ABSTRACT
A methodology is given for computing the shakedown limit load factor, which is the ultimate load factor against incremental collapse, of typical tubular frames used offshore. All load cases are assumed to be applied an indefinite number of times. Member and connection capacities from current specifications are used. The results compare well with load step analysis for either static or variable repeated load, and they are obtained with much less computer time. The methodology provides a potentially more rational and efficient computation of the ultimate capacity of these structures than is at present available.
