The Value of High-Fidelity Numerical Simulations of Ice-Ship and Ice-Structure Interaction in Arctic Design with Informed Decisionmaking

Abstract

Long-term changes in the climate lead to an increase of activities in the Arctic. Ships and structures operating in Arctic waters may encounter sea ice and must be designed to withstand the loads resulting from ice-ship or ice-structure interactions. Traditionally, design rules for ships, structures and operations in ice-covered waters have been based on full-scale measurements and model-scale tests. Full-scale measurements and model-scale tests will remain important sources of data and knowledge in the future. Numerical simulations can give valuable additional insights into the processes and loads resulting from ice-ship and ice-structure interactions. The primary advantage of numerical modelling compared to full-scale measurements and model-scale tests is the marginal cost of testing. This enables the testing of a multitude of design options and ice conditions. Challenges in the application of numerical models are related to finding a balance between model efficiency and accuracy and model validation and calibration.

The Value of High-Fidelity Numerical Simulations of Ice-Ship and Ice-Structure Interaction in Arctic Design with Informed Decisionmaking