Problems of simulating subsea pipeline condition on the arctic shelf under seismic impact

Abstract

Introduction. The paper represents an approach to studying a model of interaction of a system ‘pipeline – soil’ under conditions of frost penetration and seismic impact. The given problem is connected with the reclamation of the shelf of the Russian sector of the Arctic. There is a feature of induced earthquakes connected with hydrocarbon production. These earthquakes occur in a few years after the beginning of field development and lead to the worst condition of the pipelines. The research aims to the development of a method for subsea pipeline strength assessment allowing for nonlinear properties of an elastic foundation under the seismic impact. Materials and methods. The research is based on mathematical models of structural strength assessment under seismic conditions in the Arctic. The results are empirically obtained from the safety assessment method for a subsea pipeline under the seismic impact. The work was performed by the procedure of the analysis of existing arctic offshore projects. Results. The paper develops suggestions on the analysis of subsea pipelines on a nonlinear elastic foundation under conditions of a seismic impact. The suggestions were submitted for consideration to the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping. Buried below the seabed, the subsea pipelines provide an efficient and safe mode of transporting energy resources. Issues of relations of the subsea pipelines with surrounding and frozen ground are considered, pipeline thermal operation modes and seismic risks resulting in damages to the pipelines are taken into account. Conclusions. Solving the problem of the subsea pipeline condition assessment under arctic conditions is of practical interest in developing energy resource transportation ways. Simulation of a subsea “hot” pipeline is considered allowing for the nonlinearity of elastic foundation properties and seismic impact.