A beam finite element for through‐cracked tubular node behaviour modelling

Abstract

SUMMARYThis paper deals with the problem of a through-cracked tubular joint behaviour modelling. A new beam ÿnite element has been created, in order to take into account the loss of sti ness of the joint due to through-thickness crack presence, and the coupling between axial force and bending momentum. This allows to study at a low computing time large damaged o shore structures, using beam elements. The mechanical model used to build the ÿnite element is ÿrst described. An analytical identiÿcation of its internal parameters (eccentricity and sti ness) is then performed. Finally, some results are presented.

A cracked beam finite element for through‐cracked tube

“…It has been shown in [2] that applying a shear force or a bending moment at the free end of the element leads to same results for the minimization problem. Here, we choose to apply a shear force T y along the y-axis so as to identify e y and k z .…”

“…The force method was described in [1,2]. This method consists in computing the compliance matrix for a cracked finite element from the stress energy.…”

“…A number of studies, e.g. [1][2][3][4][5], have been carried out, yet giving rather incomplete solutions mainly for structural components loaded in their plane. Some were devoted to the influence of the joint flexibility in offshore structures subjected to fatigue loadings; see, for instance, [6][7][8].…”