DNVGL-OS-C103. Structural Design of Column Stabilised units-LRFD Method. 2018

OFFSHORE STANDARDS
DNVGL-OS-C103 Edition July 2015

Amended July 2018
Structural design of column stabilised units

- LRFD method
The electronic pdf version of this document, available free of charge

from http://www.dnvgl.com, is the officially binding version.
DNV GL AS
FOREWORD
DNV GL offshore standards contain technical requirements, principles and acceptance criteria
related to classification of offshore units.
© DNV GL AS July 2015
Any comments may be sent by e-mail to [email protected]
This service document has been prepared based on available knowledge, technology and/or information at the time of issuance of this
document. The use of this document by others than DNV GL is at the user's sole risk. DNV GL does not accept any liability or responsibility
for loss or damages resulting from any use of this document.
CHANGES – CURRENT
Changes - current
This document supersedes the July 2015 edition of DNVGL-OS-C103.
Changes in this document are highlighted in red colour. However, if the changes involve a whole chapter,
section or subsection, normally only the title will be in red colour.
Amendments July 2018

Topic Reference Description
Guidance note included with reference given to DNVGL-

Reference to DNVGL-OTG-13
Ch.2 Sec.3 [4.1.1] OTG-13 and DNVGL-OTG-14 for air gap predication and
and DNVGL-OTG-14
wave impact loads.
Guidance note included for model test specification and

Ch.2 Sec.3 [2.1.2]
model test reporting.
Editorical updates and Old subsection [2.2] removed and replaced with a
App.A [2.1.3]
references guidance note.
App.C [2.2.4] New subsection added with value for Cd.
App.C [3.2.3] Formula updated.
Main changes July 2015

• General
The revision of this document is part of the DNV GL merger, updating the previous DNV standard into a DNV
GL format including updated nomenclature and document reference numbering, e.g.:
— Main class identification 1A1 becomes 1A.
— DNV replaced by DNV GL.
— DNV-RP-A201 to DNVGL-CG-0168. A complete listing with updated reference numbers can be found on
DNV GL's homepage on internet.
To complete your understanding, observe that the entire DNV GL update process will be implemented
sequentially. Hence, for some of the references, still the legacy DNV documents apply and are explicitly
indicated as such, e.g.: rules for ships has become DNV rules for ships.
Editorial corrections
In addition to the above stated changes, editorial corrections may have been made.
Offshore standards, DNVGL-OS-C103. Edition July 2015, amended July 2018 Page 3
Structural design of column stabilised units - LRFD method
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CONTENTS
Contents
Changes – current............................................................ 3
Chapter 1 Introduction..................................................... 6
Section 1 Introduction......................................................................................................... 6
1 General.................................................................................................................6
2 References........................................................................................................... 7
3 Definitions............................................................................................................ 7
4 Symbols................................................................................................................8
Chapter 2 Technical content........................................... 10

Section 1 Structural categorisation, material selection and inspection principles.............. 10
1 General...............................................................................................................10
2 Structural categorisation....................................................................................10
3 Material selection...............................................................................................11
4 Inspection categories.........................................................................................12
5 Categorisation and inspection level for typical column-stabilised unit details.... 12
Section 2 Design loads...................................................................................................... 15
1 Introduction....................................................................................................... 15
2 Definition........................................................................................................... 15
3 Permanent loads (G)..........................................................................................15
4 Variable functional loads (Q)............................................................................. 15
5 Environmental loads (E).................................................................................... 17
6 Deformation loads (D)....................................................................................... 19
7 Accidental loads (A)...........................................................................................20
8 Fatigue loads......................................................................................................20
9 Combination of loads......................................................................................... 20
Section 3 Ultimate limit states (ULS)................................................................................ 21
1 General...............................................................................................................21
2 Method of analysis............................................................................................. 22
3 Scantlings and weld connections....................................................................... 23
4 Air gap............................................................................................................... 24
Section 4 Fatigue limit states (FLS).................................................................................. 25
1 General...............................................................................................................25
2 Fatigue Analysis................................................................................................. 26
Section 5 Accidental limit states (ALS)............................................................................. 29
1 General...............................................................................................................29
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2 Collision..............................................................................................................29
Contents
3 Dropped object.................................................................................................. 30
4 Fire.....................................................................................................................30
5 Explosion............................................................................................................30
6 Heeled condition................................................................................................ 31
Section 6 Special considerations....................................................................................... 32
1 Redundancy........................................................................................................32
2 Support of mooring equipment, towing brackets etc......................................... 32
3 Structural details............................................................................................... 32
Chapter 3 Classification and certification........................33

Section 1 Classification...................................................................................................... 33
1 General...............................................................................................................33
Appendix A Permanently installed units......................... 34

1 Introduction.......................................................................................... 34
2 Fatigue.................................................................................................. 34
Appendix B Methods and models for design of column-

stabilised units............................................................ 36
1 Methods and models............................................................................. 36
Appendix C Column-stabilized units strength

requirements for transit in ice.....................................38
1 General..................................................................................................38
2 Ice design loads.................................................................................. 42
3 Shell plating.......................................................................................... 43
4 Frames.................................................................................................. 44
5 Special arrangement............................................................................. 45
Changes – historic..........................................................47
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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
Chapter 1 Section 1
SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION
1 General
1.1 General
This offshore standard provides requirements and guidance for the structural design of column-stabilised
units, constructed in steel.
1.2 Objectives
The objectives of this standard are to:
— provide an internationally acceptable standard of safety by defining minimum requirements for design of
column-stabilised units
— serve as a contractual reference document between suppliers and purchasers
— serve as a guideline for designers, suppliers, purchasers and regulators
— specify procedures and requirements for column-stabilised units subject to DNV GL verification.
1.3 Assumptions and applications
1.3.1 The requirements and guidance documented in this standard are generally applicable to all
configurations of column-stabilised units, including those with:
— ring pontoons
— twin pontoons.
1.3.2 A column-stabilised unit is a floating structure that can be relocated. A column-stabilised unit normally
consists of a deck box with a number of widely spaced, large diameter, supporting columns that are attached
to submerged pontoons.
1.3.3 Column-stabilised unit may be kept on station by either a passive mooring system, e.g. anchor lines,
or an active mooring system, e.g. thrusters, or a combination of these methods.
1.3.4 Requirements concerning mooring and riser systems are not considered in this standard.
1.3.5 A column-stabilised unit may be designed to function in a number of modes, e.g. transit, operational
and survival. Limiting design criteria modes of operation shall be clearly established and documented. Such
limiting design criteria shall include relevant consideration of the following items:
— intact condition, structural strength
— damaged condition, structural strength
— air gap
— watertight integrity and hydrostatic stability.
1.3.6 For novel designs, or unproved applications of designs where limited or no direct experience exists,
relevant analyses and model testing, shall be performed to clearly demonstrate that an acceptable level of
safety is obtained.
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Chapter 1 Section 1
1.3.7 The standard has been written for general world-wide application. Governmental regulations may
include requirements in excess of the provisions given by this standard depending on the size, type, location
and intended service of an offshore unit or installation.
2 References
The offshore standards, recommended practices and classification notes given in Table 1 are referred to in
this standard.
Table 1 DNV GL and DNV reference documents
Reference Title
DNVGL-OS-A101 Safety principles and arrangement
DNVGL-OS-B101 Metallic materials
DNVGL-OS-C101 Design of offshore steel structures, general - LRFD method
DNVGL-OS-C301 Stability and watertight integrity
DNVGL-OS-C401 Fabrication and testing of offshore structures
DNVGL-OS-D101 Marine and machinery systems and equipment
DNVGL-OS-D301 Fire protection
DNVGL-OS-E301 Position mooring
DNVGL-RP-C103 Column-stabilised units
DNVGL-RP-C203 Fatigue strength analysis
DNVGL-RP-C205 Environmental conditions and environmental loads
DNVGL-OTG-13 Predication of air gap for column stabilised units
DNVGL-OTG-14 Horizontal wave impact loads for column stabilised units
3 Definitions
3.1 Verbal forms
Table 2 Verbal forms
Term Definition
shall verbal form used to indicate requirements strictly to be followed in order to conform to the document
verbal form used to indicate that among several possibilities one is recommended as particularly suitable,
should without mentioning or excluding others, or that a certain course of action is preferred but not necessarily
required
may verbal form used to indicate a course of action permissible within the limits of the document
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Chapter 1 Section 1
3.2 Terms
3.2.1 Transit conditions: All unit movements from one geographical location to another.
3.2.2 Standard terms are given in DNVGL-OS-C101.
4 Symbols
4.1 Latin characters
= the intercept of the design S-N curve with the log N axis
ah = horizontal acceleration
av = vertical acceleration
2
g0 = 9.81 m/s acceleration due to gravity
h = Weibull shape parameter
hop = vertical distance from the load point to the position of maximum filling height
M = mass of cargo, equipment or other components
m = the inverse slope of the S-N curve
n0 = total number of stress fluctuations during the lifetime of the structure
ni = number of stress fluctuations in i years
pd = design pressure
pdyn = pressure head due to flow through pipes
zb = vertical distance in m from the moulded baseline to the load point
Cw = reduction factor due to wave particle motion (Smith effect)
DD = vertical distance from the moulded baseline to the underside of the deck structure
DFF = Design fatigue factor
PHd = horizontal design force
PVd = vertical design force
extreme operational draught measured vertically from the moulded baseline to the assigned
TE =
load waterline.
4.2 Greek characters

