Development Company

SUCTION PILE DESIGN SPECIFICATION

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

This cover page is a record of all revisions of the standard/specification identified above by number and title. All previous
cover pages are hereby superseded and are to be destroyed.

0
REV

9/12/00
DATE

BY

CHKD

ENG
APPV

GLH
EMDC
APPV

Issued for Reference Project

DESCRIPTION

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EXXONM OBIL DEVELOPMENT COMPANY HOUSTON, TX

EXXONMOBIL DEVELOPMENT
COMPANY
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page i of ii
Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Table of Contents
1.

2.

3.

Scope...............................................................................................................................1
1.1.

Introduction............................................................................................................1

1.2.

Design Assumptions..............................................................................................1

References......................................................................................................................3
2.1.

Project Specifications............................................................................................3

2.2.

Industry Codes and Standards.............................................................................3

2.3.

Design Reports......................................................................................................4

Definitions.......................................................................................................................5
3.1.

General..................................................................................................................5

3.2.

Terms.....................................................................................................................5

3.3.

Acronyms...............................................................................................................7

4.

Pre-Design Deliverables................................................................................................8

5.

Pile Loads.......................................................................................................................9

6.

5.1.

Floating Systems...................................................................................................9

5.1.1.

Mooring.........................................................................................................................................9

5.2.

Subsea Systems..................................................................................................11

5.3.

Suction Pile Installation Analysis.........................................................................11

5.4.

Transportation......................................................................................................11

5.5.

Lifting...................................................................................................................11

Geotechnical Suction Pile Design..............................................................................12

6.1.

Suction Pile Design Basis...................................................................................12

6.1.1.
6.1.2.

Floating Systems.........................................................................................................................12
Subsea Manifold..........................................................................................................................14

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7.

8.

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page ii of ii
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Sept. 12, 2000

6.2.

Design.................................................................................................................14

6.2.1.
6.2.2.

General........................................................................................................................................14
Suction-Installed Anchor Pile Sizing (Geotechnical Design)........................................................15

6.3.

Suction Pile Installation.......................................................................................19

6.3.1.
6.3.2.
6.3.3.

Embedment..................................................................................................................................19
Removal......................................................................................................................................19
Pile Retrieval and Reinstallation..................................................................................................20

6.4.

Geotechnical Design Deliverables......................................................................20

Structural Suction Pile Design....................................................................................22

7.1.

General Design Requirements............................................................................22

7.1.1.
7.1.2.

Floating Systems.........................................................................................................................22
Subsea Systems...........................................................................................................................22

7.2.

Design and Analysis............................................................................................22

7.2.1.
7.2.2.
7.2.3.
7.2.4.
7.2.5.
7.2.6.
7.2.7.
7.2.8.
7.2.9.
7.2.10.

In-Place Finite Element Analysis..................................................................................................22

Allowable Stresses and Usage Factors.........................................................................................23
Buckling Checks..........................................................................................................................23
Fatigue Analysis..........................................................................................................................25
Mooring Chain Padeye Connection..............................................................................................26
Transportation and Lift................................................................................................................26
Materials, Welding and Fabrication.............................................................................................27
Classification of Structural Steel.................................................................................................27
Tolerances....................................................................................................................................29
Metocean Criteria........................................................................................................................29

7.3.

Corrosion.............................................................................................................29

7.4.

Paint....................................................................................................................30

7.5.

Appurtenances....................................................................................................30

Company Intervention..................................................................................................31

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page 1 of 30
Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

1. Scope
1.1.

Introduction
This document describes the general geotechnical and structural design requirements for the
suction installed mooring piles (hereafter referred to as suction piles) for floating systems
(Surface Wellhead Platform (SHWP), Floating Production Storage Offloading vessel
(FPSO), oil offloading system, and riser supports), and subsea systems (subsea manifolds).
This specification assumes the suction piles will be designed and installed in normally to
slightly over-consolidated clayey soils.
The primary objective of this document is to provide a basis and methodology for the
design of the suction piles. This document summarizes the design requirements and
specifies the various analyses that shall be performed in the design and verification of the
suction piles. This document will also serve as a reference guide for third party verification
efforts and classification society review.
The CONTRACTOR shall use the most recent issue of the codes and standards listed in
Section 2.0 as part of this specification. If any conflicts exist between this specification
and the codes and standards referenced, the requirements of this specification shall govern.
Any conflict in Specifications shall be submitted to the COMPANY for resolution.

1.2.

Design Assumptions
Functional requirements are:

Must withstand the long-term static and dynamic loading.

Capacities shall be degraded as appropriate for (a) cyclic degradation of soil

strength, (b) creep, and (c) pile-soil setup for the initial loading history of the piles.

Analysis shall reflect positioning tolerances for installation (refer to

installation specifications).

Suction-installed anchor piles shall be designed for the same in-place suite of
global load conditions as the component that it supports. The suction piles supporting
floating system moorings shall be designed to withstand maximum intact and one line
damaged mooring loads.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

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Sept. 12, 2000

The design process shall comprise the following engineering activities:

1. Global sizing of the suction pile based on soil strength properties;
2. Global sizing of the suction pile to ensure that the pump-in suction pressure is
acceptable for the available soil strength (i.e., soil plug stability check);
3. Global sizing of the suction pile to ensure that the pump-out pressure is acceptable for
the available soil strength, in case that anchor removal is necessary;
4. Structural design for maximum installed loads and soil reactions, including detailed
design of the padeye area for the local stresses due to the mooring line loads and the
padeye castings;
5. Structural design for pump-in operation and, if applicable, for pump-out/pull-out
operation;
6. Design of appurtenances and pile top configuration for installation and for recovery.
The following design assumptions have been adopted in developing these specifications.
These assumptions shall be honored by the structural designer, suction pile fabricator and
the foundation installation contractors in developing their respective designs.

