Investigation on structural performance predictions of double-bottom tankers during shoal grounding accidents

A double-bottom tanker is chosen as object for the case study. Finite element models of the hold both stiffened and unstiffened are created for numerical simulations using the LS_DYNA software. Simulation cases cover a wide range of slope angles of the indenter and indentations. Numerical results show that Hong and Amdahl's model in stage one is capable of predicting energy dissipation with high precision but poor accuracy for grounding resistances, and a possible reason may be the neglect of vertical resistance. The updated smeared method proposed in stage two is also proved to be capable of grasping major characteristics of stiffeners. Results and conclusions drawn from this paper can be conveniently applied for assessments of the performance of ship double-bottom structures during shoal sliding grounding scenarios, and will benefit the application of accidental limit state design concept in the ship design stage.