Cursed Knowledge
Cursed knowledge or lessons learned from our work at KBR that we wish we never knew. We have already made these mistakes once, so let’s not make them again.
General
Section titled “General”Simpler is always better
Carefully consider whether introducing complexity into your design is worth it. Sometimes the contractor may request things that make things more complex to design, but simpler to build. However, it’s often difficult to appreciate all the knock-on effects of a more complex design up front. Simpler is always better.
Always need a Basis of Design
In order to do calculations, you need to have an agreed Basis of Design document. Otherwise, how do you know what you are designing to? Similarly for the verifier, how do you know the design is adequate unless you have a Basis of Design? If you do not have a Basis of Design, don’t be afraid to ask for it!
Fender design
Section titled “Fender design”Fender loads: vertical friction
AS 4997 requires that friction from vessel impacts needs to be consider in both horizontal and vertical directions. This may cause issues if you have assumed that since the berthing load is horizontal, there is minimal vertical loads in your structure. This can govern pile lengths in some cases.
Fender panel: number of piles
Never use three piles when designing backing panels for hydropneumatic fenders. You will have to deal with issues with piles being driven out of tolerance. Keep panel designs to two panels in order to accomodate tolerances more easily.