A Semi-Analytical Method for the Sealing Performance Prediction of Subsea Pipeline Compression Connector

Abstract

To predict the sealing performance of the subsea pipeline compression connector, a semi-analytical method is proposed and verified. The leakage condition is obtained as a function of the minimum radial deflection. The semi-analytical method consists of three parts: a macroscopic analytical model for the interference process deduced based on the membrane theory, a mesoscopic two-dimensional finite element analysis of the internally turned sealing surface according to scanning electron microscope observation, and a formulation of the leakage ratio according to the Abbott–Firestone curve. The influences of the geometry parameters are analyzed. The prediction and identification of the leakage condition near the minimum preloaded deflection are investigated. Experimental tests are also carried out to verify the proposed method. The results show that, within five times the pipeline threshold of the thin wall thickness, compression connectors designed by the proposed method can create a reliable seal with a rough internally turned surface, saving 57% of the design time while reducing the machining time and costs.

Semi-Analytical Methods for the Joint Strength and Sealing Performance in the Failure Process of the Subsea Pipeline Compression Connector

“…After assembly, the radial deflection of the connected pipe not only creates sealing pressure on the sealing ridge, but also provides partial joint strength in the axial direction. In our previous study [37], analytical models for the radial deflection of the base and pipe were developed. With these models, the joint strength of the deflected pipe can be derived.…”

“…In engineering applications, the turning topography is usually left on the sealing surface to achieve a better bonding strength [46]. The topography is an anisotropic helix pattern, similar to a thread [37]. In the assembly, the topography is embedded in the pipe surface.…”

“…Liu et al [36] enhanced the anchoring structure by implementing a nonlinear FEA technique. Li et al [37] proposed a semi-analytical method to predict the radial sealing performance of the compression connector, and the leakage condition was obtained as a function of the minimum radial deflection. Wu et al [38] presented a method for calculating the axial load capacity of the steel pipe-to-sleeve grouted connections.…”

“…The pipe surface is assumed to be subjected to a concentrated radial sealing pressure, P, which is uniformly distributed in the circumferential direction, and the radial deflection of the connected pipe can be expressed as [37]:…”

Transient Model for the Hydrodynamic Force in a Hydraulic Capsule Pipeline Transport System

“…But there are still problems, such as the leakage of pipelines or explosion attacks, which may result in huge economic losses and pollution in the environment [10]. In order to meet the eco-friendly request, some monitoring methods for potential leakages have been proposed [11]. Furthermore, some limitations of these pipeline transport options still exist, including the sewage from slurry pipelines being difficult to treat.…”