OPTIMISATION OF PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION ON PLATFORM TOPSIDES

The application of passive fire protection (PFP) to the steelwork of platform topsides is extremely expensive, both to apply and maintain, and the weight penalty is significant. The current method for specifying PFP thickness tends to use crude considerations of heat flow using simple thermal models. Recent work by the authors has shown that this can lead to very conservative designs. Advanced analytical techniques now available allow the study of the thermal and structural reserves in the platform. Use of appropriate fire scenarios, transient thermal analysis and structural progressive collapse analysis, allow the incremental time dependant modelling of the structural collapse. By examining the progressive collapse history, it is possible to ensure that the platform will remain stable long enough for evacuation. In this manner, it is possible to optimise the PFP applied to the platform, and achieve a cost reduction without compromising safety. This paper describes the application methods employed for PFP optimisation on current North Sea projects carried out by the authors.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • OMAE 1993, 12th Intl Conf on Offshore Mechanics & Arctic Engng; 20-24 June 1993; Glasgow, UK. Sponsored by ASME et al. Procs. Publ by ASME. Vol II, p 31 [8 p, 3 ref, 3 fig]
• Authors:
  • Rogers, C P
  • Bruce, R L
  • Medonos, S
• Publication Date: 1993

Language

• English

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Fires; Offshore platforms; Protection; Structural analysis; Structural mechanics
• Uncontrolled Terms: Structural response
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Marine Transportation; Security and Emergencies;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00706941
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: British Maritime Technology
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 14 1995 12:00AM