Finite element analysis of propagating buckles

Abstract

Abstract A finite element technique is described for the analysis of propagating buckles in deep‐water pipelines, accounting for large deformation, elastoplastic material behaviour and contact between regions of the interior wall of the pipe. Within the framework of a Lagrangian formulation and a convected co‐ordinate system, nine‐node isoparametric shell finite elements are employed along with contact elements. They are equipped with a so‐called pressure node which facilitates the tracing of unstable equilibrium paths during the deformations of the pipe. For the analysis of a pipe surrounded by water, fluid‐structure interaction is treated in an approximate manner. Numerical results are presented and comparisons with experimental data are made, demonstrating the excellent performance of the technique.