Ice collars around freezing in the ice hydrotechnical structures

Abstract

Arctic engineering projects pose unique challenges due to severe cold conditions and the presence of ice. Among the critical factors affecting offshore constructions in these regions, ice loads stand out as a primary concern. Accurate estimation of ice loads is essential to ensure safe and cost-effective operation of marine structures in icy environments. One specific ice formation that significantly influences the total design load on marine structures is the ice collar. Ice collars are thicker thermodeveloped ice formations that occur around marine structures with high thermal conductivity when level ice stops moving. The presence of ice collars can considerably alter the total load on the structure, demanding careful consideration during the design process. Various methods to manage ice collars’ impact on marine structures exist, including mechanical removal, specialized cover layers, heating systems, and design adaptations. Numerical modeling proves valuable in predicting ice collar growth and its influence on load distribution. Implementing appropriate mitigation strategies ensures the continuous operability and structural integrity of marine installations in ice-prone regions.