The Dynamic Finite Element Analysis for Gravitational Settling of a Sunken Ship in Soft Foundation
The calculation for the gravitational settling and position of a sunken ship can provide important information for a reasonable salvage program. A 3D elastic-plastic dynamic finite element model was established to calculate the gravitational settling of a sunken ship in soft foundation of Tianjin port in China. The results showed that a large amplitude settlement had happened in previous seconds, and then settlement tended to be stable. The stable value was in keeping with the field observation value. Besides, a collapse pit on the top surface of soils under the hull induced by the gravity of dredge was formed while soils around the compression region were raised. Moreover, the strain value increased rapidly in previous seconds which induced a large amplitude settlement of the ship and then tended to be stable.