Γ = gamma function
α = angle
ρ = density
γc = contingency factor
τd = nominal design shear stress in the girder adjusted for cut-outs
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γf = partial load factor
Chapter 1 Section 1
γf,E = partial load factor for environmental loads
γf,G,Q = partial load factor for functional and variable loads.
4.3 Abbreviations
Abbreviations used in this standard are given in DNVGL-OS-C101.
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CHAPTER 2 TECHNICAL CONTENT
Chapter 2 Section 1
SECTION 1 STRUCTURAL CATEGORISATION, MATERIAL SELECTION
AND INSPECTION PRINCIPLES
1 General
1.1 Scope
1.1.1 This section describes the structural categorisation, selection of steel materials and inspection
principles to be applied in design and construction of column-stabilised units.
1.1.2 The structural application categories are determined based on the structural significance,
consequences of failure and the complexity of the joints. The structural application category set the selection
of steel quality and the inspection extent of the welds.
1.1.3 The steel grades selected for structural components shall be related to weldability and requirements for
toughness properties and shall be in compliance with the requirements given in the DNVGL-OS-B101.
2 Structural categorisation
Application categories for structural components are defined in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.3. Structural
members of column-stabilised units are grouped as follows:
Special category
a) Portions of deck plating, heavy flanges, and bulkheads within the upper hull or platform which form
“box” or “I” type supporting structure which receive major concentrated loads.
b) External shell structure in way of intersections of vertical columns, decks and lower hulls.
c) Major intersections of bracing members.
d) “Through” material used at connections of vertical columns, upper platform decks and upper or lower
hulls which are designed to provide proper alignment and adequate load transfer.
e) External brackets, portions of bulkheads, and frames which are designed to receive concentrated loads at
intersections of major structural members.
f) Areas of concentrated loads in elements of supporting structure of anchor line fairleads and winches,
crane pedestals, flare etc.
Figure 1 to Figure 4 show typical examples of special structures.
Primary category
a) Deck plating, heavy flanges, and bulkheads within the upper hull or platform which form “box” or “I”
type supporting structure which do not receive major concentrated loads.
b) External shell structure of vertical columns, lower and upper hulls, and diagonal and horizontal braces.
c) Bulkheads, decks, stiffeners and girders which provide local reinforcement or continuity of structure in
way of intersections, except areas where the structure is considered for special application.
d) Main support structure of heavy substructures and equipment, e.g. anchor line fairleads, cranes, drillfloor
substructure, life boat platform, thruster foundation and helicopter deck.
Secondary category
a) Upper platform decks, or decks of upper hulls except areas where the structure is considered primary or
special application.
b) Bulkheads, stiffeners, flats or decks and girders in vertical columns, decks, lower hulls, diagonal and
horizontal bracing, which are not considered as primary or special application.
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c) Deckhouses.
Chapter 2 Section 1
d) Other structures not categorised as special or primary.
3 Material selection
3.1 General
3.1.1 Material specifications shall be established for all structural materials. Such materials shall be suitable
for their intended purpose and have adequate properties in all relevant design conditions. Material selection
shall be undertaken in accordance with the principles given in DNVGL-OS-C101.
3.1.2 When considering criteria appropriate to material grade selection, adequate consideration shall be
given to all relevant phases in the life cycle of the unit. In this connection there may be conditions and
criteria, other than those from the in-service operational phase that provide the design requirements in
respect to the selection of material. (Such criteria may, for example, be design temperature and/or stress
levels during marine operations.)
3.1.3 In structural cross-joints essential for the overall structural integrity where high tensile stresses
are acting normal to the plane of the plate, the plate material shall be tested to prove the ability to resist
lamellar tearing (Z-quality).
3.1.4 Material designations are defined in DNVGL-OS-C101.
3.2 Design and service temperatures
3.2.1 The design temperature for a unit is the reference temperature for assessing areas where the unit
can be transported, installed and operated. The design temperature shall be lower or equal to the lowest
mean daily temperature in air for the relevant areas. For seasonal restricted operations the lowest mean daily
temperature in air for the season may be applied.
3.2.2 The service temperatures for different parts of a unit apply for selection of structural steel. The service
temperatures are defined as presented in [3.2.3] to [3.2.6]. In case different service temperatures are
defined in [3.2.3] to [3.2.6] for a structural part the lower specified value shall be applied.
3.2.3 External structures above the light transit waterline shall not be designed for a service temperature
higher than the design temperature for the unit.
However, for column-stabilised units of conventional type, the pontoon deck need not be designed for service
temperatures lower than 0ºC.
For units intended to navigate in ice conditions, see App.C.
3.2.4 External structures below the light transit waterline need not be designed for service temperatures
lower than 0ºC.
3.2.5 Internal structures of columns, pontoons and decks shall have the same service temperature as the
adjacent external structure, if not otherwise documented.
3.2.6 Internal structures in way of permanently heated rooms need not to be designed for service
temperatures lower than 0ºC.
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4 Inspection categories
Chapter 2 Section 1
4.1 General
4.1.1 Welding and the extent of non-destructive testing during fabrication, shall be in accordance with the
requirements stipulated for the appropriate inspection category as defined in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.3.
4.1.2 Inspection categories determined in accordance with DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.3 provide
requirements for the minimum extent of required inspection. When considering the economic consequence
that repair during in-service operation may entail, for example, in way of complex connections with limited or
difficult access, it may be considered prudent engineering practice to require more demanding requirements
for inspection than the required minimum.
4.1.3 When determining the extent of inspection and the locations of required NDT, in additional to
evaluating design parameters (for example fatigue utilisation), consideration should be given to relevant
fabrication parameters including:
— location of block (section) joints
— manual versus automatic welding
— start and stop of weld, etc.
5 Categorisation and inspection level for typical column-stabilised

unit details
5.1 General
5.1.1 Figure 1 to Figure 4 illustrate minimum requirements for structural categorisation and extent of
inspection for typical column-stabilised unit configurations.
5.1.2 In way of the pontoon and column connection as indicated in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the pontoon
deckplate should be the continuous material. These plate fields should be of material with through-thickness
properties (Z-quality material).
5.1.3 Shaded areas indicated in the figures are intended to be three-dimensional in extent. This implies that,
in way of these locations, the shaded area is not only to apply to the outer surface of the connection, but
is also to extend into the structure. However, stiffeners and stiffener brackets within this area should be of
primary category and the bracket toe locations on the stiffeners should be designated with mandatory MPI.
5.1.4 Stiffeners welded to a plate categorised as special area should be welded with full penetration welds
and no notches should be used.
5.1.5 The inspection categories for general pontoon, plate butt welds and girder welds to the pontoon shell
are determined based upon, amongst others, accessibility and fatigue utilisation.
5.1.6 Major bracket toes should be designated as locations with a mandatory requirement for MPI. In
way of the brace connections as indicated Figure 3, the brace and brace bracket plate fields should be the
continuous material. These plate fields should be material with through-thickness properties (Z-quality
material).
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Chapter 2 Section 1
5.1.7 In way of the column and upper hull connection as indicated in Figure 4 the upper hull deckplate
should be the continuous material. These plate fields should be material with through-thickness properties
(Z-quality material).
1)
This is normally fatigue critical, an hence the inspection category is increased from II to I, see DNVGL-OS-
C101 Ch.2 Sec.3 [3.3.5].
Figure 1 Pontoon and column connection, twin pontoon design
Figure 2 Column and ring pontoon connection, ring-pontoon design
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Chapter 2 Section 1
Figure 3 Brace connection
Figure 4 Connection column and upper hull
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SECTION 2 DESIGN LOADS
Chapter 2 Section 2
1 Introduction
1.1 General
1.1.1 The requirements in this section define and specify load components and load combinations to be
considered in the overall strength analysis as well as design pressures applicable for local design.
1.1.2 Characteristic loads shall be used as reference loads. Design loads are, in general, defined in DNVGL-
OS-C101 and described in DNVGL-RP-C103 and DNVGL-RP-C205. Guidance concerning load categories
relevant for column-stabilised unit designs are given in this section.
2 Definition
2.1 Load point
2.1.1 The load point for which the design pressure for a plate field shall be calculated, is defined as midpoint
of a horizontally stiffened plate field, and half of the stiffener spacing above the lower support of vertically
stiffened plate field, or at lower edge of plate when the thickness is changed within the plate field.
2.1.2 The load point for which the design pressure for a stiffener shall be calculated, is defined as midpoint
of the span. When the pressure is not varied linearly over the span, the design pressure shall be taken as
the greater of the pressure at the midpoint, and the average of the pressures calculated at each end of the
stiffener.
2.1.3 The load point for which the design pressure for a girder shall be calculated, is defined as midpoint of
the load area.
3 Permanent loads (G)

