Subsea Wellhead System Verification Analysis Methodology for HPHT Applications
6/8/2015
Authors: Stephen A. Perales, Analysis Engineer at Dril-Quip; Jim Kaculi,
Vice President of Engineering at Dril-Quip
Presented by: Stephen A. Perales
High-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) applications can require the use of heavy wall components with significant structural discontinuities and complex geometries. These geometric conditions can exceed the limitations of analysis methodologies required by current industry standards. This paper discusses the findings of system level verification analysis performed on the Company’s subsea wellhead system using elastic-plastic finite element analysis (FEA) in accordance with ASME Section VIII Div. 3 as well as elastic FEA with the standard methodology of stress categorization. The 3D model used in the analysis included all major system components and was sequenced and preloaded in a method analogous to real-world field installation steps. The results presented in this paper suggest that when applied to a complex system level analysis, the more accurate elastic-plastic methodology, in combination with higher load factors specified by the ASME standards cited, may not always provide the expected increase in equipment load ratings.
To obtain a copy of this paper, please visit the link below:
https://www.onepetro.org/conference-paper/OTC-25835-MS