Numerical Calculation and Model Test Study on a Quay Mooring Semi-Submersible Drilling Platform

This paper introduces the study in both numerical calculation and model test of a Semi-submersible drilling platform moored along the quayside of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. (SWS). To obtain reliable quay mooring system for a SEMI in the out-fitting condition, complicated factors, such as a barge is applied between the SEMI and the quayside, quayside has practical limited conditions, nonlinear characteristics of mooring lines and fenders, etc., are firstly discussed. Then based on several simplifications, static analysis about different environmental conditions, normal and typhoon, are carried out, in order to design the preliminary layouts. Later on, model test with the scale of 1:50 is conducted in the basin of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU). Results between numerical simulation and model test are compared and the dynamic effect created by wave is investigated. Several principles for quay mooring layout of semi-submersible drilling platform have been concluded.