Permanent loads are loads that will not vary in magnitude, position, or direction during the period
considered, and include:
— lightweight of the unit, including mass of permanently installed modules and equipment, such as
accommodation, helideck, drilling and production equipment
— hydrostatic pressures resulting from buoyancy
— pretension in respect to mooring, drilling and production systems, e.g. mooring lines, risers etc. See
DNVGL-OS-E301.
4 Variable functional loads (Q)

4.1 General
4.1.1 Variable functional loads are loads that may vary in magnitude, position and direction during the period
under consideration.
4.1.2 Except where analytical procedures or design specifications otherwise require, the value of the variable
loads utilised in structural design shall be taken as either the lower or upper design value, whichever gives
the more unfavourable effect. Variable loads on deck areas for local design are given in DNVGL-OS-C101
Ch.2 Sec.2 [4.2].
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Chapter 2 Section 2
4.1.3 Variations in operational mass distributions, including variations in tank load conditions in pontoons,
shall be adequately accounted for in the structural design.
4.1.4 Design criteria resulting from operational requirements shall be fully considered. Examples of such
operations may be:
— drilling, production, workover, and combinations thereof
— consumable re-supply procedures
— maintenance procedures
— possible mass re-distributions in extreme conditions.
4.1.5 Dynamic loads resulting from flow through air pipes during filling operations shall be adequately
considered in the design of tank structures.
4.2 Tank loads
4.2.1 A minimum design density (ρ) of 1.025 t/m should be considered in the determination of the required
3
scantlings of tank structures.
4.2.2 The extent to which it is possible to fill sounding, venting or loading pipe arrangements shall be fully
accounted for in determination of the maximum design pressure to which a tank may be subjected to.
4.2.3 Dynamic pressure heads resulting from filling of such pipes shall be included in the design pressure
head where such load components are applicable.
4.2.4 All tanks shall be designed for the following internal design pressure:
where:
2
av = maximum vertical acceleration, (m/s ), being the coupled motion response applicable to
the tank in question
hop = vertical distance (m) from the load point to the position of maximum filling height. For
tanks adjacent to the sea that are situated below the extreme operational draught (TE),
hop should not be taken less than from the load point to the static sea level.
Descriptions and requirements related to different tank arrangements are given in
DNVGL-OS-D101 Ch.2 Sec.3 [3.3] and DNVGL-OS-D101 Ch.2 Sec.3 [5.2.1].
γ f,G,Q = partial load factor, for permanent and functional loads see Sec.3 Table 1
γ f,E = partial load factor for environmental loads, see Sec.3 Table 1.
4.2.5 For tanks where the air pipe may be filled during filling operations, the following additional internal
design pressure conditions shall be considered:
pd = (ρ g0 hop + pdyn) γf,G,Q (kN/m2)
where:
pdyn = pressure (kN/m2) due to flow through pipes, minimum 25 kN/m2.
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Guidance note:
Chapter 2 Section 2
This internal pressure need not to be combined with extreme environmental loads. Normally only static global response need to be
considered.
---e-n-d---o-f---g-u-i-d-a-n-c-e---n-o-t-e---
4.2.6 For external plate field boundaries, it is allowed to consider the external pressure up to the lowest
waterline occurring in the environmental extreme condition, including relative motion of the unit.
Guidance note:
For preliminary design calculations, av may be taken as 0.3 g0 and external pressure for external plate field boundaries may be
taken up to half the pontoon height.
4.2.7 In cases where the maximum filling height is less than the height to the top of the air pipe, it shall be
ensured that the tank will not be over-pressured during operation and tank testing conditions.
4.2.8 Requirements for testing of tank tightness and structural strength are given in DNVGL-OS-C401 Ch.2
Sec.8.
5 Environmental loads (E)

5.1 General
5.1.1 General considerations for environmental loads are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.1 [5] and
DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.2, and DNVGL-RP-C205.
5.1.2 Combinations of environmental loads are stated in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.2 Table 4.
5.1.3 Typical environmental loads to be considered in the structural design of a column-stabilised unit are:
— wave loads, including variable pressure, inertia, wave 'run-up', and slamming loads
— wind loads
— current loads
— snow and ice loads.
5.1.4 The following responses due to environmental loads shall be considered in the structural design of a
column-stabilised unit:
— dynamic stresses for all limit states
— rigid body motion, e.g. in respect to air gap and maximum angles of inclination
— sloshing
— slamming induced vibrations
— vortex induced vibrations,e.g. resulting from wind loads on structural elements in a flare tower
— environmental loads from mooring and riser system.
5.1.5 For column-stabilised units with traditional catenary mooring systems, earthquake loads may normally
be ignored.
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Chapter 2 Section 2
5.2 Sea pressures
5.2.1 For load conditions where environmental load effects shall be considered the pressures resulting from
sea loading shall include consideration of the relative motion of the unit.
5.2.2 The design sea pressure acting on pontoons and columns of column-stabilised platforms in operating
conditions shall be taken as:
where:
and
where:
TE = operational draught (m) measured vertically from the moulded baseline to the assigned load
waterline. If the unit has more than one operational draught, the draught providing the highest
pressure shall be used
Cw = reduction factor due to wave particle motion (Smith effect) Cw = 0.9 unless otherwise
documented
DD = vertical distance in m from the moulded baseline to the underside of the deck structure
(the largest relative distance from moulded baseline to the wave crest may replace DD if this is
proved smaller)
zb = vertical distance in m from the moulded baseline to the load point
ps = permanent sea pressure
pe = environmental sea pressure.
5.2.3 When pressures are acting on both sides of bulkheads, the load factor shall be applied to the net
pressure.
5.2.4 The Smith effect (Cw = 0.9) shall only be applied for loading conditions including extreme wave
conditions.
5.3 Wind loads
5.3.1 Wind loads shall be accounted for in the design of topside structures subject to significant wind
exposure, e.g. modules, equipment, exposed structures on deck etc. The mean wind speed over 1 minute
period at actual position above the sea level shall be used, when the wind loads are combined with
accelerations loads from waves.
5.3.2 For structures where wind loads are governing, the mean wind speed period shall be reduced.
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Guidance note:
Chapter 2 Section 2
For structures not being sensitive to wind gusts a mean wind speed of 3 s may be used for structures with maximum dimension of
50 m and 15 s for larger structures.
5.3.3 For structures where Vortex-Shedding may occur, additional assessments of the structure shall be
carried out.
Guidance note:
It is recommended to design the structure so that the structure is not prone to Vortex -Shedding. See DNVGL-RP-C205 for further
information.
2
5.3.4 The pressure acting on vertical external bulkheads exposed to wind shall not be less than 2.5 kN/m ,
unless otherwise documented.
5.3.5 For units intended for unrestricted service (worldwide operation) a wind speed of v1min10m=51.5 m/s
for 100year return period will cover most locations. For units intended for long term service at one offshore
location relevant site specific values shall be used. Wind speed values for some locations might be found in
DNVGL-OS-E301 Ch.2 Sec.1 [2.3.4].
5.3.6 Further details regarding wind design loads are given in DNVGL-RP-C205.
Guidance note:
For units intended for World Wide Operation the wind profile as given in DNVGL-RP-C205 may be used. For units intended for long
term service at one offshore location appropriate wind profile is to be used.
5.4 Heavy components

The forces acting on supporting structures and lashing systems for rigid units of cargo, equipment or other
structural components should be taken as:
For components exposed to wind, a horizontal force due to the design gust wind shall be added to PHd.
2
av = vertical acceleration (m/s )
2
ah = horizontal acceleration (m/s )
M = mass of cargo, equipment or other components (t)
PVd = vertical design force
PHd = horizontal design force.
Further considerations with respect to environmental loads are given in DNVGL-RP-C205.
6 Deformation loads (D)

