Gaps in Knowledge and Analysis Technology of Ice-gouge – Pipeline Interaction

Application of advanced numerical modeling to simulate ice gouge events has been based mostly on partial calibration, over a narrow range of parameters, with an emphasis on free-field events. A more comprehensive and systematic approach is required to calibrate and validate numerical models. This approach will need to include physical testing and advanced numerical simulations, to achieve better understanding of underlying and constituent processes, with best results requiring collating and sharing knowledge accumulated in previous (some of it being proprietary) work. The proposed presentation will identify and discuss gaps in the knowledge and numerical modeling of ice gouge-pipe interaction currently in need to be addressed, such as high quality (e.g., centrifuge or full-scale) test data for different types of soil (e.g., sand, clay, gravel, etc.); physical testing that include pipe; development of suitable soil constitutive models that suit the level of deformation involved especially close to the mudline; validation and calibration of elements and processes in the numerical tools (e.g., soil constitutive models and the behavior of the interface between ice and soil); development of a rational simplified analytical models of ice gouging that reflects the physics involved, so it is better validated and applicable to wider ranges of conditions and parameters; and development of guideline for offshore pipeline design in ice gouge environments.