Improved Accuracy of Prediction of Thermal Deformation of the Stern Shaft Block Considering the Erection Process

Thermo-elasto-plastic analysis using nonlinear finite element analysis is used for predicting welding-induced structural deformation; however, its application in the prediction of welding deformation in large structures, such as ships and offshore plants, is practically impossible. Therefore, in this study, an inherent strain-based thermal deformation analysis method, which can be applied to large structures, was developed; furthermore, the inherent strain-based analysis was used for predicting the welding deformation occurring during block erection welding. However, although the tendency is somewhat similar in terms of quality, it still differs from the actual measured value in terms of quantity. In this study, a regression equation was derived by analyzing the sensitivity of the variables used in the existing method, and, subsequently, the results corresponding to the measured values were obtained; finally, the accuracy improvement for the three ships was confirmed. Therefore, using the proposed method, it is possible to improve the technology of predicting and controlling hull deformation.