Nonlinear multi-mode interactions in subsea risers undergoing vortex-induced vibrations

This paper investigates nonlinear multi-mode interactions in subsea risers undergoing vortex-induced vibrations based on a computationally efficient reduced-order fluid-structure interaction model. Cross-flow responses as a result of a steady uniform current are considered. The geometrically nonlinear equations of riser motion are coupled with nonlinear wake oscillators which have been modified to capture the effect of initial curvatures of curved cylinder and to approximate the space-time varying hydrodynamic lift forces. The main objectives are to provide new insights into the vortex-induced vibration characteristics of risers under external and internal resonances and to distinguish nonlinear dynamic behaviors between curved catenary and straight top-tensioned risers. The analyses of multi-mode contributions, lock-in regimes, response amplitudes, resonant nonlinear modes and curvatures are carried out and several interesting aspects are highlighted.