Elliott Bay Design Applies FEA To Todd's Drydocks

Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG) has already established a name for itself with its finite element analysis (FEA) work that has enhanced designs on a variety of vessels on a broad-spectrum range — from passenger vessels to offshore oil platforms. The Seattle-based design firm recently set its sights on Todd Pacific Shipyards, specifically on two of the yard's large floating drydocks to assess their capability for lifting Navy vessels and cruise ships.

EBDG project manager, Steve Harris, has cited that one of the drydocks is rated at 40,000 tons capacity, and is used for lifting U.S. Navy destroyers and larger cruise vessels, such as Holland America's Stattendam Class. Key in this process is extensive computer modeling along with a comprehensive on-site physical inspection of the drydocks, including thickness measurements and corrosion analysis.

With end results verified by independent strain gauge testing, it was determined through the FEA that the drydocks met the Navy's requirements and were suitable for their assigned duties.

At the same time, EBDG offered recommendations for improvements to the larger drydock that would minimize stresses present in large ship lifts. Todd immediately implemented these recommendations, which included the addition of internal bracing.

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Maritime Reporter Magazine, page 14, Dec 2000

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