Optimal base motion to compensate for the influence of sea currents during riser re-entry

Abstract

One of the difficult operations, which consists in moving the riser and placing its end relatively close to a desired position, is the re-entry operation. Complex dynamic behavior of risers under different sea conditions requires efficient modelling methods. The model used in this paper applies a modification of the segment method using joint coordinates, in which it is possible to analyze only one selected deformation while neglecting the others. This enables a very high computational efficiency of the method to be achieved. The models developed take into account the impact of the environment in which the risers work. The model is validated by comparison of the authors' own results with those presented by other researchers and the simulations are concerned both with statics and dynamics of spatial risers. The numerical effectiveness of the method presented enables it to be applied in the solution of dynamic optimization problems, one of which is presented by the example of the re-entry process. The process of moving the riser is useful in emergency situations (evacuation) when it is necessary to disconnect the riser from the wellhead and move it together with the platform. This optimization task is a 3D problem due to the sea currents acting at different angles on the riser in relation to the direction defined by beginning and final positions of the bottom end of the riser. The calculations are carried out for a hang-off riser, and the optimal motion of the base for different conditions of the sea is defined. The influence of the LMRP (Lower Marine Riser Package) on this movement is also examined.