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Introduction to Abaqus AQUA Simulation
Abaqus AQUA is an advanced module within the SIMULIA Abaqus finite element analysis (FEA) software suite, specifically designed for simulating structures subjected to offshore and marine environments. It is particularly useful for analyzing the effects of wave, buoyancy, and hydrodynamic loading on offshore structures such as
Oil & gas platforms
Subsea pipelines
Floating production systems (FPSOs)
Wind turbines (offshore)
Mooring systems & risers
Key Features of Abaqus AQUA
Wave Loading Simulation
Models regular (Airy) and irregular (JONSWAP, Pierson-Moskowitz) waves
Accounts for wave kinematics (particle velocity/acceleration) and dynamic pressure effects
Buoyancy & Hydrostatic Pressure
Computes buoyant forces on submerged or partially submerged structures
Includes hydrostatic pressure effects for deep-water applications
Current & Drag Forces
Simulates steady ocean currents and their interaction with structures
Calculates Morison’s equation-based drag & inertia forces for slender members
Dynamic Response Analysis
Supports time-domain and frequency-domain analyses
Evaluates vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) and slamming effects
Coupled Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI)
Integrates with Abaqus/Standard & Abaqus/Explicit for structural response under fluid loads
Can be combined with CFD or potential flow solvers for high-fidelity simulations
In this case, a steel riser is considered the structure in interaction with water and air
The current is considered in the X direction with a velocity of 0 at the seabed and 0,8m/s at the free surface of the water. Two wave models with different heights, lengths, and angles are also selected. The drag load is applied to the section of the structure that is outside the water
Typical Applications
Structural integrity assessment under extreme wave conditions
Fatigue life prediction due to cyclic wave loading
Installation & deployment analysis of offshore equipment
Mooring line & riser dynamics under hydrodynamic forces
Advantages of Using Abaqus AQUA
Seamless integration with Abaqus FEA for coupled structural-fluid analysis
Industry-proven for offshore engineering standards (API, DNV, ISO)
Flexible modeling with user-defined wave spectra and current profiles
Abaqus AQUA is a powerful tool for engineers working in offshore, marine, and renewable energy sectors, enabling accurate simulation of complex hydrodynamic-structural interactions. By integrating wave, current, and buoyancy effects, it helps ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of marine structures in harsh environments
After the simulation, all results are available. You can see some figures of the results below
