Abstract
For a spread-moored FPSO (Floating Production, Storage, & Off-loading) subjected to environmental excitation from waves, current, and wind, a procedure to determine optimum length and stiffness of mooring lines is suggested using quasi-static frequency domain response analyses. Coupled relations between design parameters are closely examined. In consideration of this, optimized design parameters are proposed based on minimum weight condition. The initial design parameters for numerical analyses are calculated using the static catenary equation of mooring lines. It is demonstrated the line tension and vessel's offset are influenced by the mooring line length and stiffness. Accordingly it is suggested the optimum vessel's offset range should be determined considering line fatigue damage. The availability and limitation of the application of quasi-static analysis method for spread mooring system are explained by comparing the result of time domain analysis with one of frequency domain analysis.