On Pipeline Bending at the Seabed

Analysis is presented on stresses in a pipeline caused by bottom irregularities during installation and by trenching operations. The governing equations are described in non-dimensional forms, and results of the computer solutions are presented in terms of general dimensionless graphs, so they may be applied directly to various problems. It is found that the magnitude of the maximum stress is substantially different when the pipe span end conditions are changed. Further, the inclusion of axial tension considerably alters stresses in the pipe spans. This becomes particularly significant in some pipe installations where elevated bottom tensions are required.