Flow channels will not occur near the pile-soil interface

Full frictional resistance can be developed along the pile wall requiring
minimal soil displacement during installation

Reverse end-bearing can potentially be developed, requiring that the pile enter
the soil with low displacement of soils (e.g. minimal heave of soil plug at the mudline)

body.

The pile behaves with respect to foundation behavior mechanics as a rigid

These assumptions collectively result in the following restrictions in design:

Piles shall include no internal or external ring stiffeners

Soil plug heave and internal pressures will be monitored to ensure that rate of
installation for self-weight and suction penetration occurs at a rate that will not cause
plug heave. Refer to installation specifications.

Piles shall behave elastically for all design loading conditions.

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COMPANY
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page 3 of 30
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Sept. 12, 2000

2. References
The DDCV (hull and mooring system) is considered to be a site-specific, fixed offshore installation that
will be unflagged. Det Norske Veritas (DNV) has been engaged by COMPANY to provide
classification services to ensure the various elements of the DDCV are designed, constructed, installed
and commissioned in compliance with a variety of classification society rules and guidelines,
recommended practices, codes, etc. DNVs classification scope of work is outlined in DNV letter
RNA440/CRCO/DWT2940-J-11, titled SWHP Class Requirements.

2.1.

Project Specifications
EMDC-EDE-G-NS-0230.2001, Design of Deck Structures for Floating Offshore
Platforms
EMDC-EDE-G-NS-0106.2001, Fabrication of Deck Structure for Offshore Platforms
EMDC-EDE-G-MS-0260.2002, Structural Materials
EMDC-EDE-G-KS-0213.2001, Structural Welding and Inspection of Offshore Platforms
EMDC-EDE-G-MS-0262.4007, Painting General Requirements
EMDC-BRE-C-NS-0217.1001, DDCV Hull Casting Specification
EMDC-BRE-G-ZS-0121.1002, General Glossary Specification

2.2.

Industry Codes and Standards

American Institute of Steel Construction
AISC ASD

Specification for Structural Steel Buildings Allowable

Stress Design

American Petroleum Institute (API)

API RP 2A

Recommended Practice for Planning, Designing, and

Constructing Fixed Offshore Platforms

API-RP-2SK

Recommended Practice for Design and Analysis of

Stationkeeping Systems for Floating Structure

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Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page 4 of 30

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

American Welding Society (AWS)

AWS D1.1

Structural Welding Code Steel

Det Norske Veritas (DNV)

2.3.

DNV MOU Rules

Rules for Classification of Mobile Offshore Units

DNV CN 30.1

Classification Note No. 30.1, Buckling Strength Analysis

DNV CN 30.2

Classification Note No. 30.2, Fatigue Strength Analysis for

Mobile Offshore Units

DNV Marine Ops

Rules for Planning and Executing Marine Operations

DNV RP B401

Recommended Practice Cathodic Protection System Design

(1993)

Design Reports
None referenced.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

3.

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page 5 of 30
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Sept. 12, 2000

Definitions
3.1.

General
Unless noted below, terms and acronyms used in this specification shall be interpreted as
defined in General Glossary Specification, EMDC-BRE-G-SZ-0121-1002, or by a standard
English dictionary if not listed in the General Glossary Specification.

3.2.

Terms
The following terms shall be interpreted in this Specification as meaning:
Wave Frequency Range -

The range of frequencies containing wave energy. Wave

frequencies are specified as cycles per second or radians
per second. It is also used as a specific description. For
example, wave frequency motions are responses with
frequencies within the wave frequency range.

Low Frequency Range -

The range of frequencies lower than the wave frequency

range. It is also used as a specific description. For example,
low frequency motions are responses with frequencies
within the low frequency range.

Cut-off Frequency

A specified frequency defining the division between wave

frequency and low frequency ranges. A typical cut-off
frequency for the DDCV global performance analysis is
0.03 Hz (33.3 seconds).

Sea-state

The environmental conditions (wind, waves, and current)

existing at a given site over a finite period of time.

Wave Spectrum

A statistical description of regular wave components giving

the distribution of energy used to analytically model an
ocean wave environment.

Wind Spectrum

A statistical description of wind components giving the

distribution of energy used to analytically model an ocean
wind environment.

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Suction Pile Design

Specifications

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001
Page 6 of 30
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Sept. 12, 2000

Data Sheet:

A data sheet is a type of report used to facilitate data

transfer between disciplines. Data sheets typically contain
particular response summaries to be used as design input
for riser, structural, etc. designs. Detailed technical
descriptions of the assumption, models, etc., will be
reserved for the main analysis report.

Anchor Points

Locations on the seabed where anchors are set.

Catenary

The shape assumed by a mooring line suspended between

the mooring fairlead and seafloor. If buoys or clump
weights are included, then a compound catenary shape
results.

Dip Zone

This is the segment of mooring line between touchdown points

at the seabed when the line is most loaded and most slack. It
is the segment that incurs the most abrasion because of cyclic
contact with the seabed. Generally, a length of chain is
provided in the dip zone.

Dynamic Mooring
Line Analysis

A time domain finite element analysis procedure where the line

tensions due to fairlead wave frequency motions are explicitly
computed. This may also be done in frequency domain,
which is fast but involves simplifying assumptions that may
impact accuracy. It may be done in time domain which is
longer, more expensive but most accurate. API and Class
Societies recognize both methods.

Mean Offset

The amount of horizontal movement of the vessel from the

initial position to its equilibrium position when the system
restoring forces and moments balance mean environmental
forces and moments.

