Tension behavior prediction of flexible pipelines in shallow water

A new type of marine flexible pipeline is designed for applications in shallow water at a reduced cost. To investigate the mechanical behavior of the flexible pipeline and to improve the structural design, an analytical model to predict the tension behavior of the flexible pipeline is proposed in which the effect of radial deformation is given more attention. The governing equations for the flexible pipeline are derived, and their solution provides the tension load–deformation relationship. Tension tests of the flexible pipeline were carried out, and there was a good agreement between the analytical model and the experimental results. In addition, a parametric study is conducted to understand the effect of the radial stiffness on the tension stiffness. Finally, suggestions are given for the design of the radial stiffness and the tension stiffness of the flexible pipeline for shallow water applications.

► A novel and economical design of flexible pipelines for shallow water is proposed.
► An analytical model for the tension behavior of the new pipe is established.
► The analysis results are verified by the laboratory test.
► A parametric study is conducted to investigate the effect of radial stiffness.