Steady state FEA thermal analysis of a flexible pipeline in ANSYS

The overall objective of this project was to develop a parametric finite element analysis (FEA) model in ANSYS, which the client could use to conduct steady state thermal analyses on flexible pipelines.

The model that was developed allowed the user to investigate the effect on heat transfer properties of the flexible pipeline if the outer sheath was damaged, allowing water ingress to the subsequent layers.

Flexible pipelines are generally constructed from a number of layers, differing in both material and thickness.  Each of these layers has a heat transfer coefficient relating its thermal conductivity to the temperature differential and the heat flux through the material.  The finite element analysis considered each layer, to determine an overall heat transfer coefficient (OHTC) for the pipeline. 

On completion of the job, the client is now equipped with a tool allowing them to calculate steady state thermal properties of flexible pipelines rapidly, without having to be concerned about detailed heat transfer theory.  The tool also allows the user to easily investigate the effect of changing the construction of the flexible pipeline, e.g. by varying the wall thickness or material used within each layer.