OC7 project Phase II: comparison of global-to-local load transfer approaches in floating structures

Global-to-local load transfer remains a critical – yet largely unstandardized – step in the structural assessment of floating structures. This paper presents the results of package WP2.2 from the OC7 project Phase II, which establishes a cross-industry benchmark for the workflows connecting global performance analysis (based on integrated loads analysis, ILA) and the local structural assessment (based on finite-element analysis, FEA). The study evaluates a spectrum of industry practices, including sequential approaches with the FEA following the ILA, fully integrated time-domain approaches with hydro-structural coupling, and simplified ILA-only approaches. Using the VolturnUS-S reference semi-submersible, the models were first harmonized through mass and inertia, static, and modal verifications. Structural responses were then compared across three primary scenarios: topside-only excitation, irregular waves, and combined wind and wave loading. The results establish a structured comparison framework, highlighting how specific modelling choices and load transfer techniques directly influence confidence in design processes. The findings offer practical guidance to reduce uncertainty in “global-to-local” design workflows.