Quasi-Static Analysis

A frequency domain analysis procedure where the maximum

mooring line tension is obtained by simple horizontal
translation of the fairlead point by the predicted maximum
offset position. Line tensions due to low frequency motions
will in general be accurately estimated but may be
significantly underestimated for wave frequency motions.

Restoring Force

The longitudinal and transverse forces and moments created

by the resultant of all of the mooring lines tensions as the

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Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

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Rev. 0

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vessel moves in response to environmental loads. A

restoring force curve plots restoring force versus vessel
offset.

3.3.

Break Strength
Safety Factor

This is the ratio of the new catalog break strength of the

mooring line component to its predicted maximum tension.
The catalog break strength used will be for the nominal line
diameter after deducting corrosion and abrasion allowances.

Seabed Slope

Defined from the bathymetry of the seafloor and linearized

within the touchdown range for each anchor.

Alpha Factor

a measure of pile-soil setup versus time expressed as a

percentage of the fully consolidated pile soil frictional
resistance

Remotely Operated Vehicle

Acronyms
ROV

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Specifications

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

4. Pre-Design Deliverables
The following deliverables shall be issued by CONTRACTOR to COMPANY during early project
execution:
Suction Pile Design & Analysis Methodology A methodology document providing detailed
discussions and descriptions of the specific software and other analytical tools that will be used to
perform both preliminary pile sizing and final design. Modeling techniques, design constraints,
assumptions, and methodologies will be described. Method of performing preliminary sizing to
optimize the pile aspect ratio (L/D) versus steel weight prior to final suction pile design shall also
be described. The analysis tools and methods to be used shall be approved in advance by
COMPANY.
Analysis Matrix Data Sheet A data sheet identifying the controlling load cases, seastates, and
environmental headings to be analyzed during the detailed suction pile design. This will include the
mooring line tensions for the intact and damaged conditions. It will also include the build-up and
decay data used to evaluate soil strength degradation due to cyclic loading.
Anchor Design Data Sheet - A data sheet listing the installation assumptions for verticality,
horizontal placement and padeye rotation (see Section 6.2.2.5).

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Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

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5. Pile Loads
5.1.

Floating Systems
5.1.1.

Mooring
5.1.1.1.

Environmentally Derived Loads (Current and

Storm)

Environmentally derived loads applied to the suction pile by the mooring line
will be obtained from dynamic mooring analyses approved by COMPANY.
The environmentally derived loads will generally consist of a mean offset load
with a cyclic component.
Seasonal Environmental Conditions
In offshore locations where extreme environmental conditions occur on a
seasonal basis, a two-tier criterion will be employed in evaluating the suction
pile response to the applied loading. This criterion includes: (1) seasonal
environmental loads, generally less severe than maximum storm conditions,
applied immediately after the hull is attached, and (2) extreme environmental
loads that may occur several months after installation is complete. The
CONTRACTOR shall evaluate the following loading conditions:
Load Condition 1: The appropriate storm loading (minimum 10 year
storm) or, if applicable, loop current loading will be applied, and mooring
line loads calculated corresponding to the environmental conditions that
prevail at the time the project schedule indicates the anchor lines are
attached to the hull. This calculation of mooring line loads will consider
both intact and one-line damaged conditions.
Load Condition 2: The maximum storm load for the 100-year return
period extreme environmental conditions will be applied, and mooring line
loads calculated. This calculation will also consider both intact and oneline damaged conditions.

Non- Seasonal Environmental Conditions

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EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

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In offshore locations where extreme environmental conditions occur on a nonseasonal basis, Load Conditions 1 and 2 shall be consolidated, and the design
shall consider the most severe environmental loading applied at the time the
anchor lines are attached to the hull.
If it is necessary to commence suction pile design work prior to the completion
of dynamic mooring analyses, then suitably factored quasi-static loads may be
used for preliminary suction pile design.

5.1.1.2.

Long Term Sustained Loads

The CONTRACTOR shall evaluate the pretension loads in the anchor piles
for the maximum pretension allowed in the operating manual.

5.1.1.3.

Build-up and Decay

Mooring tensions will be provided to the suction pile designer that will allow
the impact of cyclic loading on the soil strength to be assessed. The mooring
tensions will be evaluated during the build-up and decay of the 100 year
design event. A rainflow or similar method shall be used to provide the
geotechnical designer with the cyclic components of the loading. These cyclic
components will be filtered into low frequency T>30 seconds and wave
frequency T<30 seconds prior to the rainflow analysis is performed.

5.1.1.4.

Fatigue Loads

Mooring tensions will be provided to the suction pile structural designer that
will allow the impact of fatigue loading to be assessed. The mooring tensions
will be evaluated for the full scatter diagram. These cyclic components will be
filtered into low frequency T>30 seconds and wave frequency T<30 seconds
prior to the fatigue summary. It is assumed that a spectral fatigue analysis
will be performed. The suction pile designer will be provided with both the
wave frequency RMS tension and zero crossing period and the low frequency
RMS tension and zero crossing period. The suction pile designer can
calculate the fatigue damage from these two types of loadings in two ways as
outlined in API RP 2SK.
The fatigue damage can be calculated for these terms separately and
then summed.
A combined RMS tension and zero crossing period can be calculated
and used to determine the total damage.
The CONTRACTOR must verify the validity of the method chosen as
described in API RP 2SK.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

5.2.

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page 11 of 30
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Sept. 12, 2000

Subsea Systems
The pipeline manifold will apply mainly steady-state loads to the anchor piles. These loads
include compression, lateral, moment, and torsion. Short-term loads that may be applied
include those due to thermal expansion and contraction. For the subsea manifold
foundation, the CONTRACTOR shall evaluate the suction pile response to the following
loading conditions:

Load Condition 1: The appropriate installation loading shall be applied. Such

loading may include, but not limited to, loads due to the mating of the manifold and pile
in addition to the manifold submerged weight, flowline/pipeline pull-in load while
connecting to manifold, etc.

