Analysis of a dolphin by analogy of grid, finite element method with plate element and equivalent frame method

Port structures are usually composed of large structural elements and support heavy loads. The determination of the maximum and minimum internal forces generated by these loads is very important for the design of these harbor constructions. Therefore, the structural analysis of these structures must be rigorous, using robust numerical methods in order to obtain safety level in the design. Furthermore, this work aims the analysis of a breasting dolphin, composed of twenty steel piles, which are joined by a reinforced concrete block. The structural analysis was carried out in the dolphin’s block through the following methods of analysis: Finite Element Method; Grid Analogy; and Equivalent Frame Method. As a result, a comparison was established between a maximum and minimum internal force (normal compressive force and bending moment) given by the three methods. Due to the level of simplification of the structure, the equivalent frame models presented the greatest internal forces, followed by the grid analogy model and finally, the finite element model.