Finite Element Analysis for Offshore Pipeline with Reinforced Concrete under Effect by Lateral Traction Considering the Seabed Non-Linear Parameters

Abstract

Stopping the production, heavy loss and environmental hazards are the outcomes of damaging the offshore pipelines. Several cases of damaging because of fishing activities and clash anchors are reported in the Persian Gulf annually. In this paper, response of pipeline against the traction of hooking the anchor and trawling the gear is studied. In other words, the strength of a pipeline against a lateral load will be evaluated. The actual situation of a gas pipeline lying on the seabed of the Persian Gulf is modeled regarding soil, reinforced concrete and non-linear parameters. The load is considered statically which occurred laterally. This research is performed by the finite element method and will be compared to an experimental test for validation. The results show that a 4-inch pipe has low strength against the lateral loads.

Keywords

• offshore pipeline
• seabed
• soil_ pipe interaction
• anchor
• trawl gear