Load Condition 2: The appropriate in-service loading shall be applied. Such

loading may include, but not limited to, submerged weight of the manifold, loads due to
fluid flow and thermal expansion/contraction, etc

5.3.

Suction Pile Installation Analysis

Loads associated with the suction pile embedment and removal shall be developed based on
installation scenarios. The installation CONTRACTOR shall be consulted to jointly
develop the installation scenarios for analysis.

5.4.

Transportation
The structure shall be analyzed for the forces imposed during transportation. The forces
shall include the self weight of the suction anchor and inertial loads developed from a
motion analysis.

5.5.

Lifting
The suction pile and lift attachments (padeyes, trunnions, etc.) shall be analyzed for lift for
the loads during installation and removal onto the transport barges, and during mooring
installation

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Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

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6. Geotechnical Suction Pile Design

6.1.

Suction Pile Design Basis

6.1.1.

Floating Systems
6.1.1.1.

Dynamic Mooring Analyses

Final suction pile design shall be based on the pile loads obtained from
dynamic mooring analysis, and the following load factors and soil resistance
factors:
For Intact Mooring System:

Load Factor =

Soil Resistance Factor = 0.80

1.30

For One-line Damaged Mooring:

Load Factor =

Soil Resistance Factor = 0.90

1.20

In the calculation of suction pile axial capacity (when subject to maximum

dynamic loading), pile suction may be considered for environmentally derived
loads such as peak storm loads, provided the pile is fitted with a closed top
and means of closure for vent openings and the pump suction fitting are
provided and it can be demonstrated that the suction will not degrade over the
life of the structure (minimum 25 years). Pile suction shall not be considered
for long duration loads, such as the pretension load, the maximum anchor load
at the mean offset due to 100-year metocean events, or for loop current
loads(if applicable), unless suitable data are available for demonstrating that
suction can be safely relied upon.

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6.1.1.2.

Sept. 12, 2000

Pretension Load Analysis

The pretension load analysis shall evaluate the suction pile design to minimize
the potential for long term pile displacements due to creep. The analysis shall
evaluate the suction pile design for the condition of the vertical component of
the pretension anchor load resisted by pile axial skin friction.
For maximum allowable pretension in the anchor the following load and
resistance factors shall be used:

Axial Load Factor =

1.30

Axial Soil Friction Resistance Factor =

0.30

6.1.1.3.

Sustained Tension Load Analyses (Riser

Supports Only)

Suction piles may also support other component structures (e.g. risers) that
apply vertical uplift and lateral loading to the foundation. For these
structures, the CONTRACTOR shall evaluate the anchor pile design to
minimize the potential for progressive pile failure and long term pile
displacements due to creep. The analysis shall evaluate the anchor pile design
for the tension load resisted by the pile axial skin friction and, if applicable,
lateral loads and associated moments.
For load cases that include lateral loading and/or moments, the soil skin
friction resistance from the mudline to the first point of zero lateral deflection
shall be ignored. The CONTRACTOR shall account for soil degradation due
to cyclic loading, as appropriate.
For maximum allowable pretension in the anchor the following load and
resistance factors shall be used:

Axial Load Factor =

1.30

Axial Soil Friction Resistance Factor =

0.30

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6.1.2.

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

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Sept. 12, 2000

Subsea Manifold
The compressive load analysis shall evaluate the anchor pile design for
adequate bearing capacity. The analysis shall consider dead loads - D, live
loads - L (e.g. fluid flow and thermal expansion/contraction) and moments
associated with both loading conditions.
The following load and resistance factors shall be used:

6.2.

Load Factors =

1.3D+1.5L

Axial Soil Resistance Factor =

0.7

Design
6.2.1.

General
Suction piles are typically used in conjunction with taut-leg type mooring
lines, due to this pile design's capability of withstanding horizontal and
vertical loads. The suction piles shall be designed to withstand maximum
intact and one line damaged mooring loads.
The design process shall comprise the following engineering activities:
1. Global sizing of the suction pile based on soil strength properties;
2. Global sizing of the suction pile to ensure that the pump-in suction
pressure is acceptable for the available soil strength (i.e., soil plug
stability check);
3. Global sizing of the suction pile to ensure that the pump-out pressure is
acceptable for the available soil strength, in case that anchor removal is
necessary.

6.2.2.

Suction-Installed Anchor Pile Sizing (Geotechnical

Design)
6.2.2.1.

General

CONTRACTOR and the approved geotechnical design subcontractor shall

size the suction pile (length, diameter, wall thickness and internal bracing) to

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Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

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provide adequate capacity for the mooring line loads (combined lateral and
axial loading), and soil properties, in conjunction with the load and soil
resistance factors defined in section 6.1.1 and 6.1.2, above. The
CONTRACTOR shall calculate the potential configurations of the chain
between the seabed and the chain attachment point at the anchor, and use the
most severe conditions in design. COMPANY will provide the
CONTRACTOR soil properties for design purposes.

6.2.2.2.

Floating Systems

In carrying-out the design, the CONTRACTOR shall consider, pile set-up

(Section 6.2.2.4), soil creep, and cyclic degradation of soil strength in
calculating pile capacity. The CONTRACTOR's design may be performed
using limiting equilibrium, finite-element or other analysis methods acceptable
to COMPANY. If design studies use analysis tools other than finite element
methods, a finite element analysis shall be carried-out to verify the final
recommended design. Finite element analyses of suction piles, with the padeye located significantly below the mud-line, indicate the load versus
displacement (vertical) behavior of the pile is hyperbolic. Thus, the failure
load can be somewhat arbitrarily defined. Consequently, displacement may
become an issue and the CONTRACTOR shall verify that the pile
displacements (vertical and horizontal) do not permit excessive deformations
or potential loss of suction along the backside of the pile.

