A Design Approach for Storage Spar Buoy Platforms in the Concept and Preliminary Design Phases
The objective of this work is to present a design approach for the Concept and Preliminary Design Phases of Storage SPAR Buoy Platforms and to describe how the design method was developed. The influence of a VIV porosity device on the design is taken into consideration. The inherent advantages of Spar concepts for Petrobras’ applications for 1250 m, are discussed and compared with other concepts. The Spar concept was chosen. The design method development was carried out by means of a brainstorming process, using sketches and the creation of interactive flowcharts of the design processes (similar to a design spiral) comprising the main design factors, their sequencing and interrelations, for both the Concept and Preliminary Design phases. The intent of the design approach is to provide the designer with means to define quick and efficiently the optimal hull dimensions for a pre-established scenario. For the Concept Design, the method includes the definition of the main dimensions, the Wellbay, the structural topology and compartmentation, general arrangement, weight control, stability (intact, damaged and flooded), motions and mooring. A discussion on the influence of the VIV porosity device on the dimensioning and mooring of the Spar Platform is provided. A concept design application example is presented.