Partial implementation of compatibility conditions in modeling tubular joints using brick and shell elements

Abstract

It is a common practice to model an offshore tubular joint using isoparametric brick elements for the brace/chord intersection region, including the weldment, and shell elements for the rest of the joint. However, it is an extremely tedious procedure to implement the necessary and sufficient compatiability conditions at all nodes lying on the interface between brick and shell elements. An investigation has been carried out to examine the effects of partial relaxation of compatibility conditions on the location and magnitude of hot spot stresses at the brace/chord intersection. Results obtained have shown that as long as the compatibility conditions at the shell loof nodes were implemented, the hot spot stresses obtained would be reasonably accurate. It was also found that using 3 or more rows of brick elements after the weld toe will ensure better accuracy of results. © 1995.