6.2.2.3.

Subsea Systems

In carrying out the suction pile design for subsea manifold, the
CONTRACTOR shall consider pile set-up (Section 6.2.2.4) and, if
applicable, soil creep and cyclic degradation of soil strength in calculating pile
capacity. The CONTRACTOR shall perform the design using analysis
methods appropriate for the principal modes of loading being considered and
resistance mechanisms of the suction pile.

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Specifications

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

6.2.2.4.

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Pile-Soil Set-up

The CONTRACTOR shall provide suitable data or perform an effective stress

analysis to determine the buildup and dissipation of excess pore pressures in
the soil as a result of installing the pile. The data or study shall address both
the soil outside the pile, and the soil plug. These results shall be used to
estimate pile set-up (gain in pile capacity with time) for both internal and
external axial friction resistance. CONTRACTOR shall document results
graphically by plotting "pile-soil set-up (%)" versus "time after pile
installation" for the selected pile geometry. The CONTRACTOR shall confer
with COMPANY during the development of the pile soil set-up curves prior to
their application for design of the suction pile.
The CONTRACTOR's suction pile design will incorporate pile-soil set-up as
described in the following load conditions. In order to perform these analyses,
it will be necessary for the CONTRACTOR to obtain the pile installation
schedule from the installation CONTRACTOR.
The pile design drawings shall state the minimum time between pile
installation and attachment to the hull.
6.2.2.4.1.

Floating Systems
Seasonal Environmental Conditions
Load Condition 1: The CONTRACTOR shall use a pile-soil set-up factor(s)
for both internal and external skin friction corresponding to the project
schedule's time interval between the pile last installed, and the attachment of
the hull. If the sequence of pile installation is known, then different set-up
factors may be applied to individual piles.
Load Condition 2: The CONTRACTOR shall use a pile-soil set-up factor(s)
for both internal and external skin friction corresponding to the project
schedule's time interval between the pile last installed and the first potential
occurrence of the extreme environmental load. If less than full pile set-up has
occurred, then different set-up factors may be applied to individual piles.
Non-Seasonal Environmental Conditions
The design procedures described under Load Condition 2, above, shall apply.
Pretension Load Case
The design procedures described under Load Condition 1, above, shall apply.

6.2.2.4.2.

Subsea Systems
Compressive Load Case

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Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

The CONTRACTOR shall use a pile-soil set-up factor for both external and
internal skin friction corresponding to the project schedule's time interval
between pile installation and application of the structure. If the pile is
designed to mobilize the end bearing capacity, then full end bearing resistance
shall be used to calculate pile capacity at the time of installation.

6.2.2.5.

Pile Sensitivity Studies

The following applies only to suction piles for surface wellhead platform,
floating production storage offloading and oil offloading systems. The suction
pile design calculations shall include sensitivity studies to demonstrate that the
solution has been optimized and is robust. These studies shall include the
following:
1. Calculation of the change in pile capacity for the following three
scenarios:
a) Pile penetration of 1.5 and 3 m less than design penetration.
b) Full penetration but assuming the top 1.5 and 3m are disturbed during
installation (or later eroded) and, therefore, provide negligible axial
and lateral resistance.
c) Padeye is 1.5m higher and lower than the selected optimum depth
2. Develop a suite of pile capacity curves, for cases shown in the figure
below in which the pile is not in vertical alignment and for misorientation
of the padeye. The analysis will consider:
a) the pile out of vertical alignment + 2.5; +5.0; -2.5; -5.0 in
directions both parallel and perpendicular to the mooring line direction
(no torsional misorientation)
b) a "misorientation" analysis considering the padeye torsionally rotated
5 and 10 out of alignment.
c) Integration of these analyses (a and b) will be necessary to account for
combined effects.

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Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Installation tolerance
governing for lateral
resistance

In s ta lla tio n to le r a n c e
g o v e r n in g fo r v e r tic a l
r e s is ta n c e

Seabed

Seabed

Mooring line

Minimum
penetration

M o o r in g lin e

M in im u m
p e n e tr a t io n

Target
penetration

T a rg e t
p e n e tr a tio n

M o o r in g lin e

O r ie n t a tio n to le r a n c e

3. Investigate the influence on pile capacity of relocating one or more piles a

distance of 60m from the original design location, in directions both
inboard and outboard relative to the DDCV. Calculate required changes
in pile length to satisfy design load changes and/or estimated soil
variability for this movement (if soil variability is not explicit in the
geotechnical report, modified load and resistance factors should be
developed in consultation with COMPANY).
4. Establish the minimum relative x-y spacing of the piles within pile
clusters, should the original pile configuration need to be modified during
installation.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

6.3.

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Suction Pile Installation

6.3.1.

Embedment
The CONTRACTOR shall calculate the allowable differential pressure inside
the pile during self-weight penetration, in order to prevent the channeling of
water through the soil plug and along the outside wall of the pile. The
allowable differential pressure shall not exceed 50% (F.S. = 2.0) of the value
to cause incipient flow (maximum differential pressure). The
CONTRACTOR shall report the results as a graph of "allowable differential
pressure and maximum differential pressure" versus "penetration below the
mudline".
The pile geometry will also be selected to ensure that the maximum vacuum
required for pump-in embedment will not exceed 50% of the critical vacuum
at which soil plug heave inside the pile can occur. This will provide a safety
factor against soil plug uplift of 2.0 during all phases of the pump-in
embedment. The pump-in suction required at increasing pile penetration will
be plotted against the suction causing soil plug uplift in order to check that the
required safety factor will be met anywhere between self penetration and
maximum penetration.
For the purpose of sizing the suction pumps, an upper bound, static undrained
soil shear strength profile will also be developed for the stratigraphy. For pile
installation, alpha values less than the reciprocal of the soil sensitivity shall
not be used. The design and the upper bound undrained soil shear strength
profiles will be provided to the installation CONTRACTOR for pump design.

