Numerical and experimental structural damage detection in an offshore flare bridge using a proposed modal strain energy method

Providing a connection tool between different structures in an offshore complex, flare bridges are one of the most important offshore structures. Early damage identification in these structures is of great importance, as it may prevent casualties as well as financial and environmental losses. Modal strain energy is one of the most promising structural health monitoring methods which is based on changes in the dynamic properties of the structure. So far, different modifications have been performed on the original MSE damage index named Stubbs index. In this paper, reviewing these modifications and making some changes on one of the latest proposed indices, a new relation is used for damage identification. The accuracy of this relation is examined by identifying damages in the flare bridge of the Foroozan offshore complex, located in the Persian Gulf which is comprised of a large number of elements. Along with this numerical study, an experimental modal analysis is performed on the structure. Results showed the superiority of damage identification of the proposed method of single and multiple damage localization.

Automated summary

Flare bridges are crucial offshore structures that connect different parts of an offshore complex. Detecting damage early is important for preventing casualties and losses. This study proposes a new method for damage identification using modal strain energy, which is validated through experimental and numerical studies.