An analytical and numerical investigation of the force distribution in deepwater surface conductor joints

  • Li Zhong
  • , Yin Zhiming
  • , Zhang Tianwei
  • , Xie Renjun
  • , Xu Dongsheng
  • , Wang Yichen
  • , Yuhang Zhao
  • , Zhang Xun
  • , He Li

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Conductor is the first layer of tubular column lowered into the deepwater oil and gas well construction process, and the stability of direct conductor joints is an important requirement to ensure the safe service of submerged wellheads, BOPs, and oil production trees. In this paper, we analyze the stresses on conductor joints under different working conditions, and analyze the strength and fatigue performance of the joints under the conditions of positive connection with two-open casing sitting on the wellhead and safe BOP through numerical simulation. As well as the strength and fatigue performance of the joint under different degrees of offset. The study demonstrates that the conductor joint generally meets the design requirement of a 30-year fatigue life; however, there remains a risk of failure in the stress concentration areas during long-term service. The fatigue performance of the joints is significantly exacerbated by the platform offset effect. The research presented in this paper provides valuable guidance and reference for the safe operation of conductor joints.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 35th International Ocean and Polar Engineering Conference, 2025
EditorsJin S. Chung, Shiqiang Yan, Igor Buzin, Ivana Kubat, Frank K Lim, Bor-Feng Peng, Ali Reza, Suak Ho Van, Decheng Wan, Satoru Yamaguchi
PublisherInternational Society of Offshore and Polar Engineers
Pages13-19
Number of pages7
ISBN (Print)9781880653746
StatePublished - 2025
Externally publishedYes
Event35th Annual International Ocean and Polar Engineering Conference, ISOPE 2025 - Seoul/Goyang, Korea, Republic of
Duration: 1 Jun 20256 Jun 2025

Publication series

NameProceedings of the International Offshore and Polar Engineering Conference
ISSN (Print)1098-6189
ISSN (Electronic)1555-1792

Conference

Conference35th Annual International Ocean and Polar Engineering Conference, ISOPE 2025
Country/TerritoryKorea, Republic of
CitySeoul/Goyang
Period1/06/256/06/25

Keywords

  • Conductor joint
  • Deep-water drilling
  • Fatigue performance
  • Offset condition
  • Strength performance

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