Finite element analysis of cyclically-loaded steel pipes during deep water reeling installation

Abstract

Thick-walled steel pipes during their installation in deepwater are subjected to combined loading of external pressure and bending, which may trigger structural instability due to excessive pipe ovalization with catastrophic effects. The loading path followed during the reeling installation process is characterized by strong cyclic loading of the pipe material and results in residual stresses and deformations of the pipe crosssection, undermining the structural capacity of the pipe. Using advanced material tools, the present study examines the effect of reeling on the structural response and resistance of offshore pipes during the installation process. © Copyright 2015 by ASME.