Modelling

Modelling of the pipeline is performed using a finite element approach with standard six degree of freedom (per node) elastic beam-column elements and also allowing the effect of axial load on the beam stiffness using the stability function method. SAGE Profile is mainly a two dimensional software, with some limited capabilities in 3D. Large deformations are considered automatically by updating the element geometric shape after each load increment.

SAGE Profile accounts for material and geometric non-linearities, as well as seabed soil non-linearities (bearing capacity and axial/lateral friction resistance). Furthermore it can account for loading due to self-weight, residual lay tension, point loads (e.g. start-up/laydown heads, anodes), distributed loads (e.g. current, backfill resistance), prescribed displacements (e.g. lifting during ploughing) and external loads, internal and external pressure and temperature distributions.