ABS, provider of classification and technical services to the offshore and marine industries, hosted industry representatives at a workshop in Stavanger, Norway, to discuss the air gap calculation procedures outlined in the ABS Guidance Notes on Air Gap Analysis for Semi-Submersibles.

“It is important to us not only to provide this much-needed guidance, but to talk directly with industry to answer questions and hear feedback,” says ABS Vice President of Technology Dr Christina Wang, one of the principal authors of the new Guidance Notes. “Technical discussions like these help to define our research and development program so that it focuses on industry’s most pressing concerns.”

Previous guidance required that the minimum air gap criterion be met, but did not include detailed guidance on how the air gap analysis should be performed. The new GN provides the description of both linear and second-order analysis methods that can be used during design or for reassessment of existing units. In addition to providing better consistency, the GN also accounts for distinct design practices for semi-submersibles operated as mobile offshore units and semi-submersibles operated as site-specific installations.

“We appreciate ABS hosting this workshop which explored some of the challenges and critical issues that we face today,” says Moss Maritime Vice President for Offshore Services Lars Martin Sørhaug. “We walked away with a deeper understanding of best practices and clearer guidance on performing air gap analysis.”

To download the ABS Guidance Notes on Air Gap Analysis for Semi-Submersibles, go to www.eagle.org

Tags: ABS