Experimental Validation of a New Shallow Water CALM Buoy Design

This paper presents an overview of the model testing of a new turret-type CALM buoy concept developed by WISON for shallow water (20m–80m) applications. In the WISON design the outer body of the buoy is hexagonal, a geometry that allows for ease of fabrication while retaining hydrodynamic efficiency. The overall objective of the model tests was to demonstrate the performance of this new design for a typical shallow water environment under both operating and survival conditions. Additionally, the model tests were intended to provide data to calibrate the numerical models for buoy motions and line tensions used in the design, and to give guidance regarding the suitability of the buoy freeboard and deckhouse arrangement.