6.3.2.

Removal
The suction pile design shall account for removal of the pile within a seven (7)
day period after embedment proceeds. Pump-out pressure shall be based on
pile resistance corresponding to seven (7) days of set-up. This pressure shall
not exceed 75% of the pressure at which plug failure occurs. It shall be
assumed that the recovery vessel will be capable of applying an uplift load at
the top of the pile, which will be well in excess of the submerged pile weight.
Since the pump-out pressure is typically higher than the maximum embedment
vacuum, the pump-out pressure may govern the structural design of the pile
top. This shall be taken into account when defining the suction pile geometry.

6.3.3.

Pile Retrieval and Reinstallation

It may be assumed that the vessel used for the suction pile recovery will be
capable of applying a lifting load in excess of the submerged pile weight at the
top of the pile. The lifting load shall be calculated based on the capacity of

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

the type of winches used on large anchor handling vessels, and on the strength
of the wire rope and spreader bar used for installation of the suction anchor.
With regard to reinstallation of the pile, analyses will be performed to
determine the minimum x-y distances that the pile can be reinstalled relative to
the original pile location. In the calculations, the following plug conditions
will be assumed: (1) the soil plug is extruded and remains intact when the pile
is retrieved; and (2) the soil plug is removed with the pile.

6.4.

Geotechnical Design Deliverables

The CONTRACTOR shall submit a final report and drawings as final documentation of
their work. The final report shall contain the following information:
1. Introduction - Describes the project and the work performed.
2. Summary and Recommendations Documents main findings, design assumptions
(including those in Section 4, above) and recommendations.
3. Background Information Containing sections including:

Detailed discussion of analysis procedure.

Validation of design procedure

Soil parameter selection.

Design loads.

4. Design and Analysis Contains design analyses, results and recommendations for:

Pile capacity and pile geometry.

Soil reactions for structural design.

Chain configuration.

Results of sensitivity studies (see Section 6.2.2.5)

Pile installation by self-weight and suction, and pile retrieval/removal.

Pile installation procedures and recommended instrumentation and data acquisition

systems to monitor and record real time during installation: (a) pile position; (b) tilt
in both the north-south and east-west directions; (c) pile orientation (torsion)
relative to the desired orientation; (d) penetration rate; (e) internal differential
pressure; (f) total penetration; (g) internal soil plug heave; and (h) pump speed

5. Suction Pile Structural Design Report a technical report providing a detailed

description of the structural design of the suction piles, including drawings showing the
particulars and dimensions of the mooring piles.

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Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

6. Appendices - Contains details of each of the sections in the main body of the report.
The CONTRACTOR shall submit a draft written final report for review by COMPANY
prior to submitting the final report. The CONTRACTOR shall incorporate in the final
written report all reasonable modifications to the draft final report requested by
COMPANY.

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Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

7. Structural Suction Pile Design

7.1.

General Design Requirements

7.1.1.

Floating Systems
The suction pile structure shall be designed to withstand the maximum loads
(and corresponding soil reactions) applied by the mooring line, the maximum
vacuum required for pile embedment, and the maximum internal pressure
required for pile pump-out (Sections 5.1, 5.3, 5.4 and 5.5).

7.1.2.

Subsea Systems
The suction pile structure shall be designed to withstand loads applied by the
following: maximum operational loads, transportation, lifting, lowering, the
maximum vacuum required for pile embedment, and the internal pressure
required for pile pump-out (Section 5.1, 5.3, 5.4 and 5.5) and recovery.

7.2.

Design and Analysis

7.2.1.

In-Place Finite Element Analysis

Stresses in suction piles used for the mooring of floating systems shall be
determined by detailed shell element finite element analysis. Finite element
stresses should be obtained for the main body (cylinder), pile top, internal
stiffening and padeye. Gravity and mooring loads (Section 5.0) should be
considered. The effect of the surrounding soil shall be accounted for either by
applying the soil reactions to the model or as part of the stiffness model.
Detailed shell element finite element analysis is generally not required for
subsea system foundations.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

7.2.2.

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Allowable Stresses and Usage Factors

The nominal Von-Mises (equivalent) stress shall not exceed the maximum
permissible stress as calculated below:

p = 0 Fy
Where:
0 = basic usage factor
Fy = material yield strength
The basic usage factor shall be 0.8 for the maximum in-place loading
condition and 0.6 for normal operating, transportation, lifting, lowering and
recovery
It should be noted that the permissible stresses are based on the fiber stresses
for simple beam analyses, and the membrane, or mid-thickness, stresses for
finite element analyses using plate elements.
For laterally loaded plates also exposed to inplane (e.g. membrane) stresses,
the surface Von Mises stress computed at the middle of the plate field (e.g.
midway between stiffeners and/or girders) shall not exceed the following:

p = (0 + 0.1) Fy
However, the nominal elastic stress calculated in the middle of the plate field
due to lateral pressure acting alone shall not exceed 0Fy.

7.2.3.

