This paper presents the qualification of a new flexible riser concept based on a novel carcass technology called the K-carcass. The K-carcass is made from preformed profiles that are wound helically into shape. The geometry of the carcass profiles is defined such that the inner surface of the pipe is flush.
This geometry is a benefit to the flow properties of the fluid flow in the pipe and very importantly to the resistance to flow induced pulsations. Flow induced pulsations are known to occur in dry gas applications at a critical velocity. In this paper we present results that show that the critical velocity of a K-carcass pipe is significantly higher than an equivalent conventional flexible pipe.
Furthermore, we present the results of qualification testing of two K-carcass based flexible pipe designs, i.e. a 7.5 inch and an11.5 inch design.
