculations are to reflect the actual configuration of the spar while afloat. Free flooding
compartments are not accounted for in assessment of the installation’s stability. In case the permanent
ballast is installed in a free flooding compartment, the net weight of the permanent ballast (using the in-
water density) is to be included in the loading calculation.
1.5.1 Environmental Loads
For the stability calculation, the following wind speeds are to be adopted:
i) Wind speed for normal operations Vn – Not to be less than 25.80 m/s (50 knots) at a
reference elevation of 10 meters or the 1-year, 1-minute average wind, whichever is greater.
ii) Wind speed for storm survival Vs – Not to be less than 36.00 m/s (70 knots) at a reference
elevation of 10 meters or the 100-year, 1-minute average wind, whichever is greater.
iii) Wind speed for survival after damage Vd – Not to be less than 25.80 m/s (50 knots) at a
reference elevation of 10 meters or the 1-year 1-minute average wind, whichever is greater.
iv) Current Speed – The current at surface associated with the adopted wind speed as defined
above.
The design wind and current velocities are to be selected by the designer and submitted with the
design documentation.

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Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 2 Stability 5B-3-2

1.5.2 Overturning Moment

Overturning moments represent an idealization of the total environmental force on the installation.
For purposes of stability calculations they are taken as the moments, which result from wind forces
on the installation at the speeds specified in 5B-3-2/1.5.1 and calculated in accordance with 3-2-4/7.1.
For each draft of the designated range of operating drafts, the wind overturning moment is to be
calculated assuming the installation in the upright position for all directions. The critical wind
direction is the direction that produces the greatest wind overturning moment. The analysis will
assume this determined critical wind overturning moment acting in all directions and constant
over the range of inclination angles.
The lever for the overturning moment is to consider the wind center of pressure and the attachment
point of the mooring lines. In case that the current force increases the overturning moment, the
adverse effect of the current is to be considered in the overturning moment lever calculation. The
current force on the hull is to be calculated as shown in 3-2-4/5.
Overturning force and center of pressure derived from wind tunnel tests on a representative model
of the installation may be considered alternatively. The wind profile to be adopted for wind tunnel
tests is defined on 3-2-4/7.1 or a more conservative profile.
1.5.3 Stability Criteria
The installation is to meet stability requirements of this subparagraph for each mode of operation
at all drafts in design. Other standards may be acceptable during abnormal operations, with due
consideration to the hazards associated with the operation. Such operations and standards are to
be submitted for approval.
Coastal State requirements are to be analyzed separately.
The installation is to have positive metacentric height (GM) in calm water equilibrium position
and in no case the vertical center of gravity should exceed the height of center of buoyancy.
1.5.3(a) Intact Stability Criteria. The area under the righting moment curve at 30 degrees is to
reach a value of not less than 30% in excess of the area under the overturning moment curve to the
same limiting angle. In all cases, the righting moment curve is to be positive over the entire range
of angles from upright and all downflooding angles are to be greater than 30 degrees.
The maximum static tilt under wind as specified in 5B-3-2/1.5.1 is to be specified by the designer,
but in no case to be greater than 6 degrees for normal operations and 12 degrees for storm survival
condition.
1.5.3(b) Damage Stability Criteria. After damage by collision or accidental flooding as described
in 5B-3-2/1.5.3(b)i) and 5B-3-2/1.5.3(b)ii) respectively, the unit is to meet the following criteria:
The final waterline, after damage with a wind speed Vd, is not to exceed the level of watertight
integrity and is to be 1.5 m (5 ft) below any unprotected opening that could lead to further
flooding of the hull or the lowest point of the hull upper deck, whichever is lower.
i) Collision Damage. Damage is assumed to be 3 m (10 ft) wide and 3 m (10 ft) high with a
horizontal penetration of 1.5 m (5 ft) inboard of the hull plating. This extent of damage is
to be considered at all levels between 3 m (10 ft) below to 5 m (16.4 ft) above the
waterline in consideration.
Where a watertight flat is located within this zone, the damage is to be assumed to have
occurred in both compartments above and below the watertight flat in question.
One vertical bulkhead is to be assumed damaged, except where bulkheads are spaced
closer than 3m measured at the draft under consideration, in which case, two or more of
the bulkheads are to be considered as damaged. The bureau may consider alternative
damage arrangement that can be proven acceptable by a comprehensive risk assessment.

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Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 2 Stability 5B-3-2

FIGURE 1
Zones of Weathertight and Watertight Integrity (1 September 2007)

Zone A
Final waterline after damage
including wind Vd

Initial Waterline
Zone B

Zone A: (Minimum 1.5 m (5 ft) above final waterline after damage with wind Vd) - Zone of weathertight integrity

Zone B: (Below final waterline after damage with wind Vd) - Zone of watertight integrity

ii) Accidental Flooding. Any compartment at or below the waterline in consideration is to be

assumed independently flooded, regardless of exposure and source of the assumed flooding.
When access openings are fitted on watertight divisions between compartments to provide
access to one or more compartments, the compartments are to be assumed flooded
simultaneously. Multiple compartment flooding may be dispensed, provided the following
measures are taken to avoid operations that can result in the accidental flooding of such
compartments when the covers are removed:
• Warning (or Notice) plates, e.g., “Watertight Door (or Hatch) – Keep closed” are
placed on the access opening covers.
• Instructions and warnings are provided in the operations manual.
• System locks are available to prevent unintentional ballasting operations, where
either compartment designed for ballast tank.
• The compartment can be pumped or blown dry without removal of the access cover.
A description of the survival capabilities after damage is to be included in the operations
manual.

1.7 Lightweight and Center of Gravity (1 September 2007)

The lightweight and center of gravity of the installation are to be established by a combination of a hull
lightweight survey, measurement of permanent ballast and weighing of the major components.
There are to be at least two (2) separate measures of the permanent ballast.
When weighing components, these parts are to be as complete as possible with not more than 2% of the
weight of the component remaining to be incorporated. Weighing may include a combination of afloat
lightweight surveys and use of certified load cells to the satisfaction of the Bureau.
The result of weighing is to be compared to estimate calculated weight. When the measured weight is within
±1% of the estimated weight, the vertical center of gravity is to be the estimated value in the calculation.
When it is outside the 1% tolerance, the vertical center of gravity is to be computed by taking the difference
between the estimated and the measured weight and placing it at an indisputably conservative location.

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Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 2 Stability 5B-3-2

Procedure for each individual lightweight determination is to be submitted for approval prior to the
execution, which is to be witnessed by a surveyor. The procedure for weighing is to include estimate
weight and center of gravity. Reports of the results are to be submitted for review.
An overall lightweight calculation, considering all individual approved lightweight components, is to be
submitted for review.
Alterations in the lightweight data during service (e.g. relocation of deck machines) are to be recorded in
the operation manual and be taken account in daily operation.

3 Watertight/Weathertight Integrity (1 September 2007)

A plan, identifying the disposition (open or closed) of all non-automatic closing devices and locations of
all watertight and weathertight closures, and unprotected openings is to be submitted for review prior to the
unit’s delivery. Upon satisfactory review the plan is to be incorporated into the Operating Manual.

3.1 Weathertight Integrity

External closing appliances are to in accordance with the requirement of the 1966 International Convention
on Load Lines.
In all cases, external openings whose lower edges are below the levels to which weathertight integrity is to
be ensured are to have weathertight closing appliances.
Openings fitted with appliances to ensure weathertight integrity are to effectively resist the ingress of water
due to intermittent immersion of the closure.

3.3 Watertight Integrity

For watertight integrity requirements, see 3-3-1/9.3 of the MODU Rules.

3.5 Penetrations
See 3-3-1/9.5 of the MODU Rules.

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PART Section 3: Hull and Primary Structures

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

SECTION 3 Hull and Primary Structures

1 Structural Design

1.1 Scantlings
The design of the Spar is to be based on the applicable portions of the MODU Rules. Where the conditions
at the installation site are less than those for full ocean service that are the basis of the MODU Rules, the
design criteria for various components of the Spar may be reduced to reflect these differences. However,
when the installation site conditions produce more arduous demands, it is mandatory that the design criteria
be increased appropriately. The Spar strength can be obtained by initially designing each component’s
scantlings for local load effects and subsequently verifying the initial scantlings for the global load effects.
This subsection provides requirements for the designs of initial scantlings and secondary structures. 5B-3-3/5
of this Guide provides requirements for verification of the initial scantlings.

1.3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure

Scantlings of the hull are to be designed in accordance with 5B-3-3/3.

1.5 Modules and Buildings on the Topside Deck

The structural design of modules and buildings on the topside deck is to be in accordance with 5B-3-3/5.3,
wherever applicable. The relative deformations among module and building supports are to be included in
the analysis if their effects on the module are significant.
The module and building supporting structures on the topside deck are to be analyzed and shown explicitly
on the drawings so that the construction of the module and building supports can be consistent with those
assumed in the structural analysis. Means are to be provided to verify that the module and building design
reactions and conditions are identical with those used in the topside deck design.
The structural fire protection aspects of the design of topsides modules and buildings, including the
arrangement of the hydrocarbon process area, are to be in accordance with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the
Facilities Guide
The designs of the piping system on the topside deck are to comply with Part 4, Chapter 2 of the MODU
Rules and applicable requirements of the Facilities Guide.

1.7 Helicopter Deck

The design of the helicopter deck is to comply with the requirements of 3-2-2/3 of the MODU Rules and
3-8/9.9 of the Facilities Guide.

1.9 Protection of Spar Deck Openings

All openings on the Spar deck are to comply with 3-2-15 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

1.11 Guards and Rails

Guards and rails are to comply with the requirements of 5-3-1/5 of the MODU Rules. The above mentioned
section is to be used for the perimeters of the Spar, including the hull, topside deck and center well on the
Spar deck. Alternative arrangements, such as a minimum 42-inch high and two tier evenly spaced handrail
with a kickboard, may be considered by ABS, provided they are also acceptable to the local authority.

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Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

1.13 Machinery and Equipment Foundations

Foundations for machinery or equipment subject to high concentrated or cyclic loading, such as mooring
winches, fairleads, chain stoppers, riser guides, riser tensioner supports, crane and drilling facilities, if
applicable, are to be designed to provide satisfactory strength and fatigue resistance for the reaction forces
specified by the manufacturer or the maximum anticipated loads during the entire service life of the Spar,
in accordance with safety factors outlined in 5B-3-3/5.1. The global load effects and Spar motion-induced
inertia loads are also to be considered in addition to the reaction forces. The backup structures and reinforcement
on hull or topside deck are also to be designed for the same loads and safety factors, as a minimum.

1.15 Vortex Shedding Strakes

Vortex shedding strakes are designed to reduce the VIM effects on the Spar hull. Yield, buckling and
fatigue strengths of vortex shedding strakes are to be checked, taking into account the effects of local drag
and inertia loads together with the effects of global motions.

1.17 Appurtenances
Main appurtenances attached to the exterior of the hull are to be evaluated, taking into account the effects
of local drag and inertia loads together with any appropriate consideration of global action of the Spar and
the VIM effect. The backup structures are also to be designed for the same loads and safety factors, as a
minimum.

1.19 Temporary Structures

Structures built for temporary use in the pre-service conditions are not subjected to ABS review. However,
the arrangements and details of these structures are to be submitted for reference to verify the adequacy of
the local and global strength of the hull and topside deck to support these temporary structures during
operation in the pre-service condition. The backup structures are to be designed for the safety factors
outlined in 5B-3-3/5.1.

3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure

The initial scantling design of the hull is to be based on the applicable portions of the MODU Rules and the
Steel Vessel Rules. The aspects that are not covered by these Rules are to be based on the recognized codes
and standards. For curved shells, the minimum scantlings of shell girders are to be determined on the basis
of established shell analysis methods, using the heads given in 5B-3-3/3.1 and safety factors appropriate to
the method employed. As a minimum, a detailed local analysis is to be performed, with failure modes
meeting the criteria in 5B-3-3/5.1.6.

3.1 Hull Structure

3.1.1 Upper Hull – Hard Tank
Where the external components of the hard tank, such as external shell, center well bulkheads and
top (Spar deck) and bottom decks, incorporate stiffened plating, the minimum scantlings of plating,
stiffeners, girders, etc. may be determined in accordance with the requirements for tanks as given
in 5B-3-3/3.1.5, in association with the following heads:
3.1.1(a) Tank Spaces. Where the internal space is a tank space, the head, h, is to be taken:
i) To a point located at two-thirds of the distance from the top of the tank to the top of the
overflow,
ii) To a point 0.91 m (3 ft) above the top of the tank, or
iii) To a point representing the maximum permissible operating draft, including offset operation
draft.
For tanks intended to carry contents with a specific gravity in excess of 1.05, the head, h, is to be
increased by a factor equal to the ratio of the specific gravity to 1.0.

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Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

3.1.1(b) Void Compartment Spaces. Where the internal space is a void compartment or a tank
without liquid in it, the head is to be taken to a point representing the maximum permissible operating
draft.
i) Areas Subject to Wave Immersion. For all areas subject to wave immersion, the minimum
head is to be 6.1 m (20 ft).
ii) Minimum Scantlings. The scantlings of the external boundary are also to be designed as
watertight boundary using 5B-3-3/3.1.4, in association with
• A head to the maximum damaged waterline, or
• A head to a point representing the installation draft.
Where the interior boundaries of the hard tank, such as radial bulkheads and other bulkheads and
flats that separate two tank spaces, incorporate stiffened plating, the minimum scantlings of plating,
stiffeners, girders, etc. may be determined in accordance with the requirements for the tank spaces
of the hard tank, as given in 5B-3-3/3.1.5.
Where the interior boundaries of the hard tank, such as radial bulkheads and other bulkheads and
flats that separate two void spaces, incorporate stiffened plating, the minimum scantlings of plating,
stiffeners, girders, etc., may be determined in accordance with the requirements for watertight
bulkheads and flats, as given in 5B-3-3/3.1.4, in association with a head to the maximum damaged
waterline.
3.1.2 Mid-Section – Free Flooded Column and Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates
3.1.2(a) Free Flooded Column. Where the external components of the mid-section incorporate
stiffened plating, the minimum scantlings of plating, stiffeners, girders, etc. may be determined in
accordance with the requirements for tank bulkheads and flats as given 5B-3-3/3.1.5, in association
with the maximum anticipated hydrostatic and hydrodynamic pressures during the wet tow and in
the in-place conditions.
3.1.2(b) Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates. The scantlings of the chords and braces of the
truss frame may be initially determined in accordance with API RP 2A for the hydrostatic collapse
requirements, in association with the installation and maximum operating drafts.
Where the components of the heave plates incorporate stiffened plating, the minimum scantlings
of plating, framing, girders, etc., may be determined in accordance with the requirements for tank
bulkheads and flats, as given in 5B-3-3/3.1.5, in association with the maximum anticipated pressures
in wet tow, upending and in the in-place conditions.
3.1.3 Lower Hull – Fixed Ballast and Flotation Tank
Where the components of the fixed ballast and flotation tanks incorporate stiffened plating, the
minimum scantlings of plating, stiffeners, girders, etc., may be determined in accordance with the
requirements for tank bulkheads and flats, as given in 5B-3-3/3.1.5, in association with the following:
i) The maximum anticipated hydrostatic pressures in wet tow and upending, and
ii) Equivalent hydrostatic head due to fixed ballast weight.
3.1.4 Watertight Boundary Formula
3.1.4(a) Plating. The plating thickness of watertight boundaries is not to be less than that obtained
from the following equation:

t = sk qh /290 + 1.5 mm t = sk qh /525 + 0.06 in.

but not less than 6 mm (0.24 in.) or s/200 + 2.5 mm (s/200 + 0.10 in.), whichever is greater.
where
t = thickness, in mm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners, in mm (in.)

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Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

k = (3.075 α − 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
q = 235/Y (24/Y, 34,000/Y)
Y = specified minimum yield point or yield strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
h = distance, in m (ft), from the lower edge of the plating to a point defined in
5B-3-3/3.1.1 through 5B-3-3/3.1.3
3.1.4(b) Stiffeners and Beams. The section modulus, SM, of each bulkhead stiffener or beam on a
watertight flat, in association with the plating to which it is attached, is not to be less than that
obtained from the following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
Q = 49.92/(Y + 2U/3) (SI Units)
Q = 70900/(Y + 2U/3) (US Units)
where
f = 7.8 (0.0041)
c = 0.56 for stiffeners with ends attached
= 0.60 for stiffeners with no end attachment
h = distance, in m (ft), from the middle of l to a point defined in 5B-3-3/3.1.1
through 5B-3-3/3.1.3
s = spacing of stiffeners, in m (ft)
l = length of stiffeners, in m (ft); where brackets are fitted with a slope of
approximately 45 degrees and thickness given in 3-2-2/Table 2 of the
MODU Rules, the length of l maybe measured to a point on the bracket
equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Y = specified minimum yield strength, in kgf/mm2 (psi)
U = specified minimum tensile strength of the higher-strength material, in
kgf/mm2 (psi)
3.1.4(c) Girders and Webs. The section modulus, SM, of each girder or web is not to be less than
that obtained from the following equation:
SM = Q f h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 4.7 (0.0025)
h = distances, in m (ft), from the middle of the area supported to a point defined
in 5B-3-3/3.1.1 through 5B-3-3/3.1.3
s = sum of half lengths, in m (ft) (on each side of girder or web), of the stiffeners
or beams supported
l = length, in m (ft), between supports, where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length l
may be measured to a point on the bracket located at the distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-3-3/3.1.4(b)

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Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

3.1.5 Tank Boundary Formula

3.1.5(a) Plating. Plating is to be the thickness derived from the following equation:

t = sk qh /254 + 2.5 mm t = sk qh /460 + 0.10 in.

but not less than 6.5 mm (0.25 in.) or s/150 + 2.5 mm (s/150 + 0.10 in.), whichever is greater.
where
t = thickness, in mm (in.)
s = spacing of stiffeners in mm (in.)

k = (3.075 α − 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
q = 235/Y (24/Y, 34,000/Y)
Y = specified minimum yield point or yield strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
h = distance, in m (ft), from the lower edge of the plating to a point defined in
5B-3-3/3.1.1 through 5B-3-3/3.1.3
When the specific gravity of the liquid contents of a tank is greater than 1.05, the head, h, specified
above, is to be increased by a factor equal to the ratio of the specific gravity to 1.0.
3.1.5(b) Stiffeners and Beams. The section modulus, SM, of each bulkhead stiffener or beam on a
flat, in association with the plating to which it is attached, is not to be less than that obtained from
the following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 7.8 (0.0041)
c = 0.9 for stiffeners having clip attachments to decks or flats at the ends or
having such attachments at one end with the other end supported by
girders
= 1.0 for stiffeners supported at both ends by girders
h = distance, in m (ft), from the middle of l to a point defined in 5B-3-3/3.1.1
through 5B-3-3/3.1.3
s = spacing of stiffeners, in m (ft)
l = length, in m (ft), between supports; where brackets are fitted at shell, deck or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length l
may be measured to a point on the bracket located at a distance from the toe
equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-3-3/3.1.4(b)
3.1.5(c) Girders and Webs. The section modulus, SM, of each girder or web is not to be less
than that obtained from the following equation:
SM = Q f c h s l2 cm3 (in3)
where
f = 4.74 (0.0025)
c = 1.5

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Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

h = distances, in m (ft), from the middle of the area supported to a point defined
in 5B-3-3/3.1.1 through 5B-3-3/3.1.3
s = sum of half lengths, in m (ft) (on each side of girder or web), of the stiffeners
or beams supported
l = length in m (ft), between supports, where brackets are fitted at shell, deck, or
bulkhead supports, and the brackets are in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of
the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees, the length,
l, may be measured to a point on the bracket located at the distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Q = factor defined in 5B-3-3/3.1.4(b)

5 Structural Analysis and Design of Primary Structures

5.1 Hull Structure

5.1.1 General
Documents necessary to verify the structural strength, including yielding, buckling and fatigue of
the hull are to be submitted for review. The criteria in this subsection relate to the analyses
required to verify the scantlings selected in the basic design in 5B-3-3/3. Except as provided in the
MODU Rules, the results of analyses that are required in this subsection cannot be used to reduce
the scantlings established from 5B-3-3/3 of this Guide.
Depending on the specific features of the spar, additional analyses to verify and help design other
portions of the Spar structural components will be required. Such additional analyses include the
hull interfaces with the topside deck, position mooring and riser systems. Analysis criteria for
these additional structural components are given in 5B-3-4/1.
5.1.2 Global Strength Analysis
Global strength analysis is to be performed in accordance with the design conditions and required
safety factors outlined in this Subparagraph. The objective is to verify the scantlings selected in
the basic design in 5B-3-3/3 against the global stresses induced by the global motions, environmental
loads and gravity loads.
The global strength analysis is to be performed for the in-service and pre-service conditions, ensuring
that the strength of the hull is adequate. The environmental conditions and loads described in 5B-3-1/5
are to be used to establish the design load cases for the in-service and pre-service conditions.
The in-service condition includes in-place intact and in-place damaged conditions. The in-place
intact condition includes Design Operating Conditions (DOC) and Design Environmental Conditions
(DEC), as defined in 5B-3-1/5.3. The in-place damaged condition includes design cases such as
loss of one mooring line or one compartment flooded.
The pre-service condition includes load out, transportation (both wet and dry tows) and installation
(topside deck mating and hull upending) conditions. Some structural component design could be
governed by transport, upending and installation loads.
5B-3-3/Table 1 below shows the required environmental events and safety factors to be considered
for each design condition in the global strength analysis:

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

TABLE 1
Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors
Design Conditions Environmental Events Safety Factors
Loadout Calm or specified by designer or Owner 1.67
Ocean Transit (Dry Tow) 10 year return storm for the selected route condition or 1.25
specified by designer or Owner if a weather routing
plan is implemented for the voyage
Field Transit (Wet Tow) 1 year return storm for the selected route condition or 1.25
specified by designer of Owner
Upending Calm or specified by designer or Owner 1.67
Topsides Installation Calm or specified by designer or Owner 1.67
In-place Design Operating 1 year return storm (minimum) 1.67
In-place Design Environmental 100 year return storm 1.25
In-place Damaged 1 year return storm 1.25

5.1.2(a) Critical Responses for Global Strength. The global strength of the hull is to be designed
to withstand the responses induced by the loads specified in 5B-3-1/5.1. The responses of the hull
induced by these loads that control the hull strength design are the global bending moments and
shears. As indicated in 5B-3-3/Table 1, the in-place intact strength is to be designed for responses
with a 100-year return period in the Design Environmental Condition.
Special attention is to be given to the low frequency loads and the heeling and trimming induced
loads in calculating these responses.
The highest wave may not always produce the most critical responses. To ensure that the most
critical responses are captured, a sufficient number of design cases is to be used considering the
following permutations:
i) Variation in environmental conditions and headings
ii) Variation in variables (topside deck payloads)
iii) Variation in ballasting distributions
iv) Variation in riser arrangements
5.1.3 Main Intersections (Major Joints)
The details of the main intersections are difficult to adequately capture in the global strength model.
To design these areas, local FEM analyses are to be used, as required. These main intersections
include connections of hard tank to topside legs, hard tank to truss and truss to soft tank (or keel
tank). For the truss space frame of the mid-section, the design of unstiffened tubular joints, stiffened
tubular joints and transition joints is to comply with Section 3/4 of the Offshore Installations Rules
or API RP 2A.
5.1.4 Fatigue
Fatigue analysis is to be performed to ensure adequate strength against fatigue failure within the
Spar’s design life. The fatigue analysis is to consider all loading history of the Spar, including
transport and in-place conditions.
Attention is to be given to the low frequency loads and global motions induced by these loads,
which are important to fatigue damages at the main intersections of connections between topside
deck to hard tank, hard tank to mid-section, mid-section to soft tank (or keel tank) and truss joints.
Attention is also to be given to the designs of structural notches, cutouts, attachments and abrupt
changes of structural sections which are prone to fatigue damages.
5.1.5 Structural Redundancy Analysis
Redundancy analysis is required to ensure that there is adequate redistribution of stress in the
damaged conditions defined in 5B-3-3/Table 1. The damaged conditions are to consider loss of
one compartment buoyancy or one mooring line.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

5.1.6 Acceptance Criteria

The total assessment of the structure and details is to be performed against the design conditions in
5B-3-3/Table 1 and failure modes of material yielding, buckling and ultimate strength, and fatigue.
The acceptance criteria of each mode are given as follows.
5.1.6(a) Material Yielding. For the hull, the yielding criteria indicated in 3-2-1/3 of the MODU
Rules are to be used. For the truss space frame of the mid-section, the yielding criteria in Chapter
3 of API RP 2A are to be used. The safety factors are to be based on 5B-3-3/Table 1 of this Guide.
The yield strength is to be based on the specified minimum yield point or yield stress, as defined
in 2-1-1/13 of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2) for higher strength material.
5.1.6(b) Buckling and Ultimate Strength. For the hull, the buckling criteria in API Bulletin 2V
and 2U or other recognized standards are to be used. For the truss space frame of the mid-section,
the buckling criteria in Chapter 3 of API RP 2A are to be used. The factors of safety are to be
based on 5B-3-3/Table 1 of this Guide.
5.1.6(c) Fatigue. For the hull, including the hard tank connections to the truss space frame mid-
section, the topside deck legs and the soft tank (or keel tank) connections to the truss space frame
mid-section, the fatigue damages can be calculated using ABS Offshore S-N curves for environment
in air, in seawater with cathodic protection and in seawater free corrosion, as specified in the ABS
Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of Offshore Structures. The S-N curves are applicable to thicknesses
that do not exceed the reference thickness of 22 mm (7/8 in.). For members of greater thickness,
thickness correction is required with an exponent of 0.25. Other recognized standards equivalent
to ABS requirements are also acceptable.
For the truss space frame mid-section, the API RP 2A S-N curves can be used.
The fatigue life is determined by safety factors and the design life of the Spar. Safety factors
depend on the inspectability, reparability, redundancy, the ability to predict failure damage, as
well as the consequence of failure of the structure. Minimum safety factor requirements are listed
in 5B-3-3/Table 2.

TABLE 2
Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull Structures
Importance Inspectable and Repairable
Yes No
Non-critical 3 5
Critical 5 10
Note: “Critical” implies that failure of these structural items would result
in the rapid loss of structural integrity and produce an event of
unacceptable consequence.

Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free from cracks, and stress concentration
factors are to be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.

5.3 Topside Deck

5.3.1 General
The designs of topside deck structural members such as deck girders, columns, beams, braces,
stiffeners, deck plating, etc., are to be based on the applicable portions of the Offshore Installation
Rules. To this end, the loads on the structure, as indicated in 5B-3-3/5.3.2, as applicable, are to be
determined, and the resulting structural responses are not to exceed the safety criteria given in
5B-3-3/5.3.4.
The use of design methods and associated safety criteria, other than those specifically covered in
this section, is permitted where it can be demonstrated that the use of such alternative methods
will result in a structure possessing a level of safety equivalent to or greater than that provided by
the direct application of these requirements.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

5.3.2 Loading Conditions

Loadings which produce the most unfavorable effects on the topside deck structure for the pre-
service and in-service conditions are to be considered. The environmental conditions and applicable
loads described in 5B-3-1/5 are to be used to establish the design load cases for the in-service and
pre-service conditions. The environmental events included in 5B-3-3/Table 1 are also to be considered
for the deck design. For a given topside payload, the most critical responses for the topside deck
may be the accelerations induced by the Spar’s motions and the inclination-induced loads.
5.3.3 Structural Analysis
A space frame analysis of the deck structure is to be performed to obtain the structural response.
The structural model can be either the overall Spar with a detailed deck model or a standalone
deck structural model. In the latter case, the boundary conditions of the model are to be properly
simulated in the analysis. In modeling the deck structures, all relevant structural components are to
be included. The nature of loads and loading combinations, as well as the local environmental
conditions, are to be taken into consideration in the selection of design methods. Methods of
analysis and their associated assumptions are to be compatible with the overall design principles.
Linear, elastic methods (working stress methods) are generally employed in design and analysis.
For the use of other methods, reference is to be made to 3/4.7 of the Offshore Installations Rules.
5.3.4 Allowable Stresses
The safety criteria are to be expressed in terms of appropriate basic allowable stresses in accordance
with requirements specified below:
5.3.4(a) For tubular members, stress limits are to be in accordance with the API RP 2A. The basic
allowable stresses for the other type of members are to be obtained using the American Institute of
Steel Construction (AISC) Manual of Steel Construction, ASD. For plated structures, the design is
to be in accordance with API RP 2U and API RP 2V or other recognized industry standards.
5.3.4(b) Where stresses in members described in 5B-3-3/5.3.4(a) are shown to be due to forces
imposed by the Design Environmental Condition (DEC) acting in combination with dead and live
loads, the basic allowable stresses cited in 5B-3-3/5.3.4(a) may be increased by one-third, provided
the resulting structural member sizes are not less than those required for the operating environment
loading combined with dead and live loads without the one-third increase in allowable stresses.
5.3.4(c) (1 July 2009) The allowable stresses specified in 5B-3-3/5.3.4(b) are to be regarded as
the limits for stresses in all structural parts for the marine operations covered in 5B-3-1/5.1, except
for lifting, where the one-third increase in the basic allowable stress is not permitted. The one-
third increase in the basic allowable stress is also not permitted in loadout operations. The lifting
analysis is to adequately account for equipment and fabrication weight increase with dynamic
amplification factors recommended in API RP 2A. Other lift analysis methods can be considered on
a case by case basis.
5.3.4(d) For any two- or three-dimensional stress field within the scope of the working stress
formulation, the equivalent stress (e.g., the von Mises stress intensity) is to be used in the design.
The allowable von Mises stress is to be 0.6 of the yield strength for the Design Operating
Condition (DOC). A one-third increase in the allowable stress is allowed for the Design Environmental
Condition (DEC). For highly localized areas, local yielding of the structure may be accepted,
provided it can be demonstrated that such yielding does not lead to progressive collapse of the
overall structure and that the general structural stability is maintained.
5.3.4(e) Whenever elastic instability, overall or local, may occur before the stresses reach their
basic allowable levels, appropriate allowable buckling stresses govern.
5.3.5 Fatigue Assessment
A detailed fatigue analysis is to be performed for deck structures. Rational fatigue analysis methods
are acceptable if the forces and member stresses can be properly represented. The dynamic effects
are to be taken into consideration if they are significant to the structural response. For the frame
members of the deck, the S-N curves specified in the ABS Guide for the Fatigue Assessment of
Offshore Structures and API RP 2A are recommended. The Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs)
for tubular joints can be calculated based on applicable empirical formulas. For the complex critical
connections, the SCFs should be calculated by means of a fine mesh finite element analysis.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 3 Hull and Primary Structures 5B-3-3

The results of the assessment are to indicate a minimum expected fatigue life of two or more times
of the design life of the structure where sufficient structural redundancy exists to prevent
catastrophic failure of the structure of the member or connection under consideration. Where such
redundancy does not exist or where the desirable degree of redundancy is significantly reduced as
a result of fatigue damage, the result of a fatigue assessment is to indicate a minimum expected
fatigue life of three or more times the design life of the structure. 5B-3-3/Table 3 provides general
safety factor requirements for fatigue life. For the deck to hull connections, see 5B-3-3/5.1.6(c).

TABLE 3
Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Topside Deck Structures
Importance Inspectable and Field Repairable
Yes No
Non-critical 2 5
Critical 3 10
Note: “Critical” implies that failure of these structural items would result in the rapid loss
of structural integrity and produce an event of unacceptable consequence.

Any areas determined to be critical to the structure are to be free from cracks, and stress concentration
factors are to be determined and minimized. Critical areas may require special analysis and survey.
5.3.6 Stresses in Connections (1 July 2009)
Connections of structural members are to be developed to insure effective load transmission
between connected members to minimize stress concentration and to prevent excessive punching
shear. Connection details are also to be designed to minimize undue constraints against overall
ductile behavior and to minimize the effects of post-weld shrinkage. Undue concentration of
welding is to be avoided. The design of tubular joints is to be in accordance with the API RP 2A,
including pinching shear. AISC Manual of Steel Construction, ASD can be used for the design of
non-tubular joints.

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PART Section 4: Other Structures

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

SECTION 4 Other Structures

1 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures

The analysis and criteria to be applied to the other pertinent features of the Spar structural design are to
conform to recognized practices acceptable to the Bureau. For Spars, the following needs to be considered
in the Spar structural design: the interface between the position mooring system and hull, and the interface
between hull and the riser system. The criteria to be applied for these cases are presented below.

1.1 Hull Interface with Mooring System (Fairlead, Chain Stopper and Winch Foundations)
Each individual foundation and back-up structure of the fairlead, chain jack and winch is to be designed for
the breaking strength of the mooring line with a safety factor of 1.25. The foundation and back-up structure
for multiple fairleads, chain jacks or winches is to be designed for the maximum anticipated mooring loads
with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design Environmental Condition (DEC) and with a safety factor of 1.67
in the Design Operating Condition (DOC).
Fatigue strength is to be designed to meet the requirements in 5B-3-3/5.1.6(c), taking into account the
effects of both local drag and inertia loads on the mooring lines and the global motions of the Spar.

1.3 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Guides and Riser Supports)
The riser foundation and guide and back-up structures are to be designed for the maximum anticipated riser
loads with a safety factor of 1.25 in the Design Environmental Condition (DEC) and with a safety factor of
1.67 in the Design Operating Condition (DOC).
Contacts between hull and riser buoyancy components may cause cyclic impact loads to the hull. Fatigue
due to the cyclic impacts is to be adequately considered in the design.

3 Mooring and Foundation System

3.1 Mooring System

Design of the mooring system is to meet the requirements in Sections 6-1-1 and 6-1-3 of this Guide, and
applicable requirements in API RP 2SK. In particular, strength and fatigue damage of mooring lines due to
vortex-induced motions of the Spar itself are to be fully assessed.

3.3 Foundation System

The design criteria of the foundation system are to be in accordance with the requirements described in
Sections 6-1-1 and 6-1-3 of this Guide.

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PART Section 5: Materials and Welding

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

SECTION 5 Materials and Welding

1 Hull Structures
Sections 3-2-6 and 3-2-7 of the MODU Rules are to be used to establish the welding requirements for the
hull. The weld type and sizing are to be shown on the scantling drawings or in the form of a welding
schedule and are to comply with the Rules that govern the steel selection. Special attention is to be given to
the weld details for fatigue-sensitive areas. Weld improvements by means of toe grinding and weld profiling
are to be used, if required by fatigue analysis results.
Section 3-1-3 of the MODU Rules is to be used for the material selections for the hull. The Spar hull
structures are grouped into the following material application categories for the purpose of material grade
selection:

Special Application • Hard tank-to-topside deck leg connection

Structure • Hard tank-to-truss connection
• Truss-to-soft tank (or keel tank) connection
• Heave plate-to-truss connection
• Truss tubular joint cans
• Chain jack foundation structure
• Fairlead foundation structure
• Riser support foundation structure
• Riser guide-to-hull connection
Primary Application • All inner and outer hull shell plating
Structure • Hull top deck and bottom deck, including main girders
• All radial hull bulkheads
• All hull ring frames and longitudinal girders
• All truss chords and braces
• Heave plate plating and girders
• Soft tank (or keel tank) plating and girders
• All struts
Secondary Application • All hull, heave plate and soft tank (or keel tank) stiffeners
Structure • All internal hull flats
• All internal bulkheads in soft tank (or keel tank)
• All other structures

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 5 Materials and Welding 5B-3-5

3 Topside Deck Structures

Part 2 of the Offshore Installation Rules can be used to establish the material selections and welding
requirements for the truss deck of the topside. The deck structures are categorized into the following four
groups, in association with the Charpy toughness test described in Table 2/1.3 of the Offshore Installation
Rules:
i) Deck lifting points, deck-to-hull cans
ii) Major truss row girders, major truss row columns, major truss row bracing
iii) Intermediate girders, intermediate bracing
iv) Deck stringer beams, deck plating
Alternatively, Section 3-1-3 of the MODU Rules may be used for material selections.
Note: Items such as handrails, walkways and access platforms do not require the above material requirements.

488 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 6: Machinery and Systems

5B
CHAPTER 3 Spar Installations

SECTION 6 Machinery and Systems

1 Marine Piping Systems

Marine piping systems are those systems that are required for maintaining the normal operations of a
floating unit (such as power generation, bilge, ballast, tank vent and sounding, etc.). Subsection 4-2-1/3 of
the MODU Rules lists these systems. Systems installed in the hull are to be designed to minimize the
requirements for equipment and machinery to be installed in hull compartments and to limit as much as
possible systems requiring piping or cable runs in the Spar hull.
Marine support systems are to be in accordance with the requirements of the MODU Rules, except as
modified herein.

