A validated fluid-structure interaction simulation model for vortex-induced vibration of a flexible pipe in steady flow

TL;DR

The paper addresses the challenge of predicting vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of flexible pipes in steady flows by introducing an open-source fluid-structure interaction framework based on strip methods that couples URANS-based fluid dynamics (OpenFOAM) with a finite-element Euler-Bernoulli beam model of the pipe. It uses a weak partitioned coupling scheme and validated the approach against three benchmark experiments—uniform, linearly sheared, and bidirectionally sheared flows with $Re$ in $[10^4,10^5]$—employing wavelet analysis to characterize traveling-wave phenomena and modal content. The results show good agreement with experimental data for displacement, frequency, and strain, and demonstrate the method’s ability to capture complex VIV features such as higher-order modes and traveling waves, including the first numerical capture of bidirectionally sheared VIV. This open-source framework provides a foundation for more advanced, multi-pipe, or nonlinear VIV studies and can aid engineering practice in offshore applications by enabling accessible, validated simulations of VIV for flexible risers and pipes.

Abstract

We propose a validated fluid-structure interaction simulation framework based on strip methods for the vortex-induced vibration of a flexible pipe. The numerical results are compared with the experimental data from three previous steady flow conditions: uniform, linearly sheared, and bidirectionally sheared flow. The Reynolds number ranges from $10^4$ to $10^5$. The flow field is simulated via the RANS model, which is based on the open-source software OpenFOAM. The solid field is modeled based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, and fluid-structure coupling is implemented via a weak coupling algorithm developed in MATLAB. The vortex-induced vibration response is assessed in terms of amplitude and frequency, along with the differences in strain. Additionally, wavelet analysis and traveling wave phenomena are investigated. The numerical simulation codes and experimental data in this manuscript are openly available, providing a foundation for more complex vortex-induced vibration simulations in the future.

Figures (25)

• Figure 1: Sketch of strip initial mesh: (a) Fluid domain size and boundary condition set-up; (b) near wall mesh with $y^+<1$.
• Figure 2: Experimental setup of the flexible pipe VIV test in uniform flow. The uniform flow is generated by passive towing.
• Figure 3: Experimental setup of the flexible pipe VIV test in linearly sheared flow. The linearly sheared flow is generated by the driven wheel rotation. This figure is modified based on the figure in the previous paper fu2024vortex.
• Figure 4: Experimental setup of the flexible pipe VIV test in bidirectionally sheared flow. The bidirectionally sheared flow was generated by the rotation of the driven wheel. This figure is modified from a figure in the previous paper fu2022experimental.
• Figure 5: Spanwise distribution of VIV response of uniform flow case at $U=0.40m/s$: (a) initial displacement in the IL direction; (b) VIV RMS displacement in the IL direction; (c) VIV RMS displacement in the CF direction; (d) VIV RMS strain in the IL direction; (e) VIV RMS strain in the CF direction. Black line: simulation result; red line and circular symbol: experimental result; blue line: VIVANA result.