Lloyd's and Keppel team up for semisub research

Lloyd's Register Global Technology Centre in Singapore and Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre (KOMtech) have teamed up to develop advanced numerical simulation capabilities that will go towards enhancing the safety features of semi-submersible (semisub) designs.

Semisubs are typically deployed under harsh-environment conditions with extreme wave heights.

Lloyd's has developed a numerical tool that has been applied on fixed offshore structures to simulate wave-in-deck loading.

The joint research and development project (JDP) between Lloyd's and KOMtech aims to adapt this numerical tool for predicting semisub behaviour in extreme waves.

KOMtech's deepwater know-how and extensive in-house data from model tests carried out on semi-submersibles will be used to benchmark and validate this newly developed technology.

The JDP will provide a faster and more efficient way of simulating wave conditions instead of making use of model tests to capture all possible combinations of waves and headings.

Michael Chia, managing director of KOMtech, said: "In this partnership with Lloyd's, we will utilise state-of-the-art numerical modelling capabilities to provide more effective analysis to improve semi-submersible designs, thereby helping to ensure safer operations in deeper waters and harsher environments."

Lloyd's regional marine director Piet Mast said: "By using innovative digital technology and high-performance computing to push the conventional design boundaries, we are able to work with industry to improve safety, accuracy and new approaches to product development and validation.

The JDP is co-funded by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) under the Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund.