Frequency and Time Domain Analysis of Vortex Induced Vibrations for Free Span Pipelines

Abstract

The present paper will discuss various models for calculation of vortex induced vibrations (VIV) of free span pipelines, and present a new strategy for such analyses. Applications of traditional models are presented and their limitations discussed. The new approach is based on the combination of an empirical linear frequency domain model, and a non-linear time domain structural model. The first step is to carry out the VIV analysis according to linear response theory, and next introduce the calculated hydrodynamic forces to the non-linear structural model. The benefit from using the non-linear model is to describe stresses at the shoulders more accurately, which is important since fatigue damage in many cases will be largest in this area. The conclusion is that the interaction between pipe and seafloor is crucial for accurate stress prediction, and that a non-linear time domain model will give the most accurate result.