Stress analysis model for un-bonded umbilical cables

Abstract

For the optimization design and strength evaluation of the umbilical cable, the calculation of cross section stress is of great importance and very time consuming. To calculate the cross section stress under combined tension and bending loads, a new integrated analytical model of umbilical cable is presented in this paper. Based on the Hook's law, the axial strain of helical components serves as the tensile stress. Considering the effects of friction between helical components, the bending stress is divided into elastic bending stress and friction stress. For the former, the elastic bending stress, the curvature of helical components is deduced; and for the latter, the shear stress before and after the slipping of helical components is determined. This new analytical model is validated by the experimental results of an umbilical cable. Further, this model is applied to estimate the extreme strength and fatigue life of the umbilical cable used in South China Sea.