1.1 Bilge System

It is acceptable to omit a fixed bilge pumping system, as required by 4-2-4/1.1 of the MODU Rules, for
void spaces in the Spar hull and to use portable pumps lowered into spaces through manholes for bilge
pumping capabilities. At least two (2) portable pumps with hoses and accessories, capable of draining any
void space, are to be available onboard at all times. For the bilge suction sizing purposes, column-stabilized
units and self-elevating units sizing criteria listed in 4-2-4/9.3 of the MODU Rules are applicable.

1.3 Ballast System

The system fitted is to provide the capability to ballast and deballast all ballast tanks when the unit is
upright or listed up to five degrees in any direction. All pumps and valves are to be fitted with a remote
means of operation situated above the uppermost watertight deck. The normal or emergency operation of
the ballast system is not to introduce a greater risk of progressive flooding due to the opening of hatches,
manholes, etc., in watertight boundaries.
1.3.1 Pumping Systems
Where ballast systems powered by pumping systems are installed, at least two ballast pumps are to
be provided, one of which is to permanently connected to the installation’s ballast system. The
second pump may be a spare held in reserve or an eductor type arrangement permanently
connected to the system. If submersible ballast pumps are installed in each ballast tank, one spare
pump must be stored onboard at all times.
1.3.2 Compressed Air Systems
Where ballast systems powered by compressed air are installed, a satisfactory quantity of
compressed air is to be available to the system at all times. If two compressors are installed, one
compressor is to be powered by either the emergency switchboard or a dedicated engine. Each
compressor is to be capable of providing 100% of the required capacity of compressed air, as
defined in 5B-3-6/1.3.2(a). If only one compressor is provided, this compressor is to be powered
by either the emergency switchboard or a dedicated engine, and a quantity of stored compressed
air equivalent to the required capacity called out in 5B-3-6/1.3.2(a) is to be provided.
1.3.2(a) Quantity of Compressed Air. A quantity of air capable of bringing the installation from
its worst case damage or accidental flooding condition, as defined by 5B-3-2/1.13, to normal operating
draft and inclination is to be provided.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 6 Machinery and Systems 5B-3-6

1.5 Vents and Sounds

Except for comparatively small compartments that are not fitted with a fixed means of drainage, vent pipes
are to be fitted on all tanks, cofferdams, voids, tunnels and compartments which are not fitted with other
ventilation arrangements. The vent opening for a hull void space on a Spar hull may be normally sealed off
at the spar deck level by means of a blank, provided the venting arrangement of the Spar hull satisfies the
conditions listed below:
i) The hull void spaces are below the waterline under all operating conditions. Above waterline void
spaces may be considered if they are designed for pressure fluctuations due to thermal load and if
fitted with a rupture disk. The set pressure of the rupture disk is to be lower than the void design
pressure
ii) The hull void space is not classified as a hazardous area. Hazardous voids may be considered if
they are designed for pressure fluctuations due to thermal load and fitted with a rupture disk. The
set pressure of the rupture disk is to be lower than the void design pressure. Areas around vents
fitted with rupture disks are to comply with appropriate hazardous area requirements.
iii) The hull void space is not fitted with a permanently installed bilge or drainage system.
iv) Each void space is fitted with a high bilge water level alarm or a high pressure alarm.
v) The blank is to be installed after commissioning the Spar hull below the water line and after
giving due consideration for temperature stabilization of the void space atmosphere with outside.
vi) The blank is installed in readily accessible position so that the same can be removed for ventilation
purposes during routine inspection and/or de-watering period.
vii) The hull void space does not contain pressurized piping. When pressurized pipe must be routed
through the void space, a burst disk designed to rupture at pressure/vacuum not exceeding the void
space’s design pressure/vacuum will be installed at the vent pipe outlet instead of a blank. For such
instances, a blind flange or similar device is not acceptable as a blanking device. Additionally, the
vent terminal will be provided with a gooseneck and fitted with a ball check valve (or equivalent).
The requirements for sounding are to comply with the MODU Rules. However, to prevent duplication of
pipe runs, it would be acceptable to sound the void spaces through the vent lines. In the case of a sealed
vent, a sounding plug would need to be provided to permit void space sounding.

1.7 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks

If the Spar is designed to store hydrocarbons in hull tanks, criteria for hull storage of hydrocarbons are to
meet flag and coastal state requirements and applicable international requirements. The designs for scantlings
and strength for such storage tanks are to be in accordance with 5B-3-3/3 and 5B-3-3/5. See 3-5/5.9 of the
Facilities Guide for the storage facility arrangement requirements.

3 Electrical Systems
The design criteria of electrical systems associated with marine systems (and drilling systems) are to be in
accordance with applicable requirements described in Part 4, Chapters 1 and 3 of the MODU Rules.
The design criteria of electrical systems strictly devoted to the hydrocarbon processing facilities are to be
in accordance with applicable requirements described in Chapter 3 of the Facilities Guide.
The design criteria of electrical systems associated with both marine systems and hydrocarbon processing
facilities are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements described in Part 4, Chapters 1 and 3 of
the MODU Rules.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Chapter 3 Spar Installations
Section 6 Machinery and Systems 5B-3-6

5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment

The fire fighting systems and equipment for the Spar service functions not associated with the process
facilities are to be in accordance with Part 5, Chapter 2 of the MODU Rules. Fire fighting systems and
equipment for protection of hydrocarbon process and associated systems, including fire pumps, are to be in
accordance with Chapter 3, Section 8 of the Facilities Guide.

7 Machinery and Equipment

Machinery and equipment not associated with the process facilities are to be in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Part 4, Chapter 1 of the MODU Rules. Machinery and equipment forming a part
of the hydrocarbon processing facilities are to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of
Chapter 3, Section 3 of the Facilities Guide. Machinery and equipment forming a part of the permanent
drilling facility are to be in accordance with Part 4, Chapter 1 of the MODU Rules.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 491
PART Appendix 1: Wave Impact Criteria

5B
APPENDIX 1 Wave Impact Criteria (1 July 2009)

CONTENTS
1 Application and Scope ....................................................................493
3 Impact Load ....................................................................................493
3.1 Column, Pontoon and Hard Tank ................................................493
3.3 Other Members............................................................................493
5 Areas of Wave Impact.....................................................................494
5.1 General........................................................................................494
5.3 Column, Pontoon and Hard Tank ................................................494
5.5 Other Members............................................................................494
7 Structural Strength ..........................................................................495
7.1 General........................................................................................495
7.3 Shell Plating.................................................................................495
7.5 Stiffener .......................................................................................495
7.7 Girder...........................................................................................496
7.9 Other Members............................................................................497
7.11 Deck, Flat, and Bulkhead.............................................................497
9 Compactness and Detailing ............................................................497

FIGURE 1 Stiffener Section....................................................................496

492 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART

5B
APPENDIX 1 Wave Impact Criteria (1 July 2009)

1 Application and Scope

Wave impact is referred to in several locations in this Guide; see 5B-1-1/5.1 for a Column Stabilized
Vessel, 5B-2-1/5.1 for a TLP, and 5B-3-1/5.1 for a Spar vessel. The criteria given herein are mandatory for
the Classification of a non-ship type FPI. For a ship-type FPI, wave impacts in the form of bow and bottom
slamming are considered in 5A-3-2/13.
These criteria consider wave breaking loads on the hull and topside deck of an FPI, such as a Column
Stabilized Vessel, a TLP and a Spar, for in-service and pre-service conditions. Wave impact is considered
a solitary and unusual load that is resisted by local structural components, possibly into the post yield range
of their strength. Therefore criteria are included so that the needed post yield strength is available (i.e.,
member ‘compactness’ and detailing criteria are provided).

3 Impact Load

3.1 Column, Pontoon and Hard Tank

Where the column or pontoon of a column stabilized vessel or a TLP or the hard tank of a Spar is subjected
to wave impact, the scantlings of the plating, stiffeners and girders of the framed shell are to be determined
using the following wave impact pressure, ps:

ps = kfsHs kN/m2 (T/m2, lbf/ft2)

where
k = 37.84 (3.858, 240.9)
fs = 1.0 for plate panels between stiffeners, and the stiffeners themselves
= 0.656 for girders in a stiffened shell having a rectangular cross section
= 0.492 for girders in a stiffened shell having a circular cross-section
Hs = significant wave height in meters (feet) of the design sea state having a 100 year
return period. Where the structure is subjected to wave impact during its transit to the
installation site, Hs, for the critical sea state during transit is also to be considered.

3.3 Other Members

The main bracing members of a Column Stabilized Vessel or a TLP between the columns or between
columns and the topside deck, and the members of an open-truss in a topside deck of a Column Stabilized
Vessel, TLP or Spar are small diameter tubular members. The ps determined above for plating (i.e., fs = 1.0)
can be divided by 1.9 and multiplied by the member’s width to obtain the impact force per unit length
along the member.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Appendix 1 Wave Impact Criteria 5B-A1

5 Areas of Wave Impact

5.1 General
The wave impact zone is the region in which structural elements will be subject to wave impact loads. The
wave impact zone is the vertical distance from the SWL to the crest elevation of the maximum wave
associated with the design sea state.
The horizontal extent of the wave impact zone is all of the outward facing portions of the hull. For
example, a circular corner leg column of a TLP will have a 270 degree arc of its surface exposed to wave
impact. The shielding from impact provided by adjacent structural members may be considered where
justification is provided.

5.3 Column, Pontoon and Hard Tank

Wave impact areas are used to determine the design loads on individual members. The areas that will be
subjected to wave impact are as follows:
• For individual plate panels between stiffeners, the wave impact pressure is considered to act uniformly
over the entire panel.
• For an individual plate stiffener with its associated shell plating, the pressure is considered to act
uniformly along the length of the stiffener. The area on which the pressure acts for the stiffener has a
width equal to the spacing between stiffeners and a height that is the length of the stiffener. Even if
only a portion of a stiffener is in the wave impact zone, the entire stiffener length is to be considered
loaded by the specified pressure.
• For girders in the wave impact zone, the area over which the pressure is applied is as follows:
- For horizontal members (e.g., girders, decks and flats) the loaded area is:
Vertically: The lesser of the sum of one-half the plate stiffener spans above and below the
horizontal member, or 0.62Hs
Horizontally: The length of the horizontal member between points of effective flexural support.
- For vertical girders and similar structural members (e.g., vertical webs and bulkheads) the loaded
area is:
Vertically: The lesser of the distance between points of effective flexural support, or 0.62Hs
Horizontally: The sum of one-half the distance on either side of the web to the next vertical
girder or bulkhead.
(Where the actual framing is other than the conventional orthotropic plate framing system envisioned,
modification of the specified areas will be considered in consultation with the Bureau.).

5.5 Other Members

• Portions of a main brace exposed to wave impact will need sufficient flexural and shear strength to
resist the impact load. The impact load per unit of length along the brace extends from the SWL to the
crest elevation of the maximum wave associated with the design sea state.
• Additionally all portions of the brace in the impact zone are to be able to resist the local pressure given
in 5B-A1/3.1 divided by 1.9.

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Part 5B Other Installation Types
Appendix 1 Wave Impact Criteria 5B-A1

7 Structural Strength

7.1 General
Individual structural elements in the wave impact zone are to satisfy the criteria given below. As mentioned
previously wave impact is considered a solitary local load. Typically, it is envisioned that structural elements
will be initially designed considering the scantling requirements and the global strength requirements for
the specified in-service and pre-service conditions in the FPI Guide. The parts of the FPI structure in the
wave impact zone, will then be assessed for their resistance to wave impact. As needed, the design of an
element is to be suitably increased using the criteria given below to account for wave impact. Since some
of the affected structural elements will need to mobilize post yield behavior to resist the wave impact load
it is important that both the strength criteria given below and the ‘Compactness and Detailing’ criteria
given in the next subsection are satisfied.

7.3 Shell Plating

The thickness of shell plating, t, in the wave impact zone is not to be less than the following.

sk ps sk ps
t= + 1.5 mm t= + 0.06 in.
70.7 Y 26.8 Y
where
t = thickness, in mm (in.)
ps = pressure from 5B-A1/3.1, in kN/m2 (T/m2, lbf/ft2)
s = spacing of stiffeners, in mm (in.)

k = (3.075 α – 2.077)/(α + 0.272) for 1 ≤ α ≤ 2

= 1.0 for α > 2
α = aspect ratio of the panel (longer edge/shorter edge)
Y = specified minimum yield point or strength, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)

7.5 Stiffener
The plastic section modulus, Z, of plate stiffeners with their associated shell plating is not to be less than
the following
Z = 125cpssl2/Y cm3 Z = 3 cpssl2/2Y in3
where
s = stiffener spacing, in m (ft)
ps = pressure from 5B-A1/3.1, in kN/m2 (T/m2, lbf/ft2)
l = length of stiffener, in m (ft), between supports; where brackets are fitted in accordance
with 3-2-2/Table 2 of the MODU Rules and have a slope of approximately 45 degrees,
the length l may be measured to a point on the bracket located at a distance from the
toe equal to 25% of the length of the bracket.
Y = specified minimum yield point, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
c = 0.5 when both ends of the stiffener have effective end brackets
= 0.67 when one end has effective end bracket and other end is continuous into the
next stiffened panel
= 0.8 when both ends of a stiffener are continuous into the next stiffened panel
= 1.0 for a single span stiffener without effective flexural restraint at ends.

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Appendix 1 Wave Impact Criteria 5B-A1

The plastic section modulus, Z, may be obtained from the following equations, where bf, tf, dw, tw, bp, and tp
are as indicated in 5B-A1/Figure 1, in cm (in.):

Z = bftf(dw + α + tf/2) + dwtw(dw/2 + α) + bp(α2 – αtp + t 2p /2) when bptp > bftf + dwtw

Z = bftf(dw – β + tf/2) + tw(β2 – βdw + d w2 /2) + bptp(β + tp/2) when bptp ≤ bftf + dwtw
where
α = 0.5(bptp – dwtw – bftf)/bp
β = 0.5(dwtw + bftf – bptp)/tw
The shear area of the stiffener, Aw, is not to be less than:

Aw = pssl/0.12Y cm2 Aw = pssl/1.2Y in2

where ps, s, l, and Y are as defined above.

FIGURE 1
Stiffener Section (1 July 2009)
b
tf

tw
tp

bp

7.7 Girder
The elastic section modulus, SM, of a girder supporting stiffeners on flat plating, including the associated
shell plating is not to be less than:
SM = 91.0psbl2/Y cm3 SM = psbl2/0.92Y in3
where
ps = pressure from 5B-A1/3.1, in kN/m2 (T/m2, lbf/ft2)
l = length of girder, in m (ft), between supports. The ends of girders should have flexural
restraint either from being continuous with adjacent structure or the provision of brackets
in accordance with 3-2-2/Table 2 of the MODU Rules. In the latter case, the length l
may be measured to a point on the bracket located at a distance from the toe equal to
25% of the length of the bracket.
b = dimension of the loaded area perpendicular to the length, in m (ft)
Y = specified minimum yield point, in N/mm2 (kgf/mm2, psi)
The shear area of the girder, Aw, is not to be less than:

Aw = psbl/0.108Y cm2 Aw = psbl/1.08Y in2

where ps, b, l, and Y are as defined above.

496 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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Appendix 1 Wave Impact Criteria 5B-A1

Where the stiffened shell is curved, the girder scantlings are to be determined based on an established shell
analysis method. The scantlings of the curved girder are to be based on linear elastic behavior where the
maximum bending stress due to wave impact is limited to the yield stress.
For a vertical girder whose length is not completely in the wave impact zone, adjustment to the above
calculated section modulus and web area can be made using an appropriate method based on linear elastic
behavior.

7.9 Other Members

For a smaller diameter member (e.g. a brace that can be appropriately analyzed as a single or system of
‘beam-column’ elements) a structural calculation is to be performed to demonstrate the adequacy of the member
to resist the impact load (acting alone) along its length as determined from 5B-A1/5.5. The calculation
should appropriately account for the support at the ends of the member. Permissible stresses are those
given in 3-2-1/3.7 of the MODU Rules for ‘combined loadings’; or alternatively the pertinent member
strength and allowable stress criteria of the API-RP2A can be used, where the basic allowable stress is
increased by one-third.
The adequacy of the member’s local strength subjected to direct wave impact is to be demonstrated. A
brace segment composed of a stiffened plate is to satisfy the criteria given above in 5B-A1/7.3 and
5B-A1/7.5, as applicable. Brace segments which are circular shell structures are to satisfy the applicable
criteria given in the Section 4 of ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength Assessment for Offshore
Structures, where gross member properties may be used; alternatively API-RP2A, may be used. The local
impact pressure on the cylindrical shell can be considered as a uniform hoop stress; increased allowable
stresses are permitted.

7.11 Deck, Flat, and Bulkhead

When the main support to a plate stiffener is not a flexural element (such as a girder), it may be a deck, flat
or bulkhead. In such a case the in-plane strength and buckling resistance of the deck, flat or bulkhead
should be sufficient to assure that the stiffener’s supports and boundary conditions will perform as
intended in design. The ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength Assessment for Offshore Structures
is to be used in the assessment of stiffened panels comprising affected decks, flats and bulkheads.

9 Compactness and Detailing

The following criteria are to be satisfied for structural elements subjected to wave impact.
• The web of a plate stiffener or girder is to be continuously welded to the shell plate and the flange.
• An attached flange should preferably be symmetric with respect to webs (e.g., T-section).
• For an unsupported element (e.g., projection of flange from a web) the ratio of outstand (b) to
thickness (t) is not to exceed 0.4(E/Y)0.5, where E and Y are, respectively, the modulus of elasticity and
yield strength of the material in the same units of measure.
• For a supported element (e.g. web of a flanged stiffener) the ratio of web depth (d) to its thickness (t)
is not to exceed 1.5(E/Y)0.5.
• It is to be shown, using an appropriate method, that the unsupported length of the stiffener’s flange is
less than that for which the stiffener will be subject to torsional instability. For example refer to Section
3.5.3 of the ABS Guide for Buckling and Ultimate Strength Assessment for Offshore Structures, where
gross member properties can be used.
• Tripping brackets, arranged to support the flanges of the girders, are generally to be fitted at intervals
of about 3 m (10 ft), close to any changes of section, and in line with the flanges of struts.
• The web depth of a girder is to be at least 2.5 times the depth of the largest stiffener cut-out opening.
• The load paths between all elements, including welds, are to be reviewed to verifythat all supporting
members and their connections will have sufficient strength and buckling resistance so that element
support and boundary conditions will behave as intended.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 497
PART Part 6: Mooring Systems

6
Mooring Systems

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Position Mooring Systems ................................................................ 499
Section 1 Mooring System .................................................................500
Section 2 Anchor Holding Power .......................................................505
Section 3 Field Test ...........................................................................508

CHAPTER 2 Single Point Moorings........................................................................ 509

Section 1 CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes ..................................510

CHAPTER 3 Mooring System Surveys................................................................... 512

Section 1 Surveys During Construction .............................................513

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6
CHAPTER 1 Position Mooring Systems

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Mooring System ................................................................................. 500
1 System Conditions ..........................................................................500
1.1 Intact Design ............................................................................... 500
1.3 Damaged Case with One Broken Mooring Line .......................... 500
1.5 Transient Condition with One Broken Mooring Line .................... 500
3 Mooring Analysis.............................................................................501
3.1 Mean Environmental Forces and Moments ................................. 501
3.3 Maximum Offset and Yaw Angle of the Installation ..................... 501
3.5 Maximum Line Tension ............................................................... 502
3.7 Mooring Line Fatigue Analysis .................................................... 502
5 Mooring Line Design .......................................................................503
7 Hawser Loads .................................................................................503
9 Dynamic Positioning Systems ........................................................503
11 Thruster Assisted Mooring Systems ...............................................503
13 Mooring Equipment.........................................................................504

TABLE 1 Factor of Safety for Anchoring Lines ....................................503

SECTION 2 Anchor Holding Power....................................................................... 505

1 Drag Anchor....................................................................................505
3 Conventional Pile ............................................................................506
5 Vertically Loaded Drag Anchors (VLA) ...........................................506
7 Suction Piles ...................................................................................506
9 Factor of Safety...............................................................................507

TABLE 1 Factor of Safety for Anchor Holding Capacities....................506

SECTION 3 Field Test ............................................................................................ 508

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6
CHAPTER 1 Position Mooring Systems

SECTION 1 Mooring System

The position mooring system includes the mooring, anchoring and dynamic positioning (if any) systems.
The purpose of the position mooring system is to keep the Floating Installation on station at a specific site.
Typically, there are two types of position mooring systems: conventional spread mooring and single point
mooring, as defined in 3-1-4/3 and 3-1-4/5. Thruster-assisted systems are defined in 3-1-4/7. For mooring
systems incorporating synthetic ropes, additional design considerations are defined in ABS Guidance
Notes on the Application of Synthetic Ropes for Offshore Mooring (March 1999).

1 System Conditions
The various conditions of a Floating Installation which are important for the designer to consider are as
follows.

1.1 Intact Design

A condition with all components of the system intact and exposed to an environment as described by the
design environmental condition (DEC).

1.3 Damaged Case with One Broken Mooring Line

A condition with any one mooring line broken at the design environmental condition (DEC) that would
cause maximum mooring line load for the system. The mooring line subjected to the maximum load in
intact extreme conditions when broken might not lead to the worst broken mooring line case. The designer
should determine the worst case by analyzing several cases of broken mooring line, including lead line
broken and adjacent line broken cases. For a disconnectable mooring system with quick release system,
the mooring analysis for a broken line case may not be required. For unusual (non-symmetric) mooring
pattern, mooring analysis for the broken line case for the disconnectable environmental condition may be
required.
For a system utilizing the SALM concept, the case with one broken mooring line is not relevant. A case
considering loss of buoyancy due to damage of a compartment of the SALM structure should be analyzed
for position mooring capability.
The loss of thruster power or mechanical failure on thruster-assisted position mooring systems will be
considered on a case-by-case basis.

1.5 Transient Condition with One Broken Mooring Line

A condition with one mooring line broken (usually the lead line) in which the moored installation exhibits
transient motions (overshooting) before it settles at a new equilibrium position. The transient condition
can be an important consideration when proper clearance is to be maintained between the moored
installation and nearby structures. An analysis for this condition under the design environmental condition
(DEC) is required. The effect of increased line tensions due to overshoot upon failure of one mooring line
(or thruster or propeller if mooring is power-assisted) should also be considered.

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Chapter 1 Position Mooring Systems
Section 1 Mooring System 6-1-1

3 Mooring Analysis
The analysis of a mooring system of a Floating Installation includes the determination of mean environmental
forces and the extreme response of the installation in the DEC (design environmental condition, see 3-2-4/3)
and the corresponding mooring line tension. A moored system is a dynamic system that is subjected to
steady forces of wind, current and mean wave drift force, as well as wind and wave-induced dynamic
forces. Calculations of the maximum mooring system loading are to consider various relative directions of
the wind, wave and current forces.
Depending on the level of sophistication and analysis objectives, quasi-static (see Section 7.1.1 of API RP 2SK),
quasi-dynamic (begins with calculating the low-frequency responses of the moored installation followed
by superposition of the wave-frequency motions) and dynamic analysis methods (see Section 7.1.1 of API
RP 2SK) may be used. Both frequency and time domain approaches are acceptable. The designer should
determine the extreme installation offset and line tension in a manner consistent with the chosen method of
analysis. For the final design of a permanent mooring system, the dynamic analysis method is to be
employed to account for mooring line dynamics. For deepwater operations with large numbers of
production risers, the mooring system analysis should take into account the riser loads, stiffness and
damping due to significant interactions between the installation/mooring system and riser system.

3.1 Mean Environmental Forces and Moments

The calculation of steady forces and yawing moments due to wind and current are outlined in Part 3,
Chapter 2. The available methods of calculating hydrodynamic characteristics and hydrodynamic loading
are also indicated. The drift forces and yawing moments on a moored installation consist of a mean wave
drift force, along with the slowly varying oscillatory drift force at or near the natural period of the spring-
mass system of the moored installation. The mean and oscillatory low frequency drift forces may be
determined by model tests or using hydrodynamic computer programs benchmarked against model test
results or other data.
Designers may use API RP 2SK for estimating purposes, if applicable, that provides mean drift force
charts for ship-type installations with lengths from 122 m (400 feet) to 165 m (540 ft) and less general
information for column-stabilized installations. Installation-specific information is to be provided based
on appropriate analysis or model testing or both.

3.3 Maximum Offset and Yaw Angle of the Installation

The wave-induced vessel dynamic responses can be calculated by the methods outlined in 3-2-4/9.3. The
maximum offset consists of static offset due to wind, current and wave (steady drift), and both wave and
wind-induced dynamic motions (high and low frequency). The maximum responses of surge, sway and
yaw are to be determined, as follows, in accordance with API RP 2SK:
Smax = Smean + Slf(max) + Swf(sig) or
Smax = Smean + Slf(sig) + Swf(max); whichever is greater
where
Smean = mean installation offset due to wind, current and mean (steady) drift force
Slf(sig) = significant single amplitude low frequency motion
Swf(sig) = significant single amplitude wave frequency motion
Alternatively, the maximum excursion can be determined through model tests.
The maximum values of low frequency motion, Slf(max), and wave frequency motion, Swf(max), are typically
calculated by multiplying the corresponding significant single amplitude values by a factor C that is to be
calculated as follows:

C= 1
2 2 ln N

T
N=
Ta

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Chapter 1 Position Mooring Systems
Section 1 Mooring System 6-1-1

where
T = specified storm duration (seconds), minimum of 10,800 seconds (i.e., 3 hours). For
areas with longer storm duration (e.g., a monsoon area), a higher value of T may need
to be considered.
Ta = average response zero up-crossing period (seconds).
For low frequency components, Ta can be taken as the natural period, Tn, of the installation with mooring
system. Tn can be estimated from the installation mass (or mass moment of inertia for yaw motion), m
(including added mass or mass moment of inertia for yaw motion), and mooring system stiffness, k, for
lateral and yaw motions at the installation’s mean position and equilibrium heading as follows:

m
Tn = 2π
k
The quantities m and k are to be in consistent units.
Note: The above formula may not be applicable for C for estimating either wave frequency or low frequency motions.
See Section 6.4 of API RP 2SK for statistical limits on the value of C and alternative analysis methods.
Other parameters affecting the low frequency motions, such as system stiffness and damping forces, are to
be calibrated and the supporting data submitted to the Bureau for review.

3.5 Maximum Line Tension

The mean tension in a mooring line corresponds to the mean offset and equilibrium heading of the
installation. The design (maximum) mooring line tension, Tmax, is to be determined as outlined in API RP
2SK and is summarized below:
Tmax = Tmean + Tlf(max) + Twf(sig) or
Tmax = Tmean + Tlf(sig) + Twf(max) whichever is greater.
where
Tmean = mean mooring line tension due to wind, current and mean (steady) drift force.
Tlf(sig) = significant single amplitude low frequency tension.
Twf(sig) = significant single amplitude wave frequency tension.
The maximum values of low frequency tension, Tlf(max), and wave frequency tension, Twf(max), are to be
calculated in the same procedure as that of obtaining the motions at wave frequency and low frequency
described in 6-1-1/3.3.

3.7 Mooring Line Fatigue Analysis

The fatigue life of mooring lines is to be assessed using the T-N approach, using a T-N curve that gives the
number of cycles, N, to failure for a specific tension range, T. The fatigue damage ratio, Di, for a particular
sea state, i, is estimated in accordance with the Miner’s Rule, as follows:
ni
Di =
Ni
where
ni = number of cycles within the tension range interval, i, for a given sea state.
Ni = number of cycles to failure at tension range, i, as given by the appropriate T-N curve.
The cumulative fatigue damage, D, for all of the expected number of sea states, NN (identified in a wave
scatter diagram), is to be calculated as follows:
NN
D= ∑D
i =1
i

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Chapter 1 Position Mooring Systems
Section 1 Mooring System 6-1-1

D is not to exceed unity for the design life, which is the field service life multiplied by a factor of safety, as
specified in 6-1-1/Table 1.
It is recommended that a detailed fatigue analysis following the procedure outlined in Section 7.5 of API
RP 2SK be performed for the permanent mooring system.
The fatigue life of each mooring line component is to be considered. T-N curves for various line
components are to be based on fatigue test data and a regression analysis.

5 Mooring Line Design

The mooring lines are to be designed with the factors of safety specified in 6-1-1/Table 1 with respect to
the breaking strength and fatigue characteristics of mooring lines. These factors of safety are dependent on
the design conditions of the system, as well as the level of analyses. Allowances for corrosion and abrasion
of a mooring line should also be taken into consideration. See Section 3.1 of API RP 2SK for detailed
recommendations.

TABLE 1
Factor of Safety for Anchoring Lines
Factor of
Safety
All Intact
Dynamic Analysis (DEC) 1.67
Quasi-Static (DEC) 2.00
One broken Line (at New Equilibrium Position)
Dynamic Analysis (DEC) 1.25
Quasi-Static (DEC) 1.43
One broken Line (Transient)
Dynamic Analysis (DEC) 1.05
Quasi-Static (DEC) 1.18
Mooring Component Fatigue Life w.r.t. Design Service Life
Inspectable areas 3.00
Non-inspectable and Critical Areas 10.00

7 Hawser Loads
Hawsers that are used to temporarily secure installations to the component which is permanently anchored
to the seabed are to meet the requirements of the Single Point Mooring Rules.

9 Dynamic Positioning Systems

Dynamic positioning systems installed for position mooring purposes will be subject to approval in
accordance with the requirements of 4-3-5/15 of the Steel Vessel Rules.

11 Thruster Assisted Mooring Systems

Where Floating Installations are equipped with thrusters to assist the mooring system, the thrusters are
subject to approval in accordance with Section 4-3-5 of the Steel Vessel Rules. The contribution of the
thrusters in the mooring system design will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

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Section 1 Mooring System 6-1-1

13 Mooring Equipment
Mooring equipment for Floating Installations includes winches, windlasses, chain, wire rope, in-line buoys
and fairleads. Anchors and single point mooring mechanical systems are addressed elsewhere in this
Chapter.
For the review of mooring equipment, the Bureau will apply the published ABS requirements for such
equipment. In instances where the Bureau does not have published requirements, the equipment will be
reviewed for compliance with applicable recognized industry standards. The applicable references to ABS
publications and industry standards are listed below:
• Buoyancy Tanks ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
• Chain ABS Offshore Mooring Chain Guide
• Synthetic Ropes ABS Synthetic Ropes Guidance Notes
• Winches and Windlasses ABS MODU Rules, Section 3-4-1
• Wire Rope API Spec 9A and RP 9B
In general, the design load for the fairlead and its connection to the installation is the breaking strength of
the mooring line.
Chain stoppers used in position mooring systems are to be designed for the breaking strength of the
mooring line. The fatigue life for inspectable chain stoppers is not to be less than three times the service
life. For chain stoppers that cannot be readily inspected, the fatigue life is to be at least 10 times the service
life. The chain stoppers are to be function tested at the specified proof load to the satisfaction of the
attending Surveyor.

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PART Section 2: Anchor Holding Power

6
CHAPTER 1 Position Mooring Systems

SECTION 2 Anchor Holding Power

Different types of foundation systems used for floating installations are drag anchors, pile anchors, vertically
loaded anchors (VLAs) and suction piles. Gravity boxes, grouted piles, templates, etc., may also be used
and are considered to be within the scope of classification.

1 Drag Anchor
For a mooring system with drag anchors, the mooring line length should be sufficiently long such that
there is no angle between the mooring line and the seabed at any design condition, as described in 3-2-3/1.
For soft clay (in Gulf of Mexico) condition, a small angle for the damaged case with one broken line may
be considered by the Bureau on a case-by-case basis.
Drag anchor holding power depends on the anchor type, as well as the condition of the anchor deployed in
regard to penetration of the flukes, opening of the flukes, depth of burial, stability of the anchor during
dragging, soil behavior of the flukes, etc. The designer should submit to the Bureau the performance data
for the specific anchor type and the site-specific soil conditions for the estimation of the ultimate holding
capacity (UHC) of an anchor design. Because of uncertainties and the wide variation of anchor characteristics,
exact holding power is to be determined after the anchor is deployed and test loaded.
The maximum load at anchor, Fanchor, is to be calculated, in consistent units, as follows:
Fanchor = Pline – WsubWD – Ffriction
Ffriction = fslLbedWsub
where
Pline = maximum mooring line tension
WD = water depth
fsl = frictional coefficient of mooring line on sea bed at sliding
Lbed = length of mooring line on seabed at the design storm condition, not to exceed 20
percent of the total length of a mooring line
Wsub = submerged unit weight of mooring line
Note: The above equation for Fanchor is strictly correct only for a single line of constant, Wsub, without buoys or clump
weights. Appropriate adjustments will be required for other cases.
The coefficient of friction fsl depends on the soil condition and the type of mooring line. For soft mud,
sand and clay, the following values (from API RP 2SK) of fsl along with the coefficient of friction at start
fst for wire rope and chain may be considered representative:

Coefficient of Friction, f
Starting (fst ) Sliding (fsl )
Chain 1.00 0.70
Wire Rope 0.60 0.25

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3 Conventional Pile
Conventional pile anchors are capable of withstanding uplift and lateral forces at the same time. Analysis
of the pile as a beam column on an elastic foundation is to be submitted to the Bureau for review. The
analyses for different kinds of soil using representative soil resistance and deflection (p-y) curves are
described in the ABS Offshore Installations Rules, API RP2A and API RP 2T, as applicable. The fatigue
analysis of the pile should be submitted for review.

5 Vertically Loaded Drag Anchors (VLA)

VLAs can be used in a taut leg mooring system with approximately a 35 to 45 degree angle between the
seabed and the mooring lines. These anchors are designed to withstand both the vertical and horizontal
loads imposed by the mooring line. The structural and geotechnical holding capacity design of the VLA
are to be submitted for review. This is to include the ultimate holding capacity and the anchor’s burial
depth beneath the seabed. Additionally, the fatigue analysis of the anchor and the connectors joining the
VLA to the mooring line should be submitted for review.
The safety factors of VLA anchors’ holding capacity are specified in 6-1-2/Table 1.

TABLE 1
Factor of Safety for Anchor Holding Capacities*
Factor of
Safety
Drag Anchors
Intact Design (DEC) 1.50
Broken Line Extreme (DEC) 1.00
Vertically Loaded Anchors (VLAs)
Intact Design (DEC) 2.00
Broken Line Extreme (DEC) 1.50
One broken Line (Transient)
Dynamic Analysis (DEC) 1.05
Quasi-Static (DEC) 1.18
Pile Anchors
Refer to API RP 2A, API RP 2T as applicable
Suction Piles
Intact Design (DEC) 1.5 to 2.0*
Broken Line Extreme (DEC) 1.2 to 1.5*
* The safety factor to be used in the design should be based
on the extent of the geotechnical investigation, confidence
in the prediction of soil-pile behavior, experience in the
design and behavior of suction piles in the area of interest,
and the inclination of the mooring line load.

7 Suction Piles
Suction pile anchors are caisson foundations that are penetrated to the target depth by pumping out the
water inside of the pile to create underpressure within the pile. They may typically consist of a stiffened
cylindrical shell with a cover plate at the top and an open bottom and generally have larger diameters and
are shorter in length than conventional piles. These piles can be designed to have a permanent top or a
retrievable top depending on the required vertical holding capacity. The padeye for the mooring line
connection can be at the top or at an intermediate level depending on the application of the suction pile.

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Part 6 Mooring Systems
Chapter 1 Position Mooring Systems
Section 2 Anchor Holding Power 6-1-2

Suction pile anchors are capable of withstanding uplift and lateral forces. Due to the geometry of the
suction piles, the failure modes of the soils may be different than what are applicable for long slender
conventional piles. The safety factors for the suction piles’ holding capacity are specified in 6-1-2/Table 1.
Geotechnical holding capacity and structural analyses for the suction piles are to be submitted to verify the
adequacy of the suction piles to withstand the in-service and installation loads. Additionally, fatigue
analysis of the suction piles are to be submitted to verify the adequacy of the fatigue life of the critical
locations.
Installation analyses are to be submitted to verify that the suction piles can be penetrated to the design
penetration and that the suction piles can be retrieved, if necessary. It is suggested that a ratio of at least 1.5
between the force that would cause uplift of the soil-plug inside of the pile and the effective pile
installation force be considered in the penetration analysis.

