Pipeline Methods in Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
In Part 3 of the discussion on offshore pipeline installation, we dive into various pipeline methodologies used in the industry, each tailored to specific installation needs. The concept of a "catenary" is central to these methods and is explained using a simple analogy: imagine holding a necklace with both hands, creating an inverted U-shape or arc, similar to an upside-down McDonald’s logo. This shape, known as a free-hanging catenary, naturally forms when a material is suspended without support. In pipeline installations, a "half catenary" is often observed, where one end of the pipeline is secured by a vessel, and the other is landed on the seabed. This fundamental understanding of catenary shapes is essential for grasping the complexities of offshore pipeline methods.