Subsea Conduit Wraps for Vortex-Induced Vibration Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Subsea conduits in oil and gas operations experience vortex-induced vibrations and collisions due to varying ocean currents, leading to metal fatigue and structural damage, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
Implementing vortex-induced vibration (VIV) reducing members wrapped around fluid conduits and control/communication umbilicals in specific configurations to alter fluid dynamics and reduce vortex shedding, combined with a wireline that can be extended and retracted independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conduits are extended through open water to subsea locations, then operational capability is enabled, but vortex-induced vibrations and structural damage occur
Solution Approach 1:
A VIV reduction member is introduced as an intermediary element wrapped around the conduit. This member acts as a mediator between the ocean currents and the conduit, modifying the flow pattern to reduce vortex shedding while allowing the conduit to maintain its operational flexibility and positioning capability in subsea environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The VIV reduction member changes the physical parameters of the conduit surface by adding a textured or helical wrap that modifies fluid flow characteristics. This parameter change alters the boundary layer flow, reducing the intensity of vortex shedding and the resulting vibrations without compromising the conduit's structural integrity or operational function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conduits are extended to the well, then operational functionality is enhanced, but conduit collision and clashing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The VIV reduction member functions as a flexible protective shell wrapped around each conduit. This thin film or wrap provides a protective layer that prevents direct contact and collision between multiple conduits, reducing mechanical damage while allowing the conduits to maintain their operational functionality and flexibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If VIV reducing members are wrapped around conduits, then vibration suppression is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The VIV reduction member is designed as a relatively simple, cost-effective component that can be wrapped around conduits during installation. While it adds some complexity to the system, the member itself is a straightforward element that does not require complex mechanisms, controls, or maintenance, making the overall system complexity manageable and acceptable given the significant vibration reduction benefits.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively suppresses vortex-induced vibrations, reducing conduit fatigue and potential damage, thereby enhancing the structural integrity and longevity of subsea equipment.
Implementation Method 1
One phenomenon that occurs owing to such currents is vortex shedding. This phenomenon consists of water pressures against the conduits owing to the currents, that build and are shed creating periodic higher and lower pressures on the upstream and downstream size of the conduits.
Implementation Method 2
As a consequence of such vortex shedding, the conduits may vibrate or even move substantially from side to side.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for suppression of vortex induced vibration (VIV) in subsea conduits are disclosed, as may be used in oil and gas, carbon capture and storage, subsea mining or any other subsea operations where multiple conduits extend between a floating vessel and the sea floor and are subjected to VIV causing currents. VIV suppression elements may be wrapped around one or multiple conduits, and along their entire length or in regions where VIV effects are anticipated. The suppression members may also help to alleviate damage due to clashing of the conduits under the influence of the water currents.