In 1986 in the Canadian Beaufort Sea, the offshore structure Molikpaq experienced severe vibrations due to ice loading. These strong vibrations were unprecedented for a wide structure in ice, and their cause is still subject to debate. To understand the underlying behaviour, a series of model tests has been performed. A segmented, elastic model was designed and built to represent the Molikpaq structure. This sophisticated model can simulate the deformation characteristics of the Molikpaq including the global "tin can" or "ovaling" mode. A comprehensive model test program has investigated the local and global ice loads, local accelerations and displacements for a variety of structural characteristics and ice properties. This paper presents a detailed overview of the model design and characteristics, and presents some representative test results.
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