Deformation loads are loads caused by inflicted deformations, such as:
— temperature loads
— built-in deformations.
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Further details and description of deformation loads are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.2 [8].
Chapter 2 Section 2
7 Accidental loads (A)
The following ALS events shall be considered in respect to the structural design of a column-stabilised unit:
— collision
— dropped objects, e.g. from crane handling
— fire
— explosion
— unintended flooding.
Requirements and guidance on accidental loads are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 and generic loads are given in
DNVGL-OS-A101.
8 Fatigue loads
8.1 General
8.1.1 Repetitive loads, which may lead to significant fatigue damage, shall be evaluated. The following listed
sources of fatigue loads shall, where relevant, be considered:
— waves (including those loads caused by slamming and variable (dynamic) pressures)
— wind (especially when vortex induced vibrations may occur)
— currents (especially when vortex induced vibrations may occur)
— mechanical loading and unloading, e.g. crane loads.
The effects of both local and global dynamic response shall be properly accounted for when determining
response distributions related to fatigue loads.
8.1.2 Further considerations in respect to fatigue loads are given in DNVGL-RP-C203 and DNVGL-RP-C205.
9 Combination of loads
9.1 General
9.1.1 Load factors and load combinations for the design limit states are in general, given in DNVGL-OS-
C101.
9.1.2 Structural strength shall be evaluated considering all relevant, realistic load conditions and
combinations. Scantlings shall be determined on the basis of criteria that combine, in a rational manner, the
effects of relevant global and local responses for each individual structural element.
Further guidance on relevant load combinations is given in DNVGL-RP-C103.
9.1.3 A sufficient number of load conditions shall be evaluated to ensure that the characteristic largest (or
smallest) response, for the appropriate return period, has been established.
DNV GL AS
SECTION 3 ULTIMATE LIMIT STATES (ULS)
Chapter 2 Section 3
1 General
1.1 General
1.1.1 General requirements in respect to methods of analysis and capacity checks are given in DNVGL-OS-
C101.
Detailed considerations with respect to analysis methods and models are given in DNVGL-RP-C103.
1.1.2 Both global and local capacity shall be checked with respect to ULS. The global and local stresses shall
be combined in an appropriate manner.
1.1.3 Analytical models shall adequately describe the relevant properties of loads, stiffness, displacement,
response, and satisfactorily account for the local system, effects of time dependency, damping and inertia.
1.1.4 Two sets of design load combinations, a) and b) shall be checked. Partial load factors for ULS checks of
column-stabilised units according to the present standard are given in Table 1.
Table 1 Load factors, ultimate limit states
Load categories
Combination
of design loads Permanent and variable
Environmental loads, γf,E Deformation loads, γf,D
functional loads, γf,G,Q
1)
a 1.2 0.7 1.0
b 1.0 1.2 1.0
1) If the load is not well defined, e.g. masses or functional loads with great uncertainty, possible overfilling of tanks
etc., the coefficient should be increased to 1.3.
1.1.5 The loads shall be combined in the most unfavourable way, provided that the combination is physically
feasible and permitted according to the load specifications. For permanent and variable functional loads, a
load factor of 1.0 shall be used in load combination a) where this gives the most unfavourable response.
1.1.6 The material factorγM for ULS yield check should be 1.15 for steel structural elements. Material factors
γM for ULS buckling checks and bolt connections are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.4. Material factors γM
for ULS weld connections are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.8.
1.2 Global capacity
1.2.1 Gross scantlings may be utilised in the calculation of hull structural strength, provided a corrosion
protection system in accordance DNVGL-OS-C101, is maintained.
1.2.2 Ultimate strength capacity check shall be performed for all structural members contributing to the
global and local strength of the column-stabilised unit. The structures to be checked includes, but are not
limited to, the following:
DNV GL AS
— outer skin of pontoons
Chapter 2 Section 3
— longitudinal and transverse bulkheads, girders and decks in pontoons
— connections between pontoon, columns and bracings
— bracings
— outer skin of columns
— decks, stringers and bulkheads in columns
— main load bearing bulkheads, frameworks and decks in the deck structure
— connection between bracings and the deck structure
— connection between columns and the deck structure
— girders in the deck structure.
1.3 Transit condition
1.3.1 The structure shall be analysed for zero forward speed. For units in transit with high speed, also
maximum speed shall be considered in the load and strength calculations.
Guidance note:
Roll and pitch motion at resonance should be somewhat smaller than calculated by a linear wave theory due to flow of water on top
of the pontoons. This effect may be accounted for provided rational analysis or tests prove its magnitude.
1.3.2 Slamming on bracings shall be considered as a possible limiting criterion for operation in transit. The
effect of forward speed shall be accounted for in the slamming calculations.
2 Method of analysis
2.1 General
2.1.1 The analysis shall be performed to evaluate the structural capacity due to global and local effects.
Consideration of relevant analysis methods and procedures are given in DNVGL-RP-C103, and in App.B.
2.1.2 Model testing shall be performed when significant non-linear effects cannot be adequately determined
by direct calculations. In such cases, time domain analysis may also be considered as being necessary. Model
tests shall also be performed for new types of column-stabilised units.
Guidance note:
— Model test specification should be made in ample time prior to the model test campaign. All relevant aspects should be
addressed, e.g. purpose of the test(s), test set up, selection of sea states and number of tests for each sea condition.
— The model test report should include the same information as the specification. Deviations from the specification should be
addressed. Possible uncertainties and sources of errors should be included and discussed when presenting the results.
2.1.3 Where non-linear effects may be considered insignificant, or where such loads may be satisfactorily
accounted for in a linear analysis, a frequency domain analysis may be adequately and satisfactorily
undertaken. Transfer functions for structural response shall be established by analysis of an adequate
number of wave directions, with an appropriate radial spacing. A sufficient number of periods shall be
analysed to:
— adequately cover the site specific wave conditions
— satisfactorily describe transfer functions at, and around, the wave “cancellation” and “amplifying” periods
— satisfactorily describe transfer functions at, and around, the heave resonance period of the unit.
DNV GL AS
Chapter 2 Section 3
2.1.4 Global, wave-frequency, structural responses shall be established by an appropriate methodology, e.g.:
— a regular wave analysis
— a design wave analysis
— a stochastic analysis.
2.1.5 Design waves established based on the design wave method, see DNVGL-RP-C103, shall be based on
the 90% fractile value of the extreme response distribution (100 years return period) developed from contour
lines and short term extreme conditions.
2.1.6 A global structural model shall represent the global stiffness and should be represented by a large
volume, thin-walled three dimensional finite element model. A thin-walled model should be modelled with
shell or membrane elements sometimes in combination with beam elements. The structural connections
in the model shall be modelled with adequately stiffness in order to represent the actual stiffness in such
a way that the resulting responses are appropriate to the model being analysed. The global model usually
comprises:
— pontoon shell, longitudinal and transverse bulkheads
— column shell, decks, bulkheads and trunk walls
— main bulkheads, frameworks and decks for the deck structure (“secondary” decks which are not taking
part in the global structural capacity should not be modelled)
— bracing and transverse beams.
2.1.7 The global analyses should include consideration of the following load effects as found relevant:
— built-in stresses due to fabrication or mating
— environmental loads
— different ballast conditions including operating and survival
— transit.
2.1.8 Wave loads should be analysed by use of sink source model in combination with a Morison model
when relevant. For certain designs a Morison model may be relevant. Details related to normal practice for
selection of models and methods are given in App.B.
2.1.9 When utilising stochastic analysis for world wide operation the analyses shall be undertaken utilising
North Atlantic scatter diagram given in DNVGL-RP-C205.
2.1.10 For restricted operation the analyses shall be undertaken utilising relevant site specific environmental
data for the area(s) the unit will be operated. The restrictions shall be described in the operation manual for
the unit.
3 Scantlings and weld connections

Minimum scantlings for plate, stiffeners and girders are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.4.
The requirements for weld connections are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.8.
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4 Air gap
Chapter 2 Section 3
4.1 General
-2
4.1.1 In the ULS condition, positive air gap should in general be ensured for waves with a 10 annual
probability of exceed dance. However, local wave impact may be accepted if it is documented that such loads
are adequately accounted for in the design and that safety to personnel is not significantly impaired.
Guidance note:
Model tests and calculation according to DNVGL-OTG-13 and DNVGL-OTG-14, constitute acceptable ways for determination of air
gap and wave impact loads.
4.1.2 Analysis undertaken to check air gap should be calibrated against relevant model test results when
available. Such analysis should take into account:
— wave and structure interaction effects
— wave asymmetry effects
— global rigid body motions (including dynamic effects)
— effects of interacting systems, e.g. mooring and riser systems
— maximum and minimum draughts.
4.1.3 Column “run-up” load effects shall be accounted for in the design of the structural arrangement in
the way of the column and bottom plate of the deck connection. These “run-up” loads shall be treated as
environmental load component, however, they should not be considered as occurring simultaneously with
other environmental loads.
4.1.4 Evaluation of sufficient air gap shall include consideration of all affected structural items including
lifeboat platforms, riser balconies, overhanging deck modules etc.
DNV GL AS
SECTION 4 FATIGUE LIMIT STATES (FLS)
Chapter 2 Section 4
1 General
1.1 General
1.1.1 General requirements for the fatigue limit states are given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.5. Guidance
concerning fatigue calculations are given in DNVGL-RP-C203.
1.1.2 Units intended to follow normal inspection requirements according to class requirements, i.e. five (5)
yearly inspection in sheltered waters or drydock, may apply a design fatigue factor (DFF) of 1.0 for positions
accessible for inspection and repair in dry and clean conditions.
1.1.3 Units intended to stay on location for prolonged survey period, i.e. without planned sheltered water
inspection, shall comply with the requirements given in App.A.
1.1.4 The design fatigue life of the unit shall be minimum 20 years.
1.1.5 The fatigue capacity of converted units will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and is a function of
the following parameters:
— results and findings form surveys and assessment of critical details
— service history of the unit and estimated remaining fatigue life.
Guidance note:
New structural steel on converted units older than 10 years, may normally be accepted with minimum 15 years documented
fatigue life from the time of conversion.
1.1.6 Local effects, e.g. due to:

— slamming
— sloshing
— vortex shedding
— dynamic pressures
— mooring and riser systems
shall be included in the fatigue damage assessment when relevant.
1.1.7 In the assessment of fatigue resistance, relevant consideration shall be given to the effects of stress
concentrations including those occurring as a result of:
— fabrication tolerances, including due regard to tolerances in way of connections involved in mating
sequences or section joints
— cut-outs
— details at connections of structural sections, e.g. cut-outs to facilitate construction welding
— attachments.
1.1.8 Local detailed finite element analysis of critical connections, e.g. pontoon and pontoon, pontoon
and column, column and deck and brace connections, shall be undertaken in order to identify local stress
distributions, appropriate SCF’s, and/or extrapolated stresses to be utilised in the fatigue evaluation.
DNV GL AS
Chapter 2 Section 4
1.1.9 For well known details the local finite element analysis may be omitted, provided relevant information
regarding SCF are available.
2 Fatigue Analysis
2.1 General
The basis for determining the acceptability of fatigue resistance, with respect to wave loads, shall be in
accordance with the requirements given in App.B. The required models and methods are dependent on type
of operation, environment and design type of the unit.
2.2 World-wide operation

For world wide operation the analyses shall be undertaken utilising environmental data, e.g. scatter diagram,
spectrum, given in DNVGL-RP-C205. The North Atlantic scatter diagram shall be utilised.
2.3 Restricted operation

The analyses shall be undertaken utilising relevant site specific environmental data for the area(s) the unit
will be operated. The restrictions shall be described in the operation manual for the unit.
2.4 Simplified fatigue analysis
2.4.1 Simplified fatigue analysis may be undertaken in order to establish the general acceptability of fatigue
resistance, or as a screening process to identify the most critical details to be considered in a stochastic
fatigue analysis, see [2.5].
2.4.2 Simplified fatigue analyses should be undertaken utilising appropriate conservative design parameters.
A two-parameter, Weibull distribution, see DNVGL-RP-C203, may be utilised to describe the long-term
stress range distribution. In such cases the Weibull shape parameter ‘h’, see [2.4.3] for a two-pontoon
semisubmersible unit should have a value of h = 1.1.
2.4.3 The following formula may be used for simplified fatigue evaluation:
where:
n0 = total number of stress variations during the lifetime of the structure
= extreme stress range (MPa) that is exceeded once out of n0 stress variations.
The extreme stress amplitude
is thus given by
DNV GL AS
h = the shape parameter of the Weibull stress range distribution
Chapter 2 Section 4
= the intercept of the design S-N curve with the log N axis (see DNVGL-RP-C203)
= is the complete gamma function (see DNVGL-RP-C203)
m = the inverse slope of the S-N curve (see DNVGL-RP-C203)

DFF = design fatigue factor.
2.4.4 A simplified fatigue evaluation shall be based on dynamic stresses from design waves analysed in the
global analysis as described in Sec.3 [2]. The stresses should be scaled to the return period of the minimum
fatigue life of the unit. In such cases, scaling may be undertaken utilising the appropriate factor found from
the following:
where:
ni = the number of stress variations in i years appropriate to the global analysis
= the extreme stress range (MPa) that is exceeded once out of ni stress variations.
2.5 Stochastic fatigue analysis
2.5.1 Stochastic fatigue analyses shall be based upon recognised procedures and principles utilising relevant
site specific data or North Atlantic environmental data.
2.5.2 Simplified fatigue analyses should be used as a screening process to identify locations for which a
detailed, stochastic fatigue analysis should be undertaken.
2.5.3 Fatigue analyses shall include consideration of the directional probability of the environmental data.
Providing that it can be satisfactorily checked, scatter diagram data may be considered as being directionally
specific. Scatter diagram for world wide operations (North Atlantic scatter diagram) is given in DNVGL-
RP-C203. Relevant wave spectra and energy spreading shall be utilised as relevant. A Pierson-Moskowitz
4
spectrum and a cos spreading function should be utilised in the evaluation of column-stabilised units.
2.5.4 Structural response shall be determined based upon analyses of an adequate number of wave
directions. Transfer functions should be established based upon consideration of a sufficient number of
periods, such that the number, and values of the periods analysed:
— adequately cover the wave data
— satisfactorily describe transfer functions at, and around, the wave “cancellation” and “amplifying” periods
(consideration should be given to take into account that such “cancellation” and “amplifying” periods may
be different for different elements within the structure)
— satisfactorily describe transfer functions at, and around, the relevant excitation periods of the structure.
2.5.5 Stochastic fatigue analyses utilising simplified structural model representations of the unit, e.g. a
space frame model, may form basis for identifying locations for which a stochastic fatigue analysis, utilising a
DNV GL AS
detailed model of the structure, should be undertaken, e.g. at critical intersections. See also App.B for more
Chapter 2 Section 4
details regarding models and methods.
DNV GL AS
SECTION 5 ACCIDENTAL LIMIT STATES (ALS)
Chapter 2 Section 5
1 General
1.1 General
1.1.1 Satisfactory protection against accidental damage shall be obtained by the following means:
— low damage probability
— acceptable damage consequences.
1.1.2 The structure’s capability to redistribute loads should be considered when designing the structure. The
structural integrity shall be intact and should be analysed for the following damage conditions:
— fracture of braces and major pillars important for the structural integrity, including their joints
— fracture of primary girder in the upper hull.
After damage requiring immediate repair, the unit shall resist functional and environmental loads
corresponding to a return period of one year.
1.1.3 Analysis as stated shall satisfy relevant strength criteria given in this standard and in DNVGL-OS-C101.
The damage consequences of other accidental events shall be specially considered in each case, applying an
equivalent standard of safety.
Guidance note:
Energy absorption by impact types of accidental events requires the structure to behave in a ductile manner. Measures to obtain
adequate ductility are:
— select materials with sufficient toughness for the actual service temperature and thickness of structural members
— make the strength of connections of primary members to exceed the strength of the member itself
— provide redundancy in the structure, so that alternate load redistribution paths may be developed
— avoid dependency on energy absorption in slender members with a non-ductile post buckling behaviour
— avoid pronounced weak sections and abrupt change in strength or stiffness.
1.1.4 Following the loads and consequential damage due to accidental events or accidental flooding such as:
— collision
— dropped objects, e.g. from crane handling
— fire
— explosion
— unintended flooding,
the unit shall maintain sufficient robustness against loss of floatability, capsizing, pollution or loss of human
life. Requirements for watertight integrity and hydrostatic stability are given in DNVGL-OS-C301.
2 Collision
2.1 General
2.1.1 A collision between a supply vessel and a column of a column-stabilised unit shall be considered for
all elements of the unit which may be exposed to sideway, bow or stern collision. The vertical extent of the
collision zone shall be based on the depth and draught of the supply vessel and the relative motion between
the supply vessel and the unit.
DNV GL AS
Chapter 2 Section 5
2.1.2 A collision will normally only cause local damage of the column. However, for a unit with slender
columns, the global strength of the unit shall be checked.
2.1.3 A collision against a brace will normally cause complete failure of the brace and its connections, e.g. K-
joints. These parts shall be assumed non-effective for check of the residual strength of the unit after collision.
3 Dropped object
3.1 General
3.1.1 Critical areas for dropped objects shall be determined on the basis of the actual movement of
potentially dropped objects relative to the structure of the unit itself. Where a dropped object is a relevant
accidental event, the impact energy shall be established and the structural consequences of the impact
assessed.
3.1.2 A dropped object on a brace will normally cause complete failure of the brace or its connections, e.g.
K-joints. These parts are assumed to be non-effective for the check of the residual strength of the unit after
dropped object impact.
3.1.3 Critical areas for dropped objects shall be determined on the basis of the actual movement of loads
assuming a drop direction within an angle with the vertical direction:
— 10° in air, for floating units
— 5° in air, for bottom supported units
— 15° in water.
Dropped objects shall be considered for vital structural elements of the unit within the areas given above.
4 Fire
4.1 General
4.1.1 The main loadbearing structure that is subjected to a fire shall not lose the structural capacity. The
following fire scenarios shall be considered:
— fire inside the unit
— fire on the sea surface.
4.1.2 Further requirements concerning accidental limit state events involving fire is given in DNVGL-OS-
A101.
4.1.3 Assessment of fire may be omitted provided assumptions made in DNVGL-OS-D301 are met.
5 Explosion
5.1 General
5.1.1 In respect to design, considering loads resulting from explosions, one or a combination of the following
design philosophies are relevant:
DNV GL AS
— hazardous areas are located in unconfined (open) locations and that sufficient shielding mechanisms,e.g.
Chapter 2 Section 5
blast walls, are installed
— hazardous areas are located in partially confined locations and the resulting, relatively small
overpressures are accounted for in the structural design
— hazardous areas are located in enclosed locations and pressure relief mechanisms are installed, e.g. blast
panels designed to take the resulting overpressure.
5.1.2 As far as practicable, structural design accounting for large plate field rupture resulting from explosion
loads should be avoided due to the uncertainties of the loads and the consequences of the rupture itself.
6 Heeled condition
6.1 General
6.1.1 Heeling of the unit after damage flooding, as described in DNVGL-OS-C301 shall be accounted for
in the assessment of structural strength. Maximum static allowable heel after accidental flooding is 17º
including wind. Structures that are wet when the static equilibrium angle is achieved, shall be checked for
external water pressure.
Guidance note:
The heeled condition corresponding to accidental flooding in transit conditions will normally not be governing for the design.
6.1.2 The unit shall be designed for environmental condition corresponding to one (1) year return period
after damage, see DNVGL-OS-C101.
Guidance note:
The environmental loads may be disregarded if the material factor is taken as γM = 1.33.
Static waterpressure together with γM = 1.33 should be used for submerged areas, since the wave height and motions of the unit
in heeled condition are normally not calculated correctly with a linear hydrodynamic software.
For equipment on the deck the environmental loads should be included together with γM = 1.0, in order to include overturning
moments in the foundations. Accelerations from the intact condition may be used for simplicity.
6.1.3 Local exceedance of the structural resistance is acceptable provided redistribution of forces due to
yielding, buckling and fracture is accounted for.
6.1.4 Wave pressure, slamming forces and green sea shall be accounted for in all relevant areas. Local
damage may be accepted provided progressive structural collapse and damage of vital equipment is avoided.
6.1.5 Position of air-intakes and openings to areas with vital equipment which need to be available during an
emergency situation, e.g. emergency generators, shall be considered taking into account the wave elevation
in a one (1) year storm.
DNV GL AS
SECTION 6 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Chapter 2 Section 6
1 Redundancy
1.1 General
Structural robustness shall, when considered necessary, be demonstrated by appropriate analysis. Slender,
main load bearing structural elements shall normally be demonstrated to be redundant in the accidental limit
state condition.
1.2 Brace arrangements

