Fatigue Design Methodology for Large Mooring Chains Subjected to Out-of-Plane Bending

The present paper presents a fatigue life prediction method for chains subjected to tension and Out-of-Plane-Bending (OPB). The investigation was carried out on a high strength mooring chain segment with a diameter of 165 mm and a steel quality R5. Such chains are used in mooring systems for large Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units in harsh weather condition. Due to the fact that the mooring chains are pre-tensioned the wave induced displacements will introduce secondary bending effects about the weak axis in the chain links, particularly in the bilge hang-off area. In such chains both conventional tension fatigue and fatigue damage accumulation due to Out-of-Plane-Bending (OPB) have to be analyzed. Results from full scale behavior tests, Finite Element Analyses and a case study with simulation of in-service loading are included in the present study. Finally, fatigue life predictions and an operational strategy are presented for a case study for a floater in the Barents Sea. With a target service life of 30 years, the endurance with respect to fatigue damage is a major design criterion for the mooring chain in this case.