Global Buckling Assessment of High Pressure and High Temperature (HP/HT) Offshore Pipeline

In recent years, requirement for the consideration of global buckling due to high pressure/high temperature (HP/HT) condition has increased in the detailed design of offshore pipelines on a seabed. The interaction between pipeline and seabed including support structures or sleepers gives a significant effect on buckling behavior. Global lateral buckling analysis has been carried out to assess the stability of offshore HP/HT pipelines considering the interaction between HP/HT submarine pipeline system/foundation structure and seabed. A non-linear finite element method is used in the present static analysis using the ABAQUS program. The FE model considers concrete sleepers as well as 3-D profile of the seabed. The stress distribution and lateral amplitude of the pipeline were evaluated and remedial measures were suggested to ensure that pipe stresses and strains are kept within allowable limits. Sleepers are designed as a buckle trigger which can provide artificial imperfection to allow pipe to move laterally and mitigate axial force. Comparative study could provide design strategy of pipeline related to sleeper supports.