S1E2 - Engineering Beyond the Code: Snapback Simulations and Data Driven Decisions (w/Jordan Butler)

Can data‑driven design make mooring operations safer than the rule‑book ever imagined?Senior Structural & Maritime Engineer Jordan Butler (WGA) explains how 20 terabytes of snapback simulations are rewriting global standards—and why engineers must look beyond compliance to manage real‑world risk.Guest bio: Jordan chairs PIANC Working Group 251, leading the creation of international guidelines for snapback arresting systems. He combines hands‑on design with cutting‑edge computational modelling of mooring‑line failure at ports worldwide.Episode guide00:00 Intro – the hidden danger of snapback01:28 How the “10° cone” became gospel08:00 What is snapback analysis?11:25 Conditions that trigger failure14:17 Early guidance vs today’s standards18:50 The Zagar incident (case study)20:48 Building a 20 TB simulation pipeline25:26 Site‑specific zoning vs blanket MEG‑4 rules35:42 Engineering beyond the code40:00 Key take‑awaysLinks & resources• Jordan on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbutlerengineering/• Video: Dangers of Mooring Line Snapback – https://youtu.be/AHMdYf7XL14• Demo: Snap Back Arrestor by TIMM Ropes – https://youtu.be/ULmn6tJO7LkSupport the show• Follow and rate us – it really helps new listeners find the podcast.• Try VoiceInspect.ai (beta wait‑list) → voiceinspect.aiCreditsPodcast Studio - https://www.instagram.com/nevverlandstudios/Editor - Austin Grader - https://nevverlandstudios.com/