Vector form intrinsic finite element method for nonlinear analysis of three-dimensional marine risers

Abstract

Marine risers are dynamic sensitive systems and robust numerical models that describe their complex behavior are needed. The vector form intrinsic finite element (VFIFE) method is adopted to analyze the nonlinear behavior of marine risers with large deformations in three dimensional space. The method is based on vector mechanics theory and numerical calculation. The structural behavior is described by a simple physical model and strong-formed particle governing equations of motion. Three kinds of marine risers are presented to demonstrate the performance of VFIFE on analyzing marine risers under complex conditions. Hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loadings due to internal and external fluid acting on each element are considered. The modeling process is introduced in detail and the results are compared with the published literature. It is proved that the application of the VFIFE method in the nonlinear analysis of the three-dimensional marine risers is feasible and simply verified that loads outside of the plane have a more obvious impact on the risers, it is necessary to conduct three-dimensional analysis.