Non-Linear Finite Element Static Analysis of Flexible Risers With a Touch Down Boundary Condition

In this paper a non-linear finite element formulation is presented for static analyses of the flexible risers in present of a touch down boundary condition. A four-nodded with twenty four degrees of freedoms pipe elbow element is used to derive the governing finite element formulation. A pipe-soil interaction model is used to identify seabed boundary condition. The effects of buoyancy force as well as steady-state current loading are considered to obtain useful finite element formulation for riser structures. The results of some sample solutions are given to illustrate the capability of the formulation.Copyright © 2007 by ASME