Multiaxial fatigue analysis on reeled deepwater steel catenary risers with girth weld defects

Yang, H. , Ding, J.-h., Li, Q.-q. and Li, H.-j. (2014) Multiaxial fatigue analysis on reeled deepwater steel catenary risers with girth weld defects. China Ocean Engineering, 28(6), pp. 857-868. (doi: 10.1007/s13344-014-0066-8)

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Abstract

In the present study, we simulated the reel-lay installation process of deepwater steel catenary risers (SCRs) using the finite element method and proposed multiaxial fatigue analysis for reeled SCRs. The reel-lay method is one of the most efficient and economical pipeline installation methods. However, material properties of reeled risers may change, especially in the weld zone, which can affect the fatigue performance. Applying finite element analysis (FEA), we simulated an installation load history through the reel, aligner, and straightener and analyzed the property variations. The impact of weld defects during the installation process, lack of penetration and lack of fusion, was also discussed. Based on the FEA results, we used the Brown-Miller criterion combined with the critical plane approach to predict the fatigue life of reeled and non-reeled models. The results indicated that a weld defect has a significant influence on the material properties of a riser, and the reel-lay method can significantly reduce the fatigue life of SCRs. The analysis conclusion can help designers understand the mechanical performance of welds during reel-lay installation.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Yang, Dr Hezhen
Authors: Yang, H., Ding, J.-h., Li, Q.-q., and Li, H.-j.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Infrastructure and Environment
Journal Name:China Ocean Engineering
ISSN:0890-5487
ISSN (Online):0890-5487
Published Online:19 December 2014

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