ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to evaluate the failure of pontoon’s primary structural members. Analysis have been carried out using prescriptive method and finite element analysis on three models by considering the corrosion rate in domestic waterways. The loading scenario was determined according to the documentation and accident report. The results of these study showed that the local panels do not meet the single plate buckling criteria (UF<1) even in new building condition. When considering thickness reduction based on corrosion rate, the midship section modulus no longer meets the Classification requirement (Wmin) and FEA 3D cargo hold analysis shows that the total stress has reached a plastic state. As for the ultimate pontoons sectional capacity obtained by progressive collapse analysis method was never below the minimum requirement (US<1). Finally, a recommendation to consider loading and unloading conditions and corrosion rates over several years to be part of the pontoon design strength.
