Analysis of the Interlocking Shell of a Flexible Pipe under Loading

Interlocking casings are fundamental structures for the development of the oil industry and are used in flexible pipes. Flexible pipes are used in subsea structures to move fluids and/or to instrument systems on platforms. In this work, the casing of a 4-inch flexible pipe was analyzed under external tensile loads using the finite element method. The simulations were carried out using Autodesk Inventor(R) software, student version 2015. By monitoring the tensile loads, its mechanical properties can be determined in order to minimize the possibility of failures, increase service life and optimize operational reliability. A proprietary profile and AISI 304 stainless steel were used to analyze the housing. The contextualization and analysis carried out aim to help clarify the application possibilities of flexible tubes, their properties, functions and technological development, so the book is of great use to professionals in the offshore industry, as well as students of Mechanical, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering.