Author(s): Xiaopeng Yang; Zhi Zong; Zhe Sun; Minghao Guo
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Small-scale indentation test; Ice-structure interaction; Stiffened plate; Structural stiffness; Loading rate
Abstract: Small-scale indentation tests were conducted in a low-temperature laboratory to compare stiffened and plain plates during ice-structure crushing interaction. Natural Bohai Sea ice was used, and all tests were conducted at a constant -12℃. Structural stiffness was varied by adjusting plate thickness. Two loading rates inducing brittle ice failure were given. A load cell, a CCD camera and a tactile sensor were employed. Results are compared with previous plain plate tests in terms of load magnitude, contact pressure distribution and ice failure mode. Results show that stiffeners increases structural stiffness and enhances the interaction load. Moreover, stiffeners redistribute structural stiffness, altering pressure distribution. The areas near stiffeners can sustain higher pressure, which changes ice failure mode and ultimately affects failure load.
Year: 2026