Titanium risers are being considered for deepwater applications due to their flexibility (low E-modulus), low weight, high strength and generally excellent fatigue properties However, there are also additional problems as compared to steel e.g. due to increased lateral displacements and angular response levels Relevant mechanical design checks for titanium pipes are reviewed. The relative importance of these is assessed in relation to catenary and vertical titanium riser configurations suspended from a TLP in deep waters. A geometric approach based on two-dimensional stress diagrams is employed. Fatigue design checks are also addressed. In relation to the considered riser configurations, preliminary design analyses are performed. The intention is to highlight various aspects intrinsic to titanium riser design.
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