9 Factor of Safety
The factors of safety for anchor holding capacity in the design of drag anchors, VLAs and suction piles are
specified in 6-1-2/Table 1. The required ultimate holding capacity should be determined based on mooring
line loads derived from a dynamic analysis to account for mooring line dynamics. Conventional pile
anchors should meet the recommended factors of safety as specified in the ABS Offshore Installations
Rules, API RP2A, and API RP2T, as applicable.

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PART Section 3: Field Test

6
CHAPTER 1 Position Mooring Systems

SECTION 3 Field Test

After the mooring system is deployed, each mooring line will be required to be pull-tested. During the test,
each mooring line will be pulled to the maximum design load determined by dynamic analysis for the
intact design condition and held at that load for 30 minutes. For certain high efficiency drag anchors in
soft clay, the test load may be reduced to not less than 80 percent of the maximum intact design load. For
all types of anchors, the attainment of design-required minimum soil penetration depth is to be verified at
the site.
ABS will determine the necessity of a maximum intact design tension pull test depending on the extent of
the geotechnical investigation, the magnitude of loading, analytical methods used for the geotechnical
design and the experience with the soils in the area of interest. For suction piles, ABS will also review the
pile installation records to verify the agreement between the calculated suction pressures and the suction
pressure used to install the suction piles. For conventional piles, ABS will review the pile installation
records to verify the agreement between the calculated pile driving blow counts and the actual blow counts
required to drive the piles to the design penetration.
If the maximum intact design tension pull tests are waived, ABS will require preloading each anchor to a
load that is necessary to develop the ultimate holding capacity of the anchor, but not less than the mean
intact design tension, and to ensure the integrity and alignment of the mooring line.
For a disconnectable mooring system, the pull test load will be the greater of the following two values:
i) Maximum design load for “DISconnecting Environmental Condition (DISEC)”, i.e., the limiting
extreme environmental condition at which the installation is to be disconnected.
ii) Maximum design load of mooring line for the “Design Environmental Condition (DEC)” without
the installation, i.e., the disconnected mooring system alone.

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PART Chapter 2: Single Point Mooring Systems

6
CHAPTER 2 Single Point Mooring Systems

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes.................................................. 510
1 Design Loadings .............................................................................510
3 Structural Components ...................................................................510
5 Mechanical Components ................................................................510
7 Hazardous Areas and Electrical Installations .................................510
9 Fire Fighting Equipment..................................................................510
11 Product Piping Systems and Floating Hoses..................................511
13 Turret Mooring ................................................................................511
15 Turret/Installation Structural Interface Loads..................................511

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PART Section 1: CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes

6
CHAPTER 2 Single Point Mooring Systems

SECTION 1 CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes

1 Design Loadings
The design of structural and mechanical components is to consider the most adverse combination of loads,
including, but not limited to, those listed below, and is to be submitted for review.
1. Dead Loads 3. Mooring Loads
2. Dynamic Loads due to motions 4. Fatigue Loads

3 Structural Components
In general, structural components are to be designed to a recognized code or standard. The structural and
buoyancy elements of CALMs and SALMs are to comply with the requirements of the Single Point
Mooring Rules. Minimum mooring turret and yoke arm scantlings are to comply with 3-2-4/5 of the
MODU Rules. (Also see 5A-1-4/3 of this Guide for single point mooring foundation strength criteria.)

5 Mechanical Components
Mechanical components of an SPM usually include the Product Distribution Unit (PDU), bearings, driving
mechanisms and various types of connectors. The Single Point Mooring Rules are generally applicable to
these components, and in cases where specific requirements are not addressed in the Single Point Mooring
Rules, the Bureau will review those components for compliance with the following standards and codes:

Product Distribution Unit ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code

AISC Steel Code
ANSI B31.3 (for Pipe Swivels)
Bearings AFBMA Codes (Anti Friction Bearing
Manufacturers Association
ASME 77-DE-39
Connectors: driving mechanisms ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
AISC Steel Code
API Standards as applicable

Ancillary mechanical components, such as structural connectors, uni-joints, chain jacks, turret retrieval
mechanisms, hoists, winches, quick connect and disconnect devices, are to be designed in accordance with
applicable industry standards, codes and published recommended practices.

7 Hazardous Areas and Electrical Installations

Requirements for hazardous areas and electrical installations are in Part 4, Section 3 of the Single Point
Mooring Rules.

9 Fire Fighting Equipment

Fire fighting equipment is to comply with Part 4, Section 4.3 of the Single Point Mooring Rules.
Additionally, for the internal turret mooring arrangement, 3-8/5.13 of the Facilities Guide is applicable.

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Part 6 Mooring Systems
Chapter 2 Single Point Mooring Systems
Section 1 CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes 6-2-1

11 Product Piping Systems and Floating Hoses

Product piping systems and floating hoses are to comply with the applicable requirements of the Single
Point Mooring Rules and Facilities Guide.

13 Turret Mooring (December 2008)

A turret mooring system is one type of station keeping system for a floating installation and can either be
installed internally or externally. Both internal and external turret mooring systems will allow the installation
to weathervane around the turret. The mooring lines are fixed to the sea bottom by anchors or piles.
For an internal turret system, the turret is supported in the installation by a system of bearings. The loads
acting on the turret will pass through the bearing system into the installation. Typically, a roller bearing is
located near the installation deck level, and radial sliding bearing is located near the keel of the installation.
For an external turret mooring system, the installation is extended to attach the turret mooring system at the
end of the installation.
The loads acting on an internal turret system include those basic loads induced by the mooring lines, risers,
gravity, buoyancy, inertia and hydrostatic pressure. Other loads, such as wave slam and loads resulting
from misalignment and tolerance, that may have effect on the turret should also be considered in the
design. In establishing the controlling turret design loads, various combinations of installation loading
conditions ranging from the full to minimum storage load conditions, wave directions, and both collinear
and non-collinear environments are to be considered. The mooring loads and loads applied to the external
turret structure are transferred through its bearing system into the installation. The load range and
combinations to be considered and analysis methods are similar to those stated for an internal turret
mooring system, with additional consideration of environmentally-induced loads on the turret structure.
A structural analysis using finite element method is required to verify the sufficient strength of the turret
structure. The allowable von Mises stress of the turret structure is to be 0.7 of the yield strength for the
operational intact mooring design conditions, as specified in 3-2-3/1.3. The von Mises stress allowed for
the design storm intact mooring design conditions and for the design storm one-line broken mooring
condition are 0.9 and 1.0 of the yield strength, respectively, to verify the turret structure mooring
attachment locations and supporting structure.
Note: The yield strength is to be based on the specified minimum yield point or yield stress as defined in 2-1-1/13 of the
ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2) for higher strength material or 72 percent of the specified minimum
tensile strength, whichever is the lesser.
The buckling strength check for the turret structures is to be performed using the criteria in Part 5A of this
Guide, API RP 2U, 2V or other applicable industry standards. A fatigue evaluation of the turret system
using a spectral method or other proven approaches is needed to determine the fatigue lives for the turret
components. Fatigue life of the turret should not be less than three times the design life for inspectable
areas and 10 times for uninspectable areas.

15 Turret/Installation Structural Interface Loads

The installation structure in the way of the turret mooring system interface is to be capable of withstanding
forces (obtained as the maximum of all the design conditions considered) from the systems and is to be
suitably reinforced.
Mooring forces transmitted to the installation’s supporting structure by the turret mooring system are to be
determined by an acceptable engineering analysis. The transmission and dissipation of the resulting
mooring forces into the installation’s structure are required to be determined by an acceptable engineering
method, such as finite element analysis. The loads acting on the installation’s supporting structures due to
the turret system are mainly transmitted through the upper and lower bearings. The loading conditions are
chosen to cause the most unfavorable loads and the load combinations that may occur. The derivation of
mooring loads is to be determined as described in 6-2-1/13, “Turret Mooring”. The structural model used
in the finite element analysis for the installation’s supporting structure should extend to a reasonable
distance of the installation to minimize the effects due to the boundary conditions.

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PART Chapter 3: Mooring System Surveys

6
CHAPTER 3 Mooring System Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Surveys During Construction............................................................ 513

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6
CHAPTER 3 Mooring System Surveys

SECTION 1 Surveys During Construction

Items of equipment to be used in a mooring system are to be examined during the fabrication process, and
testing is to be performed to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.
Components fabricated by welding are to meet the requirements of Chapter 4 of the ABS Rules for
Materials and Welding (Part 2) and are to be to the Surveyor’s satisfaction. Specifications to be used for
chain, wire rope and connecting hardware are to be submitted for review. Physical testing, including
break, pull, dimensional and nondestructive testing, is required to be performed in accordance with the
submitted specifications to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.

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PART Part 7: Surveys After Installation and Commissioning

7
Surveys After Installation and Commissioning

CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and Commissioning...... 515
Section 1 Surveys ..............................................................................516

CHAPTER 2 Hull Surveys........................................................................................ 522

Section 1 Annual Surveys – Hull........................................................523
Section 2 Intermediate Surveys .........................................................529
Section 3 Special Periodical Surveys – Hull ......................................531

CHAPTER 3 Drydocking Surveys........................................................................... 539

Section 1 Survey Requirements ........................................................540

CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys ................................. 543

Section 1 Annual Surveys – Machinery .............................................544
Section 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery............................545
Section 3 Special Periodical Surveys – Electrical Equipment ...........546
Section 4 Tail Shaft and Tube Shaft Surveys ....................................547
Section 5 Thruster Surveys................................................................548
Section 6 Boiler Surveys....................................................................549
Section 7 Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System
Surveys ..............................................................................550
Section 8 Inert Gas System Surveys .................................................551

CHAPTER 5 Production Facilities Surveys ........................................................... 552

Section 1 Annual Surveys – Production Facilities .............................553
Section 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Production Facilities............554

CHAPTER 6 Mooring Systems Surveys................................................................. 555

Section 1 Annual Surveys – Mooring Systems..................................556
Section 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems ................557

CHAPTER 7 Import and Export Systems Surveys ................................................ 559

Section 1 Annual Surveys – Import and Export Systems ..................560
Section 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export
Systems .............................................................................561

APPENDIX 1 Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service .......................... 563

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7
CHAPTER 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and
Commissioning

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Surveys ............................................................................................... 516
1 Damage, Failure, and Repair..........................................................516
1.1 Examination and Repair .............................................................. 516
1.3 Repairs ........................................................................................ 516
1.5 Representation ............................................................................ 516
3 Notification and Availability for Survey............................................516
5 Annual Surveys...............................................................................517
7 Intermediate Surveys ......................................................................517
9 Special Periodical Surveys .............................................................517
9.1 Interval......................................................................................... 517
9.3 Commencement .......................................................................... 517
9.5 Credited Date .............................................................................. 517
9.7 Unusual Cases ............................................................................ 517
11 Continuous Surveys........................................................................517
13 In-line Surveys ................................................................................518
15 Lay-up and Reactivation .................................................................518
17 Incomplete Surveys ........................................................................518
19 Alterations .......................................................................................518
21 Survey Reports File ........................................................................519
23 Welding and Replacement of Materials ..........................................519
23.1 Ordinary and Higher Strength Structural Steels .......................... 519
23.3 Special Materials ......................................................................... 519
23.5 Substitutions and Alterations ....................................................... 519
25 Corrosion Prevention System – Ballast Tanks ...............................519
25.1 Corrosion Prevention System...................................................... 519
25.3 Coating Condition........................................................................ 520
25.5 Salt Water Ballast Spaces ........................................................... 520
27 Requirements for Internal Examinations.........................................520
29 Surveys Using Risk-Based Techniques..........................................521

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PART Section 1: Surveys

7
CHAPTER 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and
Commissioning

SECTION 1 Surveys

To maintain a classification designation as a Floating Installation, the system requires periodical surveys
and a survey after each reported damage incident.

1 Damage, Failure, and Repair

1.1 Examination and Repair

Damage, failure, deterioration or repair to the Floating Installation or its elements that affects or may affect
classification is to be submitted by the Owners or their representatives for examination by the Surveyor at
the first opportunity. All repairs found necessary by the Surveyor are to be completed to his satisfaction.

1.3 Repairs
Where repairs to the Floating Installation or its elements that may affect classification are planned in
advance, a complete repair procedure, including the extent of the proposed repair and the need for the
Surveyor’s attendance, is to be submitted to and agreed upon by the Surveyor reasonably in advance.
Failure to notify the Bureau in advance of the repairs may result in suspension of the installation’s
classification until such time as the repair is redone or evidence is submitted to satisfy the Surveyor that the
repair was properly completed.
Note: The above applies also to repairs during voyage.
The above is not intended to include maintenance and overhaul to hull, machinery and equipment in
accordance with recommended manufacturer’s procedures and established marine practice and that does
not require Bureau approval. Any repair as a result of such maintenance and overhauls that affects or may
affect classification is to be noted in the ship’s log and submitted to the Surveyors, as required by 7-1-1/1.1.

1.5 Representation
Nothing contained in this Section or in a rule or regulation of any government or other administration or
the issuance of any report or certificate pursuant to this section or such a rule or regulation is to be deemed
to enlarge upon the representations expressed in 1-1-1/1 through 1-1-1/7 of the ABS Rules for Conditions
of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1). The issuance and use of any such reports or
certificates are to be governed in all respects by 1-1-1/1 through 1-1-1/7 of the ABS Rules for Conditions
of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).

3 Notification and Availability for Survey

The Surveyors are to have access to classed Floating Installations at all reasonable times. The Owners or
their representatives are to notify the Surveyors on all occasions when a Floating Installation can be
examined on site.
The Surveyors are to undertake all surveys on classed Floating Installations upon request, with adequate
notification, of the Owners or their representatives and are to report thereon to the Committee. Should the
Surveyors find occasion during any survey to recommend repairs or further examination, notification is to
be given immediately to the Owners or their representatives in order that appropriate action may be taken.
The Surveyors are to avail themselves of every convenient opportunity for performing periodical surveys
in conjunction with surveys of damages and repairs in order to avoid duplication of work. Also see 1-1-4/9
of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).

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Part 7 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Chapter 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 1 Surveys 7-1-1

5 Annual Surveys
Annual Surveys of hull, machinery, process system and mooring system are to be made within three (3)
months before or after each annual anniversary date of the crediting of the previous Special Periodical
Survey or original construction date. For Floating Installations on Continuous Survey, all Continuous
Survey requirements for those parts (items) due are generally to be completed each year. Continuous items
that are three (3) months or more overdue at the time of Annual Survey attendance will be the basis for the
Annual Survey not to be credited and for non-endorsement of the classification certificate. Consideration
may be given to an extension to complete major items.

7 Intermediate Surveys
Intermediate Surveys are to be conducted either at the second or third Annual Survey or between these
surveys.

9 Special Periodical Surveys

9.1 Interval
A Special Periodical Survey is to be completed within five (5) years after the date of build or after the
crediting date of the previous Special Periodical Survey. The fifth Annual Survey must be credited as a
requirement of the Special Periodical Survey. The interval between Special Periodical Survey may be
reduced by the Committee.

9.3 Commencement
Special Periodical Survey may be commenced at the fourth Annual Survey and be continued with
completion by the fifth anniversary date. Where the Special Periodical Survey is commenced prematurely,
the entire survey is normally to be completed within 15 months if such work is to be credited to the Special
Periodical Survey.

9.5 Credited Date

A Special Periodical Survey will be credited as of the completion date of the survey, but not later than five
(5) years from date of build or from the date recorded for the previous Special Periodical Survey. If the
Special Periodical Survey is completed within three (3) months prior to the due date, the Special Periodical
Survey will be credited to agree with the effective due date.

9.7 Unusual Cases

Special consideration may be given to Special Periodical Survey requirements in the case of Floating
Installations of unusual design, in lay-up or in unusual circumstances. Consideration may be given for
extensions of Rule-required Special Periodical Surveys under extreme circumstances.

11 Continuous Surveys

11.1
At the request of the Owner and upon approval of the proposed arrangements, a system of Continuous
Surveys may be undertaken whereby the Special Periodical Survey requirements are carried out in regular
rotation to complete all of the requirements of the particular Special Periodical Survey within a 5-year period.
Each part (item) surveyed becomes due again for survey approximately five (5) years from the date of
survey. The due parts (items) are generally to be completed each year. Continuous items that are three (3)
months or more overdue at the time of Annual Survey attendance will be basis for the Annual Survey not
to be credited and for non-endorsement of the class certificate. Consideration may be given to an
extension to complete major items. For Continuous Surveys, a suitable notation will be entered in the
Record and the date of completion of the cycle published. If any defects are found during the survey, they
are to be dealt with to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.

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Chapter 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 1 Surveys 7-1-1

11.3
In addition to the foregoing, at the second Annual Survey or between the second and third Annual Surveys,
Floating Installations will require the equivalent of an Intermediate Survey as indicated in Section 7-2-2.

11.5
Drydocking or equivalent underwater inspection, as required by Section 7-2-3, may be performed at any
time during the cycle, provided that all requirements of Section 7-3-1 are met and thickness measurements
are taken when the installation is surveyed.

13 In-line Surveys
All items required to undergo Special Periodical Surveys, but not limited to hull, machinery, automation
and inert gas, are to be performed at the same time and interval in order that they are recorded with the
same crediting date. In cases where damage has involved extensive repairs and examination, the survey
thereon may, where approved by the Committee, be accepted as equivalent to the Special Periodical Survey.

15 Lay-up and Reactivation

15.1
The Bureau is to be notified by the Owner that a Floating Installation has been laid-up. This status will be
noted in the Record, and surveys falling due during lay-up may then be held in abeyance until the Floating
Installation reactivates. Lay-up procedures and arrangements for maintenance of conditions during lay-up
may be submitted to the Bureau for review and verification by survey.

15.3
For Floating Installations that have been laid up for an extended period (i.e., six months or more), the
requirements for surveys on reactivation are to be specially considered in each case, with due regard given
to the status of surveys at the time of the commencement of the lay-up period, the length of the period and
the conditions under which the Floating Installation has been maintained during that period.

15.5
Where the lay-up preparations and procedures have been submitted to the Bureau for review and verified
by Annual Lay-up Surveys, consideration may be given to deducting part or all of the time in lay-up from
the progression of survey intervals.

15.7
Floating Installations returning to active service, regardless of whether the Bureau has been informed
previously that the Floating Installation has been in lay-up, will require a Reactivation Survey.

17 Incomplete Surveys
When a survey is not completed, the Surveyor is to report immediately upon the work done in order that
Owners and the Committee may be advised of the parts still to be surveyed.

19 Alterations
No alterations that affect or may affect classification or the assignment of load lines are to be made to the
classed Floating Installation, unless plans of the proposed alterations are submitted and approved by an
ABS Technical Office before the work of alterations is commenced. Such work, when approved, is to be
performed to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. Nothing contained in this Section or in a rule or regulation
of any government or other administration or the issuance of any report or certificate pursuant to this Section or
such a rule or regulation is to be deemed to enlarge upon the representations expressed in 1-1-1/1 through
1-1-1/7 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1). The
issuance and use of any such reports or certificates are to be governed in all respects by 1-1-1/1 through
1-1-1/7 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1).

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Chapter 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 1 Surveys 7-1-1

21 Survey Reports File

All survey reports and records of all abnormalities found are to be compiled into the Survey Report File
that is to be kept onboard the Floating Installation at all times for reference during any survey. The records
to be kept include, but are not limited to, the following:
i) Approved Survey and Inspection Plan, as required by 1-1-4/11.3 of this Guide.
ii) The updated status records of all class surveys.
iii) The records of all abnormalities found that are to include all videos and photographic records.
iv) The records of all repairs performed on any abnormalities found and any further repetitive
abnormalities found subsequent to the repairs.
v) Records of all corrosion protection system maintenance, including records of all cathodic potential
readings taken, records of depletion of all sacrificial anodes, impressed current maintenance records,
such as voltage and current demands of the system, coating breaks and the monitoring records of
the steel material wastage in way of the coating break areas.
vi) All classification reports pertaining to the Floating Installation.
vii) All records of any findings of abnormalities by the crew personnel onboard, including all leakages
in bulkheads and piping.
viii) Reports of thickness measurements of the installation or floating structure.
ix) Reports of all NDT performed.

23 Welding and Replacement of Materials

23.1 Ordinary and Higher Strength Structural Steels

Welding or other fabrication performed on the structural steels listed in 2-1-2/Table 1 and 2-1-2/Table 2 of
the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2) is to be in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 4
of the above referenced Part 2.

23.3 Special Materials

Welding or other fabrication performed on other steels of special characteristics or repairs or renewals of
such steel or adjacent to such steel is to be accomplished with procedures approved for the special materials
involved. The procedures are to take into account the information provided in Section 3-1-2 of the Steel
Vessel Rules (for ship-type and barge-type) or Section 1-1-6 of the MODU Rules Supplement to the ABS
Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1) (for column-stabilized type)
and be in accordance with requirements of Chapter 4 of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2).

23.5 Substitutions and Alterations

Substitutions of steel differing from that originally installed, alteration of original structural configuration
or change from bolted to welded joint is not to be made without approval by the ABS Technical Office.

25 Corrosion Prevention System – Ballast Tanks

25.1 Corrosion Prevention System

Corrosion Prevention System is normally to be a full, hard coating that may or may not be supplemented
by anodes. Other coating systems may be considered acceptable as alternatives, provided that they are in
compliance with the manufacturer’s specification and properly maintained.

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Chapter 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 1 Surveys 7-1-1

25.3 Coating Condition

Coating Condition of hard coatings is defined as follows:
GOOD is a condition with only minor spot rusting.
FAIR is a condition with local breakdown at edges of stiffeners and weld connections and/or light rusting
over 20 percent or more of areas under consideration, but less than as defined for POOR condition.
POOR is a condition with general breakdown of coating over 20 percent or hard scale at 10 percent or
more of areas under consideration.

25.5 Salt Water Ballast Spaces

In salt water ballast spaces, other than double bottom tanks, where poor coating condition is found and
Owners or their representatives elect not to restore the coating, where a soft coating has been applied or a
protective coating has not been applied, the ballast tanks are to be internally examined at each subsequent
Annual Survey.
Double bottom tanks for the purpose of this requirement are those double bottom tanks separate from
topside tanks, side tanks or deep tanks.

27 Requirements for Internal Examinations

The following apply to all internal examinations of any spaces adjacent to shell plating, such as tanks,
holds, voids or machinery spaces, and are applicable at Annual, Intermediate or Special Periodical Survey.

27.1
Precautions are to be taken to ensure safety during inspection. Tanks are to be made safe for entry and
work.

27.3
In preparation for survey and to allow for a meaningful examination, all spaces are to be cleaned, including
removal from surfaces of all loose accumulated corrosion scale. Spaces are to be sufficiently clean and
illumination is to be provided to reveal corrosion, deformation, fracture, damages or other structural
deterioration.

27.5
Where soft coatings are found, safe access is to be provided for the Surveyor to verify the effectiveness of
the coatings and to perform an assessment of the conditions of internal structures that may include spot
removal of the coating. Should the soft coating be found no longer effective, the space shall be treated as
an uncoated tank and sufficient cleaning, as required by 7-1-1/27.3, shall be performed prior to survey.

27.7
Based on conditions found, thickness gauging and means of access to the upper part of the tank or space
may be required. Where significant corrosion or structural damage is found, the extent of the overall
examination may be expanded to other spaces. The requirements for Close-up Survey and thickness gauging,
per Section 7-3-2 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7), will be applied to ship- and
barge-type installations in some cases, as described in 7-2-3/3 of this Guide.

27.9
Casings, ceilings or linings, and loose insulation, where fitted, are to be removed as required by the Surveyor
for examination of plating and framing.

27.11
Compositions on plating are to be examined and sounded but need not be disturbed if found adhering
satisfactorily to the plating.

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Chapter 1 Conditions for Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 1 Surveys 7-1-1

29 Surveys Using Risk-Based Techniques (April 2004)

A properly conducted Risk-Based Inspection plan or Reliability Centered Maintenance plan may be
credited as satisfying requirements of Surveys for Maintenance of Class for the corresponding Floating
Installation. The plan must be in accordance with the ABS Guide for Surveys using Risk-Based Inspection
for the Offshore Industry or the ABS Guide for Surveys using Reliability-Centered Maintenance.
The application of these Guides does not cover any statutory survey requirements that may apply to the
installation being considered. Although ABS is authorized to perform statutory surveys on behalf of some
authorities, ABS is not in a position to alter or waive them. The cognizant administration or regulatory
body is the final determining body for statutory or regulatory requirements under their jurisdiction. The
Owner is to ensure that in developing the inspection plan, due consideration is given to applicable requirements
external to ABS.

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CHAPTER 2 Hull Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Hull........................................................................ 523

SECTION 2 Intermediate Surveys ......................................................................... 529

1 Ship-type Installations.....................................................................529
1.1 Survey Planning Meeting.............................................................529
1.3 Ballast Tanks ...............................................................................529
1.5 Cargo Tanks ................................................................................529
1.7 Liquefied Gas Installations...........................................................530
1.9 Thickness Measurements............................................................530
1.11 Tank Testing................................................................................530
1.13 Installations in Lightering Service ................................................530

SECTION 3 Special Periodical Surveys – Hull ..................................................... 531

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CHAPTER 2 Hull Surveys

SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Hull

1 (December 2008)

1.1 All Installations (Ship-type)

For ship-type installations, at each Annual Survey, the weather decks, hull plating and their closing appliances
together with watertight penetrations are to be generally examined as far as practicable and placed in satisfactory
condition.
The following documents, as applicable, are to be sighted onboard during Annual Hull Surveys:
i) General Arrangement
ii) Capacity Plan
iii) Hazardous Area Classification Plans
iv) List of Electrical Equipment
v) Operations Manual
vi) Construction Portfolio
vii) Survey Reports File, as required by 7-1-1/21 of this Guide
viii) In-Service Inspection Program (ISIP) Plan, as required by 1-1-4/11.3 of this Guide
The survey is to include the following, as applicable:
1.1.1 Protection of Openings
1.1.1(a) Hatchways, manholes and scuttles in freeboard and superstructure decks.
1.1.1(b) Machinery casings, fiddley covers, funnel annular spaces, skylights, companionways and
deckhouses protecting openings in freeboard or enclosed superstructure decks.
1.1.1(c) Portlights together with deadcovers, cargo ports, bow or stern access, chutes and similar
openings in installation’s sides or ends below the freeboard deck or in way of enclosed superstructures.
1.1.1(d) Ventilators including closing devices where fitted, air pipes together with flame screens
and weld connections to deck plating. All air pipe “closure devices” installed on the exposed
decks are to be externally examined, randomly opened out and their condition verified. Scuppers,
inlets and overboard discharges are to be externally examined as accessible including their attachment
to shell and valves.
1.1.1(e) Watertight bulkheads, bulkhead penetrations, end bulkheads of enclosed superstructures
and the operation of any doors in same.
1.1.1(f) Weathertight doors and closing appliances for all of the above including stiffening, dogs,
hinges and gaskets. Proper operation of weathertight doors and closing appliances to be
confirmed.
1.1.2 Freeing Ports
Freeing ports, together with bars, shutters and hinges.
1.1.3 Protection of Crew
Guard rails, lifelines, gangways and deck houses accommodating crew.

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1.1.4 Loading and Stability Information

Confirmation of loading guidance, stability data and damage control plans, as applicable.
Loading instruments accepted for classification or approved stability computers installed to supplement
the Trim and Stability booklet are to be confirmed in working order by use of the approved check
conditions, as applicable. The user’s instruction manual for the loading instrument or the stability
computer is to be confirmed onboard.
1.1.5 Load Line
Confirmation that no alterations have been made to the hull or superstructures which would affect
the calculation determining the position of the load lines. Record of Conditions of Assignment is
to be available onboard for reference. The Load Line marks are to be sighted, found plainly
visible, and recut and/or painted, as required.
1.1.6 Mooring Systems
Mooring systems are to be examined in accordance with Section 7-6-1 of this Guide.
1.1.7 Structural Fire Protection
Verification that no significant changes have been made to the arrangement of structural fire protection,
verification of the operation of manual and/or automatic fire doors, if fitted, and verification that
the means for escape from the accommodations, machinery spaces and other spaces are satisfactory.
1.1.8 Suspect Areas
Suspect areas of the hull are to be overall examined, including an overall and Close-up Survey of
those suspect areas which were identified at the previous surveys.
Areas of substantial corrosion identified at previous surveys are to have thickness measurements taken.
Where extensive areas of corrosion are found or when considered necessary by the Surveyor,
thickness measurements are to be carried out and renewals and/or repairs made when wastage
exceeds allowable margins.
Where substantial corrosion is found, additional thickness measurements in accordance with 7-3-2/7
of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7), are to be taken to confirm the extent of
substantial corrosion. These extended thickness measurements are to be carried out before the
survey is credited as completed.
Where reduced scantlings on the basis of effective corrosion control have been adopted, the results
of any measurements are to be evaluated based on the scantlings before reduction.
1.1.9 Ballast Tanks and Combined Cargo/Ballast Tanks
1.1.9(a) Installations over 5 years of age. Examination of the following tanks is to be carried out.
i) Ballast tanks and combined cargo/ballast tanks other than double bottom tanks, where the
following conditions have been identified at previous surveys.
• A hard protective coating was found in POOR condition, or
• A soft coating has been applied, or
• A hard protective coating has not been applied from the time of construction.
ii) Double bottom ballast tanks, where substantial corrosion was found within the tank, and
the following conditions have been identified at previous surveys.
• A hard protective coating was found in POOR condition, or
• A soft coating has been applied, or
• A hard protective coating has not been applied from the time of construction.

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1.1.9(b) Installations over 15 years of age. In addition to the requirements of 7-2-1/1.1.9(a) of

this Guide, the following tanks are also to be examined.
i) Ballast tanks and combined cargo/ballast tanks other than double bottom tanks in way of
spaces designated for the carriage of cargo, where FAIR coating conditions were identified
at previous surveys, a minimum of three (3) so identified tanks, i.e., one (1) forward, one (1)
midship and one (1) aft.
ii) Peak tanks, where FAIR coating conditions were identified at previous surveys.
Where extensive areas of corrosion are found or when considered necessary by the Surveyor,
thickness measurements are to be carried out and renewals and/or repairs made when wastage
exceeds allowable margins.
Where substantial corrosion is found, additional thickness measurements in accordance with 7-3-2/7
of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7) are to be taken to confirm the extent of
substantial corrosion. These extended thickness measurements are to be carried out before the survey
is credited as completed.
Where reduced scantlings on the basis of effective corrosion control have been adopted, the results
of any measurements are to be evaluated based on the scantlings before reduction.
1.1.10 Helicopter Deck
Where areas of the installation are designated for helicopter operations, the helicopter deck, deck
supporting structure, deck surface, deck drainage, tie downs, markings, lighting, wind indicator,
securing arrangements where fitted safety netting or equivalent, access arrangements including
emergency escape, and access for fire fighting and rescue personnel, are to be examined.
1.1.11 Installations in Lightering Service
In addition to the applicable requirements of 7-2-1/1.1 of this Guide, the Annual Survey – Hull is
also to include an external examination of hull structures where fenders for lightering operation
were located. Where extensive areas of wastage are found, or when considered necessary by the
Surveyor, thickness measurements and internal examination, including Close-up Survey, may be
required.
1.1.12 Non Self Propelled Installations
Machinery items installed consistent with the services of the installation are subject to a general
examination and are to be placed in satisfactory condition.
1.1.13 Cargo Tanks
Cargo tank openings including gaskets, covers and coamings.
Pressure/vacuum relief valves, flame arrestors and flame screens. Tank vent protective devices are
to be examined externally for proper assembly and installation, damage, deterioration or traces of
carryover at the outlet. Where deemed suspect, the tank protective device is to be opened for
examination.
1.1.14 Cargo and Other Piping Systems
Cargo, crude oil washing, bunker, ballast, steam, and tank vent piping systems above the weather
deck and in the cargo pump room and pipe tunnels. Where suspect, piping may be required to be
pressure-tested at the working pressure, thickness measured or both.
Cargo and stripping pumps including foundations, gland seals, operation of remote control and
shut-down devices. Confirmation that cargo discharge pressure gauges and level indicator systems
are operational.
1.1.15 Electrical Bonding and Equipment
Electrical bonding arrangements on the weather deck and in cargo pump rooms, including bonding
straps, where fitted, of cargo piping systems carrying flammable liquids and piping systems routed
through hazardous areas. Bonding of cargo tanks to hull, where applicable, is to be examined.
Confirmation that electrical equipment in hazardous locations, including the cargo pump room,
has been properly maintained, including the following items:

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• Intrinsically safe and explosion-proof features of electrical equipment installed in the hazardous
areas, in particular any associated sealing arrangement.
• The physical condition of cables (wiring) and fixtures and test of insulation resistance of the
circuits. In cases where a proper record of testing is maintained, consideration may be given to
accepting recent readings.
• The cable supports and the means of cable protection from mechanical damage, as originally
provided.
• Gas detection system in the cargo pump room, if fitted.
• Temperature-sensing devices fitted on bulkhead shaft glands, pump bearings and casings.
1.1.16 Cargo Pump Room
Examination of pump room bulkheads for signs of leakage or fractures and, in particular, the
sealing arrangement of all penetrations of bulkheads.
Confirmation that there are no potential sources of ignition in or near the cargo pump room and
cargo area and that pump room access ladders are in good condition.
Operation of pump room bilge pumping system.
Pump room ventilation system including ducting, dampers and screens.
1.1.17 Liquefied Gas Installations
The Annual Survey, except First Annual Survey, is to be carried out during a loading or discharging
operation, as far as practicable.
In addition to the applicable requirements of 7-2-1/1.1.13 through 7-2-1/1.11.16 of this Guide, the
Annual Survey is to include the following:
1.1.17(a) First Annual Survey
i) Cargo Containment System. An Overall Survey is to be made of the cargo containment
system including the supporting and positioning arrangements, hatches, access arrangements
and penetrations, the secondary barrier where fitted, adjacent hull structure and the
insulation, insofar as possible without removing fixed insulation or structural members
unless deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.
ii) Secondary Barriers. The secondary barrier is to be checked for its effectiveness by means
of a pressure/vacuum test, a visual inspection or some other acceptable method.
iii) Other Items. See 7-2-1/1.1.17(b) of this Guide for additional items to be included in the
first Annual Survey.
1.1.17(b) All Annual Surveys
i) General. The logbooks are to be examined with regard to correct functioning of the cargo
containment and cargo handling systems. The hours per day of the reliquefaction plants or
the boil-off rate is to be considered.
ii) Interbarrier Space Venting System. The venting system or other arrangements provided
for the emergency removal of gas from the interbarrier spaces (i.e., between the primary
and secondary barriers) is to be confirmed in satisfactory condition.
iii) Cargo Tank Venting System. The venting system for the cargo tanks and hold spaces is to
be confirmed in satisfactory operating condition. The vent line drainage arrangement is to
be examined.
iv) Instrumentation and Safety Systems. Gas leakage detection equipment, including indicators
and alarms, is to be confirmed in satisfactory operating conditions. Systems for temperature,
pressure and liquid level indication of the cargo, cargo tank, insulation, the hull adjacent
to the cargo containment system, and cargo refrigerating installations where fitted, including
alarms, are to be confirmed in satisfactory operating condition. The piping of the gas
detection system is to be visually examined for corrosion and damage and the integrity of
the line between suction points and analyzing units is to be confirmed as far as possible.

