The Dynamics of Tension Leg Platforms in Waves

The dynamic response characteristics of the taut-moored platform or the so-called Tension Leg Platform in regular waves are studied both by several series of tank tests and by some simplified methods of linear and nonlinear analyses. By comparison of the results it is shown that the analytical methods are valid and practical. In this paper the nonlinear responses observed in the model tests, as well as the characteristics of the linear frequency responses, are discussed in detail and clarified. In addition, statistical analysis is carried out on a full-scale TLP model in a real sea state.