Browsing by Author "Mercer, Colin"

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    Numerical modelling of an offshore pipeline laid from a barge
    (1989) Snyman, M F; Mercer, Colin
    This thesis addresses some of the issues involved in using numerical methods to simulate the laying of an offshore pipeline, the objective being to contribute to the expertise of the South African offshore technology. Of particular interest is the prediction of the stresses in the pipe during such an event. The thesis concentrates on the use and suitability of the finite element method to simulate the important aspects of the pipelaying problem. ABAQUS, a nonlinear general purpose finite element code, was chosen as numerical tool, and nonlinear effects such as geometry and drag, as well as contact and lift-off at the boundaries, are included in the models. The analysis is performed in two parts: in the static analysis the displaced equilibrium position of the pipeline under self weight, buoyancy and barge tension is sought, whilst the response due to wave action and barge motion is of interest in the dynamic analysis. Numerical experiments show the suitability of ABAQUS to model the behaviour of slender structures under both static loads and dynamic excitations.
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    Transient nonlinear heat transfer analysis using the finite element method in the context of the requirements of thermal analysis in a mine
    (1990) French, L de F; Martin, JB; Mercer, Colin; Marais, Nicholas
    The aim of this thesis is to develop a computer program, together with a users' guide, to analyse two-dimensional; nonlinear, transient heat conduction in non-isotropic solids using the finite element method. This program is an extension of an existing program that analyses thermomechanical stress in solids which may have prescribed temperature and flux boundary conditions. The program has been extended using the requirements for modelling heat transfer in mines as a guide. The theory of conduction, thermal radiation, convection and heat transfer due to evaporation and condensation is presented.