9 / 2021-08-14 15:41:08

Dimensional Analysis Modeling of Interference Behavior between Top Tensioned Risers for the Innovative Deepwater Artificial Seabed System

artificial seabed; riser interference; wake interference; dimensional analysis

The innovative Deepwater Artificial Seabed (DAS) system elevates the subsea wellheads on the geological seabed to the artificial seabed by Top Tensioned Risers (TTRs) with the purpose of using shallow-water rated subsea production systems in deep and ultra-deep waters. Nonetheless, interference between neighboring TTRs is especially challenging for the safe operation of the DAS system. This paper presents a dimensional analysis modeling methodology to investigate the interference behavior between TTRs for the DAS system. Dimensionless groups containing input and output parameters are established firstly based on the Vaschy-Buckingham theory. Then, numerical models are developed for validating the established dimensionless group. On this basis, a large number of numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the effects of each dimensionless parameter on the TTR interference behavior. The results determine the relative importance of various parameters on the interference behavior between TTRs, which lays the foundation for the optimum design of the DAS system. The proposed methodology provides an effective tool for key parameters control in the design and analysis of offshore structures.