3D Modeling of Wave-Seabed-Pipeline in Marine Environments

Abstract

In this study, a three-dimensional numerical model is developed, based on the Finite Element Method, to analyse the behaviour of soil under the wave loading. The pipeline is assumed to be rigid and anchored within a trench. The influence of wave obliquity on seabed responses, the pore pressure and soil stresses, are studied, which cannot be handled by the existing 2D models. It is revealed that three-dimensional characteristics systematically affect the distribution of soil response around the circumference of the underwater pipeline. Based on new 3D model, the effects of wave and soil characteristics and trench configuration on the wave-induced seabed instability are discussed in detail.