Ice action on fixed offshore structures: a state-of-the-art review

Abstract

The methods and approaches for calculating global ice loads on fixed offshore structures are critically reviewed. The review covers both the mechanical approaches used in load calculation and the probabilistic methods used to deal with the uncertainties involved. The paper gives a brief review of background information related to ice conditions, ice-load characterization, and ice mechanics. Load calculation methods for different types of ice behaviour are reviewed for vertical structures, as well as sloping-sided structures. Size effects are discussed, and the effects of rubble piles on ice loads are briefly reviewed. The emphasis of the review is on summarizing the different models and approaches reported in the literature, and making evaluations, comments, and suggestions for further research from the viewpoint of choosing design criteria. Key words: ice-structure interaction, design criteria, ice indentation, probabilistic load assessment, Arctic structures, size effects.