Vortex-induced vibration of catenary riser: Reduced-order modeling and lock-in analysis using wake oscillator

A novel reduced-order fluid-structure interaction model for the vortex-induced vibration of catenary riser subject to the ocean current is developed and systematically investigated. The semi analytical-numerical approach accommodates multi-mode nonlinear dynamic responses and accounts for the effect of varying initial curvature of the inclined flexible cylinder. The geometrically nonlinear equations of riser motion are based on a pinned-pinned beam-cable model with bending and extensibility stiffness. The empirical hydrodynamic model is based on a distributed van der Pol wake oscillator which approximates the space-time varying fluid forces. In this initial study, the incoming current flow is assumed to be steady, uniform, unidirectional and perpendicular to the riser initial plane of curvatures. Thus, emphasis is placed on evaluating the riser cross-flow responses due to fluctuating lift forces. A preliminary validation of model and analysis results has been performed. Several insights into the vortex-induced vibration of catenary risers are highlighted through a series of parametric studies. These include the characterization of single-mode vs. multimode lock-in, the limitations of a single-mode solution through a convergence analysis which accounts for a varying number of considered riser modes, the prediction of riser maximum response amplitudes, the quantitative/qualitative behaviors of tension- or beam-dominant catenary risers and the overall influence of fluid-riser parameters. Moreover, recent industrial concepts of modes switching/sharing are discussed along with the meaningful effect of Reynolds number.