LAUSR

Abstract The model test method of the FPSO and offloading system is investigated by using the development mode of “FPSO + CALM + TANKER” working in a 1700-m depth of offshore West Africa. An equivalent design based on static and dynamic similarity criteria for oil offloading line (OOL) is discussed, and a type of creative method for the equivalent design of OOL in a model test is proposed. Based on the static similarity criterion, the truncated design of the FPSO mooring system in water depth and horizontal directions is carried out. After that, a relevant static optimization is conducted. Meanwhile, to avoid interference between the FPSO mooring system and CALM mooring system, a horizontal equivalent design for the CALM mooring system is provided. On this basis, the model test scheme is conducted. Time domain coupled analyses for the whole system before and after truncation are later performed. After comparison, it is observed that the calculated results of the truncated system are basically consistent with those of the prototype system, and the design of the model test scheme is demonstrated to be robust and reliable.