Fluid-Pipe Interaction in Horizontal Gas-Liquid Flow

Abstract

In recent years, internal, two-phase, flow-induced vibration (FIV) has received elevated attention in various fields while assessing piping system fatigue life. Regarding the oil and gas industry, in particular, assessing FIV impact is essential for ensuring the integrity of flow lines, both onshore and offshore. This study conducted a series of experimental tests at various superficial gas and liquid velocities to investigate the effects of flow parameters on the structural dynamics of a horizontal 6-inch ID polycarbonate test section. The relationship between flow characteristics and the structural response was examined in detail. A novel methodology was developed and implemented to achieve non-intrusive, simultaneous measurement of pipe motion and liquid distribution. The presented results reveal that downward deflection generally decreased with increasing superficial gas velocity and increased with increasing superficial liquid velocity. It was also found that as superficial gas velocity increased, the range of frequencies experienced by the test section increased, with increased participation from higher frequencies in the range. Film and slug body liquid holdups are strongly related to the observed deflection amplitudes.