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The logbooks are to be examined for confirmation that the emergency shutdown system
has been tested.
v) Environmental Control of Hold Spaces. Inert gas and dry air systems, including indicators
and alarms, are to be confirmed in satisfactory operating condition. Means for prevention
of backflow of cargo vapor into gas-safe spaces is to be confirmed in satisfactory
operating condition. For membrane containment systems, normal operation of the nitrogen
control system for insulation and interbarrier spaces shall be confirmed.
vi) Cargo Handling Piping and Machinery. All piping, cargo hoses, emergency shut-down
valves, remote operating valves, machinery and equipment for loading, unloading, venting,
compressing, refrigerating, liquefying, heating or otherwise handling the liquefied gas or
vapor is to be examined, as far as possible. Records of stopping of the cargo pumps and
compressors upon emergency shut-down of the system is to be verified/confirmed.
Cargo hoses are to be verified, where appropriate, type-approved or marked with date of
testing.
See also 7-2-1/1.1.14 of this Guide.
vii) Cargo Tank Tightness. The tightness of cargo tanks is to be confirmed. For this purpose,
the installation’s gas leak detectors, micro-flow meters, etc. may be utilized providing that
they are first proved to be in good order. The installation’s logbooks are also to be
reviewed to confirm the tightness of the cargo tanks.
viii) Heating Coils. Heating coils and other heating systems which are fitted and essential for
the heating of the hull structure to ensure that the temperature of the structure does not
fall below the minimum allowable value for the material used are to be proven in
satisfactory operating condition.
ix) Ventilating System. Examination of the ventilation system is to be made for all gas
dangerous spaces and zones, including air locks, cargo pump rooms, cargo compressor
rooms, cargo control rooms and spaces used for cargo handling operations. All portable
ventilating equipment required for use in the gas dangerous spaces is to be examined.
Provision of spares for mechanical ventilation fans for gas dangerous spaces and zones,
recommended by manufacturer is to be confirmed.
x) Spaces in Cargo Areas. Air locks, cargo pump rooms, cargo compressor rooms, rooms
containing electric motors for driving cargo pumps or compressors, cargo control rooms
and spaces used for cargo handling operations are to be examined. All accessible gas-tight
bulkhead penetrations including gas-tight shaft seals are to be examined. The means for
accomplishing gas tightness of the wheelhouse doors and windows is to be examined.
The closing devices for all air intakes and openings into accommodation spaces, service
spaces, machinery spaces, control stations and openings in superstructures and deckhouses
facing the cargo area or bow and stern loading/unloading arrangements are to be examined.
All windows and sidescuttles within the area required to be of the fixed type (nonopening)
are to be examined for gas tightness.
xi) Drip Trays. Portable and fixed drip trays and insulation for the protection of the deck in
the event of cargo leakage are to be examined.
xii) Gas Burning Installations. Gas burning installations, including instrumentation and safety
systems, are to be examined and confirmed in satisfactory operating condition. See also
7-2-1/1.1.17(b)iv) of this Guide.
xiii) Sealing Arrangements. Sealing arrangements on the weather deck in way of openings for
the cargo containment system are to be examined.
xiv) Fire Protection and Fire Extinguishing Equipment. The fire water main equipment,
water spray equipment, dry chemical powder fire extinguishing systems in the cargo area,
and fixed inerting and fixed smothering installations in gas-dangerous spaces are to be
examined and operationally tested, as far as practicable.

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xv) Electrical Equipment. Electrical equipment in gas-dangerous spaces or zones is to be

examined as far as practicable with particular respect to the following:
• Protective earthing
• Physical condition of electrical cables and supports
• Integrity of enclosures
• Intrinsically safe, explosion proof, or increased safety features of electrical equipment
• Functional testing of pressurized equipment and associated alarms
• Testing systems for de-energizing electrical equipment which is not certified safe for
use in gas-hazardous areas but which is located in spaces protected by air-locks (e.g.,
electrical motor rooms or cargo control rooms)
• Insulation resistance readings of circuits. Where a proper record of testing is
maintained, consideration may be given to accepting recent readings.
Note: See also IACS Recommendation No.35 – Inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment
installed in hazardous areas.
xvi) Personnel Protection. Firemen’s outfits, protective clothing, and respiratory protection
equipment are to be examined. Decontamination showers and eye wash are to be examined
and operationally tested, as far as practicable.
xvii) Tightness of Hull. Means for detecting leakage into the hold space through the ship’s
structure forming the boundary of the hold space are to be examined.
xviii) Operating Instructions. Instructions and information material, such as cargo handling
plans, loading manual, filling limit information, cooling-down procedure, are to be confirmed
as being aboard the installation.
xix) Relief Valves. All relief valves in the cargo containment and venting system are to be
examined, including protective screens and flame screens, if provided, and seals confirmed
intact. Records of opening and closing pressures of relief valves are to be confirmed onboard.

3
For column-stabilized installations at each Annual Survey, the exposed parts of the hull, the deck, deck
houses, structures attached to the deck, derrick substructure, including supporting structure, accessible
internal spaces and the applicable parts listed as follows are to be generally examined and placed in
satisfactory condition, as found necessary:
i) Hatchways, manholes, and other openings in freeboard deck (bulkhead deck) and enclosed-
superstructure decks.
ii) Machinery casings and covers, companionways, and deck houses protecting openings in freeboard
or enclosed-superstructure decks.
iii) Portlights, together with deadcovers, cargo ports, bow or stern entries, chutes, and similar openings
in hull sides or ends, below the freeboard deck or in way of enclosed superstructures.
iv) Ventilators, tank vent pipes together with flame screens and overboard discharges from enclosed
spaces on or below the freeboard deck.
v) Watertight bulkheads and end bulkheads of enclosed superstructures.
vi) Closing appliances for all of the above, including hatch covers, doors, check valves.
vii) Protection of the crew, guard rails, lifelines, gangways and deckhouses accommodating crew.
viii) Columns, diagonals and other parts of the upper hull supporting structure as accessible above the
waterline.
ix) The Surveyors are to be satisfied at each Annual Survey that no material alterations have been
made to the Floating Installation, its structural arrangements, subdivision, superstructure, fittings
and closing appliances upon which the load line assignment is based.

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CHAPTER 2 Hull Surveys

SECTION 2 Intermediate Surveys

In preparation for survey, all tanks to be examined are to be prepared per 7-1-1/27 of this Guide.

1 Ship-type Installations (December 2008)

Intermediate Surveys for self-propelled barge- or ship-type installations are to comply with the applicable
requirements of 7-3-2/3 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7).
The scope of the second or third Annual Survey is to be extended to include the following.

1.1 Survey Planning Meeting

A survey planning meeting is to be held prior to the commencement of the survey.

1.3 Ballast Tanks

i) For Installations 5 < Age ≤ 10 years
Overall Survey of a minimum of three (3) representative ballast tanks selected by the Surveyor is
to be carried out. Where a hard protective coating is found in POOR condition, where soft coating
has been applied or where a hard protective coating has not been applied from time of construction,
the examination is to be extended to other ballast tanks of the same type.
ii) For Installations Age > 10 years
Overall Survey of all ballast tanks is to be carried out.
If such examinations reveal no visible structural defects, the examination may be limited to verification
that the corrosion prevention system remains effective.
1.3.1 Ballast Tanks and Combined Cargo/Ballast Tanks Other than Double Bottom Tanks
Where provided, the condition of corrosion prevention system of ballast tanks and combined
cargo/ballast tanks is to be examined.
Ballast tanks and combined cargo/ballast tanks, other than double bottom tanks, where a hard
protective coating is found in POOR condition and Owners or their representatives elect not to
restore the coating, where a soft coating has been applied or where a hard protective coating has
not been applied from time of construction, the tanks in question are to be internally examined at
each subsequent Annual Survey. Thickness measurements are to be carried out as considered
necessary by the Surveyor.
1.3.2 Ballast Tanks in way of Double Bottom
Double bottom ballast tanks, where a hard protective coating is found in POOR condition and
owners or their representatives elect not to restore the coating, where a soft coating has been applied
or where a hard protective coating has not been applied from time of construction, the tanks in
question are to be internally examined at each subsequent Annual Survey where substantial
corrosion is documented. Thickness measurements are to be carried out as required.

1.5 Cargo Tanks

At each Intermediate Survey after Special Periodical Survey No. 2, at least three (3) cargo tanks of integral
type: one (1) center, one (1) port wing and one (1) starboard wing tank, are to be examined internally.

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Section 2 Intermediate Surveys 7-2-2

1.7 Liquefied Gas Installations

The Intermediate Survey is preferably to be carried out with the installation in a gas free condition. The
extent of the testing required for the Intermediate Survey will normally be such that the survey cannot be
carried out during a loading or discharging operation.
In addition to the applicable requirements of 7-3-2/1.13.7 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction
(Part 7), the Intermediate Survey is also to include the following.
1.7.1 Instrumentation and Safety Systems
i) The instrumentation of the cargo installation with regard to pressure, temperature and
liquid level is to be visually examined and to be tested by changing the pressure, temperature
and level, as applicable, and comparing with test instruments. Simulated testing may be
accepted for sensors which are not accessible or for sensors located within cargo tanks or
inerted hold spaces. The testing is to include testing of the alarm and safety functions.
ii) Gas detectors are to be calibrated or verified with sample gases.
iii) The emergency shutdown system is to be tested, without flow in the pipe lines, to verify
that the system will cause the cargo pumps and compressors to stop.
1.7.2 Gas Burning Installations
The instrumentation and safety systems for gas burning installations are to be examined and tested
in accordance with the requirements of 7-2-2/1.7.1i) of this Guide.

1.9 Thickness Measurements

When extensive areas of wastage are found, thickness measurements are to be carried out and renewals
made where wastage exceeds the allowable margin. Where reduced scantlings on the basis of effective
corrosion control have been adopted, the results of any measurements are to be evaluated based on
scantlings before reduction.

1.11 Tank Testing

Pressure testing of cargo and ballast tanks is not required unless deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.

1.13 Installations in Lightering Service

In addition to the applicable requirements of 7-2-2/1.1 through 7-2-2/1.11 of this Guide, the Intermediate
Survey is to include an external examination and internal Close-up Survey of hull structures, including
thickness measurements, where fenders for lightering operation were located.

3
Intermediate Surveys are not required for column-stabilized installations.

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CHAPTER 2 Hull Surveys

SECTION 3 Special Periodical Surveys – Hull

Special Periodical Survey of Hull is to include compliance with the foregoing Annual Survey and
Drydocking Survey requirements and, in addition, the following requirements as listed below are to be
performed, as applicable, the parts examined, placed in satisfactory condition and reported upon.

1 (December 2008)
The Special Periodical Survey of ship-type installations is to comply with the requirements of 7-2-3/1.1 of
this Guide, including thickness measurements as per 7-2-3/1.4 of this Guide. Special Periodical Surveys of
installations with propulsion apparatus intended to maintain position of the floating installation or for
disconnecting the floating installation are to comply with the applicable requirements of the Steel Vessel
Rules.

1.1 Ship-type Installations

In addition to the requirements of the Annual Survey – Hull, the Special Periodical Survey – Hull is to
include sufficient examination, tests and checks carried out by the Surveyors to satisfy themselves that the
hull, equipment and related piping are in or are placed in satisfactory condition and are fit for the intended
purpose for the new period of class of five (5) years to be assigned, subject to proper maintenance and
operation and to periodic surveys being carried out at the due dates. Special Periodical Survey is to include
the following:
1.1.1 Survey Planning Meeting
A survey planning meeting is to be held prior to the commencement of the survey.
1.1.2 Drydocking Survey
Drydocking surveys are to be carried out in accordance with Section 7-3-1 of this Guide.
1.1.3 Rudder
When the steering gear is maintained operational the rudder is to be examined and, when required,
lifted and the gudgeons rebushed. The condition of carrier and steadiment/rudder stock bearings
and the effectiveness of stuffing boxes are to be ascertained when the rudder is lifted.
1.1.4 Mooring Systems
Mooring systems to be examined in accordance with Section 7-6-2 of this Guide.
1.1.5 Shell Openings and Their Closures
All openings in the shell including overboard discharges are to be examined.
1.1.6 Decks, Bulkheads and Shell Plating
All decks, watertight bulkheads, and internal and external surfaces of shell plating are to be examined.
Plating in way of sideshell or superstructure portlights is to be especially examined.
1.1.7 Overall Survey Requirements
1.1.7(a) Spaces. An Overall Survey of all spaces including holds and their tween decks, where
fitted; double bottom, deep, ballast, peak and cargo tanks; pumprooms, pipe tunnels, duct keels,
machinery spaces, dry spaces, cofferdams and voids, including the plating and framing, bilges and
drain wells, sounding, venting, pumping and drainage arrangements.

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Internal examination of fuel oil, lube oil and fresh water tanks is to be carried out in accordance
with 7-2-3/1.1.7(d) of this Guide.
Where sounding pipes are fitted, the Surveyor is to confirm that a thick steel plate is securely fixed
below the sounding pipe for the rod to strike upon.
Electrical bonding arrangements, including bonding straps where fitted, for the piping systems
located within cargo tanks, pipe tunnels, cofferdams and void spaces bounding cargo tanks are
also to be examined.
This examination is to be supplemented by thickness measurement and testing as required to
ensure that the structural integrity remains effective. The aim of the examination is to discover
substantial corrosion, significant deformation, fractures, damages or other structural deterioration,
that may be present.
1.1.7(b) Engine Room Spaces. Engine room structure is to be examined. Particular attention is to
be given to tank tops, shell plating in way of tank tops, brackets connecting side shell frames and
tank tops, and engine room bulkheads in way of tank top and bilge wells. Particular attention is to
be given to the sea suction, seawater cooling pipes and overboard discharge valves and their
connection to the side shell plating. Where extensive areas of wastage are found, thickness
measurements are to be carried out, and renewals and/or repairs made where wastage exceeds
allowable margins.
1.1.7(c) Ballast Tanks and Combined Cargo/Ballast Tanks. Where provided, the condition of
corrosion prevention system of ballast tanks and combined cargo/ballast tanks is to be examined.
Ballast tanks and combined cargo/ballast tanks other than double bottom tanks, where a hard
protective coating is found in POOR condition and Owners or their representatives elect not to
restore the coating, where soft coating has been applied or where a hard protective coating has not
been applied from time of construction, the tanks in question are to be internally examined at each
subsequent Annual Survey. Thickness measurements are to be carried out as deemed necessary by
the Surveyor.
When such breakdown of hard protective coating is found in double bottom ballast tanks and
owners or their representatives elect not to restore the coating, where a soft coating has been
applied, or where a hard protective coating has not been applied from time of construction, the
tanks in question are to be internally examined at each subsequent Annual Survey where
substantial corrosion is documented. Thickness measurements are to be carried out as required.
1.1.7(d) Fuel Oil, Lube Oil, Freshwater and Permanent Ballast Tanks. Internal examination
requirements will be specially considered for tanks used exclusively for permanent ballast which
are fitted with an effective means of corrosion control.
Where tanks of integral structural type, except for peak tanks, are used primarily for heavy fuel oil
or exclusively for light oils or fresh water, the internal examination may be specially considered,
provided a general external examination and the following internal examinations are carried out.
Minimum requirements for internal examination of fuel oil, lube oil and fresh water tanks at
Special Periodical Surveys are as follows.
i) Special Periodical Survey No. 1 (Age ≤ 5 Years)
None
ii) Special Periodical Survey No. 2 (5 < Age ≤ 10 Years)
• One (1) fuel oil tank in the Cargo length area. For installations without a defined
cargo area a minimum of one (1) fuel oil tank.
• One (1) freshwater tank

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iii) Special Periodical Survey No. 3 (10 < Age ≤ 15 Years)

• One (1) fuel oil tank in way of the engine room
• Two (2) fuel oil tanks in the Cargo length area. For installations without a defined
cargo area a minimum of two (2) fuel oil tanks. One (1) deep tank is to be included,
if fitted
• All freshwater tanks
iv) Special Periodical Survey No. 4 and Subsequent Special Periodical Surveys (Age > 15
Years)
• One (1) fuel oil tank in way of the engine room
• Half of all fuel oil tanks in the Cargo length area, minimum two (2). For installations
without a defined cargo area, half of all fuel oil tanks, a minimum of two (2). One (1)
deep tank is to be included, if fitted
• One (1) lube oil tank
• All freshwater tanks
Note: If a selection of tanks is accepted for examination, then different tanks are to be examined at each
Special Periodical Survey on a rotational basis.
Independent oil tanks in machinery spaces are to be externally examined and, if deemed necessary,
tested under a head of liquid.
1.1.8 Protection of Other Openings
1.1.8(a) Tank Protective Devices
i) All tank protective devices, where fitted, are to be examined externally for proper assembly
and installation, damage, deterioration or traces of carryover at the outlets.
ii) All pressure-vacuum valves and pressure relief valves are to be opened out, pressure and
vacuum valve discs checked for good contact with their respective seats and/or proved by
testing.
1.1.8(b) Airpipes. All airpipes are to be opened out and closing arrangements and flame screens,
if fitted, are to be examined both externally and internally. For designs where the inner parts
cannot be properly examined from outside, this is to include removal of the head from the air pipe.
Particular attention is to be paid to the condition of the zinc coating in heads constructed from
galvanized steel.
1.1.8(c) Watertight Bulkheads. Watertight bulkheads, bulkhead penetrations, end bulkheads of
enclosed superstructures are to be examined. In addition, watertight doors are to be operationally
tested and effectiveness to maintain tightness is to be confirmed.
1.1.9 Close-up Survey Requirements
The requirements for Close-up Survey and thickness gauging, per 7-3-2/5.13 or 7-3-2/5.14 of the
ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7), will be applied to ship- and barge-type installations
in the following cases:
i) The ballast tanks are uncoated.
ii) Tank coatings are in FAIR or Poor condition as defined by 7-1-1/25.3 of this Guide
iii) Soft coatings are found to be no longer effective, 7-1-1/27.5 of this Guide
iv) Substantial corrosion is present
1.1.10 Thickness Measurements Requirements
Thickness Measurements are to be carried-out as per Section 7-2-3/1.3 of this Guide.

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1.1.11 Tank Testing

Boundaries of double bottom, deep, ballast, peak and other tanks, including holds adapted for the
carriage of salt water ballast, are to be tested with a head of liquid to the top of air pipes or to near
the top of hatches for ballast/cargo holds, except that cargo tanks on ship-type installations of both
single and double hull construction may be tested to the highest point that liquid will rise under
service condition. Boundaries of fuel oil, lube oil and fresh water tanks may be tested with a head
of liquid to the highest point that liquid will rise under service condition. Tank testing of fuel oil,
lube oil and fresh water tanks may be specially considered based on a satisfactory external
examination of the tank boundaries, and a confirmation from the Master stating that the pressure
testing has been carried out according to the requirements with satisfactory results, provided that
representative tanks for fuel oil, lube oil and fresh water are tested.
The testing of double bottoms and other spaces not designed for the carriage of liquid may be
omitted, provided a satisfactory internal examination together with an examination of the tanktop
is carried out.
Stagger testing of bulkheads is acceptable as alternative means of testing.
The Surveyor may require further tank testing, as deemed necessary.
1.1.12 Installations in Lightering Service
In addition to the applicable requirements of 7-2-3/1.1 of this Guide, the Special Periodical Survey
is also to include an external examination and internal Close-up Survey of hull structures, including
thickness measurements, where fenders for lightering operation were located.

1.3 Ship-type Installations – Liquefied Gas Installations

In addition to the applicable requirements of 7-2-2/1.3.2 and 7-2-3/1.1 of this Guide, the Special Periodical
Survey is to include the following:
1.3.1 Special Periodical Surveys No. 1 and No. 2
1.3.1(a) Cargo Tanks (Primary Containers). An internal examination is to be made of all cargo
tanks, after being gas freed, including internal mountings and equipment.
1.3.1(b) Cargo Tank Supports, Insulation and Hull Structures. For independent tanks, foundations,
chocks, sway braces, keys, anti-flotation arrangements, the secondary barriers or hull plating or
both are to be examined, with special attention being given to the cargo tanks and insulation in
way of the above. See 7-2-3/1.3.1(f) for insulation removal. Framing adjacent to the cargo containment
system is also to be examined.
Where the arrangement is such that the insulation cannot be examined, the surrounding structures
in the wing tanks, double bottom tanks and cofferdams are to be examined for cold spots while the
cargo tank is in cold condition, unless sufficient evidence of the integrity of the insulation is
available from the voyage records.
1.3.1(c) Interbarrier Space Venting System. Venting systems, relief valves or other arrangements
provided for emergency removal of gas from the interbarrier spaces and hold spaces are to be
opened, inspected, tested and readjusted as necessary.
1.3.1(d) Cargo Tank Venting System and Liquid-level Indicators. Relief valves, liquid-level
indicators and venting systems for the primary cargo containment system are to be examined. All
relief valves are to be opened, inspected, tested and readjusted as necessary. If the cargo tanks are
equipped with relief valves with non-metallic membranes in the main or pilot valves, such non-
metallic membranes are to be replaced. Liquid-level indicators and alarms are to be proven
satisfactory. Where a proper record of continuous overhaul and retesting of individually
identifiable relief valves is maintained, consideration will be given to acceptance on the basis of
opening, internal examination and testing of a representative sampling of valves including each
size of each type of liquefied gas or vapor relief valve in use, provided there is logbook evidence
that the remaining valves have been overhauled and tested since the crediting of the previous
Special Periodical Survey. The testing and setting of relief valves may be carried out in place or
after removal.

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1.3.1(e) Cargo Handling and Piping Systems. All piping, machinery and equipment for loading,
unloading, venting, compressing, refrigerating, liquefying, heating or otherwise handling the
liquefied gas or vapor and liquid nitrogen, and gas burning installations is to be examined
including removal of insulation and opening for examination, as deemed necessary. Where
deemed suspect, a hydrostatic test to 1.25 times the Maximum Allowable Relief Valve Setting
(MARVS) for the pipeline is to be carried out. After reassembly, the complete piping is to be
tested for leaks. Where water cannot be tolerated and the piping cannot be dried prior to putting
the system into service, the Surveyor may accept alternative testing fluids or alternative means of
testing. All emergency shut-down valves and remote operating valves in the cargo piping systems
are to be inspected and proven operable. The pressure relief valves are to be function-tested. A
random selection of valves is to be opened for examination and adjusted.
1.3.1(f) Insulation Removals. Insulation is to be removed in way of any distorted or otherwise
suspect insulation or structural part of the cargo tanks or elsewhere to carry out any of the
examinations as required by the Surveyor.
1.3.1(g) Thickness Measurements. Where there is evidence of corrosion, or where one side of the
cargo tank is exposed to possible corrosive atmosphere, the plating of the cargo tanks is to be
gauged by nondestructive means to determine the thickness.
1.3.1(h) Cargo Pump Towers. All cargo pump tower structures are to be examined including
stiffeners, bracings, fasteners and locking devices, spray nozzles, wiring with associated conduits
and pipe connections. Where deemed necessary by the Surveyor, dimensional measurements
and/or nondestructive testing may be required. See also 7-2-2/1.3.1(j).
1.3.1(i) Secondary Barriers. The secondary barrier is to be checked for its effectiveness by
means of a pressure/vacuum test, a visual inspection or other acceptable method.
1.3.1(j) Nondestructive Testing.
i) Nondestructive testing is to supplement cargo tank inspection with special attention to be
given to the integrity of the main structural members, tank shell and highly stressed areas,
including welded connections as deemed necessary by the Surveyor. The following items
are, inter alia, considered as highly stressed areas:
• Cargo tank supports and anti-rolling/anti pitching devices.
• Web frames or stiffening rings.
• Y-connections between tank shell and a longitudinal bulkhead of bilobe tanks.
• Swash bulkhead boundaries.
• Dome and sump connections to the tank shell.
• Foundations for pumps, towers, ladders etc.
• Pipe connections.
ii) For independent tanks type C, in addition to the requirements of i) above, at alternate
Special Periodical Surveys, at least 10% of the length of the welded connections in each
highly stressed area is to be tested. This testing is to be carried out internally and
externally, as applicable. Insulation is to be removed, as necessary, for the required
nondestructive testing.
iii) For independent tanks type B, the extent of the nondestructive testing is to be in accordance
with a planned program specially prepared and approved for the cargo tank design.
1.3.1(k) Tank Testing. Where nondestructive testing, or other evidence such as leakage or distortion,
raises doubts as to the structural integrity of a cargo tank, a hydrostatic or hydropneumatic
pressure test is to be carried out. For integral tanks and independent tanks type A and B, the test
pressure is to be at least MARVS at the top of the tank. For independent tanks type C and
pressurized tanks B with MARVS 2.06 bar (2.1 kgf/cm2, 30 psi) and over, the test pressure is to be
1.25 times MARVS.
1.3.1(l) Electrical Bonding. Electrical bonding arrangements, including bonding straps where
fitted, of the piping systems located within cargo tanks, ballast tanks, pipe tunnels, cofferdams and
void spaces bounding cargo tanks are to be examined.

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1.3.1(m) Drainage Arrangements.. Systems for removing water or cargo from interbarrier spaces
and holds are to be examined and tested as deemed necessary.
1.3.1(n) Membrane and semi-membrane tank. For membrane and semi-membrane tanks systems,
inspection and testing are to be carried out in accordance with programs specially prepared in
accordance with an approved method for the actual tank system.
1.3.1(o) Gas-tight bulkhead. All gas-tight bulkheads are to be examined. The effectiveness of
gas-tight shaft sealing is to be verified.
1.3.1(p) Miscellaneous.. The hoses and spool pieces used for segregation of piping systems for
cargo, inert gas and bilge are to be examined.
1.3.2 Special Periodical Survey No. 3 and Subsequent Special Periodical Surveys
In addition to all of the requirements of Special Periodical Survey No. 1 or 2, the following
requirements are to be complied with for Special Periodical Survey No. 3 and all subsequent
Special Periodical Surveys.
1.3.2(a) Cargo Tanks. The plating of at least one (1) cargo tank, including membrane tanks and
pressure vessels is to be gauged by nondestructive means to determine the thickness. Where only
cargoes of a non-corrosive nature are carried, modifications to the extent of thickness measurements
may be specially considered.
1.3.2(b) Metal Secondary Barriers. The plating of metallic secondary barriers which are structural
supports for the primary barrier is to be gauged by nondestructive means to determine the thickness.

1.5 Minimum Requirements for Thickness Measurements at Special Periodical Surveys

for Ship-type Installations.
These requirements do not apply to independent cargo tanks.
i) Special Periodical Survey No. 1 (Age ≤ 5 Years)
• Suspect areas throughout the installation.
ii) Special Periodical Survey No. 2 (5 < Age ≤ 10 Years)
• All main deck plates within the amidships 0.5L or cargo tank section, whichever is longer.
• One (1) transverse section within the amidships 0.5L.
• Plates in wind-and-water strakes outside the amidships 0.5L.
• All complete transverse web frame rings in a ballast wing tank or ballast double hull tank, if any.
• One (1) deck transverse in each of the remaining ballast tanks, if any.
• Both transverse bulkheads including girder system in a ballast wing tank or ballast double hull
tank, if any, or a cargo wing tank used primarily for water ballast.
• Lower part of transverse bulkhead including girder system in each remaining ballast tank, one
(1) cargo wing tank and two (2) cargo center tanks.
• Internals in forepeak and afterpeak tanks.
• Suspect areas throughout the installation.
iii) Special Periodical Survey No. 3 (10 < Age ≤ 15 Years)
• All main deck plates within the amidships 0.5L or cargo tank, whichever is longer.
• Two (2) transverse sections within the amidships 0.5L.
• Plates in wind-and-water strakes outside the amidships 0.5L.
• All complete transverse web frame rings in all ballast tanks and in a cargo wing tank.
• A minimum of 30% of all complete transverse web frame rings in each remaining cargo wing
tank. (In calculating the 30% minimum, the number of web frame rings is to be rounded up to
the next whole integer.)

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• A minimum of 30% of deck and bottom transverse in each cargo center tank. (In calculating
the 30% minimum, the number of transverses is to be rounded up to the next whole integer.)
• All transverse bulkheads including girder and stiffener systems in all cargo and ballast tanks.
• Additional complete transverse web frame rings as considered necessary by the Surveyor.
• Internals in forepeak and afterpeak tanks including plating and stiffeners of forepeak and
afterpeak tank bulkheads.
• Suspect areas throughout the installation.
iv) Special Periodical Survey No. 4 and Subsequent Special Periodical Surveys (Age > 15 Years)
• All exposed main deck plates, full length. Also, exposed first-tier superstructure deck plates
(poop bridge and forecastle decks).
• All keel plates full length. Also, additional bottom plates in way of cofferdams, machinery
space and aft ends of tanks.
• A minimum of three (3) transverse sections within the amidships 0.5L.
• All complete transverse web frame rings in all ballast tanks and in a cargo wing tank.
• A minimum of 30% of all complete transverse web frame rings in each remaining cargo wing
tank. (In calculating the 30% minimum, the number of web frame rings is to be rounded up to
the next whole integer.)
• A minimum of 30% of deck and bottom transverse in each cargo center tank. (In calculating
the 30% minimum, the number of transverses is to be rounded up to the next whole integer.)
• All transverse bulkheads including girder and stiffener systems in all cargo and ballast tanks.
• Additional complete transverse web frame rings as considered necessary by the Surveyor.
• Any additional tanks and structure as considered necessary by the Surveyor.
• Internals in forepeak and afterpeak tanks including plating and stiffeners of forepeak and
afterpeak tank bulkheads.
• All plates in two (2) wind-and-water strakes, port and starboard full length.
• Suspect areas throughout the installation.
• Plating of seachests. Shell plating in way of overboard discharges as considered necessary by
the attending Surveyor.
Note: Thickness measurements of any one entire girth belt(s) (transverse section(s)) shall be completed within
15 months from commencement of gaugings of a girth belt (transverse section.)
Thickness measurements review to be carried-out in accordance with 7-A-4/5 of the ABS Rules for Survey
After Construction (Part 7).

3
The requirements for Close-up Survey and thickness gauging, per 7-3-2/5.13 or 7-3-2/5.14 of the ABS
Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7), will be applied to ship- and barge-type installations in the
following cases:
i) The ballast tanks are uncoated.
ii) Tank coatings are in Poor condition as defined by 7-1-1/25.3 of this Guide.
iii) Soft coatings are found to be no longer effective, 7-1-1/27.5 of this Guide.
iv) Substantial corrosion is present.

5
For column-stabilized installations, the following are to be performed, as applicable, the parts examined,
placed in satisfactory condition and reported upon:

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5.1
The hull or platform structure, including tanks, watertight bulkheads and decks, cofferdams, void spaces,
sponsons, chain locker, deck, keels, helicopter pad, machinery spaces, peak spaces, steering gear spaces and all
other internal spaces are to be examined externally and internally for damage, fractures or excessive wastage.

5.3
All tanks, compartments and free-flooding spaces throughout the installation are to be examined externally
and internally. Internal examinations of lower hull are to be specially considered. Watertight integrity of
tanks, bulkheads, hull, bulkhead deck and other compartments are to be verified by visual inspection.
Suspect areas may be required to be tested for tightness, nondestructively tested or thickness gauged.
Tanks and other normally closed compartments are to be ventilated, gas-freed and cleaned, as necessary, to
expose damage and allow for a meaningful examination for excessive wastage. Internal examination and
testing of void spaces, compartments filled with foam or corrosion inhibitors and tanks used only for lube
oil, light fuel oil, diesel oil or other non-corrosive products may be waived, provided that, upon general
examination, the Surveyor considers their condition to be satisfactory. External thickness gauging may be
required to confirm corrosion control.

5.5
Attachments of anchor racks and anchor cable fairleads are to be examined. Foundations in way of
selective anchor line fairlead support structures are to be cleaned and nondestructive examinations performed.
Internal support structures in way of these foundations are to be closely examined.

5.7
Applicable structures, such as pipe racks, process support structures, deck houses, superstructures,
helicopter landing areas and their respective attachments to the deck or hull.

5.9
Foundations and supporting headers, brackets and stiffeners for process related apparatus, where attached
to hull, deck, superstructure or deck house.

5.11
Survey of parts of the installation that are underwater and inaccessible to the Surveyor may be accepted on
the basis of an examination by a qualified diver, conducted in the presence of the Surveyor. Video or
photo records, nondestructive testing and thickness gauging may be required in addition to the diver’s
report. Refer to Section 6-2-6 of the MODU Rules.

5.13
At each Special Periodical Survey, thickness gaugings are to be performed where wastage is evident or
suspected. At Special Periodical Survey No. 2 and subsequent Special Periodical Surveys, representative
gaugings are to be required in accordance with 6-2-4/Table 3 of the MODU Rules. Special attention
should be paid to the splash zones on hulls, columns and ballast tanks, free-flooded spaces and the bottom
hulls. The thickness gauging requirements indicated in the table may be reduced or increased, as deemed
necessary or appropriate by the Surveyor, in accordance with Notes 2 and 3 of the Table.

5.15
Where inspection of underwater joints is required, sufficient cleaning is to be performed in way, and water
clarity to be adequate, to permit meaningful visual, video, camera or NDT examination, as required. Every
effort should be made to avoid cleaning damage to special coatings.

5.17
Connections of columns and diagonals to upper hull or platform and lower hull or pontoons. Joints of
supporting structure, including diagonals, braces and horizontals, together with gussets and brackets.
Internal continuation or back-up structure for the above. Nondestructive examination may be required at
suspect areas.

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PART Chapter 3: Drydocking Surveys

7
CHAPTER 3 Drydocking Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Survey Requirements ........................................................................ 540
1 Interval ............................................................................................540
3 Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking Survey (UWILD)......540
5 Parts to be Examined......................................................................541
5.1 Corrosion Protection System – Underwater Body ....................... 541
5.3 Mooring System .......................................................................... 542
5.5 Import System ............................................................................. 542
5.7 Export System ............................................................................. 542

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7
CHAPTER 3 Drydocking Surveys

SECTION 1 Survey Requirements

The underwater parts of a Floating Installation are to be examined at certain intervals. This examination
may be conducted by Underwater Survey in Lieu of Drydocking or, if necessary, a survey on Drydock.
During this survey, the Bureau Surveyors are to survey the floating installation, its structural condition,
corrosion protection system, mooring system and (if classed) the import and export systems.

1 Interval
A Drydocking Survey or equivalent underwater examination is to be conducted two times in any 5-year
period with an interval not exceeding three years between surveys.
Consideration may be given for extensions of Rule-required Drydock Survey or Equivalent underwater
inspection under special circumstances. An underwater inspection by a diver may be required for such
extensions.

3 Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking Survey (UWILD)

An approved underwater inspection by a diver may be considered equivalent to a Drydocking Survey, up
to and including Special Periodical Survey No. 4. Should the UWILD be contemplated, underwater
inspection procedures per Section 6-2-6 of the MODU Rules are to be submitted for review and approval in
advance of the survey. This approved procedure is to be made available onboard. In addition, the
inspection procedures are to also consist of the following:
i) Scope of inspection that is not to be less than as noted in 7-3-1/5 of this Guide.
ii) Procedure for divers to identify the exact location at which they are conducting their inspection.
iii) Procedure for cleaning the marine growth for inspection purposes that is to include the extent and
location of the underwater cleaning.
iv) Procedure and extent for measuring the cathodic potential readings in way of the structures.
v) Procedure and extent for taking thickness gaugings of the structures and NDT of critical joints.
vi) Qualifications of all divers conducting the inspection, NDT and thickness gaugings.
vii) The type of underwater video and photography, including means of communication, monitoring
and recording.
viii) For Underwater Inspections in lieu of Drydocking Surveys (UWILD) associated with Special
Periodical Survey, means are to be provided to permit the opening up of all sea valves and
overboard discharges for internal examination. In addition, all Special Periodical Survey items
related to the underwater portion of the hull or structure, including the gauging requirements are to
be dealt with during the underwater survey.
For each drydocking or equivalent underwater examination after Special Periodical Survey No. 4, requests
to conduct an UWILD, in accordance with previously approved plans, are to be submitted for consideration
well in advance of the proposed survey. Approvals to conduct the UWILD after Special Periodical Survey
No. 4 are to be made available onboard for the Surveyors’ reference.

