Application of Industry Guidelines, CFD and Frequency Domain Analyses to Assess Flow Induced Vibration Risk in Pipework

This paper presents currently available methods for assessment of flow-induced vibration (FIV). Approaches considered include the application of the Energy Institute’s guidance [1], as well as advanced simulation; where flow simulation using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and structural response using finite element (FE) analysis are coupled. Using a test case where initial screening by the guidelines results in a recommendation for further analysis, an approach using both CFD and vibro-acoustic analysis is described. This process enables the practitioner to quantify the different vibration mechanisms present, as well as to understand the risk of fatigue failure and what corrective action, if any, is required.