Experimental research and numerical study of leakage influence on the internal two-phase flow of subsea jumper

Abstract

The influences of jumper leakage on the M-type jumper's internal two-phase flow are investigated. The CFD simulation results are validated against the experimental data, demonstrating a high level of agreement. The effects of leak dimensions, different leak locations, gas-liquid ratio, and mixing speed are discussed in terms of the gas-liquid phase distribution, pressure gradient, and jumper vibrations. It is found that the flow patterns can be useful indicators for jumper leak detection, especially when the leak dimension is larger, the slug flow may be formed, producing more serious damage to the jumper. The flow pattern varies significantly with different leak locations. In addition, the flow pattern is affected by the volume percentage of water and faster mixing speeds. The pressure variations can be useful indicators. It is larger as the leak dimension increases and varies significantly in front of the leak location of the jumper. The vibrations can be useful indicators. The larger the leak dimension is, the more pronounced the vibration response is. If vibration sensors are used for leak detection, the downstream vibration signals of the jumper can be a key indicator. Faster mixing rates and water content will cause the jumper to vibrate more intensely.