Buckling Checks
The buckling strength of the piles shall be checked in accordance with the
DNV Rules for Classification of Mobile Offshore Units, Part 3, Chapter 1,
Section 5 and DNV Classification Note 30.1 Buckling Strength Analysis.
The maximum permissible value of the usage factor, p, shall be calculated as
follows:

p = 0
Where:
=
coefficient depending on the type of structure and reduced
slenderness, , as per Table 7.1
0 = basic usage factor, as per Section 7.2.2

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EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

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Rev. 0

Table 7.1 Coefficient

Type of Structure
Unstiffened flat plate panels
Girders, beams, stiffeners
on plates and shells
Columns, beam-columns
Shells of single curvature
Shells of double curvature

Sept. 12, 2000

0.2
1.10
1.00

0.2 < < 1.0

1.10
1.00

1.0
1.10
1.00

1.00
1.00
0.80

1.025 0.125
1.050 0.250
0.840 0.200

0.90
0.80
0.64

Buckling checks for piles used to moor floating systems shall be based on the
results of the finite element analysis.

7.2.4.

Fatigue Analysis
Fatigue damage is to be considered for the in-place condition. The total
fatigue damage times a safety factor of 10 shall be less than unity for the
design life of the platform.
Fatigue analysis of suction piles used to support subsea systems is required
only for piles subjected to significant dynamic loading. Analysis methodology
should follow DNV CN 30.2.
The fatigue analysis of suction piles used for mooring floating systems shall
be based on a spectral analysis using appropriate S-N data and stresses from
highly refined FE models. The detailed fatigue analysis for stiffened plate
structural details shall be consistent with the fatigue analysis principles set
forth in "FPSO Fatigue Methodology Specification", COMPANY Report No.
99-3053 (herein referred to as FMS).
The general methodology for the fatigue analysis of suction piles used for
mooring shall be consistent with Section 8.4 of the DDCV Hull Structural
Design Specification, EMDC-BRE-C-NS-0201.1001. The following
guidance can be found in this document:

General Methodology

Selection of Fatigue Details

Selection of Fatigue Control Points and S-N Curves

Computation of Stress RAOs

Fatigue Damage Calculations

Misalignment

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Rev. 0

7.2.5.

Suction Pile Design

Sept. 12, 2000

Treatment of Welds to Improve Fatigue Life

Mooring Chain Padeye Connection

Mooring chain padeye connections shall be designed to satisfy both strength
and fatigue requirements.
The padeye shall be designed for a maximum load equal to the break strength
of the chain multiplied by a load factor of 1.2. The orientation of the design
load shall be the calculated orientation plus a +/- 5 degree allowance for
vertical misalignment and a +/- 10 degree allowance for torsional
misalignment. A usage factor of 0.8 shall be applied in conjunction with this
load.
Design calculations for padeyes shall include bearing, pull out, shear, axial,
bending, and combined stress checks for the critical sections of the main plate,
cheek plate and all weldments.
Plate thickness, plate size, and pin hole diameter shall be proportioned to
accommodate the selected shackle without excessive strain to the shackle and
pin.
The mooring chain padeye connection shall also be analyzed using a local
finite element model that includes the primary structural elements framing into
the padeye,. The finite element model shall be used to verify strength for the
maximum design load and to determine hot spot stresses for fatigue analysis.
The finite element analysis shall be perfomed in accordance with the general
guidelines given in Section A5.9 of EMDC-EDE-G-NS-0230.2001, Design of
Deck Structures for Floating Offshore Platforms.
In many cases, a cast padeye arrangement will be utilized. For cast padeyes, a
detailed finite element analysis using three-dimensional brick elements shall
be performed.

7.2.6.

Transportation and Lift

The analysis and design of the suction anchor and the lift attachments for
transportation and lift shall be in accordance with Section 5.6 and Section 5.7
of EMDC-EDE-G-NS-0230.2001, Design of Deck Structures for Floating
Offshore Platforms.

7.2.7.

Materials, Welding and Fabrication

Requirements for materials, welding, welding inspection and fabrication for
the suction pile structure are given in project specifications as noted in Section
2.1.

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7.2.8.

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

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Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Classification of Structural Steel

All steel in the suction piles shall be classified as shown in the table below.
The design requirements for a given structure are a function of this
classification.
Primary structure is defined as those structural elements essential to the
overall integrity of the suction pile. The following table summarizes the
classification suction pile components:

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

Table 7.2 Classification of Suction Pile Structural Steel

Structura
l
Category
A

Item Description

Yield
Type

Min. Yield
Strength

Toughness Requirements

(Mpa)

T < 0.75"
(19mm)

0.75"(19mm) T
2.0"(50 mm)

T > 2.0"
(50mm)

248

NA

NA

NA

II

344

CV2

CV2Z4

CV2ZX

III

412

CV2

CV2ZX

CV2ZX

PRIMARY MEMBERS

248

NT

CV1

CV2

Pile Shell, Pile Shell

Stiffeners, Diaphragm
plates, Diaphragm
brackets, Pile Top, Pile
Top Stiffener

II

344

CV1

CV2

CV2X

III

412

CV2

CV2Z5

CV2X

SECONDARY MEMBERS

248

NT

NT

CV1

Chain Hang-Off padeye

II

344

CV1

CV1

CV1

III

412

CV2

CV2

CV2Z5

248

NA

NA

NA

II

344

CV2Z4

CV2ZX

CV2ZX

III

412

CV2Z4

CV2ZX

CV2ZX

PRIMARY MEMBERS w/
Through thickness loading

MOORING CONNECTION
PADEYE AND LIFTING
POINTS
Padeye main plates and
attachment points
SPECIAL

Cast Padeyes or other cast

components

II
III

See Casting Specification

DDCV Hull Casting Specification
EMDC-BRE-C-NS-0217.1001,

Notes:
NT No impact testing required
CV1 Charp V-Notch category 1 as defined below
CV2 Charp V-Notch category 2 as defined below
Z4 Through thickness testing required - API S4
Z5 Sulfur limit to improve through thickness properties - API S5
X API RP2Z Prequalified steel - API S11
ZX API S4+S11
Table 7.3 Structural Steels Minimum Performance Requirements
Toughness Classes

