Submarine power cables: A literature study on finite element analysis

Abstract

Submarine power cables are a critical component for offshore engineering and are of particular importance to the offshore renewable energy sector as floating systems become more prevalent. Currently, finite element analysis (FEA) is frequently used to predict the mechanical responses of submarine cables under external environmental loads. There are two main modelling regimes in FEA analysis of submarine cable: global analysis and local analysis. This paper will review numerical methods used to evaluate the mechanical characteristics of submarine power cables. The literature review will compare the governing modelling parameters such as the underlying hydrodynamic theory, analysis domain, assumptions, and the limitations of the respective methods. The review will also explore the link between coupled global and local analysis. Furthermore, this paper will assist re searchers and practitioners in selecting suitable methods and tools for the design and development of submarine power cables especially in the early design stages.