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Chapter 3 Drydocking Surveys
Section 1 Survey Requirements 7-3-1

5 Parts to be Examined
For ship-type and barge-type installations, the following items are to be examined, as applicable:
The keel, stem, stern frame, rudder, propeller, and outside of side and bottom plating are to be cleaned as
necessary and examined, together with bilge keels, thrusters, exposed parts of the stern bearing and seal
assembly, sea chest, rudder pintles and gudgeons, together with their respective securing arrangements.
All sea connections and overboard discharge valves and cocks, including their attachments to the hull or
sea chests, are to be externally examined. All nonmetallic expansion pieces in the sea-water cooling and
circulating systems are to be examined both externally and internally. The stern bearing clearance or
weardown and rudder bearing clearances are to be ascertained and reported on.
For column-stabilized installations, the following are to be examined:
i) External surfaces of the upper hull or platform, footings, pontoons or lower hulls, underwater areas
of columns, bracing and their connections, as applicable, are to be selectively cleaned and examined.
These areas include joints of critical structural members, areas susceptible to damage from supply
installations, anchor chains, dropped equipment, corrosion and erosion from loss of coating, or
sand scouring and areas of progressed and accumulated wear-and-tear.
ii) Nondestructive testing may be required of areas found to be suspect. Joints of different
configurations of major structural members are to be selected, cleaned and magnetic particle inspected.
The selection of these joints are to be such that all joints underwater are to be inspected every five
years.
iii) Sea chests and strainers are to be cleaned and examined.
iv) External portions of propulsion units are to be examined, if applicable.
v) The type, location and extent of corrosion control (coatings, cathodic protection systems, etc.), as
well as effectiveness, and repairs or renewals to same should be reported in each survey. Particular
attention is to be given to corrosion control systems in ballast tanks, free-flooding areas and other
locations subjected to sea water from both sides.
vi) All tanks and voids that are to be internally examined are to be thoroughly ventilated and gas freed
prior to being entered and are to be carefully monitored for pocketing or emissions of hazardous
gases during examination.
vii) In conjunction with Drydocking Surveys (or equivalent), the following ballast spaces are to be
internally examined, and the effectiveness of coatings or corrosion control arrangements are to be
verified either visually by indicator strips or by thickness gauging (as considered necessary), placed
in satisfactory condition, as found necessary, and reported upon:
1. Representative ballast tanks in footings, lower hulls or free-flooding compartments, as
accessible.
2. At least two ballast tanks in columns or upper hull, if applicable.

5.1 Corrosion Protection System – Underwater Body

In addition to the above requirements, the following are to be to be performed during all of the Drydock (or
equivalent) Surveys:
i) Cathodic potential readings are to be taken from representative positions on the entire underwater
body and evaluated to confirm that the cathodic protection system is operating within design limits.
ii) Sacrificial anodes are to be examined for depletion and placed in satisfactory condition, as considered
necessary.
iii) Impressed current system anodes and cathodes are to be checked for damage, fouling by marine
growth and carbonate deposits. The current and voltage demands of the system are to also be
checked to ensure the system is functioning properly.
iv) Additional examinations are to be performed on the wind and water areas of the structures where
coating breaks are evident. Thickness measurements in these areas may be required if found
necessary by the attending Surveyor.

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Section 1 Survey Requirements 7-3-1

5.3 Mooring System

For mooring systems, the following are to be cleaned and examined, where applicable:
i) The mooring anchor chain or cable tensions are to be measured and the end connections of these
components are to be examined. All mooring chains are to be generally examined for their entire
lengths.
ii) Anchors, cables and their respective handling means are to be examined.
iii) The buoyancy tanks are to be cleaned and examined, if applicable.
iv) Chain and stopper assemblies are to be cleaned, examined and NDT performed, as considered
necessary by the attending Surveyor.
v) Areas of high stress or low fatigue life are to be preselected, cleaned and NDT performed, if considered
necessary.
vi) Scour in way of anchors or anchor piles is to be examined.
vii) Cathodic potential readings are to be taken from representative positions on the entire underwater
structure of the mooring system to confirm that the cathodic protection system is operating within
design limits.
viii) Highly stressed, high wear and tear areas of the mooring chain are to be closely examined and
nondestructively tested, if found necessary by the attending Surveyor. These include areas in way
of the stoppers and sea bed touchdown areas.

5.5 Import System

For import systems, the following are to be cleaned and examined, where applicable:
i) The entire riser system.
ii) The arch support buoyancy tanks, their structures and the clamping devices.
iii) The flexible riser, including all end flanges and bolting arrangements and spreader bars, if applicable.
Hoses designed and manufactured based on OCIMF standards are to be tested in accordance with the OCIMF
Guide for the Handling, Storage, Inspection, and Testing of Hoses in the Field.

5.7 Export System

For export systems, the following are to be cleaned and examined, where applicable:
i) The entire export flexible system is to be examined for damage due to chafing and fatigue fractures.
ii) Hoses designed and manufactured based on OCIMF standards are to be tested in accordance with
the OCIMF Guide for the Handling, Storage, Inspection, and Testing of Hoses in the Field.
iii) All navigation aids are to be examined and functionally tested.

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PART Chapter 4: Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Machinery ............................................................ 544

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery .......................................... 545

SECTION 3 Special Periodical Surveys – Electrical Equipment ........................ 546

SECTION 4 Tail Shaft and Tube Shaft Surveys ................................................... 547

1 Tail Shaft Surveys...........................................................................547
3 Tube Shaft Surveys ........................................................................547

SECTION 5 Thruster Surveys................................................................................ 548

SECTION 6 Boiler Surveys .................................................................................... 549

SECTION 7 Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System Surveys ......... 550

SECTION 8 Inert Gas System Surveys ................................................................. 551

1 Annual Surveys for Inert Gas Systems...........................................551
3 Special Periodical Surveys for Inert Gas Systems .........................551

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 543
PART Section 1: Annual Surveys – Machinery

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Machinery

1
Surveys for ship- or barge-type installations are to comply with applicable requirements of 7-6-2/1 of the
ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7).

3
Surveys for column-stabilized installations are to comply with applicable requirements of 6-2-3/3 of the
MODU Rules.

544 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery

1
Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery for ship- or barge-type installations are to comply with requirements
of 7-6-2/3 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7).

3
Surveys for column-stabilized installations are to comply with applicable requirements of Section 6-2-4 of
the MODU Rules.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 545
PART Section 3: Special Periodical Surveys – Electrical Equipment

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 3 Special Periodical Surveys – Electrical Equipment

For ship-type installations, all Electrical Equipment surveys are to comply with the applicable requirements
of 7-6-2/3.1.3 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7).
For column-stabilized installations, all Electrical Equipment surveys are to comply with the applicable
requirements of Section 6-2-10 of the MODU Rules.
Note: Any machinery that is exclusively required for use in a Floating Installation would be subject to the regular survey
requirements, as outlined for ocean-going vessels. Items of machinery that are not being utilized or which are
deactivated would be exempt from survey until such time as the Owner elected to place them in service.

546 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 4: Tail Shaft and Tube Shaft Surveys

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 4 Tail Shaft and Tube Shaft Surveys

1 Tail Shaft Surveys

For Tail Shaft Surveys of self-propelled installations, applicable requirements of Chapter 5 of the ABS Rules
for Survey After Construction (Part 7) are to be complied with. However, due to low running hours on tail
shafts of installations, the interval between tail shaft surveys may be extended based on the following
being performed to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor:

1.1
Diver’s external examination of stern bearing and outboard seal area, including weardown check as far as
is possible.

1.3
Examination of the shaft area (inboard seals) in propulsion room(s).

1.5
Confirmation of lubricating oil records (satisfactory oil loss rate, no evidence of unacceptable contamination).

1.7
Shaft seal elements are to be examined/replaced in accordance with seal manufacturer’s recommendations.

3 Tube Shaft Surveys

For Tube Shaft Surveys of self-propelled installations, the requirements in 7-4-4/1 of this Guide are to be
complied with. The intervals for these shafts are to be the same as those of tail shafts.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 547
PART Section 5: Thruster Surveys

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 5 Thruster Surveys

Thruster surveys are to comply with the requirements of Section 7-9-6 of the ABS Rules for Survey After
Construction (Part 7).

548 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 6: Boiler Surveys

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 6 Boiler Surveys

Boiler Surveys are to comply with the requirements of Chapter 7 of the ABS Rules for Survey After
Construction (Part 7).

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 549
PART Section 7: Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System Surveys

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 7 Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System

Surveys
For Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System Annual and Special Periodical Surveys, applicable
requirements of Chapter 8 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7) are to be complied with.

550 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 8: Inert Gas System Surveys

7
CHAPTER 4 Machinery, Equipment and Systems Surveys

SECTION 8 Inert Gas System Surveys

1 Annual Surveys for Inert Gas Systems

For Annual Survey of Inert Gas Systems, applicable requirements of 7-6-2/1.1.12 of the ABS Rules for
Survey After Construction (Part 7) are to be complied with.

3 Special Periodical Surveys for Inert Gas Systems

For Special Periodical Survey of Inert Gas Systems, applicable requirements of 7-6-2/3.1.1(o) of the ABS
Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7) are to be complied with.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 551
PART Chapter 5: Production Facilities Surveys

7
CHAPTER 5 Production Facilities Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Production Facilities ........................................... 553
1 Maintenance Records .....................................................................553
3 Parts to be Examined......................................................................553

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Production Facilities......................... 554

552 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 1: Annual Surveys – Production Facilities

7
CHAPTER 5 Production Facilities Surveys

SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Production Facilities

1 Maintenance Records
Maintenance records are to be kept and made available for review by the attending Surveyor. The
maintenance records will be reviewed to establish the scope and content of the required Annual and
Special Periodical Surveys. During the service life of the facilities, maintenance records are to be updated
on a continuing basis. The operator is to inform the Bureau of any changes to the maintenance procedures
and frequencies, as may be caused, for example, by changes or additions to the original equipment. The
Surveyor may determine during the periodic survey if the changes are sufficient to warrant review by the
Bureau’s technical staff.

3 Parts to be Examined
For Annual Survey of Production Facilities, the applicable requirements of the Facilities Guide are to be
complied with.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 553
PART Section 2: Special Periodical Surveys – Production Facilities

7
CHAPTER 5 Production Facilities Surveys

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Production Facilities

For Special Periodical Survey of Production Facilities, the applicable requirements of the Facilities Guide
are to be complied with.

554 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 6: Mooring Systems Surveys

7
CHAPTER 6 Mooring Systems Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Mooring Systems ................................................ 556
1 Annual Surveys – Spread Mooring Systems ..................................556
3 Annual Surveys – Single Point Mooring (SPM) Systems ...............556

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems .............................. 557

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 555
PART Section 1: Annual Surveys – Mooring Systems

7
CHAPTER 6 Mooring Systems Surveys

SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Mooring Systems

1 Annual Surveys – Spread Mooring Systems

At each Annual Survey, the spread mooring system is to be generally examined so far as can be seen and
placed in satisfactory condition as necessary. In addition, the following above water items are to be
examined, placed in satisfactory condition and reported upon, where applicable:
i) The anchor chain stopper structural arrangements are to be visually examined, including the
structural foundations of all of the stoppers or holders. Tensioning equipment is to be generally
examined.
ii) The anchor chain catenary angles are to be measured to ensure that the anchor chain tensions are
within the design allowable tolerances. Where anchor cables are used, their tensions are to be
verified to be within the allowable tensions.
iii) The anchor chains or anchor cables above the water are to be visually examined for wear and tear.

3 Annual Surveys – Single Point Mooring (SPM) Systems

At each Annual Survey, the single point mooring system is to be generally examined insofar as can be seen
above water and placed in satisfactory condition as necessary. In addition, the following above water
items are to be examined, placed in satisfactory condition and reported upon, where applicable:
i) The anchor chain stopper structural arrangements are to be visually examined, including the structural
foundations of all of the stoppers.
ii) The anchor chain’s catenary angles are to be measured to verify that the anchor chain tensions are
within the design allowable tolerances. Where anchor cables are used, their tensions are to be
verified to be within the allowable tensions.
iii) The anchor chains or anchor cables above the water are to be visually examined for wear and tear.
iv) The condition of the bearings is to be verified for continued effectiveness of the lubrication system.
v) The entire assembly of the single point mooring structure above water is to be generally examined
for damage, coating breaks and excessive signs of corrosion. This survey is to include all turret
wall structures, accessible turret well structures, mooring arms, all structures supporting the
disconnectable operations of the mooring system, etc., whichever are applicable.

556 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems

7
CHAPTER 6 Mooring Systems Surveys

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems

1
Since it is impractical to cover all types of mooring systems, the following are provided as guidance to
show the basic intent of the Requirements. Operators and designers may submit alternative survey
requirements based either on service experience or manufacturer’s recommendations. Upon review and if
found acceptable, these alternative survey procedures will form the basis for the Special Periodical Survey
of the Mooring System.

3
The Special Periodical Survey is to include all items listed under the Annual Survey and, in addition, the
following are to be performed, where applicable:

3.1
A Drydocking Survey or equivalent underwater inspection of the SPM system is to be performed. This
survey is to include examination of the entire structure of the SPM, the protective coating, cathodic
protection system, the chain stoppers and their locking devices.
Any suspect areas where excessive corrosion is evident are to be thickness gauged. Gaugings are to be
taken on the structures of the SPM when it has undergone service for 15 years or more.

3.3
An examination is to be made on all anchor chains for excessive corrosion and wastage. In particular, the
areas to be specially examined are the areas having the most relative movement between the chain links.
These areas are normally located in way of the seabed touchdown sections of the catenary part of the
chains. The chains are to be inspected for looses studs and link elongations. Sufficient representative
locations are to be gauged for wear and wastage. Areas susceptible to corrosion, such as the wind-and-
water areas, are to be specially gauged, if considered necessary by the attending Surveyor.

3.5
A close examination is to be performed on all mooring components and accessible structural members that
carry the mooring loads. These structures include the chain stoppers or cable holders, the structures in way
of the chain stoppers or cable holders, structural bearing housing and turret/structural well annulus areas.
These structures are to be thoroughly cleaned and examined and any suspect areas are to be nondestructively
tested.

3.7
A general inspection is also to be carried out on the degree of scour or exposure in way of the anchor or
anchor piles to ascertain that these components are not overexposed.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 557
Part 7 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Chapter 6 Mooring Systems Surveys
Section 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems 7-6-2

3.9
An examination is to be performed on the main bearing of the SPM system. This examination is to include
visual inspection of bearing, if accessible, for water egress into the structural housing, corrosion, pitting
and excessive wear. If the bearing is inaccessible, at least the weardown is to be ascertained and the
condition of the bearing seals verified. If disassembled, the bearing rollers and the racer housings are to be
examined.

3.11
For inaccessible structures, special alternative inspection procedures for inspection of these areas are to be
submitted for approval.

3.13
The chain tensions are to be checked and where found not in compliance with the specifications are to be
readjusted accordingly. Excessive loss of chain or tendon tensions are to be investigated.

3.15
Representative areas of the chains are to be examined and checked for excessive wastage. In particular,
areas in way of the chain stoppers and the seabed touchdown areas are to be specially examined and
measured for excessive wear.

3.17
For disconnectable type mooring systems, the disconnect and connect system for the mooring system is to
be tested as considered necessary by the attending Surveyor. Alternatively, records of disconnect/connect
operations between the credit date of the last Special Periodical Survey and the current due date of same
may be reviewed, and if found satisfactory, it may be considered to have been in compliance with this
requirement.

558 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Chapter 7: Import and Export Systems Surveys

7
CHAPTER 7 Import and Export Systems Surveys

CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Import and Export Systems................................ 560

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export Systems ............. 561
1 General ...........................................................................................561
3 Items to be Included........................................................................561

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 559
PART Section 1: Annual Surveys – Import and Export Systems

7
CHAPTER 7 Import and Export Systems Surveys

SECTION 1 Annual Surveys – Import and Export Systems

At each Annual Survey, the import and export (when requested for classification) systems are to be examined
as far as can be seen and placed in satisfactory condition as necessary. In addition, the following items are
to be examined, placed in satisfactory condition and reported upon where applicable:
i) A general examination is to be performed on all electrical and fluid swivels, flexible risers, floating
hoses, cargo piping and valves associated with the import and export systems, expansion joints,
seals, etc.
ii) The fluid swivels are to be examined for signs of leaks through their “tell-tale” apertures.
iii) Records of maintenance are to be reviewed, including records of hose hydrostatic testing.
iv) Navigational aids for all floating hoses are to be examined and functionally tested.
v) Riser tensioning arrangements are to be examined for proper functioning order.
vi) All electrical equipment, fitted in hazardous location is to be examined for integrity and suitability
for the continued service.

560 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Section 2: Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export Systems

7
CHAPTER 7 Import and Export Systems Surveys

SECTION 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export

Systems

1 General
Since it is impractical to cover all types of import and export systems, the following are provided as
guidance to show the basic intent of the Requirements. Operators and designers may submit alternative
survey requirements based either on service experience or manufacturer’s recommendations. Upon review
and if found acceptable, these alternative survey procedures will form the basis for the Special Periodical
Survey of the Import and Export System.

3 Items to be Included
The Special Periodical Survey is to include all items listed under the Annual Survey and, in addition, the
following are to be performed:

3.1
Fluid and electrical swivels are to be disassembled, if considered necessary, and examined for wear and
tear. The seals are to be examined. Upon completion of the reconditioning, the fluid swivels are to be
hydrostatically tested. Similarly, the electrical swivels are to be insulation tested upon reassembly.

3.3
During underwater inspection of the SPM system, flexible risers are to be examined, including all arch
support buoyancy tanks. Risers are to be inspected for damage in high stress areas, such as areas in way of
the end flanges, areas in way of the arch support clamps and the bottom of all looped areas. Spreader bars,
if fitted to separate one riser string from another, are to be inspected for wear and tear. Hydrostatic tests
may be required to be conducted on the risers, as deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.

3.5
For deep sea applications, riser suspension or support systems are to be examined for deterioration and loss
of tension. Support areas in way of the riser are to be closely examined for fretting corrosion, wear, kinks,
creases, etc.

3.7
Floating export hoses are to be examined for kinks, surface cracks, chaffing damages, etc. Hydrostatic and
vacuum tests may be required to be conducted on the floating hose string, as deemed necessary by the
attending Surveyor.

3.9
All piping systems are to be opened up for examination. Nondestructive and hydrostatic tests may be
required, where considered necessary by the attending Surveyor.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 561
Part 7 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems Surveys
Section 2 Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export Systems 7-7-2

3.11
For disconnectable type mooring systems, the disconnect and connect arrangements for the import and
export systems are to be tested, as considered necessary by the attending Surveyor. Alternatively, records
of disconnect/connect operations between the credit date of the last Special Periodical Survey and the
current due date of same may be reviewed, and if found satisfactory, it may be considered to have
complied with this requirement.

3.13
Hoses designed and manufactured based on OCIMF standards are to be tested in accordance with the
OCIMF Guide for the Handling, Storage, Inspection, and Testing of Hoses in the Field.

562 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
PART Appendix 1: Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service

7
APPENDIX 1 Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service
(1 September 2007)

CONTENTS
1 Introduction .....................................................................................564
3 Application ......................................................................................564
3.1 FPSO, FSO or FOI Notations ...................................................... 564
3.3 Storage Service Notation............................................................. 564
5 Survey After Construction ...............................................................565
5.1 General........................................................................................ 565
5.3 Drydocking Surveys .................................................................... 565
5.5 Special Survey of Hull ................................................................. 565
5.7 Intermediate Hull Surveys ........................................................... 566
5.9 Lightering Service........................................................................ 566

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 563
PART

7
APPENDIX 1 Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service
(1 September 2007)

1 Introduction
This guidance clarifies the present ABS policy for treatment of classed oil carriers operating in oil storage
service. Under no circumstances is this policy to be used for any other vessel without the specific approval
of the Chief Surveyor.

3 Application
This guidance applies to vessels, which are to maintain their current Oil Carrier classification or for
vessels that have reached their MARPOL phase out date, in such cases these vessels will only be eligible
for Oil Storage Service notation. The primary class differences between classification as an FPSO,
FSO or FOI and Oil Carrier, Storage Service or Oil Storage Service classification are as follows:

3.1 FPSO, FSO or FOI Notations

3.1.1
Classed floating production installations (i.e., FPSO, FSO or FOI) require analysis and certification
of the mooring system as part of the class requirements for the particular site.
3.1.2
Those that are classed Disconnectable are required to maintain propulsion capability for
steaming out of harm’s way in an established condition in which the installation is able to safely
leave the site before the weather event meets or exceeds the design limits of the fixed mooring system.

3.3 Storage Service Notation

3.3.1
For Oil Storage Service vessels the mooring arrangements are the responsibility of the Owner,
including compliance with Flag and Coastal State requirements.
3.3.2
In order for a vessel to be classed as:
i) À A1 Oil Carrier, Storage Service; or
ii) A1 Oil Carrier, Storage Service; or
iii) À A1 Oil Storage Service; or
iv) A1 Oil Storage Service, the following is required:
3.3.2(a) Written requirements for the conversion to Oil Storage Service are to be obtained from
the Assistant Chief Surveyor-Offshore.
3.3.2(b) The attending Surveyor is to report upon the completion of the requirements and
recommend Classification as per 7-A1/3.3.2i), ii), iii) or iv) above, as applicable.
3.3.2(c) The vessel’s propulsion machinery must be retained to AMS classification requirements.

564 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Part 7 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Appendix 1 Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service 7-A1

3.3.3
Vessels classed as Oil Carrier, Storage Service or Oil Storage Service will be permitted
the Storage Service Classification only while remaining in storage service.
3.3.3(a) Storage Service, for the purpose of this Class notation, means a vessel that is stationed at
a single location, does not transit between ports or different sites and does not carry cargo between
ports or sites.
3.3.3(b) The vessel serves only in a storage and offloading capacity at a single designated location
that is in sheltered waters or at a location that enables the unit to quickly move away from a severe
weather event.
3.3.3(c) When the vessel leaves the designated “storage service” location, other than to take refuge
from severe weather, the “storage service” provisions provided herein no longer apply.
3.3.3(d) The vessel is not to transport oil to a port or terminal when taking refuge from weather.
It is envisioned that voyages, without cargo, may be necessary for repair works or to a lay-up site
when the storage service is seasonal.
3.3.4
For vessels planned for this service where the location is not sheltered or the vessel is not self-
propelled, the requirements for FPSO, FSO or FOI will apply.

5 Survey After Construction

5.1 General
Vessels in storage service will be surveyed in accordance with the applicable sections of the ABS Rules for
Survey After Construction (Part 7) except as noted below:

5.3 Drydocking Surveys

5.3.1
The vessel is to be properly prepared for the extended positioning. The preparation would
normally include a complete Special Survey appropriate to the age of the vessel, in accordance
with 7-3-2/5.13 of the Rules for Survey after Construction (Part 7).and preparation of the underwater
parts in accordance with the ABS Guide for Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking. All
requirements for Close-up Survey and thickness measurements are to be applied. Drydocking
Surveys will continue to be required at the regular rule required intervals (normally twice in a 5
year special survey period). However, Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD)
examination may be carried out to meet the Drydocking requirements.
5.3.2
For vessels less than 15 years of age the drydocking requirements for Special Survey and Intermediate
survey may be accomplished by UWILD for up to 10 years of storage service. For vessels that are
over 15 years of age the Intermediate survey drydocking will be permitted to be accomplished by
UWILD, the Special Survey drydocking will be required to be an out of water docking.
5.3.3
For vessels exceeding 15 years of age, the time allowable where UWILD is applied may be
extended to a maximum of 10 years in special circumstances where agreed to by the Assistant
Chief Surveyor-Offshore.
5.3.4
Upon completion of the storage service the vessel would be required to proceed to drydock for an
out of water drydocking survey if the vessel has been in Storage Service for two years or more.

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 565
Part 7 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Appendix 1 Guidance for the Class Notation, Storage Service 7-A1

5.5 Special Survey of Hull

Vessels in Storage Service will not be given the ESP notation. However, a vessel in Storage Service will
be required to carry out the Special Survey of Hull in accordance with ESP requirements except that the
requirement for an out of water drydocking in association with a Special Survey may be modified to a
UWILD while the vessel is in storage service, at the storage site, provided no conditions were found to
exist that would warrant an out of water drydocking. In these cases, gauging of the underwater sections of
the vessel can be taken afloat by qualified divers or from inside the vessel.

5.7 Intermediate Hull Surveys

Intermediate Hull Surveys, in accordance with the requirements for non-ESP tankers will apply, as long as
the vessel remains in Storage Service.

5.9 Lightering Service

Where transfer of cargo is accomplished by side by side mooring of a shuttle tanker and the Storage
Service vessel, the Storage Service vessel will be considered in “Lightering Service”. The survey
requirements of 7-1-1/19 of the ABS Rules for Survey After Construction (Part 7) will apply.

566 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
 Appendix 1
Comparison of the Numbering System of the 2007 Guide
vs. the 2009 Guide
Comparison of the Numbering System of the 2007 Guide vs. the 2009 Guide

FPI 2007 Title FPI 2009

The requirements for “Conditions of Classification” in Part 1, Chapter 1 of the 2007
edition of the Guide for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations
were relocated to the new, generically re-titled ABS Rules for Conditions of
Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1), which now includes
consolidated requirements applicable to all offshore units, installations, vessels or
systems. Those classification requirements specific to FPIs were retained in a
supplemental Part 1, Chapter 1 of the FPI Guide.

In the list below, references to the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification –
Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1) are given as “CC 1-1-X/Y.Y.Y” and
references to Part 1, Chapter 1 of the FPI Guide are given as “1-1-X/Y.Y.Y”.
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 1 Classification
Section 1-1-1 Classification CC Section 1-1-1
1-1-1/1 Process CC 1-1-1/1
1-1-1/3 Certificates and Reports CC 1-1-1/3
1-1-1/3.1 --- CC 1-1-1/3.1
1-1-1/3.3 --- CC 1-1-1/3.3
1-1-1/3.5 --- CC 1-1-1/3.5
1-1-1/5 Representation as to Classification CC 1-1-1/5
1-1-1/7 Scope of Classification CC 1-1-1/7
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 2 Suspension and Cancellation of Class
Section 1-1-2 Suspension and Cancellation of Class CC Section 1-1-2
1-1-2/1 Termination of Classification CC 1-1-2/1
1-1-2/3 Notice of Survey CC 1-1-2/3
1-1-2/5 Special Notation CC 1-1-2/5
1-1-2/7 Suspension of Class CC 1-1-2/7
1-1-2/7.1 --- CC 1-1-2/7.3
1-1-2/7.3 --- CC 1-1-2/7.5ii)
1-1-2/7.5 --- CC 1-1-2/7.5
1-1-2/7.7 --- CC 1-1-2/77.5iii)
1-1-2/7.9 --- CC 1-1-2/7.9
1-1-2/9 Lifting of Suspension CC 1-1-2/9
1-1-2/9.1 --- CC 1-1-2/9.1
1-1-2/9.3 --- CC 1-1-2/9.3
1-1-2/9.5 --- CC 1-1-2/9.5
1-1-2/11 Cancellation of Class CC 1-1-2/11
1-1-2/11.1 --- CC 1-1-2/11.1
1-1-2/11.3 --- CC 1-1-2/11.3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 3 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols and Notations
Section 1-1-3 System Classification Boundaries, Symbols ad Notations Section 1-1-2
1-1-3/1 Classification Boundaries 1-1-2/1
1-1-3/3 Classification Symbols 1-1-2/3
1-1-3/5 Additional Class Notations 1-1-2/5
1-1-3/5.1 Disconnectable System 1-1-2/5.1
1-1-3/5.3 Classification of Dynamic Positioning Systems 1-1-2/5.3
1-1-3/5.5 Classification of Additional Equipment and Systems 1-1-2/5.5
1-1-3/5.7 SafeHull-Dynamic Loading Approach (SH-DLA) 1-1-2/5.7
1-1-3/5.9 SafeHull Criteria 1-1-2/5.9
1-1-3/5.10 Fatigue Life 1-1-2/5.10
1-1-3/5.10.1 New Construction 1-1-2/5.10.1
1-1-3/5.10.2 Conversion of Existing Vessel to FPSO, FPS or FSO 1-1-2/5.10.2
1-1-3/5.11 Spectral Fatigue Analysis 1-1-2/5.11
1-1-3/5.13 Additional Corrosion Margin 1-1-2/5.13
1-1-3/7 À AMS Notation 1-1-2/7
1-1-3/9 Notations for Automatic or Remote Control and Monitoring 1-1-2/9
1-1-3/9.1 À ACC or À ACCU Notations 1-1-2/9.1
1-1-3/9.3 À AMCC or À AMCCU Notations 1-1-2/9.3
1-1-3/11 Temporary Mooring Symbol 1-1-2/11

568 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
Comparison of the Numbering System of the 2007 Guide vs. the 2009 Guide

FPI 2007 Title FPI 2009

1-1-3/13 Systems Not Built Under Survey 1-1-2/13
1-1-3/15 Conversion of Existing Vessels 1-1-2/15
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 4 Rules and the Criteria Presented for Classification
Section 1-1-4 Rules and the Criteria Presented for Classification Section 1-1-3
1-1-4/1 Application 1-1-3/1
1-1-4/3 Reference Standards 1-1-3/3
1-1-4/5 Alternatives CC 1-1-4/9
1-1-4/5.1 General CC 1-1-4/9.1
1-1-4/5.3 National Regulations CC 1-1-4/9.3
1-1-4/5.5 Other Rules CC 1-1-4/9.5
1-1-4/7 Novel Features CC 1-1-4/11
1-1-4/9 Risk Evaluations for Alternative Arrangements and Novel Features 1-1-3/5
1-1-4/11 Effective Date of Change in Requirement CC 1-1-4/3
1-1-4/11.1 Effective Date CC 1-1-4/3.1
1-1-4/11.3 Implementation of Rules Changes CC 1-1-4/3.3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 5 Other Regulations
Section 1-1-5 Other Regulations CC Section 1-1-5
1-1-5/1 General CC 1-1-5/1
1-1-5/3 International Conventions or Codes CC 1-1-5/3
1-1-5/5 Government Regulations CC 1-1-5/5
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 6 IACS Audit
Section 1-1-6 IACS Audit CC Section 1-1-6
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 7 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations
Section 1-1-7 Submission of Plans, Data and Calculations Section 1-1-4
1-1-7/1 Design Plans and Data 1-1-4/1
1-1-7/3 Position Mooring System Design Documentation 1-1-4/3
1-1-7/5 Production Facilities and Production Support Facilities 1-1-4/5
1-1-7/7 Machinery Plans 1-1-4/7
1-1-7/9 Additional Plans 1-1-4/9
1-1-7/11 Manuals and Procedures 1-1-4/11
1-1-7/11.1 Operations Manual 1-1-4/11.
1-1-7/11.3 Procedures 1-1-4/11.3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction
Section 1-1-8 Conditions for Surveys After Construction CC Section 1-1-8
1-1-8/1 Damage, Failure and Repair CC 1-1-8/1
1-1-8/1.1 Examination and Repair CC 1-1-8/1.1
1-1-8/1.3 Repairs CC 1-1-8/1.3
1-1-8/1.5 Representation CC 1-1-8/1.5
1-1-8/3 Notification and Availability for Survey CC 1-1-8/3
1-1-8/5 Attendance at Port State Request CC 1-1-8/5
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 9 Fees
Section 1-1-9 Fees CC Section 1-1-9
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 10 Disagreement
Section 1-1-10 Disagreement CC Section 1-1-10
1-1-10/1 Rules and Guides CC 1-1-10/1
1-1-10/3 Surveyors CC 1-1-10/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 11 Limitation of Liability
Section 1-1-11 Limitation of Liability CC Section 1-1-11

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Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 12 Hold Harmless
Section 1-1-12 Hold Harmless CC Section 1-1-12
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 13 Time Bar to Legal Action
Section 1-1-12 Time Bar to Legal Action CC Section 1-1-13
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 14 Arbitrations
Section 1-1-14 Arbitration CC Section 1-1-14
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 2 Definitions
Section 1 Basic Configurations
Section 1-2-1 Basic Configurations Section 3-1-1
1-2-1/1 Purpose 3-1-1/1
1-2-1/3 Major Elements 3-1-1/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 2 Definitions
Section 2 Vessel
Section 1-2-2 Vessel Section 3-1-2
1-2-2/1 General 3-1-2/1
1-2-2/3 Ship-Type Vessels 3-1-2/3
1-2-2/5 Column-Stabilized Type Vessels 3-1-2/5
1-2-2/7 Other Types 3-1-2/11
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 2 Definitions
Section 3 Production Facilities
Section 1-2-3 Production Facilities Section 3-1-3
1-2-3/1 General 3-1-3/1
1-2-3/3 Production Support Systems 3-1-3/3
1-2-3/5 Manned Facility 3-1-3/5
1-2-3/7 Hazardous Areas: Classified Areas and Area Classification Plan 3-1-3/7
1-2-3/9 Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P & IDs) 3-1-3/9
1-2-3/11 Safety Analysis Function and Evaluation (S.A.F.E.) Charts 3-1-3/11
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 2 Definitions
Section 4 Position Mooring System
Section 1-2-4 Position Mooring System Section 3-1-4
1-2-4/1 General 3-1-4/1
1-2-4/3 Spread Mooring 3-1-4/3
1-2-4/5 Single Point Mooring (SPM) 3-1-4/5
1-2-4/5.1 CALM (Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring) 3-1-4/5.1
1-2-4/5.3 SALM (Single Anchor Leg Mooring) 3-1-4/5.3
1-2-4/5.5 Turret Mooring 3-1-4/5.5
1-2-4/5.7 Yoke Arm 3-1-4/5.7
1-2-4/7 Dynamic Positioning and Thruster Assisted Systems 3-1-4/7
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 2 Definitions
Section 5 Subsea System
Section 1-2-5 Subsea System Section 3-1-5
1-2-5/1 General 3-1-5/1
1-2-5/3 Floating hose 3-1-5/3
1-2-5/5 On Bottom Flexible Flow Lines 3-1-5/5
1-2-5/7 Pipe Line End Manifold (PLEM) 3-1-5/7
1-2-5/7.1 Import PLEM 3-1-5/7.1
1-2-5/7.3 Export PLEM 3-1-5/7.3
1-2-5/9 Riser 3-1-5/9
1-2-5/11 Riser System 3-1-5/11
1-2-5/13 Riser Support 3-1-5/13
1-2-5/15 Submerged Jumper Hoses 3-1-5/15

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Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 3 Environmental Loading and Design Basis
Section 1 General Design Basis
Section 1-3-1 General Design Basis Section 3-2-1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 3 Environmental Loading and Design Basis
Section 2 Design Documentation
Section 1-3-2 Design Documentation Section 3-2-2
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 3 Environmental Loading and Design Basis
Section 3 Design Conditions
Section 1-3-3 Design Conditions Section 3-2-3
1-3-3/1 Position Mooring System 3-2-3/1
1-3-3/1.1 Design Environmental Condition (DEC) 3-2-3/1.1
1-3-3/1.3 Design Operating Condition (DOC) 3-2-3/1.3
1-3-3/1.5 Design Installation Condition (DIC) 3-2-3/1.5
1-3-3/1.7 Angular Separation of Wind, Current and Waves 3-2-3/1.7
1-3-3/3 Structural Strength and Fatigue Life 3-2-3/3
1-3-3/3.1 Project Site 3-2-3/3.1
1-3-3/3.3 Transit 3-2-3/3.3
1-3-3/3.5 SafeHull Application ---
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 3 Environmental Loading and Design Basis
Section 4 Environmental Conditions
Section 1-3-4 Environmental Conditions Section 3-2-4
1-3-4/1 General 3-2-4/1
1-3-4/3 Environmental Loads 3-2-4/3
1-3-4/5 Current 3-2-4/5
1-3-4/7 Wind 3-2-4/7
1-3-4/7.1 Wind Load 3-2-4/7.1
1-3-4/9 Waves 3-2-4/9
1-3-4/9.1 Wave Forces 3-2-4/9.1
1-3-4/9.3 Wave-induced Vessel Motion Responses 3-2-4/9.3
1-3-4/9.3.1 First Order Motions 3-2-4/9.3.1
1-3-4/9.3.2 Low Frequency Motions 3-2-4/9.3.2
1-3-4/9.3.3 Steady (Mean) Drift 3-2-4/9.3.3
1-3-4/11 Directionality 3-2-4/11
1-3-4/13 Soil Conditions 3-2-4/13
1-3-4/Table 1 Shape Coefficients Cs for Windages 3-2-4/Table 1
1-3-4/Table 2 Height Coefficients Ch for Windages 3-2-4/Table 2
1-3-4/Table 3 Wind Velocity Conversion Factor 3-2-4/Table 3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 4 Floating Installations: Ship, Column-Stabilized and Other Types
Section 1 All Vessels
Section 1-4-1 All Vessels Section 3-3-1
1-4-1/1 General 3-3-1/1
1-4-1/3 Lightweight Data 3-3-1/3
1-4-1/5 Load Line 3-3-1/5
1-4-1/7 Loading Manual (Operating Manual) 3-3-1/7
1-4-1/9 Trim and Stability Booklet (Operating Manual) 3-3-1/9
1-4-1/11 Engineering Analysis 3-3-1/13
1-4-1/13 Mooring System and Equipment 3-3-1/15
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 4 Floating Installations: Ship, Column-Stabilized and Other Types
Section 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Section 1-4-2 Ship-Type Vessels Section 5A-1-1
1-4-2/1 General 5A-1-1/1
1-4-2/3 Definitions 5A-1-1/3
1-4-2/5 Longitudinal Strength 5A-1-2/1
1-4-2/5.1 Loading Manual (Operating Manual) 3-3-1/7
1-4-2/7 Stability 3-3-1/11
1-4-2/9 Structural Arrangement 5A-1-2/1
1-4-2/11 Structural Design of the Hull 5A-1-3/1
1-4-2/11.1 Hull Design for Additional Loads and Load Effects 5A-1-3/1.1

