Numerical models using both the finite difference and finite element technique are developed to simulate the interaction of a two-dimensional pipe-soil-wave system. The wave-induced pressure distribution in the soil region without an embedded pipe is first studied and solutions validated by comparing with existing analytical and experimental results. Numerical models are then used to solve the dynamic pressure distribution around buried pipes. Results are obtained for both a square pipe and a circular pipe and comparisons are made for different cases of input wave and soil parameters. It is found that the embedded pipe causes an increase of pressure at the top region of the pipe and a decrease at the bottom. Pressure changes predicted by the finite difference approach are slightly different from the finite element results. Parameter studies are conducted to determine the influence of some of the significant factors on the pressure distribution pattern around the buried pipe.

Professional Paper

Funding: NOAA Office of Sea Grants; grant number: 04-3-158-18;

Sea Grant Publications