Flow Induced Vibrations in Flexible Pipes

Abstract

Flexible pipes for large volume gas export and gas injection have been installed on several platforms offshore Europe. In some of these applications high frequency vibrations have been reported. Onset of the vibrations is related to flow rate. The vibration frequency is typically above 150Hz and structures with stresses above the fatigue limit will rapidly fail in fatigue. This paper covers the following: • Results from a measurement program performed at the Norsk Hydro Troll C platform. • Theoretical studies related to gas flow in flexible pipes. • Actions taken to control the flow induced vibrations at Troll C.