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1-4-2/11.1.1 Sloshing of Produced or Ballast Liquids 5A-1-3/1.1.1
1-4-2/11.1.2 Green Water Loads on Deck 5A-1-3/1.1.2
1-4-2/11.1.3 Bow Impact 5A-1-3/1.1.3
1-4-2/11.1.4 Slamming 5A-1-3/1.1.4
1-4-2/11.3 Superstructures and Deckhouses 5A-1-3/1.3
1-4-2/11.5 Helicopter Decks 5A-1-3/1.5
1-4-2/11.7 Protection of Deck Openings 5A-1-3/1.7
1-4-2/11.9 Bulwarks, Rails, Freeing Ports, Ventilators and Portlights 5A-1-3/1.9
1-4-2/11.11 Equipment 5A-1-3/1.11
1-4-2/11.13 Materials and Welding 5A-1-3/1.13
1-4-2/11.15 Machinery and Equipment Foundations 5A-1-3/1.15
1-4-2/11.17 Additional Considerations for Disconnectable Systems 5A-1-3/1.17
1-4-2/11.17.1 Machinery Space and Tunnel 5A-1-3/1.17.1
1-4-2/11.17.2 Keels, Stems, Stern Frames and Rudder Horns 5A-1-3/1.17.2
1-4-2/11.17.3 Rudders and Steering Gears 5A-1-3/1.17.3
1-4-2/13 Engineering Analysis of the Hull Structure 5A-1-3/3
1-4-2/13.1 General 5A-1-3/3.1
1-4-2/13.3 Strength Analysis of the Hull Structure 5A-1-3/3.3
1-4-2/13.5 Fatigue Analysis 5A-1-3/3.9
1-4-2/13.7 Acceptance Criteria 5A-1-3/3.11
1-4-2/13.7.1 Material Yielding 5A-1-3/3.11.1
1-4-2/13.7.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5A-1-3/3.11.2
1-4-2/13.7.3 Fatigue 5A-1-3/3.11.3
1-4-2/15 Analysis and Design of Other Major Hull Structural Features 5A-1-4/1
1-4-2/15.1 Position Mooring/Hull Interface 5A-1-4/3
1-4-2/15.1.1 Mooring/Hull Interface Modeling 5A-1-4/3.1
1-4-2/15.1.1(a) --- 5A-1-4/3.1.1
1-4-2/15.1.1(a)i) Fore End Mooring 5A-1-4/3.1.1i)
1-4-2/15.1.1(a)ii) Aft End Mooring 5A-1-4/3.1.1ii)
1-4-2/15.1.1(b) --- 5A-1-4/3.1.2
1-4-2/15.1.1(b)i) Fore End Turret 5A-1-4/3.1.2i)
1-4-2/15.1.1(b)ii) Midship Turret 5A-1-4/3.1.2ii)
1-4-2/15.1.1(c) For Spread Moored Vessels 5A-1-4/3.1.3
1-4-2/15.1.2 Net Scantlings for Mooring Interface Structure ---
1-4-2/15.1.3 Acceptance Criteria Mooring/Hull Interface ---
1-4-2/15.1.3(a) Material Yielding ---
1-4-2/15.1.3(b) Buckling and Ultimate Strength ---
1-4-2/15.1.3(c) Fatigue: Mooring/Hull Interface ---
1-4-2/15.3 Hull Structure to Resist Equipment Reaction Forces ---
1-4-2/17 Other Systems 5A-1-6/1
1-4-2/17.1 Marine Piping Systems 5A-1-6/1.1
1-4-2/17.3 Electrical Systems 5A-1-6/1.3
1-4-2/17.5 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment 5A-1-6/1.5
1-4-2/17.7 Machinery and Equipment 5A-1-6/1.7
Section 5A-1-5
1-4-2/19 Modules on the Ship-type Vessel Deck
5A-1-5/1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 4 Floating Installations: Ship, Column-Stabilized and Other Types
Section 3 Column-Stabilized Vessels
Section 1-4-3 Column-Stabilized Vessels Part 5B, Chapter 1
1-4-3/1 General 5B-1-1/1
1-4-3/3 Definitions 5B-1-1/3
1-4-3/5 Loading Criteria 5B-1-1/5
1-4-3/7 Global Performance Analyses 5B-1-1/7
1-4-3/9 Structural Design 5B-1-2/1
1-4-3/9.1 Scantlings 5B-1-2/1.1
1-4-3/9.3 Deckhouses 5B-1-2/1.3
1-4-3/9.5 Helicopter Deck 5B-1-2/1.5
1-4-3/9.7 Protection of Openings in Decks and Columns 5B-1-2/1.7
1-4-3/9.9 Guards and Rails 5B-1-2/1.9
1-4-3/9.11 Machinery and Equipment Foundations ---
1-4-3/9.13 Materials and Welding ---
1-4-3/11 Engineering Analysis of the Vessel’s Primary Structure 5B-1-2/5
1-4-3/11.1 General 5B-1-2/5.1.1

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1-4-3/11.3 Strength Analysis of the Vessel’s Primary Structure 5B-1-2/5.1.2
1-4-3/11.3.1 Severe Storm Condition ---
1-4-3/11.3.2 Normal Operations Condition ---
1-4-3/11.5 Fatigue Analysis 5B-1-2/5.1.4
1-4-3/11.7 Structural Redundancy Analysis 5B-1-2/5.1.5
1-4-3/11.9 Acceptance Criteria 5B-1-2/5.1.6
1-4-3/11.9.1 Material Yielding 5B-1-2/5.1.6(a)
1-4-3/11.9.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5B-1-2/5.1.6(b)
1-4-3/11.9.3 Fatigue 5B-1-2/5.1.6(c)
1-4-3/13 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures 5B-1-2/7
1-4-3/13.1 Position Mooring/Vessel Interface ---
1-4-3/15 Stability 5B-1-3/1
1-4-3/15.1 Transit Voyage Stability 5B-1-3/1.1
1-4-3/15.3 On-Site Stability 5B-1-3/1.3
1-4-3/17 Marine Piping Systems 5B-1-4/1
1-4-3/19 Electrical Systems 5B-1-4/3
1-4-3/21 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment 5B-1-4/5
1-4-3/23 Machinery and Equipment 5B-1-4/7
1-4-3/25 Additional Plans and Data to be Submitted 5B-1-4/11
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 4 Floating Installations: Ship, Column-Stabilized and Other Types
Section 4 Existing Tanker Hull Structures (Ordinary Conversions)
Section 1-4-4 Existing Tanker Hull Structures (Ordinary Conversions) Section 5A-2-1
1-4-4/1 Introduction 5A-2-1/1
1-4-4/3 General 5A-2-1/3
1-4-4/5 Alternative Acceptance Criteria for the “Basic Design” of the Hull Structure 5A-2-1/5
1-4-4/5.1 General 5A-2-1/5.1
1-4-4/5.3 SafeHull Criteria ---
1-4-4/5.5 Structural Design of the Hull 5A-2-1/5.3
1-4-4/5.7 Engineering Analyses of the Hull Structure 5A-2-1/5.5
1-4-4/5.7.1 General 5A-2-1/5.5.1
1-4-4/5.7.2 Strength Analysis of the Hull Structure 5A-2-1/5.7.2
1-4-4/5.9 Fatigue Analysis 5A-2-1/5.7
1-4-4/5.11 Acceptance Criteria 5A-2-1/5.9
1-4-4/5.11.1 Material Yielding 5A-2-1/5.9.1
1-4-4/5.11.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5A-2-1/5.9.2
1-4-4/5.11.3 Fatigue 5A-2-1/5.9.3
1-4-4/5.13 Acceptance Criteria: Mooring/Hull Interface 5A-2-1/5.11
1-4-4/5.13.1 Material Yielding ---
1-4-4/5.13.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength ---
1-4-4/5.13.3 Fatigue: Mooring/Hull Interface ---
1-4-4/5.15 Turret Mooring 5A-2-1/5.13
1-4-4/7 Assessing the “Basic Design” of the Hull Structure 5A-2-1/7
1-4-4/7.1 General 5A-2-1/7.1
1-4-4/7.3 ‘Basic Deign’ Review Acceptance Criteria 5A-2-1/7.3
1-4-4/9 Optional: “Time to Steel Renewal” Assessment ---
1-4-4/11 Survey Requirements for an “Ordinary Conversion” 5A-2-1/9
1-4-4/11.1 Conversion Survey Requirements 5A-2-1/9.1
1-4-4/11.1.1 Drydocking Survey 5A-2-1/9.1.1
1-4-4/11.1.2 Special Survey of Hull 5A-2-1/9.1.2
1-4-4/11.1.3 Modification 5A-2-1/9.1.3
1-4-4/11.3 Structural Repairs/Steel Renewal 5A-2-1/9.3
1-4-4/11.5 Bottom Plate Pitting Repair 5A-2-1/9.5
1-4-4/11.5.1 Repair Recommendations 5A-2-1/9.5.1
1-4-4/11.5.1(a) Partially Crop and Renew Affected Bottom Plating 5A-2-1/9.5.1(a)
1-4-4/11.5.1(b) Clean Pitted Areas and Cover with Special Coating 5A-2-1/9.5.1(b)
1-4-4/11.5.1(c) Clean Pitted Areas and Fill with Plastic Compound 5A-2-1/9.5.1(c)
1-4-4/11.5.1(d) Fill by Welding 5A-2-1/9.5.1(d)
1-4-4/11.5.2 Pitting up to 15% of Bottom Plating Thickness (t) 5A-2-1/9.5.2
1-4-4/11.5.3 Scattered Pitting up to 33% (1/3t) of Bottom Plating Thickness 5A-2-1/9.5.3
1-4-4/11.5.4 Pitting of Any Depth may be Welded, Provided 5A-2-1/9.5.4
1-4-4/11.5.5 Requirements for the Welding of Pits 5A-2-1/9.5.5
1-4-4/11.5.5(a) Pit Welding 5A-2-1/9.5.5(a)
1-4-4/11.5.5(b) Surface Preparation 5A-2-1/9.5.5(b)

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1-4-4/11.5.5(c) Filler Metal 5A-2-1/9.5.5(c)
1-4-4/11.5.5(d) Welding While A Vessel Afloat 5A-2-1/9.5.5(d)
1-4-4/11.5.5(e) Layer of Welding Metal 5A-2-1/9.5.5(e)
1-4-4/11.5.5(f) Extensive Pit Repairs 5A-2-1/9.5.5(f)
1-4-4/11.5.5(g) Nondestructive Examination 5A-2-1/9.5.5(g)
1-4-4/11.5.5(h) Coating 5A-2-1/9.5.5(h)
1-4-4/11.5.5(i) Doublers 5A-2-1/9.5.5(i)
1-4-4/Figure 1 Envisioned Procedure for Hull Structure of Existing Tanker Converting to FPI 5A-2-1/Figure 1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 4 Floating Installations: Ship, Column-Stabilized and Other Types
Section 5 Tension Leg Platforms
Section 1-4-5 Tension Leg Platforms Part 5B, Chapter 2
1-4-5/1 General 5B-2-1/1
1-4-5/3 Definitions 5B-2-1/3
1-4-5/5 Loading Criteria 5B-2-1/5
1-4-5/5.1 Loads 5B-2-1/5.1
1-4-5/5.3 Environmental Conditions 5B-2-1/5.3
1-4-5/7 Global Performance Analyses 5B-2-1/7
1-4-5/7.1 General 5B-2-1/7.1
1-4-5/7.3 Frequency Domain Analysis 5B-2-1/7.3
1-4-5/7.5 Time Domain Analysis 5B-2-1/7.5
1-4-5/7.7 Deck Clearance 5B-2-1/7.7
1-4-5/7.9 Model Testing 5B-2-1/7.9
1-4-5/9 Stability 5B-2-2/1
1-4-5/9.1 Intact and Damaged Stability 5B-2-2/1.1
1-4-5/9.3 Weight Control 5B-2-2/1.3
1-4-5/10 Watertight/Weathertight Integrity 5B-2-2/3
1-4-5/10.1 Weathertight Integrity 5B-2-2/3.1
1-4-5/10.2 Watertight Integrity 5B-2-2/3.3
1-4-5/10.3 Penetrations 5B-2-2/3.5
1-4-5/11 Structural Design 5B-2-3/1
1-4-5/11.1 General 5B-2-2/1.1
1-4-5/11.3 Hull Scantlings 5B-2-3/1.3
1-4-5/11.5 Modules and Buildings on the Topside Deck 5B-2-3/1.5
1-4-5/11.7 Helicopter Deck 5B-2-3/1.7
1-4-5/11.9 Protection of Openings on Top of Columns 5B-2-3/1.9
1-4-5/11.11 Guards and Rails 5B-2-3/1.11
1-4-5/11.13 Machinery and Equipment Foundations 5B-2-3/1.13
1-4-5/11.15 Appurtenances 5B-2-3/1.15
1-4-5/11.17 Temporary Structures 5B-2-3/1.17
1-4-5/13 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure 5B-2-3/3
1-4-5/13.1 Hull – Pontoons and Columns 5B-2-3/3.1
1-4-5/13.1.1 Scantlings of Framed Shells 5B-2-3/3.1.1
1-4-5/13.1.1(a) Tank Space 5B-2-3/3.1.1(a)
1-4-5/13.1.1(b) Void Compartment Spaces 5B-2-3/3.1.1(b)
1-4-5/13.1.1(c) Areas Subject to Wave Immersion 5B-2-3/3.1.1(c)
1-4-5/13.1.1(d) Minimum Scantlings 5B-2-3/3.1.1(d)
1-4-5/13.1.2 Scantlings of Unframed Shells 5B-2-3/3.1.2
1-4-5/13.1.3 Additional structural Requirements for Scantlings 5B-2-3/3.1.3
1-4-5/13.3 Watertight Boundary Formula 5B-2-3/3.3
1-4-5/13.3.1 Plating 5B-2-3/3.3.1
1-4-5/13.3.2 Stiffeners and Beams 5B-2-3/3.3.2
1-4-5/13.3.3 Girders and Webs 5B-2-3/3.3.3
1-4-5/13.5 Tank Boundary Formula 5B-2-3/3.5
1-4-5/13.5.1 Plating 5B-2-3/3.5.1
1-4-5/13.5.2 Stiffeners and Beams 5B-2-3/3.5.2
1-4-5/13.5.3 Girders and Webs 5B-2-3/3.5.3
1-4-5/15 Structural Strength Analysis and Design of Primary Structures 5B-2-3/5
1-4-5/15.1 Hull, Integrated Deck and Top Column Frame 5B-2-3/5.1
1-4-5/15.1.1 General 5B-2-3/5.1.1
1-4-5/15.1.2 Global Strength Analysis 5B-2-3/5.1.2
1-4-5/15.1.2(a) Critical Responses for Global Strength 5B-2-3/5.1.2(a)
1-4-5/15.1.3 Major Joint Analysis – Analysis for Main Intersections of Primary Structures 5B-2-3/5.1.3
1-4-5/15.1.4 Fatigue Analysis 5B-2-3/5.1.4

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1-4-5/15.1.5 Structural Redundancy Analysis 5B-2-3/5.1.5
1-4-5/15.1.6 Acceptance Criteria 5B-2-3/5.1.6
1-4-5/15.1.6(a) Material Yielding 5B-2-3/5.1.6(a)
1-4-5/15.1.6(b) Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5B-2-3/5.1.6(b)
1-4-5/15.1.6(c) Fatigue 5B-2-3/5.1.6(c)
1-4-5/15.3 Non-integrated Deck 5B-2-3/5.3
1-4-5/15.3.1 General 5B-2-3/5.3.1
1-4-5/15.3.2 Loading Conditions 5B-2-3/5.3.2
1-4-5/15.3.3 Structural Analysis 5B-2-3/5.3.3
1-4-5/15.3.4 Allowable Stresses 5B-2-3/5.3.4
1-4-5/15.3.4(a) --- 5B-2-3/5.3.4(a)
1-4-5/15.3.4(b) --- 5B-2-3/5.3.4(b)
1-4-5/15.3.4(c) --- 5B-2-3/5.3.4(c)
1-4-5/15.3.4(d) --- 5B-2-3/5.3.4(d)
1-4-5/15.3.4(e) --- 5B-2-3/5.3.4(e)
1-4-5/15.3.5 Fatigue Assessment 5B-2-3/5.3.5
1-4-5/15.3.6 Stresses on Connections 5B-2-3/5.3.6
1-4-5/17 Tendon System Design 5B-2-4/1
1-4-5/17.1 General 5B-2-4/1.1
1-4-5/17.3 Loading Conditions 5B-2-4/1.3
1-4-5/17.5 Tendon Analysis Procedure 5B-2-4/1.5
1-4-5/17.7 Tendon Loads 5B-2-4/1.7
1-4-5/17.9 Tendon Components 5B-2-4/1.9
1-4-5/17.11 Installation Analyses 5B-2-4/1.11
1-4-5/17.13 Allowable Stresses 5B-2-4/1.13
1-4-5/17.15 Fatigue Analysis 5B-2-4/1.15
1-4-5/17.17 Fracture Mechanics Calculations 5B-2-4/1.17
1-4-5/17.19 Corrosion Protection 5B-2-4/1.19
1-4-5/19 Foundation 5B-2-4/3
1-4-5/19.1 General 5B-2-4/3.1
1-4-5/19.3 Site Investigations 5B-2-4/3.3
1-4-5/19.5 Foundation Design 5B-2-4/3.5
1-4-5/21 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures 5B-2-4/5
1-4-5/21.1 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Porches, Supports and Guides) 5B-2-4/5.1
1-4-5/21.3 Hull Interface with Tendons (Tendon Porches) 5B-2-4/5.3
1-4-5/21.5 Topside Deck Interface with Deck Modules 5B-2-4/5.5
1-4-5/23 Corrosion Protection and Control 5B-2-1/9
1-4-5/25 Materials and Welding Section 5B-2-5
1-4-5/25.1 Hull Including Integrated Deck Structures 5B-2-5/1
1-4-5/25.3 Non-integrated Deck Structures 5B-2-5/3
1-4-5/27 Marine Piping Systems 5B-2-6/1
1-4-5/27.1 Bilge System 5B-2-6/1.1
1-4-5/27.3 Ballast System 5B-2-6/1.3
1-4-5/27.3.1 Pumping Systems 5B-2-6/1.3.1
1-4-5/27.3.2 Compressed Air Systems 5B-2-6/1.3.2
1-4-5/27.3.2(a) Quantity of Compressed Air 5B-2-6/1.3.2(a)
1-4-5/27.5 Vents and Sounds 5B-2-6/1.5
1-4-5/27.7 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks 5B-2-6/1.7
1-4-5/29 Electrical Systems 5B-2-6/3
1-4-5/31 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment 5B-2-6/5
1-4-5/33 Machinery and Equipment 5B-2-6/7
1-4-5/Table 1 Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors 5B-2-3/Table 1
1-4-5/Table 2 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull, Integrated Deck and Column Top Frame 5B-2-3/Table 2
1-4-5/Table 3 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Topside Deck Structures 5B-2-3/Table 3
1-4-5/Table 4 Safety Factors for Pile Foundation Design 5B-2-4/Table 1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 4 Floating Installations: Ship, Column-Stabilized and Other Types
Section 6 Spar Vessels
Section 1-4-6 Spar Vessels Part 5B, Chapter 3
1-4-6/1 General 5B-3-1/1
1-4-6/3 Definitions 5B-3-1/3
1-4-6/3.1 Upper Hull – Hard Tank 5B-3-1/3.1
Mid-section – Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates or Free Flooded Cylindrical
1-4-6/3.3 5B-3-1/3.3
Column

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1-4-6/3.5 Lower Hull – Soft Tank (or Keel Tank) 5B-3-1/3.5
1-4-6/5 Loading Criteria 5B-3-1/5
1-4-6/5.1 Loads 5B-3-1/5.1
1-4-6/5.3 Environmental Conditions 5B-3-1/5.3
1-4-6/7 Global Performance Analyses 5B-3-1/7
1-4-6/7.1 General 5B-3-1/7.1
1-4-6/7.3 Frequency Domain Analysis 5B-3-1/7.3
1-4-6/7.5 Time Domain Analysis 5B-3-1/7.5
1-4-6/7.7 Deck Clearance 5B-3-1/7.7
1-4-6/7.9 Model Testing 5B-3-1/7.9
1-4-6/9 Stability 5B-3-2/1
1-4-6/9.1 Wet Tow 5B-3-2/1.1
1-4-6/9.3 Installation 5B-3-2/1.3
1-4-6/9.5 In-Service Stability 5B-3-2/1.5
1-4-6/9.5.1 Environmental Loads 5B-3-2/1.5.1
1-4-6/9.5.2 Overturning Moment 5B-3-2/1.5.2
1-4-6/9.5.3 Stability Criteria 5B-3-2/1.5.3
1-4-6/9.5.3(a) Intact Stability Criteria 5B-3-2/1.5.3(a)
1-4-6/9.5.3(b) Damage Stability Criteria 5B-3-2/1.5.3(b)
1-4-6/9.5.3(b)i) Collision Damage 5B-3-2/1.5.3(b)i)
1-4-6/9.5.3(b)ii) Accidental Flooding 5B-3-2/1.5.3(b)ii)
1-4-6/9.7 Lightweight and Center of Gravity 5B-3-2/1.7
1-4-6/10 Watertight/Weathertight Integrity 5B-3-2/3
1-4-6/10.1 Weathertight Integrity 5B-3-2/3.1
1-4-6/10.2 Watertight Integrity 5B-3-2/3.3
1-4-6/10.3 Penetrations 5B-3-2/3.5
1-4-6/11 Structural Design 5B-3-3/1
1-4-6/11.1 Scantlings 5B-3-3/1.1
1-4-6/11.3 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure 5B-3-3/1.3
1-4-6/11.5 Modules and Buildings on the Topside Deck 5B-3-3/1.5
1-4-6/11.7 Helicopter Deck 5B-3-3/1.7
1-4-6/11.9 Protection of Spar Deck Openings 5B-3-3/1.9
1-4-6/11.11 Guards and Rails 5B-3-3/1.11
1-4-6/11.13 Machinery and Equipment Foundations 5B-3-3/1.13
1-4-6/11.15 Vortex Shedding Strakes 5B-3-3/1.15
1-4-6/11.17 Appurtenances 5B-3-3/1.17
1-4-6/11.19 Temporary Structures 5B-3-3/1.19
1-4-6/13 Scantling Design of the Hull Structure 5B-3-3/3
1-4-6/13.1 Hull Structure 5B-3-3/3.1
1-4-6/13.1.1 Upper Hull – Hard Tank 5B-3-3/3.1.1
1-4-6/13.1.1(a) Tank Spaces 5B-3-3/3.1.1(a)
1-4-6/13.1.1(b) Void Compartment Spaces 5B-3-3/3.1.1(b)
1-4-6/13.1.1(b)i) Areas Subject to Wave Immersion 5B-3-3/3.1.1(b)i)
1-4-6/13.1.1(b)ii) Minimum Scantlings 5B-3-3/3.1.1(b)ii)
1-4-6/13.1.2 Mid-Section – Free Flooded Column and Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates 5B-3-3/3.1.2
1-4-6/13.1.2(a) Free Flooded Column 5B-3-3/3.1.2(a)
1-4-6/13.1.2(b) Truss Space Frame with Heave Plates 5B-3-3/3.1.2(b)
1-4-6/13.1.3 Lower Hull – Fixed Ballast and Flotation Tank 5B-3-3/3.1.3
1-4-6/13.1.4 Watertight Boundary Formula 5B-3-3/3.1.4
1-4-6/13.1.4(a) Plating 5B-3-3/3.1.4(a)
1-4-6/13.1.4(b) Stiffeners and Beams 5B-3-3/3.1.4(b)
1-4-6/13.1.4(c) Girders and Webs 5B-3-3/3.1.4(c)
1-4-6/13.1.5 Tank Boundary Formula 5B-3-3/3.1.5
1-4-6/13.1.5(a) Plating 5B-3-3/3.1.5(a)
1-4-6/13.1.5(b) Stiffeners and Beams 5B-3-3/3.1.5(b)
1-4-6/13.1.5(c) Girders and Webs 5B-3-3/3.1.5(c)
1-4-6/15 Structural Analysis and Design of Primary Structures 5B-3-3/5
1-4-6/15.1 Hull Structure 5B-3-3/5.1
1-4-6/15.1.1 General 5B-3-3/5.1.1
1-4-6/15.1.2 Global Strength Analysis 5B-3-3/5.1.2
1-4-6/15.1.2(a) Critical Responses for Global Strength 5B-3-3/5.1.2(a)
1-4-6/15.1.3 Main Intersections (Major Joints) 5B-3-3/5.1.3
1-4-6/15.1.4 Fatigue 5B-3-3/5.1.4
1-4-6/15.1.5 Structural Redundancy Analysis 5B-3-3/5.1.5

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1-4-6/15.1.6 Acceptance Criteria 5B-3-3/5.1.6
1-4-6/15.1.6(a) Material Yielding 5B-3-3/5.1.6(a)
1-4-6/15.1.6(b) Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5B-3-3/5.1.6(b)
1-4-6/15.1.6(c) Fatigue 5B-3-3/5.1.6(c)
1-4-6/15.3 Topside Deck 5B-3-3/5.3
1-4-6/15.3.1 General 5B-3-3/5.3.1
1-4-6/15.3.2 Loading Conditions 5B-3-3/5.3.2
1-4-6/15.3.3 Structural Analysis 5B-3-3/5.3.3
1-4-6/15.3.4 Allowable Stresses 5B-3-3/5.3.4
1-4-6/15.3.4(a) --- 5B-3-3/5.3.4(a)
1-4-6/15.3.4(b) --- 5B-3-3/5.3.4(b)
1-4-6/15.3.4(c) --- 5B-3-3/5.3.4(c)
1-4-6/15.3.4(d) --- 5B-3-3/5.3.4(d)
1-4-6/15.3.4(e) --- 5B-3-3/5.3.4(e)
1-4-6/15.3.5 Fatigue Assessment 5B-3-3/5.3.5
1-4-6/15.3.6 Stresses in Connection 5B-3-3/5.3.6
1-4-6/17 Analysis and Design of Other Major Structures 5B-3-4/1
Hull Interface with Mooring System (Fairlead, Chain Stopper and Winch
1-4-6/17.1 5B-3-4/1.1
Foundations)
1-4-6/17.3 Hull Interface with Riser System (Riser Guides and Riser Supports) 5B-3-4/1.3
1-4-6/19 Corrosion Protection and Control 5B-3-1/9
1-4-6/21 Materials and Welding Section 5B-3-5
1-4-6/21.1 Hull Structures 5B-3-5/1
1-4-6/21.3 Topside Deck Structures 5B-3-5/3
1-4-6/23 Mooring and Foundation System 5B-3-4/3
1-4-6/23.1 Mooring System 5B-3-4/3.1
1-4-6/23.3 Foundation System 5B-3-4/3.3
1-4-6/25 Marine Piping Systems 5B-3-6/1
1-4-6/25.1 Bilge System 5B-3-6/1.1
1-4-6/25.3 Ballast System 5B-3-6/1.3
1-4-6/25.3.1 Pumping Systems 5B-3-6/1.3.1
1-4-6/25.3.2 Compressed Air Systems 5B-3-6/1.3.2
1-4-6/25.3.2(a) Quantity of Compressed Air 5B-3-6/1.3.2(a)
1-4-6/25.5 Vents and Sounds 5B-3-6/1.5
1-4-6/25.7 Hydrocarbon Storage in Hull Tanks 5B-3-6/1.7
1-4-6/27 Electrical Systems 5B-3-6/3
1-4-6/29 Fire Fighting Systems and Equipment 5B-3-6/5
1-4-6/31 Machinery and Equipment 5B-3-6/7
1-4-6/Table 1 Required Environmental Events and Safety Factors 5B-3-3/Table 1
1-4-6/Table 2 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Hull Structures 5B-3-3/Table 2
1-4-6/Table 3 Safety Factors for Fatigue Life of Topside Deck Structures 5B-3-3/Table 3
1-4-6/Figure 1 Zones of Weathertight and Watertight Integrity 5B-3-2/Figure 1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 5 Position Mooring System
Section 1 Mooring System
Section 1-5-1 Mooring System Section 6-1-1
1-5-1/1 System Conditions 6-1-1/1
1-5-1/1.1 Intact Design 6-1-1/1.1
1-5-1/1.3 Damaged Case with One Broken Mooring Line 6-1-1/1.3
1-5-1/1.5 Transient Case with One Broken Mooring Line 6-1-1/1.5
1-5-1/3 Mooring Analysis 6-1-1/3
1-5-1/3.1 Mean Environmental Forces and Moments 6-1-1/3.1
1-5-1/3.3 Maximum Offset and Yaw Angle of the Vessel 6-1-1/3.3
1-5-1/3.5 Maximum Line Tension 6-1-1/3.5
1-5-1/3.7 Mooring Line Fatigue Analysis 6-1-1/3.7
1-5-1/5 Mooring Line Design 6-1-1/5
1-5-1/7 Hawser Loads 6-1-1/7
1-5-1/9 Dynamic Positioning Systems 6-1-1/9
1-5-1/11 Thruster Assisted Mooring Systems 6-1-1/11
1-5-1/13 Mooring Equipment 6-1-1/13
1-5-1/ Table 1 Factor of Safety for Anchoring Lines 6-1-1/ Table 1

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Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 5 Position Mooring System
Section 2 Anchor Holding Power
Section 1-5-2 Anchor Holding Power Section 6-1-2
1-5-2/1 Drag Anchor 6-1-2/1
1-5-2/3 Conventional Pile 6-1-2/3
1-5-2/5 Vertically Loaded Drag Anchors (VLA) 6-1-2/5
1-5-2/7 Suction Piles 6-1-2/7
1-5-2/9 Factor of Safety 6-1-2/9
1-5-2/Table 1 Factor of Safety for Anchor Holding Capacities 6-1-2/Table 1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 5 Position Mooring System
Section 3 Field Test
Section 1-5-3 Field Test Section 6-1-3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 5 Position Mooring System
Section 4 Single Point Moorings – CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes
Section 1-5-4 Single Point Moorings – CALMs, SALMs, Turrets and Yokes Section 6-2-1
1-5-4/1 Design Loads 6-2-1/1
1-5-4/3 Structural Components 6-2-1/3
1-5-4/5 Mechanical Components 6-2-1/5
1-5-4/7 Hazardous Areas and Electrical Installations 6-2-1/7
1-5-4/9 Fire Fighting Equipment 6-2-1/9
1-5-4/11 Product Piping Systems and Floating Hoses 6-2-1/11
1-5-4/13 Turret Mooring 6-2-1/13
1-5-4/15 Turret/Vessel Structural Interface Loads 6-2-1/15
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 5 Position Mooring System
Section 5 Surveys During Construction
Section 1-5-5 Surveys During Construction Section 6-3-1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 1 General
Section 1-6-1 General Section 4-1-1
1-6-1/1 Installations Classed as FPSO or FPS 4-1-1/1
1-6-1/3 Installations Classed as FOI or FSO (Production Facilities not Classed) 4-1-1/3
1-6-1/5 Installations Classed as FOI or FSO (Production Facilities Indicated in the Record) 4-1-1/5
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 2 Scope
Section 1-6-2 Scope Section 4-1-2
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 3 Installations
Section 1-6-3 Installations Section 4-1-3
1-6-3/1 Ship-type Vessels – Oil Carriers 4-1-3/1
1-6-3/3 Column-stabilized Vessels 4-1-3/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 4 Subsea Equipment
Section 1-6-4 Subsea Equipment Section 4-1-4
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 5 Other Codes and Standards
Section 1-6-5 Other Codes and Standards Section 4-1-5
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 6 Non-Standard Equipment
Section 1-6-6 Non-Standard Equipment Section 4-1-6

578 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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FPI 2007 Title FPI 2009

Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 7 Deign and Construction
Section 1-6-7 Design and Construction Section 4-1-7
1-6-7/1 General 4-1-7/1
1-6-7/3 Arrangements 4-1-7/3
1-6-7/5 Structural Considerations 4-1-7/5
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 8 Process System
Section 1-6-8 Process System Section 4-1-8
1-6-8/1 Submittals 4-1-8/1
1-6-8/3 Piping System and Manifold 4-1-8/3
1-6-8/5 Pressure Relief and Depressurization Systems 4-1-8/5
1-6-8/7 Process Equipment and Vessels 4-1-8/7
1-6-8/9 Prime Movers 4-1-8/9
1-6-8/11 Safety Systems 4-1-8/11
1-6-8/13 Control Systems 4-1-8/13
1-6-8/15 Quick Disconnect System 4-1-8/15
1-6-8/17 Electrical Installations 4-1-8/17
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 9 Hazardous Area Classification
Section 1-6-9 Hazardous Area Classification Section 4-1-9
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 10 Fire Protection
Section 1-6-10 Fire Protection Section 4-1-10
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 6 Hydrocarbon Production and Process Systems
Section 11 Fabrication and Testing
Section 1-6-11 Fabrication and Testing Section 4-1-11
1-6-11/1 Pressure Vessels, Accumulators, Heat Exchangers, Separators and Manifolds 4-1-11/1
1-6-11/3 Pumps, Compressors and Diesel/Gas Engines 4-1-11/3
1-6-11/5 Motors and Generators 4-1-11/5
1-6-11/7 Switchboard and Control Panels 4-1-11/7
1-6-11/9 Process and Process Support Piping 4-1-11/9
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems
Section 1 General
Section 1-7-1 General Section 4-2-1
1-7-1/1 Riser Classification Boundaries 4-2-1/1
1-7-1/1.1 The Import System 4-2-1/1.1
1-7-1/1.3 The Export System 4-2-1/1.3
1-7-1/3 Basic Design Considerations 4-2-1/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems
Section 2 Submission of Plans and Design Data
Section 1-7-2 Submission of Plans and Design Data Section 4-2-2
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems
Section 3 Environmental Considerations
Section 1-7-3 Environmental Considerations Section 4-2-3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems
Section 4 System Design and Analysis
Section 1-7-4 System Design and Analysis Section 4-2-4
1-7-4/1 General 4-2-4/1
1-7-4/3 Rigid Risers 4-2-4/3
1-7-4/3.1 Design Analysis 4-2-4/3.1
1-7-4/3.3 Design Limits 4-2-4/3.3
1-7-4/5 Flexible Risers 4-2-4/5
1-7-4/5.1 In-Place Analysis 4-2-4/5.1
1-7-4/5.3 Design Limits 4-2-4/5.3

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1-7-4/7 Export Vessel Transfer System 4-2-4/7
1-7-4/9 System Components 4-2-4/9
1-7-4/11 Installation Analysis 4-2-4/11
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 7 Import and Export Systems
Section 5 Material
Section 1-7-5 Material Section 4-2-5
1-7-5/1 Material for Rigid Risers 4-2-5/1
1-7-5/3 Material for Flexible Risers 4-2-5/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 1 General
Section 1-8-1 General Section 3-4-1
1-8-1/1 General Description 3-4-1/1
1-8-1/3 Pre-installation Verification 3-4-1/3
1-8-1/5 Pile or Anchor and Mooring Line Installation 3-4-1/5
1-8-1/7 Tensioning and Proof Load Testing 3-4-1/7
1-8-1/9 Hook-up of the Anchor Chain System 3-4-1/9
1-8-1/11 Import/Export System Installation 3-4-1/11
1-8-1/11.1 Rigid and Flexible Risers 3-4-1/11.1
1-8-1/11.3 Export Vessel Transfer System 3-4-1/11.3
1-8-1/13 Disconnecting Procedure 3-4-1/13
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 2 Hook-up Procedures Submittal
Section 1-8-2 Hook-up Procedures Submittal Section 3-4-2
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 3 Start-up and Commissioning Procedures Submittal
Section 1-8-3 Start-up and Commissioning Procedures Submittal Section 3-4-3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 4 Surveys During Installation of the Mooring System
Section 1-8-4 Surveys During Installation of the Mooring System Section 3-4-4
1-8-4/1 --- 3-4-4/1
1-8-4/3 --- 3-4-4/3
1-8-4/5 --- 3-4-4/5
1-8-4/7 --- 3-4-4/7
1-8-4/9 --- 3-4-4/9
1-8-4/11 --- 3-4-4/11
1-8-4/13 --- 3-4-4/13
1-8-4/15 --- 3-4-4/15
1-8-4/17 --- 3-4-4/17
1-8-4/19 --- 3-4-4/19
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 5 Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export System
Section 1-8-5 Surveys During Installation of the Import/Export System Section 3-4-5
1-8-5/1 --- 3-4-5/1
1-8-5/3 --- 3-4-5/3
1-8-5/5 --- 3-4-5/5
1-8-5/7 --- 3-4-5/7
1-8-5/9 --- 3-4-5/9
1-8-5/11 --- 3-4-5/11
1-8-5/13 --- 3-4-5/13
1-8-5/15 --- 3-4-5/15
1-8-5/17 --- 3-4-5/17
1-8-5/19 --- 3-4-5/19
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 6 Surveys During Hook-up
Section 1-8-6 Surveys During Hook-up Section 3-4-6
1-8-6/1 --- 3-4-6/1
1-8-6/3 --- 3-4-6/3

