STRUCTURAL DESIGN OF SUPERTANKERS

Abstract

This paper discusses the structural design problems of supertankers and describes a finite element program written for their stress analysis. This program written completely in FORTRAN minimizes data preparation and computer time and makes practicable the three dimensional analysis of the entire cargo length. The need for three dimensional analysis is demonstrated and it is shown that a correct analysis need involve no more work than cruder approximations. The need for using correct loadings and wastage allowance and for an understanding of collapse the program suitable for rapid design are discussed.