For bracing systems the following listed considerations shall apply:
— brace structural arrangements shall be investigated for relevant combinations of global and local loads
— structural redundancy of slender bracing systems shall normally include brace node redundancy, i.e. all
braces entering the node, in addition to individual brace element redundancy
— brace end connection, e.g. brace and column connections, shall normally be designed such that the brace
element itself will fail before the end connection
— underwater braces shall be watertight and have a leakage detection system
— the effect of slamming on braces shall be considered, e.g. in transit condition.
2 Support of mooring equipment, towing brackets etc.

Structure supporting mooring equipment such as fairleads and winches, towing brackets etc. shall be
designed for the loads and acceptance criteria specified in DNVGL-OS-E301 Ch.2 Sec.4. Details related to
design of supporting structure for mooring equipment may be found in DNVGL-RP-C103.
3 Structural details
3.1 General
3.1.1 In the design phase particular attention should be given to structural details, and requirements for
reinforcement in areas that may be subjected to high local stresses, for example:
— critical connections
— locations that may be subjected to wave impact (including wave run-up effects along the columns)
— locations in way of mooring arrangements
— locations that may be subjected to damage.
3.1.2 In way of critical connections, structural continuity should be maintained through joints with the axial
stiffening members and shear web plates being made continuous. Particular attention should be given to
weld detailing and geometric form at the point of the intersections of the continuous plate fields with the
intersecting structure.
DNV GL AS
CHAPTER 3 CLASSIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION
Chapter 3 Section 1
SECTION 1 CLASSIFICATION
1 General
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 As well as representing DNV GL’s recommendations on safe engineering practice for general use by
the offshore industry, the offshore standards also provide the technical basis for DNV GL classification,
certification and verification services.
1.1.2 This chapter identifies the specific documentation, certification and surveying requirements to be
applied when using this standard for certification and classification purposes.
1.1.3 A complete description of principles, procedures, applicable class notations and technical basis for
offshore classification is given by the applicable DNV GL rules for classification of offshore units as listed in
Table 1.
Table 1 DNV GL rules for classification - offshore units
Reference Title
DNVGL-RU-OU-0101 Offshore drilling and support units
DNVGL-RU-OU-0102 Floating production, storage and loading units
DNVGL-RU-OU-0103 Floating LNG/LPG production, storage and loading units
1.2 Application
1.2.1 It is assumed that the units will comply with the requirement for retention of the class as defined in
the above listed rules.
1.2.2 Where codes and standards call for the extent of critical inspections and tests to be agreed between
contractor or manufacturer and client, the resulting extent shall be agreed with DNV GL.
1.2.3 DNV GL may accept alternative solutions found to represent an overall safety level equivalent to that
stated in the requirements of this standard.
1.2.4 Any deviations, exceptions and modifications to the design codes and standards given as recognised
reference codes shall be approved by DNV GL.
1.3 Documentation
Documentation for classification shall be in accordance with the NPS DocReq (DNV GL Nauticus production
system for documentation requirements) and DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.1 Ch.3.
DNV GL AS
APPENDIX A PERMANENTLY INSTALLED UNITS
Appendix A
1 Introduction
1.1 Application
1.1.1 The requirements and guidance given in this appendix are supplementary requirements for units
intended to stay on location for permanent use or prolonged periods, i.e. more than five (5) years.
1.1.2 The units shall be designed for site specific environmental criteria for the area(s) the unit will be
located.
1.2 Facilities for inspection on location

Inspections may be carried out on location based on procedures outlined in a maintenance system and
inspection arrangement, without interrupting the function of the unit. The following matters should be taken
into consideration to be able to carry out condition monitoring on location:
— arrangement for underwater inspection of hull, propellers, thrusters and openings affecting the unit’s
seaworthiness
— means of blanking of all openings
— marking of the underwater hull
— use of corrosion resistant materials for propeller
— accessibility of all tanks and spaces for inspection
— corrosion protection of hull
— maintenance and inspection of thrusters
— ability to gas free and ventilate tanks
— provisions to ensure that all tank inlets are secured during inspection
— testing facilities of all important machinery.
2 Fatigue
2.1 Design fatigue factors
2.1.1 Design fatigue factors (DFF) are introduced as fatigue safety factors. DFF shall be applied to structural
elements according to the principles in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.5.
DNV GL AS
Appendix A
Figure 1 Example illustrating considerations relevant for selection of DFF in a typical pontoon
section
2.1.2 When defining the appropriate DFF for a specific fatigue sensitive detail, consideration shall be given to
the likely crack propagation paths (including direction and growth rate related to the inspection interval). A
higher DFF should be used for details where:
— the likely crack propagation indicates that a fatigue failure affect another detail with a higher DFF
— the likely crack propagation is from a location satisfying the requirement for a given ‘Access for inspection
and repair’ category to a structural element having an access categorisation with a higher DFF.
2.1.3 For fatigue evaluation of column-stabilised units, reference to the draught that is intended to be
utilised during condition monitoring, shall be given as basis for the selection of DFF.
Guidance note:
If significant adjustment in draught of the unit is possible to provide satisfactory access with respect to inspection, maintenance
and repair, account may be taken of this possibility in the determination of the DFF. In such cases, a sufficient margin in respect to
the minimum inspection draught should be considered when deciding upon the appropriate DFF in relation to the criteria for below
splash zone as opposed to above splash zone. Where draught adjustment possibilities exist, a reduced extent of splash zone may
be applicable.
Vertical extent of splash zone is given in DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.9.
DNV GL AS
APPENDIX B METHODS AND MODELS FOR DESIGN OF COLUMN-
Appendix B
STABILISED UNITS
1 Methods and models

1.1 General
1.1.1 The guidance given in this appendix is normal practice for methods and models utilised in design of
typical column-stabilised units i.e. ring-pontoon design and two-pontoon design.
For further details reference is made to DNVGL-RP-C103.
1.1.2 Table 1 gives guidance on methods and models normally applied in the design of typical column-
stabilised units. For new designs deviating from well-known designs, e.g. by the slenderness of the structure
and the arrangement of the load bearing elements, etc., the relevance of the methods and models should be
considered.
1.2 World wide operation
1.2.1 Design for world wide operation shall be based on the environmental criteria given by the North
Atlantic scatter diagram, see DNVGL-RP-C205.
1.2.2 The simplified fatigue method described in Ch.2 Sec.4 may be utilised with a Weibull parameter of
1.1. For units intended to operate for a longer period, see definition “Y” below, the simplified fatigue method
should be verified by a stochastic fatigue analysis of the most critical details.
1.3 Benign waters or restricted areas
1.3.1 Design for restricted areas or benign waters shall be based on site specific environmental data for the
area(s) the unit shall operate.
1.3.2 The simplified fatigue method described in Ch.2 Sec.4 shall be based on a Weibull parameter calculated
based on site specific criteria.
Table 1 Methods and models which should be used for design of typical column-stabilised units
Two-pontoon semisubmersible Ring-pontoon semisubmersible
Global Global
Hydrodynamic Hydrodynamic
structural Fatigue structural Fatigue
model, model,
strength method strength method
Morison Morison
model model
Harsh environment, X 1 4 6 1 5 7
restricted areas or
world wide Y 1 4 7 1 5 7
X 2 3 6 1 5 7
Benign areas
Y 1 4 6 1 5 7
DNV GL AS
Two-pontoon semisubmersible Ring-pontoon semisubmersible
Appendix B
Global Global
Hydrodynamic Hydrodynamic
structural Fatigue structural Fatigue
model, model,
strength method strength method
Morison Morison
model model
Definitions
X-unit following normal class survey intervals (survey in sheltered waters or drydock every 4 to 5 years).
Y-unit located for a longer period on location – surveys carried out in-water at location.
Hydrodynamic models
1) Hybrid model - Sink-source and/or Morison (when relevant, for calculation of drag forces).
2) Morison model with contingency factor 1.1 for ULS and FLS. The contingency factors shall be applied in addition to
the relevant load factors.
Global structural models
3) Beam model.
4) Combined beam and shell model. The extent of the beam and shell models may vary depending on the design. For
typical beam structures a beam model alone may be acceptable.
5) Complete shell model.
Fatigue method
6) Simplified fatigue analysis.
7) Stochastic fatigue analysis, based on a screening process with simplified approach to identify critical details.
Harsh environment, restricted areas or world wide
- Units (X) designed for operation based on world wide requirements given in DNVGL-RP-C205.
- Units (Y) designed for operation based on site specific requirements.
Benign waters
- Units (X) designed for operation based on site specific criteria for benign waters.
- Units (Y) designed for operation based on site specific criteria for benign waters.
Guidance note:
Benign area:
Simplifications with respect to modelling procedures required for design documentation may be accepted for units intended for
operations i benign areas, where the environmental design conditions dominate for the design of the unit, are less strict than for
world-wide operation. Such an acceptance may be given based on a case by case evaluation.
Units operating in benign areas are less dominated by environmental loads. Therefore, the ULS-b condition and fatigue capacity
for standard performed detail are of minor importance for the design, and simplifications as described in the table above may be
accepted.
DNV GL AS
APPENDIX C COLUMN-STABILIZED UNITS STRENGTH
Appendix C
REQUIREMENTS FOR TRANSIT IN ICE
1 General
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 This appendix describes strength criteria for column-stabilized units in transit intended to be navigated
in light to difficult ice condition with the assistance of icebreakers, when necessary.
1.1.2 The ice conditions, as basis for transit, are categorized with the assumption that icebreaking is carried
out according to qualified ice management procedures.
1.2 Scope
1.2.1 This section describes the criteria and adjustment necessary for the structural assessment when taking
the special features of these types of unit into consideration.
1.2.2 Thrusters, associated shaft and machinery arrangements situated 7 m below the lowest ice waterline
(LIWL) are not considered affected by the explicit requirements for ice-strengthening.
1.3 Application
1.3.1 The requirements for column-stabilized units of twin hull type strengthened for navigation in ice in
transit condition are described by the notations given in Table 1.
Table 1 Ice notations for column-stabilized units in transit condition
ICE-T(1A) Intended for navigating in difficult ice conditions.
ICE-T(1B) Intended for navigating in moderate ice conditions.
ICE-T(1C) Intended for navigating in light ice conditions.
Guidance note:
The limiting ice interaction capabilities and capacities of the hull shall be specified by the client and should be determined based on
the anticipated environmental conditions, ice detection and ice management system, operational and emergency procedures.
1.3.2 The ice strengthening requirements for transit shall, as far as practicable, be determined by DNVGL-
RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 Ice strengthening for the Northern Baltic - Ice, the specific ice class notations
ICE-1A, ICE-1B and ICE-1C therein and the adaptions given in this section.
1.3.3 Unless defined as “special structure”, material of shell plating and ice frames of the pontoons in the ice
belt above LIWL shall be selected according to DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.3 Table 5, “primary structure”, and
the specified design temperature (see Ch.2 Sec.1 [3.2]). Materials in the ice belt below LIWL need not to be
designed for a service temperature lower than 0°C.
1.3.4 Materials for shell plating and stiffeners of pontoons above LIWL, which are falling outside the ice belt,
shall be selected according to Ch.2 Sec.1 and the specified service temperature.
DNV GL AS
Appendix C
1.3.5 Materials for exposed portion of columns shall be selected according to Ch.2 Sec.1 and the specified
service temperature.
1.3.6 Welding of frames, stringers, equipment and structures mounted in the ice-belt region shall be
designed according to DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.8.
1.3.7 Local ice strengthening according to DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 should, when designed applying
the LRFD-format according to DNVGL-OS-C101 Ch.2 Sec.1 [4.4] load factors for ULS, be based on an
environmental factor ϒf = 1.0 and a material factor ϒm = 1.0.
1.4 Definitions
1.4.1 Terms and definitions

Terms and definitions used in connection with navigation in ice may be found in ISO 19906 Petroleum and
natural gas industries – arctic offshore structures, chapter 3.
1.4.2 Transit ice management

Ice management in transit condition is in this context defined as the physical activities that are required from
e.g. icebreakers to break ice and/or for towing such that the unit can be safely navigated within specified
composed ice features.
Guidance note:
Ice management, see also ISO 19906 Petroleum and natural gas industries – arctic offshore structures.
1.4.3 Extent of ice strengthening for transit is shown in Figure 1 to Figure 4. Terms used on the figures are
defined in DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6. For the term bow region, the definition in [1.4.8] shall be used.
Figure 1 Column extended to the breath of the pontoon
DNV GL AS
Appendix C
Figure 2 Column of round type
DNV GL AS
Appendix C
Figure 3 Column feature design
Figure 4 Ice belt for transit draft (shown for square columns extended to breath of pontoon)
1.4.4 Ice ride-down. In this context understood to be when ice is deflected downwards, especially when ice
rubble has formed in front of columns and landing on top of pontoon.
DNV GL AS
Appendix C
1.4.5 Narrow pontoon freeboard (Tf). Used for column-stabilized units to describe the particularly low
freeboard features of the pontoon in transit which may cause ice ride-down when navigating in waves.
1.4.6 Bracing air clearance is used in the context to describe the minimum clearance between the lowest
transverse horizontal bracings and UIWL.
1.4.7 Inboard and outboard ice belt regions of the pontoons are used to describe and differentiate the ice
belt in the midbody with respect to probability of hit. Inward midbody is normally the region in-between the
pontoons.
1.4.8 The bow region is defined as the distance from the stem to a line parallel to and 0.04 L aft of the
forward borderline of the part of the pontoon where the waterlines run parallel to the centreline. The overlap
of the borderline does not need to exceed 5 m. For stems of pontoons of which the waterlines are mainly
running parallel to the centerline, the bow region shall not be taken less than the distance from the stem to
the first point of the column footing where the tangential at the point is running in parallel with the centerline
of the pontoon. Fore of this column footing, the columns shall be reinforced at a height of 1m according
strength criteria given in [2].
2 Ice design loads