580 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009
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FPI 2007 Title FPI 2009

1-8-6/5 --- 3-4-6/5
1-8-6/7 --- 3-4-6/7
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 7 Demonstration of the Disconnectable Mooring System
Section 1-8-7 Demonstration of the Disconnectable Mooring System Section 3-4-7
1-8-7/1 --- 3-4-7/1
1-8-7/3 --- 3-4-7/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 8 Installation, Hook-up and Commissioning
Section 8 Surveys During Start-up and Commissioning
Section 1-8-8 Surveys During Start-up and Commissioning Section 3-4-8
1-8-8/1 --- 3-4-8/1
1-8-8/3 --- 3-4-8/3
1-8-8/5 --- 3-4-8/5
1-8-8/7 --- 3-4-8/7
1-8-8/9 --- 3-4-8/9
1-8-8/11 --- 3-4-8/11
1-8-8/13 --- 3-4-8/13
1-8-8/15 --- 3-4-8/15
1-8-8/17 --- 3-4-8/17
1-8-8/19 --- 3-4-8/19
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 1 Surveys
Section 1-9-1 Surveys Section 7-1-1
1-9-1/1 Damage, Failure, and Repair 7-1-1/1
1-9-1/1.1 Examination and Repair 7-1-1/1.1
1-9-1/1.3 Repairs 7-1-1/1.3
1-9-1/1.5 Representation 7-1-1/1.5
1-9-1/3 Notification and Availability for Survey 7-1-1/3
1-9-1/5 Annual Surveys 7-1-1/5
1-9-1/7 Intermediate Surveys 7-1-1/7
1-9-1/9 Special Periodical Surveys 7-1-1/9
1-9-1/9.1 Interval 7-1-1/9.1
1-9-1/9.3 Commencement 7-1-1/9.3
1-9-1/9.5 Credited Date 7-1-1/9.5
1-9-1/9.7 Unusual Cases 7-1-1/9.7
1-9-1/11 Continuous Surveys 7-1-1/11
1-9-1/11.1 --- 7-1-1/11.1
1-9-1/11.3 --- 7-1-1/11.3
1-9-1/11.5 --- 7-1-1/11.5
1-9-1/13 In-line Surveys 7-1-1/13
1-9-1/15 Lay-up and Reactivation 7-1-1/15
1-9-1/15.1 --- 7-1-1/15.1
1-9-1/15.3 --- 7-1-1/15.3
1-9-1/15.5 --- 7-1-1/15.5
1-9-1/15.7 --- 7-1-1/15.7
1-9-1/17 Incomplete Surveys 7-1-1/17
1-9-1/19 Alterations 7-1-1/19
1-9-1/21 Survey Reports File 7-1-1/21
1-9-1/23 Welding and Replacement of Materials 7-1-1/23
1-9-1/23.1 Ordinary and Higher Strength Structural Steels 7-1-1/23.1
1-9-1/23.3 Special Materials 7-1-1/23.3
1-9-1/23.5 Substitutions and Alterations 7-1-1/23.5
1-9-1/25 Corrosion Prevention System – Ballast Tanks 7-1-1/25
1-9-1/25.1 Corrosion Prevention System 7-1-1/25.1
1-9-1/25.3 Coating Condition 7-1-1/25.3
1-9-1/25.5 Salt Water Ballast Spaces 7-1-1/25.5
1-9-1/27 Requirements for Internal Examinations 7-1-1/27
1-9-1/27.1 --- 7-1-1/27.1
1-9-1/27.3 --- 7-1-1/27.3
1-9-1/27.5 --- 7-1-1/27.5
1-9-1/27.7 --- 7-1-1/27.7

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1-9-1/27.9 --- 7-1-1/27.9
1-9-1/27.11 --- 7-1-1/27.11
1-9-1/29 Surveys Using Risk-Based Techniques 7-1-1/29
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 2 Drydocking Surveys
Section 1-9-2 Drydocking Surveys Section 7-3-1
1-9-2/1 Interval 7-3-1/1
1-9-2/3 Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking Survey (UWILD) 7-3-1/3
1-9-2/5 Parts to be Examined 7-3-1/5
1-9-2/5.1 Corrosion Protection System – Underwater Body 7-3-1/5.1
1-9-2/5.3 Mooring System 7-3-1/5.3
1-9-2/5.5 Import System 7-3-1/5.5
1-9-2/5.7 Export System 7-3-1/5.7
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 3 Annual Surveys – Hull
Section 1-9-3 Annual Surveys – Hull Section 7-2-1
1-9-3/1 --- 7-2-1/1
1-9-3/3 --- 7-2-1/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 4 Intermediate Surveys
Section 1-9-4 Intermediate Surveys Section 7-2-2
1-9-4/1 --- 7-2-2/1
1-9-4/3 --- 7-2-2/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 5 Special Periodical Surveys – Hull
Section 1-9-5 Special Periodical Surveys – Hull Section 7-2-3
1-9-5/1 --- 7-2-3/1
1-9-5/3 --- 7-2-3/3
1-9-5/5 --- 7-2-3/5
1-9-5/5.1 --- 7-2-3/5.1
1-9-5/5.3 --- 7-2-3/5.3
1-9-5/5.5 --- 7-2-3/5.5
1-9-5/5.7 --- 7-2-3/5.7
1-9-5/5.9 --- 7-2-3/5.9
1-9-5/5.11 --- 7-2-3/5.11
1-9-5/5.13 --- 7-2-3/5.13
1-9-5/5.15 --- 7-2-3/5.15
1-9-5/5.17 --- 7-2-3/5.17
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 6 Annual Surveys – Machinery
Section 1-9-6 Annual Surveys – Machinery Section 7-4-1
1-9-6/1 --- 7-4-1/1
1-9-6/3 --- 7-4-1/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 7 Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery
Section 1-9-7 Special Periodical Surveys – Machinery Section 7-4-2
1-9-7/1 --- 7-4-2/1
1-9-7/3 --- 7-4-2/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 8 Special Periodical Surveys – Electrical Equipment
Section 1-9-8 Special Periodical Surveys – Electrical Equipment Section 7-4-3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 9 Tail Shaft and Tube Shaft Surveys
Section 1-9-9 Tail Shaft and Tube Shaft Surveys Section 7-4-4
1-9-9/1 Tail Shaft Surveys 7-4-4/1
1-9-9/1.1 --- 7-4-4/1.1

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1-9-9/1.3 --- 7-4-4/1.3
1-9-9/1.5 --- 7-4-4/1.5
1-9-9/1.7 --- 7-4-4/1.7
1-9-9/3 Tube Shaft Surveys 7-4-4/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 10 Thruster Surveys
Section 1-9-10 Thruster Surveys Section 7-4-5
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 11 Boiler Surveys
Section 1-9-11 Boiler Surveys Section 7-4-6
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 12 Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System Surveys
Section 1-9-12 Shipboard Automatic and Remote-Control System Surveys Section 7-4-7
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 13 Inert Gas System Surveys
Section 1-9-13 Inert Gas System Surveys Section 7-4-8
1-9-13/1 Annual Surveys for Inert Gas Systems 7-4-8/1
1-9-13/3 Special Periodical Surveys for Inert Gas Systems 7-4-8/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 14 Annual Surveys – Production Facilities
Section 1-9-14 Annual Surveys – Production Facilities Section 7-5-1
1-9-14/1 Maintenance Records 7-5-1/1
1-9-14/3 Parts to be Examined 7-5-1/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 15 Special Periodical Surveys – Production Facilities
Section 1-9-15 Special Periodical Surveys – Production Facilities Section 7-5-2
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 16 Annual Surveys – Mooring Systems
Section 1-9-16 Annual Surveys – Mooring Systems Section 7-6-1
1-9-16/1 Annual Surveys – Spread Mooring Systems 7-6-1/1
1-9-16/3 Annual Surveys – Single Point Mooring (SPM) Systems 7-6-1/3
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 17 Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems
Section 1-9-17 Special Periodical Surveys – Mooring Systems Section 7-6-2
1-9-17/1 --- 7-6-2/1
1-9-17/3 --- 7-6-2/3
1-9-17/3.1 --- 7-6-2/3.1
1-9-17/3.3 --- 7-6-2/3.3
1-9-17/3.5 --- 7-6-2/3.5
1-9-17/3.7 --- 7-6-2/3.7
1-9-17/3.9 --- 7-6-2/3.9
1-9-17/3.11 --- 7-6-2/3.11
1-9-17/3.13 --- 7-6-2/3.13
1-9-17/3.15 --- 7-6-2/3.15
1-9-17/3.17 --- 7-6-2/3.17
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 18 Annual Surveys – Import and Export Systems
Section 1-9-18 Annual Surveys – Import and Export Systems Section 7-7-1
Part 1 General Requirements
Chapter 9 Surveys After Installation and Commissioning
Section 19 Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export Systems
Section 1-9-19 Special Periodical Surveys – Import and Export Systems Section 7-7-2
1-9-19/1 General 7-7-2/1
1-9-19/3 Items to be Included 7-7-2/3
1-9-19/3.1 --- 7-7-2/3.1

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FPI 2007 Title FPI 2009

1-9-19/3.3 --- 7-7-2/3.3
1-9-19/3.5 --- 7-7-2/3.5
1-9-19/3.7 --- 7-7-2/3.7
1-9-19/3.9 --- 7-7-2/3.9
1-9-19/3.11 --- 7-7-2/3.11
1-9-19/3.13 --- 7-7-2/3.13
Part 1 General Requirements
Appendix 1 The Modification of Ship-Type Floating Production System Criteria for Site-Specific
Environment Conditions
The Modification of Ship-Type Floating Production System Criteria for Site-Specific
Part 1, Appendix 1 5A-1-2/1.1
Environment Conditions
1-A1/3.5 Wave Loads 5A-1-2/1.1
1-A1/3.5.1 Wave Bending Moment Amidships 5A-1-2/1.1.1
1-A1/3.5.2 Envelope Curve of Wave Bending Moment 5A-1-2/1.1.2
1-A1/3.5.3 Wave Shear Force 5A-1-2/1.1.3
1-A1/Figure 1 Sign Convention 5A-1-2/Figure 1
1-A1/Figure 2 Distribution Factor M 5A-1-2/Figure 2
1-A1/Figure 3 Distribution Factor F1 5A-1-2/Figure 3
1-A1/Figure 4 Distribution Factor F2 5A-1-2/Figure 4
Part 1 General Requirements
Appendix 2 Abbreviations and References
Section 1 Abbreviations
Appendix 1-A2-1 Abbreviations Appendix 3-A1-1
Part 1 General Requirements
Appendix 2 Abbreviations and References
Section 2 References
Appendix 1-A2-1 References Appendix 3-A1-2
Part 1 General Requirements
Appendix 3 Guidance for Class Notation, Storage Service
Part 1, Appendix 3 Guidance for Class Notation, Storage Services Part 7, Appendix 1
1-A1/1 Introduction 7-A1/1
1-A1/3 Application 7-A1/3
1-A1/3.1 FPSO, FSO or FOI Notations 7-A1/3.1
1-A1/3.1.1 --- 7-A1/3.1.1
1-A1/3.1.2 --- 7-A1/3.1.2
1-A1/3.3 Storage Service Notation 7-A1/3.3
1-A1/3.3.1 --- 7-A1/3.3.1
1-A1/3.3.2 --- 7-A1/3.3.2
1-A1/3.3.2(a) --- 7-A1/3.3.2(a)
1-A1/3.3.2(b) --- 7-A1/3.3.2(b)
1-A1/3.3.2(c) --- 7-A1/3.3.2(c)
1-A1/3.3.3 --- 7-A1/3.3.3
1-A1/3.3.3(a) --- 7-A1/3.3.3(a)
1-A1/3.3.3(b) --- 7-A1/3.3.3(b)
1-A1/3.3.3(c) --- 7-A1/3.3.3(c)
1-A1/3.3.3(d) --- 7-A1/3.3.3(d)
1-A1/3.3.4 --- 7-A1/3.3.4
1-A1/5 Survey After Construction 7-A1/5
1-A1/5.1 General 7-A1/5.1
1-A1/5.3 Dry-docking Surveys 7-A1/5.3
1-A1/5.3.1 --- 7-A1/5.3.1
1-A1/5.3.2 --- 7-A1/5.3.2
1-A1/5.3.3 --- 7-A1/5.3.3
1-A1/5.3.4 --- 7-A1/5.3.4
1-A1/5.5 Special Survey of Hull 7-A1/5.5
1-A1/5.7 Intermediate Hull Surveys 7-A1/5.7
1-A1/5.9 Lightering Service 7-A1/5.9
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Section 1 Introduction
Section 5A-3-1
Section 2-1-1 Introduction
Section 5A-3-2
2-1-1/1 General 5A-3-1/1
2-1-1/1.1 The Concept and Application of Environmental Severity Factors 5A-3-2/1.1

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2-1-1/1.1.1 ESFs of the Beta (β) Type 5A-3-A1/3
2-1-1/1.1.2 ESFs of the Alpha (α) Type 5A-3-A1/5
2-1-1/1.3 Application 5A-3-1/1.9
2-1-1/1.3.1 Size and Proportion 5A-3-1/1.9.1
2-1-1/1.3.2 Vessel Types 5A-3-1/1.9.2
2-1-1/1.3.3 Direct Calculations 5A-3-1/1.9.3
2-1-1/1.3.4 SafeHull Construction Monitoring 5A-3-1/1.9.4
2-1-1/1.5 Internal Members 5A-3-1/1.11
2-1-1/1.5.1 Section Properties of Structural Members 5A-3-1/1.11.1
2-1-1/1.5.2 Detailed Design 5A-3-1/1.11.2
2-1-1/1.7 Breaks 5A-3-1/1.13
2-1-1/1.9 Vibrations 5A-3-1/1.15
2-1-1/1.11 Loading Guidance 5A-3-1/1.17
2-1-1/1.13 Pressure-Vacuum Valve Setting 5A-3-1/1.19
2-1-1/1.15 Protection of Structure 5A-3-1/1.21
2-1-1/1.17 Aluminum Paint 5A-3-1/1.23
2-1-1/3 Special Requirements for Deep Loading 5A-3-1/3
2-1-1/3.1 General 5A-3-1/3.1
2-1-1/3.3 Machinery Casings 5A-3-1/3.3
2-1-1/3.5 Access 5A-3-1/3.5
2-1-1/3.7 Hatchways 5A-3-1/3.7
2-1-1/3.9 Freeing Arrangements 5A-3-1/3.9
2-1-1/3.11 Flooding 5A-3-1/3.11
2-1-1/3.13 Ventilators 5A-3-1/3.13
2-1-1/5 Arrangement 5A-3-1/5
2-1-1/5.1 General 5A-3-1/5.1
2-1-1/5.3 Subdivision 5A-3-1/5.3
2-1-1/5.5 Cofferdams 5A-3-1/5.5
2-1-1/5.7 Gastight Bulkheads 5A-3-1/5.7
2-1-1/5.9 Cathodic Protection 5A-3-1/5.9
2-1-1/5.9.1 Anode Installation Plan 5A-3-1/5.9.1
2-1-1/5.9.2 Magnesium and Magnesium Alloy Anodes 5A-3-1/5.9.2
2-1-1/5.9.3 Aluminum Anodes 5A-3-1/5.9.3
2-1-1/5.9.4 Anode Attachment 5A-3-1/5.9.4
2-1-1/5.11 Ports in Pump Room Bulkheads 5A-3-1/5.11
2-1-1/5.13 Location of Cargo Oil Tank Openings 5A-3-1/5.13
2-1-1/5.15 Structural Fire Protection 5A-3-1/5.15
2-1-1/5.17 Allocation of Spaces 5A-3-1/5.17
2-1-1/5.17.1 Tanks Forward of the Collision Bulkhead 5A-3-1/5.17.1
2-1-1/5.17.2 Double Bottom Spaces and Wing Tank Spaces 5A-3-1/5.17.2
2-1-1/5.19 Access to Upper Parts of Ballast Tanks on Double Hull Ship-type Vessels 5A-3-1/5.19
2-1-1/5.21 Access to All Spaces in the Cargo Area 5A-3-1/5.21
2-1-1/5.23 Duct Keels or Pipe Tunnels in Double Bottom 5A-3-1/5.23
2-1-1/5.25 Ventilation 5A-3-1/5.25
2-1-1/5.27 Pumping Arrangements 5A-3-1/5.27
2-1-1/5.29 Electrical Equipment 5A-3-1/5.29
2-1-1/5.31 Testing 5A-3-1/5.31
2-1-1/5.33 Machinery Spaces 5A-3-1/5.33
2-1-1/Table 1 The 13 Dynamic Load Parameters or ESFs (βNN) 5A-3-A1/Table 1
The 6 Fatigue Damage Adjustment Factors or ESFs (αnn) for Environmental
2-1-1/Table 2 Conditions at the Installation Site Relative to the Unrestricted Service (Rule) ---
Environment
2-1-1/Figure 1 --- 5A-3-1/Figure 2
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Section 2 Design Considerations and General Requirements
Section 2-1-2 Design Considerations and General Requirements Section 5A-3-1
2-1-2/1 General Requirements 5A-3-1/1
2-1-2/1.1 General 5A-3-1/1.1
2-1-2/1.3 Initial Scantling Requirements 5A-3-1/1.3
2-1-2/1.5 Strength Assessment – Failure Modes 5A-3-1/1.5
2-1-2/1.5.1 Material Yielding 5A-3-1/1.5.1
2-1-2/1.5.2 Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5A-3-1/1.5.2

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2-1-2/1.5.3 Fatigue 5A-3-1/1.5.3
2-1-2/3 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) 5A-3-1/1.7
2-1-2/3.1 General 5A-3-1/1.7.1
2-1-2/Table 1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) 5A-3-1/Table 1
2-1-2/Figure 1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values (NDCV) 5A-3-1/Figure 1
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Section 3 Load Criteria
Section 2-1-3 Load Criteria Section 5A-3-2
2-1-3/1 General 5A-3-2/1
2-1-3/1.1 Load Components 5A-3-2/1.3
2-1-3/3 Static Loads 5A-3-2/3
2-1-3/3.1 Still-water Bending Moment 5A-3-2/3.1
2-1-3/5 Wave-induced Loads 5A-3-2/5
2-1-3/5.1 General 5A-3-2/5.1
2-1-3/5.3 Horizontal Wave Bending Moment and Shear Force 5A-3-2/5.3
2-1-3/5.3.1 Horizontal Wave Bending Moment 5A-3-2/5.3.1
2-1-3/5.3.2 Horizontal Wave Shear Force 5A-3-2/5.3.2
2-1-3/5.5 External Pressures 5A-3-2/5.5
2-1-3/5.5.1 Pressure Distribution 5A-3-2/5.5.1
2-1-3/5.5.2 Extreme Pressures 5A-3-2/5.5.2
2-1-3/5.5.3 Simultaneous Pressure 5A-3-2/5.5.3
2-1-3/5.7 Internal Pressures – Inertia Forces and Added Pressure Heads 5A-3-2/5.7
2-1-3/5.7.1 Ship Motions and Accelerations 5A-3-2/5.7.1
2-1-3/5.7.1(a) Pitch 5A-3-2/5.7.1(a)
2-1-3/5.7.1(b) Roll 5A-3-2/5.7.1(b)
2-1-3/5.7.1(c) Accelerations 5A-3-2/5.7.1(c)
2-1-3/5.7.2 Internal Pressures 5A-3-2/5.7.2
2-1-3/5.7.2(a) Distribution of Internal Pressures 5A-3-2/5.7.2(a)
2-1-3/5.7.2(b) Extreme Internal Pressure 5A-3-2/5.7.2(b)
2-1-3/5.7.2(c) Simultaneous Internal Pressures 5A-3-2/5.7.2(c)
2-1-3/5.7.2(d) Definition of Tank Shape and Associated Coefficients 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d)
2-1-3/5.7.2(d)i) J-shaped Tank 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d)i)
2-1-3/5.7.2(d)ii) Rectangular Tank 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d)ii)
2-1-3/5.7.2(d)iii) U-shaped Tank 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d)iii)
2-1-3/5.7.2(d)iv) --- 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d)iv)
2-1-3/5.7.2(d)v) --- 5A-3-2/5.7.2(d)v)
2-1-3/7 Nominal Design Loads 5A-3-2/7
2-1-3/7.1 General 5A-3-2/7.1
2-1-3/7.3 Hull Girder Loads – Longitudinal Bending Moments and Shear Forces 5A-3-2/7.3
2-1-3/7.3.1 Total Vertical Bending Moment and Shear Force 5A-3-2/7.3.1
2-1-3/7.3.2 Horizontal Bending Moment and Shear Force 5A-3-2/7.3.2
2-1-3/7.5 Local Loads for Design of Supporting Structures 5A-3-2/7.5
2-1-3/7.7 Local Pressures for Design of Plating and Longitudinals 5A-3-2/7.7
2-1-3/9 Combined Load Cases 5A-3-2/9
2-1-3/9.1 Combined Load Cases for Structural Analysis 5A-3-2/9.1
2-1-3/9.3 Combined Load Cases for Failure Assessment 5A-3-2/9.3
2-1-3/9.3.1 Ultimate Strength of Hull Girder 5A-3-2/9.3.1
2-1-3/9.3.1(a) Primary Loads, Longitudinal Bending Moments in Head Sea Conditions 5A-3-2/9.3.1(a)
2-1-3/9.3.1(b) Local Loads for Large Stiffened Panels 5A-3-2/9.3.1(b)
2-1-3/9.3.2 Yielding, Buckling and Ultimate Strength of Local Structures 5A-3-2/9.3.2
2-1-3/9.3.3 Fatigue Strength 5A-3-2/9.3.3
2-1-3/11 Sloshing Loads 5A-3-2/11
2-1-3/11.1 General 5A-3-2/11.1
2-1-3/11.1.1 --- 5A-3-2/11.1.1
2-1-3/11.1.2 --- 5A-3-2/11.1.2
2-1-3/11.3 Strength Assessment of Tank Boundary Structures 5A-3-2/11.3
2-1-3/11.3.1 Tank Length and Pitch Induced Sloshing Loads 5A-3-2/11.3.1
2-1-3/11.3.2 Roll Induced Sloshing Loads 5A-3-2/11.3.2
2-1-3/11.3.3 --- 5A-3-2/11.3.3
2-1-3/11.3.4 --- 5A-3-2/11.3.4
2-1-3/11.5 Sloshing Pressures 5A-3-2/11.5
2-1-3/11.5.1 Nominal Sloshing Pressures 5A-3-2/11.5.1
2-1-3/11.5.2 Sloshing Loads for Assessing Strength of Structures at Tank Boundaries 5A-3-2/11.5.2

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2-1-3/11.5.2(a) --- 5A-3-2/11.5.2(a)
2-1-3/11.5.2(b) --- 5A-3-2/11.5.2(b)
2-1-3/11.5.3 Sloshing Loads Normal to the Web Plates of Horizontal and Vertical Girders 5A-3-2/11.5.3
2-1-3/11.5.4 Alternative Approach for Nominal Sloshing Pressures 5A-3-2/11.5.4
2-1-3/13 Impact Loads 5A-3-2/13
2-1-3/13.1 Impact Loads on Bow 5A-3-2/13.1
2-1-3/13.3 Bottom Slamming 5A-3-2/13.3
2-1-3/13.3.1 Bottom Slamming Pressure 5A-3-2/13.3.1
2-1-3/13.5 Bowflare Slamming 5A-3-2/13.5
2-1-3/13.5.1 Nominal Bowflare Slamming 5A-3-2/13.5.1
2-1-3/13.5.2 Simultaneous Bowflare Slamming Pressure 5A-3-2/13.5.2
2-1-3/13.7 Green Water on Deck 5A-3-2/13.7
2-1-3/15 Deck Loads 5A-3-2/15
2-1-3/15.1 General 5A-3-2/15.1
2-1-3/15.3 Loads for On-Site Operation 5A-3-2/15.3
2-1-3/15.5 Loads in Transit Condition 5A-3-2/15.5
5A-3-2/Table 1A
2-1-3/Table 1 Combined Load Cases 5A-3-2/Table 1B
5A-3-2/Table 1C
2-1-3/Table 2 Load Cases for Sloshing 5A-3-2/Table 2
2-1-3/Table 3 Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Members 5A-3-2/Table 3
2-1-3/Table 4 Values of α 5A-3-2/Table 4
2-1-3/Table 5 Values of Ai and Bi 5A-3-2/Table 5
2-1-3/Table 6 Values of Ai and Bi 5A-3-2/Table 6
2-1-3/Table 7 Values of Ai 5A-3-2/Table 7
2-1-3/Table 8 Correlation Factors cv, cT, cL, Cφ and Cθ 5A-3-2/Table 8
5A-3-2/Figure 1A
2-1-3/Figure 1 Loading Pattern 5A-3-2/Figure 1B
5A-3-2/Figure 1C
2-1-3/Figure 2 Distribution Factor mh 5A-3-2/Figure 2
2-1-3/Figure 3 Distribution Factor fh 5A-3-2/Figure 3
2-1-3/Figure 4 Distribution of hdi 5A-3-2/Figure 4
2-1-3/Figure 5 Pressure Distribution Function klo 5A-3-2/Figure 5
2-1-3/Figure 6 Illustration of Determining Total External Pressure 5A-3-2/Figure 6
2-1-3/Figure 7 Definition of Tank Geometry 5A-3-2/Figure 7
2-1-3/Figure 8 Location of Tank for Nominal Pressure Calculation 5A-3-2/Figure 8
2-1-3/Figure 9 Vertical Distribution of Equivalent Slosh Pressure Head, he 5A-3-2/Figure 9
2-1-3/Figure 10 Horizontal Distribution of Simultaneous Slosh Pressure Heads, he (φs θs) or ht (φs θs) 5A-3-2/Figure 10
2-1-3/Figure 11 Definitions For Opening Ratio, α 5A-3-2/Figure 11
2-1-3/Figure 12 Opening Ratios 5A-3-2/Figure 12
2-1-3/Figure 13 Dimensions of Internal Structures 5A-3-2/Figure 13
2-1-3/Figure 14 Loading Patterns for Sloshing Loads Cases 5A-3-2/Figure 14
2-1-3/Figure 15 Definition of Bow Geometry 5A-3-2/Figure 15
2-1-3/Figure 16 Distribution of Bottom Slamming Pressure Along the Section Girth 5A-3-2/Figure 16
2-1-3/Figure 17 Distribution of Bowflare Geometry for Bowflare Shape Parameter 5A-3-2/Figure 17
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Section 4 Initial Scantling Criteria
Section 2-1-4 Initial Scantling Criteria Section 5A-3-3
2-1-4/1 General 5A-3-3/1
2-1-4/1.1 Strength Requirement 5A-3-3/1.1
2-1-4/1.3 Calculation of Load Effects 5A-3-3/1.3
2-1-4/1.5 Structural Details 5A-3-3/1.5
2-1-4/1.7 Evaluation of Grouped Stiffeners 5A-3-3/1.7
2-1-4/3 Hull Girder Strength 5A-3-3/3
2-1-4/3.1 Hull Girder Section Modulus 5A-3-3/3.1
2-1-4/3.1.1 Hull Girder Section Modulus Amidships 5A-3-3/3.1.1
2-1-4/3.1.2 Effective Longitudinal Members 5A-3-3/3.1.2
2-1-4/3.3 Hull Girder Moment of Inertia 5A-3-3/3.3
2-1-4/5 Shearing Strength 5A-3-3/5
2-1-4/5.1 General 5A-3-3/5.1
2-1-4/5.3 Net Thickness of Side Shell Plating 5A-3-3/5.3

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Shear Distribution Factor for Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer Longitudinal
2-1-4/5.3.1 5A-3-3/5.3.1
Bulkheads (inner skin only)
Shear Distribution Factor for Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer Longitudinal
2-1-4/5.3.2 5A-3-3/5.3.2
Bulkheads and a Centerline Swash or Oil-tight Longitudinal Bulkhead
Shear Distribution Factor for Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer and Two Inner
2-1-4/5.3.3 5A-3-3/5.3.3
Longitudinal Bulkheads
2-1-4/5.5 Thickness of Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-3-3/5.5
2-1-4/5.5.1 Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads (Inner Skin Only) 5A-3-3/5.5.1
Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads and a Centerline Swash
2-1-4/5.5.2 5A-3-3/5.5.2
or Oil-tight Longitudinal Bulkhead
2-1-4/5.5.2(a) --- 5A-3-3/5.5.2(a)
2-1-4/5.5.2(b) --- 5A-3-3/5.5.2(b)
2-1-4/5.5.3 Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer and Two Inner Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-3-3/5.5.3
2-1-4/5.5.3(a) --- 5A-3-3/5.5.3(a)
2-1-4/5.5.3(b) --- 5A-3-3/5.5.3(b)
2-1-4/5.7 Calculation of Local Loads 5A-3-3/5.7
Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer Longitudinal Bulkheads and a Centerline Swash
2-1-4/5.7.1 5A-3-3/5.7.1
or Oil-tight Longitudinal Bulkhead
2-1-4/5.7.2 Ship-Type Vessels with Two Outer and Two Inner Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-3-3/5.7.2
2-1-4/5.9 Three Dimensional Analysis 5A-3-3/5.9
2-1-4/7 Double Bottom Structures 5A-3-3/7
2-1-4/7.1 General 5A-3-3/7.1
2-1-4/7.1.1 Arrangement 5A-3-3/7.1.1
2-1-4/7.1.2 Keel Plate 5A-3-3/7.1.2
2-1-4/7.1.3 Bottom Shell Plating – Definition 5A-3-3/7.1.3
2-1-4/7.1.4 Bilge Longitudinals 5A-3-3/7.1.4
2-1-4/7.3 Bottom Shell and Inner Bottom Plating 5A-3-3/7.3
2-1-4/7.3.1 Bottom Shell Plating 5A-3-3/7.3.1
2-1-4/7.3.2 Inner Bottom Plating 5A-3-3/7.3.2
2-1-4/7.5 Bottom and Inner Bottom Longitudinals 5A-3-3/7.5
2-1-4/7.7 Bottom Girders/Floors 5A-3-3/7.7
2-1-4/7.7.1 Bottom Centerline Girder 5A-3-3/7.7.1
2-1-4/7.7.2 Bottom Side Girder 5A-3-3/7.7.2
2-1-4/7.7.3 Floors 5A-3-3/7.7.3
2-1-4/7.7.4 Bottom Girders Under Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-3/7.7.4
2-1-4/9 Side Shell and Deck – Plating and Longitudinals 5A-3-3/9
2-1-4/9.1 Side Shell Plating 5A-3-3/9.1
2-1-4/9.3 Deck Plating 5A-3-3/9.3
2-1-4/9.5 Deck and Side Longitudinals 5A-3-3/9.5
2-1-4/11 Side Shell and Deck – Main Supporting Members 5A-3-3/11
2-1-4/11.1 General 5A-3-3/11.1
5A-3-3/11.3
2-1-4/11.3 Deck Transverses and Deck Girders for Load Pattern No. 1
5A-3-3/11.5
2-1-4/11.3.1 Section Modulus of Deck Transverse
2-1-4/11.3.1(a) For Deck Transverse in Wing Tanks 5A-3-3/11.3.1
2-1-4/11.3.1(b) For Deck Transverse in Center Tanks
2-1-4/11.3.2 Section Modulus of Deck Girder
2-1-4/11.3.2(a) Bending Moment Due to Reactions from Topside Structure, Mp 5A-3-3/11.5.1
2-1-4/11.3.2(b) Bending Moment at the Toe of the End Brackets Due to Green Water Pressure, Mg
2-1-4/11.3.3 Web Sectional Area of Deck Transverse 5A-3-3/11.3.2
2-1-4/11.3.4 Web Sectional Area of Deck Girder 5A-3-3/11.5.2
2-1-4/11.5 Deck Transverses and Deck Girders for Load Pattern No. 2 ---
2-1-4/11.5.1 Section Modulus of Deck Transverses ---
2-1-4/11.5.2 Sectional Area of Deck Transverses ---
2-1-4/11.5.3 Section Modulus of Deck Girders ---
2-1-4/11.5.4 Sectional Area of Deck Girder ---
2-1-4/11.6 Deck Structures in Forebody 5A-3-3/11.6
2-1-4/11.6.1 General 5A-3-3/11.6.1
2-1-4/11.6.2 Deck Plating 5A-3-3/11.6.2
2-1-4/11.6.3 Deck Longitudinals 5A-3-3/11.6.3
2-1-4/11.6.4 Deck Transverses and Deck Girders 5A-3-3/11.6.4
2-1-4/11.7 Web Sectional Area of Side Transverses 5A-3-3/11.7
2-1-4/11.9 Minimum Thickness for Web Portion of Main Supporting Members 5A-3-3/11.9
2-1-4/11.11 Proportions 5A-3-3/11.11

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2-1-4/11.11.1 Deck Transverse 5A-3-3/11.11.1
2-1-4/11.11.2 Deck Girder 5A-3-3/11.11.2
2-1-4/11.11.3 Longitudinal Bulkhead Webs/Girders 5A-3-3/11.11.3
2-1-4/11.11.4 Transverse Bulkhead Webs/Girders 5A-3-3/11.11.4
2-1-4/11.13 Brackets 5A-3-3/11.13
2-1-4/11.15 Web Stiffeners and Tripping Brackets 5A-3-3/11.15
2-1-4/11.15.1 Web Stiffeners 5A-3-3/11.15.1
2-1-4/11.15.2 Tripping Bracket 5A-3-3/11.15.2
2-1-4/11.17 Slots and Lightening Holes 5A-3-3/11.17
2-1-4/13 Longitudinal and Transverse Bulkheads 5A-3-3/13
2-1-4/13.1 Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating 5A-3-3/13.1
2-1-4/13.3 Transverse Bulkhead Plating 5A-3-3/13.3
2-1-4/13.5 Longitudinals and Vertical/Horizontal Stiffeners 5A-3-3/13.5
2-1-4/15 Bulkheads – Main Supporting Members 5A-3-3/15
2-1-4/15.1 General 5A-3-3/15.1
2-1-4/15.3 Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.3
2-1-4/15.3.1 Section Modulus of Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.3.1
2-1-4/15.3.2 Web sectional Area of Vertical Webs on Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-3-3/15.3.2
2-1-4/15.5 Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.5
2-1-4/15.5.1 Section Modulus of Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.5.1
2-1-4/15.5.2 Web Sectional Area of Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.5.2
2-1-4/15.7 Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.7
2-1-4/15.7.1 Section Modulus of Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-3/15.7.1
2-1-4/15.7.2 Web sectional Area of Vertical Web on Transverse Bulkheads 5A-3-3/15.7.2
Minimum Web Thickness, Proportions, Brackets, Stiffeners, Tripping Brackets, Slots
2-1-4/15.9 5A-3-3/15.9
and Lightening Holes
2-1-4/15.11 Cross Ties 5A-3-3/15.11
2-1-4/15.13 Nontight Bulkheads 5A-3-3/15.13
2-1-4/17 Corrugated Bulkheads 5A-3-3/17
2-1-4/17.1 General 5A-3-3/17.1
2-1-4/17.3 Plating 5A-3-3/17.3
2-1-4/17.5 Stiffness of Corrugation 5A-3-3/17.5
2-1-4/17.5.1 Depth/Length Ratio 5A-3-3/17.5.1
2-1-4/17.5.2 Section Modulus 5A-3-3/17.5.2
2-1-4/17.7 Bulkhead Stools 5A-3-3/17.7
2-1-4/17.7.1 Lower Stool 5A-3-3/17.7.1
2-1-4/17.7.2 Upper Stool 5A-3-3/17.7.2
2-1-4/17.7.3 Alignment 5A-3-3/17.7.3
2-1-4/17.9 End Connections 5A-3-3/17.9
2-1-4/Table 1 Coefficient c2 for Deck Transverses 5A-3-3/Table 1
2-1-4/Table 2 Coefficients KU and KL for Side Transverses 5A-3-3/Table 2
2-1-4/Table 3 Coefficient c for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-3-3/Table 3
2-1-4/Table 4 Coefficients KU and KL for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-3/Table 4
2-1-4/Figure 1 Scantling Requirement Reference by Subsection 5A-3-3/Figure 1
2-1-4/Figure 2A Definition of Spans (A) 5A-3-3/Figure 2A
2-1-4/Figure 2B Definition of Spans (B) 5A-3-3/Figure 2B
2-1-4/Figure 3 Center Tank Region 5A-3-3/Figure 3
2-1-4/Figure 4 --- 5A-3-3/Figure 4
2-1-4/Figure 5 Unsupported Span of Longitudinal 5A-3-3/Figure 5
2-1-4/Figure 6 Effective Breadth of Plating be 5A-3-3/Figure 6
2-1-4/Figure 7 Definitions of α3, ls and bs 5A-3-3/Figure 7
2-1-4/Figure 8 Deck Transverse – Definition of Parameters ---
2-1-4/Figure 9 Effectiveness of Brackets 5A-3-3/Figure 8
Definition of Parameters for Corrugated Bulkhead (Ship-Type Vessels without
2-1-4/Figure 10 5A-3-3/Figure 9
Longitudinal Bulkhead at Centerline)
Definition of Parameters for Corrugated Bulkhead (Ship-Type Vessels with
2-1-4/Figure 11 5A-3-3/Figure 10
Longitudinal Bulkhead at Centerline)
2-1-4/Figure 12 Corrugated Bulkhead End Connections 5A-3-3/Figure 11
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Section 5 Total Strength Assessment
Section 2-1-5 Total Strength Assessment Section 5A-3-4
2-1-5/1 General Requirements 5A-3-4/1
2-1-5/1.1 General 5A-3-4/1.1

