Tension Analysis of Submarine Cables During Laying Operations

Abstract

This paper presents a semi-analytical approximation for a two-dimensional (2D) tension analysis of submarine cables during laying operations. In the analysis, based on geometric compatibility relations and equilibrium equations, a set of non-linear differential equations are obtained. The present model considers effects of ocean currents, cable ship motion, pay-out rate, water depth and material properties on submarine cable behavior in water, which are crucial during laying operations. As shown in numerical examples, with consideration of currents and cable ship motion, the cable tension appears to be smaller and cable configuration curve tends to be fatter than the conventional catenary theory.