Igor Maiello Maia

Abstract

This work presents, through the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methodology, a risk assessment of helicopter operations on offshore platforms with hot gas emissions. With the growing expansion of oil exploration in Brazil, helicopters have become the most used mode of transport for personnel to offshore platforms due to their greater efficiency, speed, and safety. For the study, the geometry was initially constructed based on the real dimensions of a semi-submersible type platform, and the mesh was generated. The methodology employed to solve the flow was the Finite Volume Method, using the Ansys/CFX software. Additionally, the Shear Stress Transport (SST) turbulence model was used to obtain the results. The cases analyzed varied according to wind direction and magnitude. For each wind direction case (South-southeast, Southeast, and East-southeast), wind speeds of 1, 7, and 15 meters per second were tested, maintaining the same hot gas emission conditions from the turbogenerators. The analysis of the results was conducted in accordance with the NORSOK-C004 standard, which establishes criteria for the safety of aerial operations on offshore platforms. None of the simulated conditions reached the operational restriction red zone, confirming the proper positioning of the turbogenerators and the consistency of the simulations performed

Advising

Advisor: Anjos, G. R.