Full Scale Experience with Kulluk Stationkeeping Operations in Pack Ice (With Reference to Grand Banks Developments)

• Main Author: Wright, B.
• Format: Report
• Language: unknown
• Published: National Research Council Canada 2000
• Subjects: Beaufort Sea
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.4224/12327366; https://nrc-publications.canada.ca/eng/view/object/?id=addc8b5e-cc28-4427-999c-0ac8993b0707

This report addresses the question of moored vessel stationkeeping operations in pack ice, on the basis of full scale experience with the Kulluk in the Beaufort Sea. As part of this work, a data base which documents full scale ice load levels on moored vessels has been significantly extended, and now includes almost 700 individual ice loading events. In addition, more operationally oriented information about ice management support activities and levels of risk (alerts) has been blended with the load data, for each event. Various scatter plots of expected ice loads in managed pack ice conditions are presented. Data relating to the effect of different levels of ice management support on load and risk levels is also included. The implications of this information are outlined in relation to various moored vessel system operations in Grand Banks pack ice conditions. It is shown that moored vessel operations in the type of pack ice conditions periodically encountered on the Grand Banks should be less difficult than is currently perceived, provided systems with reasonable in-ice capabilities and adequate levels of ice management support are used.