Fatigue design of dynamic loaded ship structures is normally based on finite element analysis using shell elements where the welds are not included in the analysis models. Finite element analyses of a fatigue-tested hopper knuckle type specimen were performed for calibration of analysis methodology in a joint industry project. The test specimen was analyzed using solid and shell elements. Only the solid element models included the weld geometry. In the present work, the finite element analyses were extended to other geometries at web-stiffened cruciform joints such as typical found at hopper connections, at stringer heels, and at joints connecting deck structures to vertical members in ship structures. Based on the result from these analyses, a methodology for derivation of hot spot stress at welded connections accounting for the weld size using shell finite element models was developed. The basis for this procedure is presented in this paper.
Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd. (DSME), StatoilHydro and DNV established a common project to investigate the reason for the difference between calculated fatigue lives and the in-service experience and to assess the fatigue capacity of stiffener web connections subjected mainly to web frame shear stresses. The main objective of the work was to establish fatigue test data and perform numerical analysis of collar plate connections in order to provide improved confidence in analysis methodology for fatigue life assessment. Large scale fatigue tests of different types of connections were carried out to obtain fatigue test data of collar plate connections. Finite element analyses were carried out for comparison with fatigue test data and with measured stresses on the test model. Based on this work recommendations on fatigue design analysis of connections between stiffeners and web frames have been derived. The background for this is presented in this paper.
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