Durability & Life Extension (DLE)

Advanced Assessment Concepts for Leight Weight Structures
Alfred Cornec, GKSS Research Centre, Geesthacht, Germany
The presentation shows some aspects from the current materials reaseach R&D program at the Institute of Materials Research at GKSS Research Centre. The considered field is restricted primarily to mechanical modelling of fracture and damage in metal alloys (Titanium-Aluminides, Aluminium, and Magnesium). The mechanical modelling ranges from the microstructural lenght scale up to full component conditions, mainly under quasi-static loading and room-temperature service conditions. Modelling is currently also extented to low cycle fatigue. Structural mechanics is focused finally on estabishing advanced structural integrity methods predicting failure of complex loaded structures by modelling the material behaviour, characterization of model parameters, simulations and experimental verifications. The benefit is related to achieve reliable saftey conditions for arbitrary new designs of structures made of new materials and joining techniques, the reduction of conservatisms in current regulations, accellerating certification of new products.

Design of Elastomeric Engineering Components using FEA: current practice and future trends
Hamid AHMADI and Alan MUHR, TARRC, MRPRA, Rubber Consultants
This paper outlines the state of current practice for simulating the behaviour of rubber during processing and the performance of rubber in service. The future research needs in these areas is described. It is suggested that FENET can provide much needed support to the analysts, involved in manufacture and design of elastomeric components, by making information on the theoretical background of large deformation analysis easily accessable through the educational channels of the network. A set of Benchmark problems is suggested in order to raise the awareness of analysts to the particular issues involved in modelling the behaviour of elastomeric components.

Modelling and simulation of deterioration, repair and strengthening of reinforced concrete structures
Geir Horrigmoe, NORUT Technology, Narvik, Norway
Deterioration of concrete infrastructure: Widespread problems of deterioration of reinforced concrete structures have been experienced in many countries. / The registered need for repair and rehabilitation and the associated, estimated cost is a major concern of companies, municipalities and public agencies. / An efficient infrastructure is one of the prerequisites for continued development and growth.

Fatigue analysis in Marine & Offshore
Jack Reijmers, Nevesbu, The Hague, The Netherlands
A brief encounter with fatigue topics in tankerconversion to FPSO‘s