A Semi-Analytical Method for the Sealing Performance Prediction of Subsea Pipeline Compression Connector

To predict the sealing performance of subsea pipeline compression connector, a semi-analytical method is proposed and verified. The leakage condition obtained as function minimum radial deflection. consists three parts: macroscopic analytical model for interference process deduced based on membrane theory, mesoscopic two-dimensional finite element analysis internally turned surface according to scanning electron microscope observation, formulation ratio Abbott–Firestone curve. influences geometry parameters are analyzed. prediction identification near preloaded deflection investigated. Experimental tests also carried out verify method. results show that, within five times threshold thin wall thickness, connectors designed by can create reliable seal with rough surface, saving 57% design time while reducing machining costs.