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2-1-5/1.3 Loads and Load Cases 5A-3-4/1.3
2-1-5/1.5 Stress Components 5A-3-4/1.5
2-1-5/1.5.1 Primary 5A-3-4/1.5.1
2-1-5/1.5.2 Secondary 5A-3-4/1.5.2
2-1-5/1.5.3 Tertiary 5A-3-4/1.5.3
2-1-5/3 Failure Criteria – Yielding 5A-3-4/3
2-1-5/3.1 General 5A-3-4/3.1
2-1-5/3.3 Structural Members and Elements 5A-3-4/3.3
2-1-5/3.5 Plating 5A-3-4/3.5
2-1-5/5 Failure Criteria – Buckling and Ultimate Strength 5A-3-4/5
2-1-5/5.1 General 5A-3-4/5.1
2-1-5/5.1.1 Approach 5A-3-4/5.1.1
2-1-5/5.1.2 Buckling Control Concepts 5A-3-4/5.1.2
2-1-5/5.1.2(a) --- 5A-3-4/5.1.2(a)
2-1-5/5.1.2(b) --- 5A-3-4/5.1.2(b)
2-1-5/5.1.2(c) --- 5A-3-4/5.1.2(c)
2-1-5/5.1.2(d) --- 5A-3-4/5.1.2(d)
2-1-5/5.1.2(e) --- 5A-3-4/5.1.2(e)
2-1-5/5.1.2(f) --- 5A-3-4/5.1.2(f)
2-1-5/5.3 Plate Panels 5A-3-4/5.3
2-1-5/5.3.1 Buckling State Limit 5A-3-4/5.3.1
2-1-5/5.3.2 Effective Width 5A-3-4/5.3.2
2-1-5/5.3.2(a) For Long Plate 5A-3-4/5.3.2(a)
2-1-5/5.3.2(b) For Wide Plate (compression in transverse direction) 5A-3-4/5.3.2(b)
2-1-5/5.3.3 Ultimate Strength 5A-3-4/5.3.3
2-1-5/5.5 Longitudinals and Stiffeners 5A-3-4/5.5
2-1-5/5.5.1 Beam-Column Buckling State Limits and Ultimate Strength 5A-3-4/5.5.1
2-1-5/5.5.2 Torsional-Flexural Buckling State 5A-3-4/5.5.2
2-1-5/5.7 Stiffened Panels 5A-3-4/5.7
2-1-5/5.7.1 Large Stiffened Panels between Bulkheads 5A-3-4/5.7.1
2-1-5/5.7.2 Uniaxially Stiffened Panels between Transverses and Girders 5A-3-4/5.7.2
2-1-5/5.9 Deep Girders and Webs 5A-3-4/5.9
2-1-5/5.9.1 Buckling Criteria 5A-3-4/5.9.1
2-1-5/5.9.1(a) For Web Plate 5A-3-4/5.9.1(a)
2-1-5/5.9.1(b) For Face Plate and Flange 5A-3-4/5.9.1(b)
2-1-5/5.9.1(c) For Large Brackets and Sloping Webs 5A-3-4/5.9.1(c)
2-1-5/5.9.2 Tripping ---
2-1-5/5.11 Corrugated Bulkheads 5A-3-4/5.11
2-1-5/5.11.1 Local Plate Panels 5A-3-4/5.11.1
2-1-5/5.11.1(a) Buckling Criteria 5A-3-4/5.11.1(a)
2-1-5/5.11.1(b) Ultimate Strength 5A-3-4/5.11.1(b)
2-1-5/5.11.2 Unit Corrugation 5A-3-4/5.11.2
2-1-5/5.11.3 Overall Buckling 5A-3-4/5.11.3
5A-3-3/3.5
2-1-5/5.13 Hull Girder Ultimate Strength
Appendix 5A-3-A4
2-1-5/5.13.1 --- ---
2-1-5/5.13.2 Calculation of SMe ---
2-1-5/5.13.2(a) Effective Width ---
2-1-5/5.13.2(b) Shear Lag ---
2-1-5/7 Fatigue Life 5A-3-4/9
2-1-5/7.1 General 5A-3-4/9.1
2-1-5/7.1.1 Workmanship 5A-3-4/9.1.1
2-1-5/7.1.2 Fatigue Data 5A-3-4/9.1.2
2-1-5/7.1.3 Total Stress Range 5A-3-4/9.1.3
2-1-5/7.1.4 Design Consideration 5A-3-4/9.1.4
2-1-5/7.3 Procedures 5A-3-4/9.3
2-1-5/7.3.1 Step 1 – Classification of Various Critical Locations 5A-3-4/9.3.1
2-1-5/7.3.2 Step 2 – Permissible Stress Range Approach 5A-3-4/9.3.2
2-1-5/7.3.3 Step 3 – Refined Analysis 5A-3-4/9.3.3
2-1-5/7.3.3(a) Spectral Analysis 5A-3-4/9.3.3(a)
2-1-5/7.3.3(b) Refined Fatigue Data 5A-3-4/9.3.3(b)
2-1-5/7.5 Spectral Analysis 5A-3-4/9.5
2-1-5/7.5.1 Representative Loading Patterns 5A-3-4/9.5.1
2-1-5/7.5.2 Environmental Representation 5A-3-4/9.5.2

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2-1-5/7.5.3 Calculation of Wave Load RAOs 5A-3-4/9.5.3
2-1-5/7.5.4 Generation of Stress Spectrum 5A-3-4/9.5.4
2-1-5/7.5.5 Cumulative Fatigue damage and Fatigue Life 5A-3-4/9.5.5
2-1-5/9 Calculation of Structural Responses 5A-3-4/11
2-1-5/9.1 Methods of approach and Analysis Procedures 5A-3-4/11.1
2-1-5/9.3 3D Finite Element Models 5A-3-4/11.3
2-1-5/9.5 2D Finite Element Models 5A-3-4/11.5
2-1-5/9.7 Local Structural Models 5A-3-4/11.5
2-1-5/9.9 Load Cases 5A-3-4/11.7
2-1-5/11 Critical Areas 5A-3-4/13
2-1-5/Figure 1 --- ---
2-1-5/Figure 2 Critical Areas in Transverse Web Frame 5A-3-4/Figure 3
2-1-5/Figure 3 Critical Areas in Horizontal Girder on Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-4/Figure 4
2-1-5/Figure 4 Critical Areas of Buttress Structure 5A-3-4/Figure 5
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Section 6 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships
Section 2-1-6 Hull Structure Beyond 0.4L Amidships Section 5A-3-5
2-1-6/1 General Requirements 5A-3-5/1
2-1-6/1.1 General 5A-3-5/1.1
2-1-6/1.3 Structures within the Cargo Space Length 5A-3-5/1.3
2-1-6/3 Forebody Side Shell Structure 5A-3-5/3
2-1-6/3.1 Side Shell Plating 5A-3-5/3/1
2-1-6/3.1.1 Plating Forward of Forepeak Bulkhead 5A-3-5/3/1.1
2-1-6/3.1.2 Plating between Forepeak Bulkhead and 0.125L from FP 5A-3-5/3/1.2
2-1-6/3.1.3 Plating between 0.3L and 0.125L from FP 5A-3-5/3/1.3
2-1-6/3.3 Side Frames and Longitudinals 5A-3-5/3.3
2-1-6/3.3.1 Side Frames and Longitudinals Forward of 0.3L from FP 5A-3-5/3.3.1
2-1-6/3.5 Side Transverses and Stringers in Forebody 5A-3-5/3.5
2-1-6/3.5.1 Section Modulus 5A-3-5/3.5.1
2-1-6/3.5.1(a) Longitudinally Framed Side Shell 5A-3-5/3.5.1(a)
2-1-6/3.5.1(b) Transversely Framed Side Shell 5A-3-5/3.5.1(b)
2-1-6/3.5.2 Sectional Area of Web 5A-3-5/3.5.2
2-1-6/3.5.2(a) Longitudinally Framed Side Shell 5A-3-5/3.5.2(a)
2-1-6/3.5.2(b) Transversely Framed Side Shell 5A-3-5/3.5.2(b)
2-1-6/3.5.3 Depth of Transverse/Stringer 5A-3-5/3.5.3
2-1-6/3.5.3(a) Longitudinally Framed Side Shell 5A-3-5/3.5.3(a)
2-1-6/3.5.3(b) Transversely Framed Side Shell 5A-3-5/3.5.3(b)
2-1-6/3.5.4 Thickness 5A-3-5/3.5.4
2-1-6/5 Transition Zone 5A-3-5/5
2-1-6/7 Forebody Strengthening for Slamming 5A-3-5/7
2-1-6/7.1 Bottom Slamming 5A-3-5/7.1
2-1-6/7.1.1 Bottom Plating 5A-3-5/7.1.1
2-1-6/7.1.2 Bottom Longitudinals and Stiffeners 5A-3-5/7.1.2
2-1-6/7.1.3 Bottom Floors 5A-3-5/7.1.3
2-1-6/7.3 Bowflare Slamming 5A-3-5/7.3
2-1-6/7.3.1 Side Shell Plating 5A-3-5/7.3.1
2-1-6/7.3.2 Side Longitudinals and Stiffeners 5A-3-5/7.3.2
2-1-6/7.3.3 Side Transverses and Side Stringers 5A-3-5/7.3.3
2-1-6/Figure 1 Transverse Distribution of pd 5A-3-5/Figure 1
2-1-6/Figure 2 Definition of Spans 5A-3-5/Figure 2
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Appendix 1 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-type Vessels
Appendix 2-1-A1 Guide for Fatigue Strength Assessment of Ship-type Vessels Appendix 5A-3-A2
2-1-A1/1 General 5A-3-A2/1
2-1-A1/1.1 Note 5A-3-A2/1.1
2-1-A1/1.3 Applicability 5A-3-A2/1.3
2-1-A1/1.5 Loadings 5A-3-A2/1.5
2-1-A1/1.7 Effects of Corrosion 5A-3-A2/1.7
2-1-A1/1.9 Format of the Criteria 5A-3-A2/1.9
2-1-A1/3 Connections to be Considered for the fatigue Strength Assessment 5A-3-A2/3
2-1-A1/3.1 General 5A-3-A2/3.1
2-1-A1/3.3 Guidance on Locations 5A-3-A2/3.3

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Connections of Longitudinal Stiffeners to Transverse Web/Floor and to Transverse
2-1-A1/3.3.1 5A-3-A2/3.3.1
Bulkhead
2-1-A1/3.3.1(a) --- 5A-3-A2/3.3.1(a)
2-1-A1/3.3.1(b) --- 5A-3-A2/3.3.1(b)
Shell, Bottom, Inner Bottom or Bulkhead Plating at Connections to Webs or Floors
2-1-A1/3.3.2 5A-3-A2/3.3.2
(for Fatigue Strength of Plating)
2-1-A1/3.3.2(a) --- 5A-3-A2/3.3.2(a)
2-1-A1/3.3.2(b) --- 5A-3-A2/3.3.2(b)
2-1-A1/3.3.2(c) --- 5A-3-A2/3.3.2(c)
Connections of the Slope Plate to Inner Bottom and Side Longitudinal Bulkhead
2-1-A1/3.3.3 5A-3-A2/3.3.3
Plating at the Lower Cargo Tank Corners
2-1-A1/3.3.4 End Bracket Connections for Transverses and Girders 5A-3-A2/3.3.4
2-1-A1/3.3.5 Other Regions and Locations 5A-3-A2/3.3.5
2-1-A1/5 Permissible Stress Range 5A-3-A2/5
2-1-A1/5.1 Assumptions 5A-3-A2/5.1
2-1-A1/5.3 Criteria 5A-3-A2/5.3
2-1-A1/5.5 Long Term Stress Distribution Parameter, γ 5A-3-A2/5.5
2-1-A1/5.7 Permissible Stress Range 5A-3-A2/5.7
2-1-A1/7 Fatigue Inducing Loads and Determination of Total Stress Ranges 5A-3-A2/7
2-1-A1/7.1 General 5A-3-A2/7.1
2-1-A1/7.3 Wave-induced Loads – Load Components 5A-3-A2/7.3
2-1-A1/7.5 Fatigue Assessment Zones and Controlling Load Combinations 5A-3-A2/21.3
2-1-A1/7.5.1 Zone A 5A-3-A2/21.3.1
2-1-A1/7.5.1(a) --- 5A-3-A2/21.3.1(a)
2-1-A1/7.5.1(b) --- 5A-3-A2/21.3.1(b)
2-1-A1/7.5.1(c) --- 5A-3-A2/21.3.1(c)
2-1-A1/7.5.2 Zone B 5A-3-A2/21.3.2
2-1-A1/7.5.2(a) --- 5A-3-A2/21.3.2(a)
2-1-A1/7.5.2(b) --- 5A-3-A2/21.3.2(b)
2-1-A1/7.5.2(c) --- 5A-3-A2/21.3.2(c)
2-1-A1/7.5.3 Transitional Zone 5A-3-A2/21.3.3
2-1-A1/7.5.4 Vessels with Either Special Loading Patterns or Special Structural Configuration 5A-3-A2/21.3.4
2-1-A1/7.7 Primary Stress fd1 5A-3-A2/7.7
2-1-A1/7.9 Secondary Stress fd2 5A-3-A2/7.9
2-1-A1/7.11 Additional Secondary Stress fd2* and Tertiary Stresses fd3 5A-3-A2/7.11
2-1-A1/7.11.1 Calculation of fd2* 5A-3-A2/7.11.1
2-1-A1/7.11.2 Calculation of fd3 5A-3-A2/7.11.2
2-1-A1/9 Resulting Stress Ranges 5A-3-A2/9
2-1-A1/9.1 Definitions 5A-3-A2/9.1
5A-3-A2/9.1.1
2-1-A1/9.1.1 ---
5A-3-A2/21.5
2-1-A1/11 Determination of Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs) 5A-3-A2/11
2-1-A1/11.1 General 5A-3-A2/11.1
2-1-A1/11.3 Sample Stress Concentration Factors (SCFs) 5A-3-A2/11.3
2-1-A1/11.3.1 Cut-outs (Slots) for Longitudinals 5A-3-A2/11.3.1
2-1-A1/11.3.2 Flat Bar Stiffener for Longitudinals 5A-3-A2/11.3.2
2-1-A1/11.3.2(a) --- 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(a)
2-1-A1/11.3.2(b) --- 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(b)
2-1-A1/11.3.2(c) --- 5A-3-A2/11.3.2(c)
2-1-A1/11.3.3 Connection Between Transverse Bulkhead Vertical Web and Double Bottom Girder 5A-3-A2/11.3.3
2-1-A1/11.3.4 Connection Between Transverse Bulkhead Vertical Web and Deck Girder 5A-3-A2/11.3.4
End Connections of Transverse Bulkhead Horizontal Girder to Longitudinal of Side
2-1-A1/11.3.5 5A-3-A2/11.3.5
Shell or Longitudinal Bulkhead
2-1-A1/11.3.6 Connection of Transverse Bulkhead to Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-A2/11.3.6
2-1-A1/11.3.7 Doublers and Non-load Carrying Members on Deck or Shell Plating 5A-3-A2/11.3.7
2-1-A1/13 Stress Concentration Factors Determined from Finite Element Analysis 5A-3-A2/13
2-1-A1/13.1 Introduction 5A-3-A2/13.1
2-1-A1/13.3 S-N Data 5A-3-A2/13.3
2-1-A1/13.5 S-N Data and SCFs 5A-3-A2/13.5
2-1-A1/13.7 Calculation of Hot Pot Stress for Fatigue Analysis of Ship Structures 5A-3-A2/13.7
2-1-A1/13.7.1 --- ---
2-1-A1/13.7.2 --- ---
2-1-A1/13.7.3 --- ---
2-1-A1/13.7.4 --- ---

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2-1-A1/Table 1 Fatigue Classification for structural Details 5A-3-A2/Table 1
2-1-A1/Table 1A Coefficient C ---
2-1-A1/Table 2 Ks (SCF) Values 5A-3-A2/Table 3
2-1-A1/Figure 1 Basic Design S-N Curves 5A-3-A2/Figure 1
2-1-A1/Figure 2 Cn = Cn(Ψ) 5A-3-A2/Figure 3
2-1-A1/Figure 3 Cut-outs (Slots) for Longitudinal 5A-3-A2/Figure 4
2-1-A1/Figure 4 Fatigue Classification for Longitudinals in way of Flat Bar Stiffener 5A-3-A2/Figure 5
2-1-A1/Figure 5 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 6
2-1-A1/Figure 6 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 7
2-1-A1/Figure 7 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 8
2-1-A1/Figure 8 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 9
2-1-A1/Figure 9 Doublers and Non-load Carrying Members on Deck or Shell Plating 5A-3-A2/Figure 10
2-1-A1/Figure 10 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 11
2-1-A1/Figure 11 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 12
2-1-A1/Figure 12 --- 5A-3-A2/Figure 13
2-1-A1/Figure 13 --- ---
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Appendix 2 Calculation of Critical Buckling Stresses
Appendix 2-1-A2 Calculation of Critical Buckling Stresses 5A-3-4/7
2-1-A2/1 General 5A-3-4/7.1
2-1-A2/3 Rectangular Plates 5A-3-4/7.3
2-1-A2/5 Longitudinals and Stiffeners 5A-3-4/7.5
2-1-A2/5.1 Axial Compression 5A-3-4/7.5.1
2-1-A2/5.3 Torsional/Flexural Buckling 5A-3-4/7.5.2
2-1-A2/5.5 Buckling Criteria for Unit Corrugation of Transverse Bulkhead 5A-3-4/7.5.3
2-1-A2/7 Stiffened Panels 5A-3-4/7.7
2-1-A2/7.1 Large Stiffened Panels 5A-3-4/7.7.1
2-1-A2/7.3 Corrugated Transverse Bulkheads 5A-3-4/7.7.2
2-1-A2/9 Deep Girders, Webs and Stiffened Brackets ---
2-1-A2/9.1 Critical Buckling Stresses of Web Plates and Large Brackets ---
2-1-A2/9.3 Effects of Cut-outs ---
2-1-A2/9.3.1 Reinforced by Stiffeners Around Boundaries of Cut-outs ---
2-1-A2/9.3.2 Reinforced by Face Plates Around Contour of Cut-outs ---
2-1-A2/9.3.3 No Reinforcement Provided ---
2-1-A2/9.5 Tripping ---
2-1-A2/11 Stiffness and Proportions ---
2-1-A2/11.1 Stiffness of Longitudinals ---
2-1-A2/11.3 Stiffness of Web Stiffeners ---
2-1-A2/11.5 Stiffness of Supporting Members ---
2-1-A2/11.7 Proportions of Flanges and Face Plates ---
2-1-A2/11.9 Proportions of Webs of Longitudinals and Stiffeners ---
2-1-A2/Table 1 Buckling Coefficient Ki 5A-3-4/Table 1
2-1-A2/Figure 1 Net Dimensions and Properties of Stiffeners 5A-3-4/Figure 1
2-1-A2/Figure 2 --- 5A-3-4/Figure 2
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Appendix 3 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Vessels
Appendix 2-1-A3 Application to Single Hull Ship-Type Vessels Appendix 5A-3-6
2-1-A3/1 General 5A-3-6/1
2-1-A3/1.1 Nominal Design Corrosion Values 5A-3-6/1.1
2-1-A3/1.3 Load Criteria 5A-3-6/1.3
2-1-A3/1.5 Strength Criteria 5A-3-6/1.5
2-1-A3/1.5.1 Hull Girder Shear Strength 5A-3-6/1.5.1
2-1-A3/1.5.2 Plating and Longitudinals/Stiffeners 5A-3-6/1.5.2
2-1-A3/3 Main Supporting Members 5A-3-6/3
2-1-A3/3.1 Bottom Transverses 5A-3-6/3.1
2-1-A3/3.1.1 Section Modulus of Bottom Transverses 5A-3-6/3.1.1
2-1-A3/3.1.2 Web Sectional Area of Bottom Transverses 5A-3-6/3.1.2
2-1-A3/3.3 Bottom Girders 5A-3-6/3.3
2-1-A3/3.3.1 Section Modulus of Bottom Girders 5A-3-6/3.3.1
2-1-A3/3.3.2 Web Sectional Area of Bottom Girder 5A-3-6/3.3.2
2-1-A3/3.5 Side Transverses 5A-3-6/3.5
2-1-A3/3.5.1 Section Modulus of Side Transverses 5A-3-6/3.5.1

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2-1-A3/3.5.2 Web Sectional Area of Side Transverses 5A-3-6/3.5.2
2-1-A3/3.7 Deck Transverses for Load Pattern No. 1 5A-3-6/3.7
2-1-A3/3.7.1 Section Modulus of Deck Transverses
2-1-A3/3.7.1(a) For Deck Transverses in Wing Tanks 5A-3-6/3.7.1
2-1-A3/3.7.1(b) For Deck Transverses in Center Tanks
2-1-A3/3.7.2 Web Sectional Area of Deck Transverses 5A-3-6/3.7.2
2-1-A3/3.8 Deck Transverses for Load Pattern No. 2 ---
2-1-A3/3.8.1 Section Modulus of Deck Transverses ---
2-1-A3/3.8.2 Web Sectional Area of Deck Transverses ---
2-1-A3/3.9 Longitudinal Bulkhead Vertical Webs 5A-3-6/3.9
2-1-A3/3.9.1 Section Modulus of Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-6/3.9.1
2-1-A3/3.9.2 Web Sectional Area of Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-6/3.9.2
2-1-A3/3.11 Other Main Supporting Members 5A-3-6/3.11
2-1-A3/3.13 Proportions 5A-3-6/3.13
2-1-A3/5 Strength Assessment 5A-3-6/5
2-1-A3/5.1 General 5A-3-6/5.1
2-1-A3/5.3 Special Considerations 5A-3-6/5.3
2-1-A3/Table 1 Design Pressure for Local and Supporting Structures 5A-3-6/Table 1
2-1-A3/Table 2 Coefficient c for Side Transverse 5A-3-6/Table 2
2-1-A3/Table 3 Coefficients KU and KL for Side Transverses 5A-3-6/Table 3
2-1-A3/Table 4 Coefficient c2 for Deck Transverse 5A-3-6/Table 4
2-1-A3/Table 5 Coefficient c for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-6/Table 5
2-1-A3/Table 6 Coefficients KU and KL for Vertical Web on Longitudinal Bulkhead 5A-3-6/Table 6
2-1-A3/Figure 1 Spans of Transverses and Girders 5A-3-6/Figure 1
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 1 Ship-Type Vessels (150 meters (492 feet) or more in Length)
Appendix 4 Application to Mid-Deck Ship-Type Vessels
Appendix 2-1-A4 Application to Mid-Deck Ship-Type Vessels ---
2-1-A4/1 General ---
2-1-A4/1.1 Design Concepts ---
2-1-A4/1.3 Design and Strength of Hull Structures ---
2-1-A4/3 Load Criteria ---
2-1-A4/3.1 Loading Patterns and Load Cases ---
2-1-A4/3.3 Determination of Loads and Scantlings ---
2-1-A4/3.3.1 Hull Girder Loads ---
2-1-A4/3.3.2 Internal Pressure ---
2-1-A4/3.3.3 Partially Filled Tanks ---
2-1-A4/5 Strength Criteria ---
2-1-A4/5.1.1 Hull Girder and Structural Elements ---
2-1-A4/5.1.2 Hull Girder Shearing Strength ---
2-1-A4/5.1 Bottom Structures ---
2-1-A4/5.3 Mid-deck Structures ---
2-1-A4/7 Strength Assessment ---
2-1-A4/7.1 Failure Criteria ---
2-1-A4/7.3 Special Considerations ---
2-1-A4/Figure 1 Typical Cross Section for Mid-Deck Ship-Type Vessels ---
2-1-A4/Figure 2 Loading Pattern ---
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 2 Ship-Type Vessels Under (150 meters (492 feet) in Length)
Section 1 Introduction
Section 2-2-1 Introduction Section 5A-4-1
2-2-1/1 General 5A-4-1/1
2-2-1/1.1 Classification 5A-4-1/1.1
2-2-1/1.3 Application 5A-4-1/1.3
2-2-1/1.3.1 Structural Arrangement 5A-4-1/1.3.1
2-2-1/1.3.2 Vessels of Similar Type and Arrangement 5A-4-1/1.3.2
2-2-1/1.3.3 Engineering Analysis 5A-4-1/1.3.3
2-2-1/1.5 Detail Design of Internal Members 5A-4-1/1.5
2-2-1/1.7 Breaks 5A-4-1/1.7
2-2-1/1.9 Variations 5A-4-1/1.9
2-2-1/1.11 Loading Guidance 5A-4-1/1.11
2-2-1/1.13 Higher-strength Materials 5A-4-1/1.13
2-2-1/1.15 Pressure-vacuum Valve Setting 5A-4-1/1.15
2-2-1/1.17 Protection of Structure 5A-4-1/1.17

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2-2-1/1.19 Aluminum Paint 5A-4-1/1.19
2-2-1/1.21 Tank Design Pressures 5A-4-1/1.21
2-2-1/3 Special Requirements for Deep Loading 5A-4-1/3
2-2-1/3.1 Machinery Casings 5A-4-1/3.1
2-2-1/3.3 Access 5A-4-1/3.3
2-2-1/3.5 Hatchways 5A-4-1/3.5
2-2-1/3.7 Freeing Arrangements 5A-4-1/3.7
2-2-1/3.9 Flooding 5A-4-1/3.9
2-2-1/3.11 Ventilators 5A-4-1/3.11
2-2-1/5 Arrangement 5A-4-1/5
2-2-1/5.1 Subdivision 5A-4-1/5.1
2-2-1/5.3 Cofferdams 5A-4-1/5.3
2-2-1/5.5 Gastight Bulkheads 5A-4-1/5.5
2-2-1/5.7 Cathodic Protection 5A-4-1/5.7
2-2-1/5.7.1 Anode Installation Plan 5A-4-1/5.7.1
2-2-1/5.7.2 Magnesium and Magnesium Alloy Anodes 5A-4-1/5.7.2
2-2-1/5.7.3 Aluminum Anodes 5A-4-1/5.7.3
2-2-1/5.7.4 Anode Attachment 5A-4-1/5.7.4
2-2-1/5.9 Ports in Pump Room Bulkheads 5A-4-1/5.9
2-2-1/5.11 Location of Cargo Oil Tank Openings 5A-4-1/5.11
2-2-1/5.13 Structural Fire Protection 5A-4-1/5.13
2-2-1/5.15 Allocation of Spaces 5A-4-1/5.15
2-2-1/5.15.1 Tanks Forward of the Collision Bulkhead 5A-4-1/5.15.1
2-2-1/5.15.2 Double Bottom Spaces and Wing Tank Spaces 5A-4-1/5.15.2
2-2-1/5.17 Access to Upper Parts of Ballast Tanks on Double Hull Ship-Type Vessels 5A-4-1/5.17
2-2-1/5.19 access to All Spaces in the Cargo Area 5A-4-1/5.19
2-2-1/5.21 Duct Keels or Pipe Tunnels in Double Bottoms 5A-4-1/5.21
2-2-1/5.23 Ventilation 5A-4-1/5.23
2-2-1/5.25 Pumping Arrangements 5A-4-1/5.25
2-2-1/5.27 Electrical Equipment 5A-4-1/5.27
2-2-1/5.29 Testing 5A-4-1/5.29
2-2-1/5.31 Machinery Spaces 5A-4-1/5.31
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 2 Ship-Type Vessels Under (150 meters (492 feet) in Length)
Section 2 Hull Structure
Section 2-2-2 Hull Structure Section 5A-4-2
2-2-2/1 Hull Girder Strength 5A-4-2/1
2-2-2/1.1 Normal-strength Standard 5A-4-2/1.1
2-2-2/1.3 Still-water Bending Moment Calculations 5A-4-2/1.3
2-2-2/3 Shell Plating 5A-4-2/3
2-2-2/3.1 Amidships 5A-4-2/3.1
2-2-2/3.1.1 Bottom Shell Thickness 5A-4-2/3.1.1
2-2-2/3.1.1(a) --- 5A-4-2/3.1.1(a)
2-2-2/3.1.1(b) --- 5A-4-2/3.1.1(b)
2-2-2/3.1.2 Side Shell Thickness 5A-4-2/3.1.2
2-2-2/3.1.2(a) --- 5A-4-2/3.1.2(a)
2-2-2/3.1.2(b) --- 5A-4-2/3.1.2(b)
2-2-2/3.1.3 Shell Thickness 5A-4-2/3.1.3
2-2-2/3.3 Sheer Strake 5A-4-2/3.3
2-2-2/3.5 Keel Plate 5A-4-2/3.5
2-2-2/3.7 Flat of Bottom Forward 5A-4-2/3.7
2-2-2/3.9 Plating Outside Midship 0.4L 5A-4-2/3.9
2-2-2/3.11 Vessels Under 76 m (250 ft) 5A-4-2/3.11
2-2-2/3.13 Bilge Keels 5A-4-2/3.13
2-2-2/5 Deck Plating 5A-4-2/5
2-2-2/5.1 Amidships 5A-4-2/5.1
2-2-2/5.1.1 --- 5A-4-2/5.1.1
2-2-2/5.1.2 --- 5A-4-2/5.1.2
2-2-2/5.3 Vessels Under 76 m (250 ft) 5A-4-2/5.3
2-2-2/7 Bulkhead Plating 5A-4-2/7
2-2-2/7.1 Plating Thickness 5A-4-2/7.1
2-2-2/9 Long or Wide Tanks 5A-4-2/9
2-2-2/9.1 Oiltight Bulkheads 5A-4-2/9.1
2-2-2/9.3 Nontight bulkheads 5A-4-2/9.3

ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009 595
Comparison of the Numbering System of the 2007 Guide vs. the 2009 Guide

FPI 2007 Title FPI 2009

2-2-2/11 Double Bottom Structure 5A-4-2/11
2-2-2/11.1 General 5A-4-2/11.1
2-2-2/11.3 Floors and Girders 5A-4-2/11.3
2-2-2/11.5 Inner Bottom 5A-4-2/11.5
2-2-2/11.7 Inner-Bottom Longitudinals 5A-4-2/11.7
2-2-2/11.9 Bottom Longitudinals 5A-4-2/11.9
2-2-2/13 Deep Supporting Members 5A-4-2/13
2-2-2/13.1 General 5A-4-2/13.1
2-2-2/13.3 Section Modulus 5A-4-2/13.3
2-2-2/13.5 Local Loading Conditions 5A-4-2/13.5
2-2-2/13.7 Web Portion of Members 5A-4-2/13.7
2-2-2/13.9 Proportions 5A-4-2/13.9
2-2-2/13.11 Brackets 5A-4-2/13.11
2-2-2/13.13 Stiffeners and Tripping Brackets 5A-4-2/13.13
2-2-2/13.13.1 Web Stiffeners 5A-4-2/13.13.1
2-2-2/13.13.2 Tripping Bracket 5A-4-2/13.13.2
2-2-2/13.15 Slots and Lightening Holes 5A-4-2/13.15
2-2-2/13.17 Struts 5A-4-2/13.17
2-2-2/15 Frames, Beams and Bulkhead Stiffeners 5A-4-2/15
2-2-2/15.1 Arrangement 5A-4-2/15.1
2-2-2/15.3 Structural Sections 5A-4-2/15.3
2-2-2/15.3.1 Section Modulus 5A-4-2/15.3.1
2-2-2/15.3.1(a) --- 5A-4-2/15.3.1(a)
2-2-2/15.3.1(b) --- 5A-4-2/15.3.1(b)
2-2-2/15.3.1(c) --- 5A-4-2/15.3.1(c)
2-2-2/15.3.2 Web Thickness 5A-4-2/15.3.2
2-2-2/15.5 Bilge Longitudinals 5A-4-2/15.5
2-2-2/15.7 Vessels Under 76 m (250 ft) 5A-4-2/15.7
2-2-2/17 Structure at Ends 5A-4-2/17
2-2-2/ Table 1 Values of q for Ordinary Strength Steel 5A-4-2/Table 1
2-2-2/ Table 2 Minimum Thickness for Web Portions of Members 5A-4-2/Table 2
2-2-2/ Figure 1 Coefficients and Lengths for Transverses 5A-4-2/Figure 1
2-2-2/ Figure 2 Lengths with Brackets 5A-4-2/Figure 2
2-2-2/ Figure 3 Spans of Members and Effective Lengths of Heights of Brackets 5A-4-2/Figure 3
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 2 Ship-Type Vessels Under (150 meters (492 feet) in Length)
Section 3 Cargo Oil and Associated Systems
Section 2-2-3 Cargo Oil and Associated Systems Section 5A-4-3
Part 2 Ship-Type Vessels
Chapter 2 Ship-Type Vessels Under (150 meters (492 feet) in Length)
Appendix 1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Ship-Type Vessels
Appendix 2-2-A1 Guide for Hull Girder Shear Strength for Ship-Type Vessels Section 5A-4-A1
2-2-A1/1 Introduction 5A-4-A1/1
2-2-A1/3 Allowable Still-water Shearing Force 5A-4-A1/3
2-2-A1/3.1 Considering the Side Shell Plating 5A-4-A1/3.1
2-2-A1/3.3 Considering Various Longitudinal Bulkhead Plating 5A-4-A1/3.3
2-2-A1/3.5 Reduction for Local Loads 5A-4-A1/3.5
2-2-A1/3.5.1 --- 5A-4-A1/3.5.1
2-2-A1/3.5.2 --- 5A-4-A1/3.5.2
2-2-A1/3.5.3 --- 5A-4-A1/3.5.3
2-2-A1/3.5.4 --- 5A-4-A1/3.5.4
2-2-A1/5 Distribution Factors 5A-4-A1/5
2-2-A1/5.1 For Vessels Having Two Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-4-A1/5.1
2-2-A1/5.3 For Vessels Having Three Longitudinal Bulkheads 5A-4-A1/5.3
2-2-A1/Figure 1 Center Tank Region 5A-4-A1/Figure 1

596 ABS GUIDE FOR BUILDING AND CLASSING FLOATING PRODUCTION INSTALLATIONS . 2009