Flow Characteristics Simulation Using CFD on SemiSubmersible Platforms

Abstract

The turbulent flow around a semi-submersible platform is simulated in this work using Ansys Fluent. The computational domain is shaped as a rectangular horizontal canal, with the semi-submersible platform positioned within. No slip boundary conditions are applied to the channel's top, bottom, left, and right walls. The velocity input and pressure outlet boundary conditions are provided for the front and rear walls. Two pontoons, four square columns, and two bracings comprise the semi-submersible platform. The
issue is represented as three-dimensional, transient, incompressible flow, with turbulence represented using the Large eddy simulation (LES) turbulence model. The computational domain has 4,72,749 hexahedral mesh cells. The Reynolds number (Re) in the range of 104 Re 106, as well as the geometry of the columns, are varied in the parametric analysis. Plotting stream function, velocity, and pressure contours is used to conduct the inquiry. We saw vortex shedding and flow separation between the semi-submersible platform's front and rear columns. The strength of flow separation rises as the Reynolds number increases. By showing the coefficients of lift and drag for various Reynolds numbers and column forms, the transient flow features of the lift and drag forces are analysed..