Numerical Investigation of Dynamic Buckling of Ultra-DeepWell Tubing Strings Subject to Impact Loading

Abstract

As global conventional oil and gas resources continue to deplete, exploration and development are increasingly targeting deep and ultra-deep reservoirs with high-temperature, high-pressure (HPHT) conditions.This paper presents a comprehensive numerical investigation based on a nonlinear finite element model that integrates impact–contact–fluid coupling. The computational framework employs the Cowper–Symonds ratedependent constitutive law, calibrated via Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar tests, and an Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) multiphysics algorithm to handle large-deformation fluid–structure interaction. A systematic parametric study is conducted to quantify the sensitivity of six key design parameters—tubing length, wall thickness, Young’s modulus, yield strength, load amplitude, and internal pressure—on the buckling response. The numerical results establish a clear sensitivity hierarchy: load amplitude > internal pressure > wall thickness > yield strength > length > Young’s modulus. The study further elucidates the underlying mechanisms of stress-wave propagation, energy dissipation, and buckling-mode evolution through a detailed analysis of simulation outputs. An integrated energy–stiffness–pressure mitigation strategy is proposed based on the numerical findings. This work demonstrates the capability of advanced computational modeling to provide both mechanistic understanding and practical design guidance for deep-well tubular systems, highlighting the value of numerical methods in addressing complex engineering challenges where experimental data are limited.

Document