Numerical Modelling of Pipeline Lateral Resistance in Rock Berms

Abstract Rock berms are used for many different offshore pipeline applications such as protection from anchors and trawlers, mitigation against pipeline global buckling and improvement of pipelines on-bottom stability. Understanding the lateral resistance provided by rock berms to pipelines is essential for all the above applications. This paper presents insights into lateral resistance of rock berms restraining pipelines by finite element analyses. Pipelines of various diameters (0.2 m-1.5 m) within typical rock berm geometries were modelled in PLAXIS 2D to evaluate the peak lateral resistance provided by the rock berm to the pipe. The finite element model was validated against available full-scale test data. The results of the numerical analyses demonstrate that the peak lateral resistance of a pipeline in rock berm depends mainly on the unit weight and the frictional properties of the rock, while the mobilization to reach the peak resistance is dependent on the rock berm stiffness. Based on the results from this study, a simplified design chart is presented which provides the lower bound peak lateral resistance for a given pipe diameter under typical rock berm with cover to top of pipe in the range of 0.3 m to 1 m. This design chart could be used by engineers undertaking preliminary design assessment of pipelines in rock berms.