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Specified Minimum
Yield Strength
Mpa
(ksi)
240/248

Yield Type
I
II
III

Suction Pile Design

EMDC-BRE-C-JS-0332.1001

Specifications

Page 28 of 30
Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

NT(1)

CV1(1)

CV2 (1)

(No testing)

Test @ LAST

Test @ 30C (54F)

below LAST

20 J

20 J

20 J

(35/36)

(15 ft lbs)

(15 ft lbs)

(15 ft lbs)

344

35 J

35 J

35 J

(50)

(25 ft lbs)

(25 ft lbs)

(25 ft lbs)

412

45 J

45 J

45 J

(60)

(35 ft lbs)

(35 ft lbs)

(35 ft lbs)

Notes:
For some grades of steels the steel standard requirements for impact testing may be more or less
stringent than required in the specification. Where there is a conflict between the specification and
any steel standard requirements, the more stringent requirements have been specified in the steel
specifications.

7.2.9.

Tolerances
Requirements for construction tolerances of the suction piles are given in
project specifications noted in Section 2.1.

7.2.10.

Metocean Criteria
Design conditions for the transportation analysis will be determined by
COMPANY as required by the project on a case by case basis.

7.3.

Corrosion
The suction piles shall have a cathodic protection system design to provide the required
design life for the piles. All internal and external surfaces (submerged or buried) shall be
protected by galvanic anodes. The design basis and calculations shall be conducted in
accordance with DnV RP B401 Recommended Practice Cathodic Protection System Design
(1993). Due to the stagnant conditions, the design current density for internal surfaces of
the pile shall be 1.0 mA/ft2. The anodes shall be placed above the mudline. The
CONTRACTOR shall provide COMPANY, for review and approval, a Cathodic Protection
System Design Report for the suction piles.

7.4.

Paint
The CONTRACTOR shall have the piles painted as follows:

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

7.5.

Rev. 0

Sept. 12, 2000

1.

The section of the pile that will be designed to be above the mudline including the
pile top will be painted a high visibility yellow.

2.

The pile will be marked in 0.25 meter increments on the side of the pile in order to
gauge penetration during self embedment and embedment. The distance from the
pile bottom will be marked numerically every meter in 1/3-meter high numbers.

3.

The pile top will be marked with a pile number and lift weight.

Appurtenances
The structural design CONTRACTOR will be required to interface with the installation
CONTRACTOR to determine the requirements for installation interfaces. These should
include but are not limited to the following:
1. Suction Port Typically a 20 API flange. This flange must be set high enough to
allow the suction skid to land and maneuver with out interfering with anodes or other
appurtenances on the pile top.
2. Lowering padeyes or trunions The configuration of these appurtenances shall
properly interface with the lowering equipment used by the installation
CONTRACTOR
3. Vent ports the top of the pile shall be fitted with closable vents used to vent water
during self-penetration and closed for suction embedment. These ports shall be large
enough to allow the pile to be self penetrated at a sufficient speed without risking pile
instability or damage to the soil around the pile due to blow-by.
4. Bullseye Used to view the pile verticality using the ROV.
5. Transponder frames used to house the transponder used to locate the piles during
installation. These frames shall be placed such that the transponders do not interfere
with the installation operations and such that they can easily be recovered.
6. Handling Padeyes The CONTRACTOR shall install such padeyes as required by the
installation contractor for the handling of the suction piles.

8. Company Intervention
The following table highlights all of the areas in this specification that require COMPANY intervention
or approval in the design process suction piles.
SECTION
1.1 Scope

4.0 Deliverables

INTERVENTION
Any conflict in Specifications shall be submitted to
COMPANY for resolution.
Pre-design deliverables that CONTRACTOR

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

Rev. 0

SECTION

5.0 Pile Loads

5.1 Floating Systems
5.1.1 Mooring
5.1.1.1 Environmentally Derived Loads
6.0 Geotechnical Suction Pile Design
6.2 Design
6.2.2 Suction Installed Anchor Pile Sizing
6.2.2.1 General
6.0 Geotechnical Suction Pile Design
6.2 Design
6.2.2 Suction Installed Anchor Pile Sizing
6.2.2.2 Floating Systems
6.0 Geotechnical Suction Pile Design
6.2 Design
6.2.2 Suction Installed Anchor Pile Sizing
6.2.2.4 Pile Soil Set-Up
6.0 Geotechnical Suction Pile Design
6.2 Design
6.2.2 Suction Installed Anchor Pile Sizing
6.2.2.5 Pile Sensitivity Studies

6.0 Geotechnical Suction Pile Design

6.4 Geotechnical Design Deliverables

7.0 Structural Suction Pile Design

7.2 Design and Analysis
7.2.10 Metocean Criteria

Sept. 12, 2000

INTERVENTION
must clear with COMPANY are : (1) Analysis
methodology (software and analysis tools); (2)
Data sheet identifying load cases; (3) Pile
design data sheet listing assumptions for
verticality, placement tolerance, rotation.
Mean and offset storm loads derived from
mooring analyses shall be approved by
COMPANY

COMPANY will provide the CONTRACTOR soil

properties for design purposes

Suction pile capacity analysis methods shall

be approved in advance by COMPANY.

CONTRACTOR shall confer with COMPANY

during the development of the pile soil set-up
curves prior to their application to design

When checking the effect of shifting 60m from

the target location, if soil variability is not
explicit in the geotechnical report, modified
load and resistance factors should be
developed in consultation with COMPANY
CONTRACTOR shall submit draft written final
design report for review by COMPANY prior to
submitting the final report.
Design conditions for the transportation
analysis will be determined by COMPANY as
required on the project on a case by case
basis.

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