Estimation of Buckling Response of the Deck Panel in Axial Compression

In this work, buckling strength assessment of a deck of a double hull oil tanker is carried out using the non-linear finite element code ADVANCE ABAQUS. The comparisons are performed with the Det Norske Veritas (DNV-GL) PULS (Panel Ultimate Limit State) buckling code for the stiffened panels, DNV-GL Classification Notes (CN) No.30.1 and the DNV-GL Ship Rules. The case studied corresponds to axial compression. Two levels of imperfection tolerances are analyzed, in accordance with the specifications in the DNV-GL Instruction to Surveyors (IS) and the DNV-GL Classification Notes No. 30.1. Both “as built” and DNV-GL Rule “net” dimensions are analyzed. The strength values from ADVANCE ABAQUS and PULS are very close. DNV-GL CN 30.1 is in conservative side, but the strength differences between the “as built” and “net” dimension cases are consistent with the finite element analysis results. This paper gives a brief description of the background for the stiffened panel models used in PULS, and comparison against non-linear FE analysis, and DNV-GL Classification Society Rules. The finite element code ADVANCE ABAQUS is employed in a non-linear buckling analysis of a stiffened deck panel on a double skin tanker that is subjected to a Condition Assessment Program (CAP) hull survey. The aim of the analyses has been to validate and compare the buckling capacity estimates obtained from PULS, DNV-GL Classification Notes No.30.1 (CN 30.1) and the DNV-GL Ship Rules.