Abstract: The pipe configuration and internal loads along the pipeline during the pipeline laying process have long been the focus of engineers. Most researchers simplify the seabed to be rigid and the water to be calm, ignoring the pipe embedment into the seabed and the influence of ocean currents. In this paper, a novel numerical approach is proposed for the laying of pipelines in the so-called J-lay method, taking into account the importance of both pipe embedment and ocean currents. The pipeline is divided into two parts, one part suspended in water, and the other laid on the seabed. The continuity of the two parts at the touch down point (TDP) is guaranteed to make a whole. The feasibility of the model is proved by the comparison between the present model and an analytical model, which shows good agreement in both pipeline configuration and bending moment distribution. Finally, parametric study was performed to consider the influence of current velocity, water depth, top inclination angle, and seabed stiffness, and conclusions are drawn.

Key words: Pipeline, J-lay method, Numerical model, Seabed stiffness, Current velocity

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