Probabilistic strength assessment through analytical modelling of pillars found in ship structures

Abstract

The compressive strength of pillars found in ship structures is studied under a reliability perspective. Monte Carlo Simulations (MCS) are applied, aided by a stratified sample scheme (i.e. Latin Hypercube), to account for uncertainty within the problem’s input variables (yield stress, elastic modulus, initial bow imperfection). MCSs were applied for three slenderness ratio values (low, medium, high), for hollow-circular, hollow-square and “H” shape cross-sections, and multiple geometries per slenderness ratio, per cross-section. The pillar’s strength is calculated based on the Perry-Robertson formula. The probabilistic resistance per pillar was modelled by generating the probability density function that best describes the statistical nature of the sample data. In this paper we illustrate the probabilistic nature of the compression column resistance, and compare it to the deterministic resistance suggested by regulatory bodies.