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SAMC
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• ANNUAL REPORT 2013
Novel simulation techniques and tools can be utilized
to obtain insights into complex ice-structure interac-
tion processes. Simulations also make it possible to
comprehensively study how different parameters affect
ice behaviour as well as ice loads. This is something that
is very laborious and time consuming to achieve through
field or laboratory experiments.
The development of a combined finite-discrete element
method (FEM-DEM) computer code for numerical
simulation of 2D ice interaction against an inclined
structure has been conducted at the Aalto University.
During simulations, continuous ice can break into
smaller pieces or discrete elements. Discrete elements
can then interact with each other and with other parts
of the model. One of the key issues is that there is no
need for the input of constitutive law that describes the
non-linear material response of the ice rubble.
Results from previous simulations are available and are
used as a starting point for ongoing FEM-DEM activities
within the framework of SAMCoT. PhD candidate Janne
Ranta from Aalto University School of Engineering,
Department of Applied Mechanics started to work
in SAMCoT in September 2013 and he will continue
working on this topic. Statistical observations based on
simulated peak ice load results have been carried out.
Focus is now moving towards more detailed studies
of how different parameters affect the statistics of ice
loads and ice failure processes. The work is part of
Janne Ranta’s PhD project under the supervision of
Professor Jukka Tuhkuri.
Studying the stresses that sea ice and changing tides put on the coffer dam underneath Store Norske Kullkompaniet’s pier off
Kapp Amsterdam. The picture shows a sheet pile that has been deformed by sea ice.
Photo: SAMCoT