18. EXTREME LOADING AND RESPONSE OF FPSOs IN GREEN SEAS

The results from an experimental study of a model FPSO in moderate to extreme regular waves are presented. Green sea events were recorded using measuring equipment that included wave probes in a grid at the bow and on the front deck, sensors recording the vessel motions, and load and pressure cells on the deck house and on the bow. High-resolution video recordings were also taken. The model, similar to one used in previous tests, was designed with a bluff cylindrically shaped bow to provide further information on the effects of bow geometry. The experiments were designed to support and provide validation for numerical work modelling green sea events. Aspects of the modelling related to the design of the experiments are discussed but details of the theory are not included. The experimental results are presented together with a limited set of preliminary theoretical results, which show good agreement for the ship motions and the flow of green water on deck.