Performance Enhancement of Tuned Liquid Dampers in Fixed Offshore Platforms: A Coupled ANSYS Aqwa-Transient Structural Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Civil Engineering, Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Babol, Iran

3 Department of Civil Engineering, Roodehen Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

Fixed offshore platforms exhibit excellent static stability due to their rigid connection to the seabed, yet remain vulnerable to complex dynamic loads including irregular waves, ocean currents, and wind forces. This study presents a numerical investigation of Tuned Liquid Dampers (TLDs) for controlling dynamic responses in jacket-type fixed platforms. The research employs a coupled hydrodynamic-structure approach using ANSYS Aqwa for hydrodynamic modeling and ANSYS Transient Structural for structural response analysis. The JONSWAP wave spectrum was implemented to simulate realistic sea conditions. Key parameters including structural frequency response, TLD-induced damping, and variations in the system's potential and kinetic energy were evaluated. Results demonstrate that a substantial decrease in the maximum shear force of platform legs was observed, with reduction levels between 52% and 252%, indicating improved structural resilience under wave-induced loading.
The operational mechanism relies on converting structural kinetic energy into vortex-induced energy within liquid tanks, effectively increasing equivalent damping coefficients. The analysis confirms this method significantly improves dynamic performance without substantially increasing structural stiffness. These findings provide a robust basis for designing passive control systems in fixed offshore platforms, particularly in storm-prone regions. The numerical results show good agreement with existing experimental data from reputable sources.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Civil Engineering and Applied Solutions
Volume 1, Issue 1
June 2025
Pages 78-88

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