Motivated by the intense exchange with PETROBRAS through numerous scientific and technological projects since 1977, LACEO has specialized in the research and development of methodologies, procedures and computer programs for the static and dynamic analysis of fixed and compliant offshore platform structures. These activities include, among others, the numerical modeling and analysis of fixed platforms together with their foundations, the static and dynamic analysis (deterministic and random) of stationary floating platforms for oil production with their risers and subsea pipelines, the analysis and statistical treatment of random dynamic responses of maritime structures, among others. LACEO researchers took part in the design of the first jackets installed off the Brazilian coast, as well as floating early production systems, floating production units such as semi-submersible platforms and FPSOs with either turret or differentiated compliance anchoring (DICAS). They are currently working on the feasibility of new designs for floating oil production units with low vertical movement.

LACEO has also been working in the area of structural reliability for over 15 years and has used this methodology in important PETROBRAS projects, such as the feasibility of using polyester in Taut Leg anchor lines using polyester cables, which allowed oil production to advance to the deep waters off the Brazilian coast. Other projects developed in this area are linked to risk-based inspection planning for structures and equipment in the oil industry. In this approach, the results of previous inspections are taken into account when establishing the schedule for future inspections.

Through the development of numerical models for local analysis using the finite element method, LACEO has also been working with PETROBRAS on several innovative projects, such as the torpedo pile, flexible risers for water depths of 2800m or more and the re-qualification of flexible lines to extend their useful lives, allowing them to be used in new applications.

One of the main results of the interaction with industry has been that LACEO has been able to develop computer programs aimed specifically at some areas of offshore engineering, such as:

• Analysis of risers and anchor lines
• Analysis of floating unit movements
• Foundation analysis
• Statistical analysis of time series
• Structural reliability analysis
• Planning fatigue inspections on fixed platforms

One of LACEO’s basic guidelines is to, whenever possible, involve its undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students in technological projects so that this experience contributes to both their academic training and their professional curriculum.

Lines of research

LACEO’s research, although this is not a premise, is usually focused on the current challenges of offshore oil exploration and exploitation. Currently, the main lines of research are:

• Probabilistic methods applied to the analysis and design of maritime structures
• Vortex-induced vibrations and movements (VIV and VIM)
• Numerical models for soil-structure interaction in the analysis of risers and offshore piles
• Local and integrity analysis of flexible pipelines