Development of Offshore Structural Analysis Software X-SEA Coupled With FAST

Abstract

Coupled analysis of offshore structures is currently challenging. The 3D finite element analysis software X-SEA coupled with FAST 8 program is therefore developed and discussed in this paper. The current version of X-SEA includes the results of extensive research and development based on finite element program XFINAS, which was originally developed in Imperial College London. The solution of the X-SEA ranges from the simple static to highly advanced dynamic analysis applied to the offshore structures. GID is used as pre- and post processor of X-SEA. The brief theoretical background of X-SEA software is summarized. Numerical examples of offshore monopile, wind turbine jackets, pile super element and fatigue analysis verified with SACS software in terms of reactions, displacements and member forces are investigated.