Dynamic performance of a long curved river-crossing pipeline system with multiple floating bodies during immersion process

Abstract

In this study, the dynamic performance of a long curved river-crossing pipeline with multiple floating bodies during immersion process is investigated in detail. Based on the pipeline theory, six degree-of-freedom buoy theory, winch theory, and multi-body coupling theory, a numerical model of the immersion system with multiple floating bodies is established. The numerical calculation method is observed to conform well with the field measurement results. The dynamic performance of the immersion system is comprehensively investigated based on varying key parameters, e.g. the deflation time of the airbags, lowering speed of the suspension cables, and airbag deflation methods. The results from the numerical simulations indicate that the immersion process for the pipeline with the proposed construction method is safe, stable, and controllable. The presented numerical calculations and results can provide valuable construction recommendations to avoid potential engineering risks and ensure the economic efficiency of this or future similar projects.