2.1 Height of the ice load area
The design ice height (h) for the respective ice classes shall be taken from DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2.
2.2 Ice pressure
2.2.1 The design ice pressure (p) for ice belt regions of pontoons and columns facing ice shall be determined
from DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2.
2.2.2 Design ice pressure (p) of areas falling outside the ice-belt, but which are considered prone to ice ride-
down shall be particularly investigated by taking the kinematics of ice into consideration.
Guidance note:
The ice design pressure (p) acting on the pontoon deck of the bow may, unless more precise data is available, be taken as:
2
ICE-T(1A): p = 1200 kN/m
2
ICE-T(1B): p = 800 kN/m
2
ICE-T(1C): p = 600 kN/m
2.2.3 The value for C1 is given in Table 2
Table 2 Values of C1
1) 2)
Midbody
1) 2)
Ice notation Bow Stern
Outboard Inward
ICE-T(1A) 1.0 0.85 0.75 0.65
ICE-T(1B) 1.0 0.70 0.55 0.45
ICE-T(1C) 1.0 0.50 0.35 0.25
DNV GL AS
1) 2)
Midbody
Appendix C
1) 2)
Ice notation Bow Stern
Outboard Inward
1) Applicable for the exposed portion of the forward columns, see [1.4.3], when the minimum pontoon freeboard is
less than 0.5m for ICE-T(1A) and 0.4m for ICE-T(1B) and ICE-T(1C)
2) ICE-T(1A), for portion of columns when pontoon freeboard: 0.5m ≤ Tf < 1.5 m; C1 = 1.17 - 0.35Tf
ICE-T (1B) and ICE-T(1A), for portion of columns when pontoon freeboard: 0.4m ≤ Tf < 1.5m; C1 = 1.20 -
0.5Tf
2.2.4 The value for Cd is given in DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 [7.3].
For units with speed less than 5 knots, k1 ≤ 12.
3 Shell plating
3.1 Vertical extension of ice strengthening for plating
3.1.1 The vertical extension of the ice belt (see Figure 1 to Figure 4) shall not be less than given in Table 3.
Table 3 Vertical extension of ice belt
Ice notation Region Above UIWL(m) Below LIWL (m)
Bow 0.90
ICE-T(1A) Midbody See [1.4.3]
0.75
Stern
ICE-T(1B) Bow 0.70

and Midbody See [1.4.3]
ICE-T(1C) 0.60
Stern
3.2 Plate thickness in the ice belt
3.2.1 Plate thickness for transverse and longitudinal framing for ice belt regions of pontoons and columns
facing ice shall be determined from DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2.
3.2.2 For areas of the pontoon deck exposed to ice ride-down in the bow region, the plate thickness may
generally be determined as if transversely framed, irrespective of the actual stiffening direction of the deck.
3.2.3 Minimum plate thickness for unstiffened plates of pontoons with shell radius shall be determined by the
formula:
DNV GL AS
where:
Appendix C
The value shall not be taken less than 0.8.
In case the longitudinal stiffeners are positioned outside the curvature, R shall be substituted by
R1 = R + 0.5 (a + b). The length a + b shall normally not exceed s/3, see Figure 5.
Figure 5 Pontoon with shell radius in the ice belt region
4 Frames
4.1 Vertical extension of ice framing
Vertical extension of the ice strengthening shall be at least as given in Table 4.
Table 4 Vertical extension of ice strengthening of the framing
Ice notation Region Above UIWL (m) Below LIWL (m)
Bow 1.6
ICE-T(1A), ICE-T(1B),
Midship See [1.4] 1.3
ICE-T(1C)
Stern 1.0
DNV GL AS
Appendix C
4.2 Transverse and longitudinal frames
Transverse and longitudinal frames shall be designed according to DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 [9.2] and
DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 [9.3].
4.3 Structural details

Structural details shall be designed according to DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 [9.4].
4.4 Ice stringers and web frames

Ice stringers and web frames shall be designed according to DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 [10] and
DNVGL-RU-SHIP Pt.6 Ch.6 Sec.2 [11].
5 Special arrangement
5.1 Bracings air clearance
Bracing air clearance shall not be less than:
— 1.8 m when ice notation ICE-T(1A)
— 1.5 m when ice notation ICE-T(1B)
— 1.2 m when ice notation ICE-T(1C).
5.2 Towing arrangement
5.2.1 Column-stabilized units intended for navigation according to ICE-T(1A), ICE-T(1B) and ICE-T(1C)
shall be provided with a towing arrangement according DNVGL-OS-E301.
Guidance note:
The unit should be able to receive towing assistance if encroached in ice and/or upon loss of power. The emergency towing
arrangement may be used for this purpose provided the gear is prepared for easy connection to icebreaker/tug. Such arrangement
is subject to appraisal by class.
5.3 Equipment and structures mounted in ice-belt region
5.3.1 Equipment mounted, or bracings landing in the ice-belt region, shall be protected against ice
interaction, or be adequately designed to withstand the ice loads.
5.3.2 Structures, equipment and its supporting structures to the pontoon deck described in [5.3.1] shall
be designed to withstand the ice loads as specified in Figure 6. Access manholes and other bolted openings
in the ice belt region (e.g on top of pontoons and column shell) to tanks and other spaces shall not be
permitted.
DNV GL AS
Appendix C
Figure 6 Equipment mounted on pontoon deck
DNV GL AS
CHANGES – HISTORIC
Changes – historic
There are currently no historical changes for this document.
DNV GL AS
About DNV GL
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safeguarding life, property and the environment, we enable our customers to advance the safety
and sustainability of their business. We provide classification, technical assurance, software and
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OFFSHORE STANDARDS

DNVGL-OS-C103 Edition July 2015

Structural design of column stabilised units

The electronic pdf version of this document, available free of charge

© DNV GL AS July 2015

Any comments may be sent by e-mail to [email protected]

Amendments July 2018

Guidance note included with reference given to DNVGL-

Guidance note included for model test specification and

App.C [2.2.4] New subsection added with value for Cd.

App.C [3.2.3] Formula updated.

Main changes July 2015

Chapter 2 Technical content........................................... 10

Chapter 3 Classification and certification........................33

Appendix A Permanently installed units......................... 34

Appendix B Methods and models for design of column-

Appendix C Column-stabilized units strength

1.3 Assumptions and applications

Table 1 DNV GL and DNV reference documents

DNVGL-OS-A101 Safety principles and arrangement

DNVGL-OS-B101 Metallic materials

DNVGL-OS-C101 Design of offshore steel structures, general - LRFD method

DNVGL-OS-C301 Stability and watertight integrity

DNVGL-OS-C401 Fabrication and testing of offshore structures

DNVGL-OS-D101 Marine and machinery systems and equipment

DNVGL-OS-D301 Fire protection

DNVGL-OS-E301 Position mooring

DNVGL-RP-C103 Column-stabilised units

DNVGL-RP-C203 Fatigue strength analysis

DNVGL-RP-C205 Environmental conditions and environmental loads

DNVGL-OTG-13 Predication of air gap for column stabilised units

DNVGL-OTG-14 Horizontal wave impact loads for column stabilised units

3.2.2 Standard terms are given in DNVGL-OS-C101.

4.2 Greek characters

τd = nominal design shear stress in the girder adjusted for cut-outs

γf,G,Q = partial load factor for functional and variable loads.

3.1.4 Material designations are defined in DNVGL-OS-C101.

3.2 Design and service temperatures

5 Categorisation and inspection level for typical column-stabilised

Figure 2 Column and ring pontoon connection, ring-pontoon design

Figure 4 Connection column and upper hull

3 Permanent loads (G)

4 Variable functional loads (Q)

4.2 Tank loads

scantlings of tank structures.

5 Environmental loads (E)

5.3 Wind loads

5.4 Heavy components

Further considerations with respect to environmental loads are given in DNVGL-RP-C205.

6 Deformation loads (D)

Table 1 Load factors, ultimate limit states

b 1.0 1.2 1.0

1.2 Global capacity

1.3 Transit condition

3 Scantlings and weld connections

1.1.6 Local effects, e.g. due to:

2.2 World-wide operation

2.3 Restricted operation

2.4 Simplified fatigue analysis