Modal analysis of fluid-structure interaction in a bent pipeline

Fluid-structure interaction in a bent pipeline is investigated by modal methods. Measured frequency response functions between flow rate excitation and pressure response indicate a coupling effect near the third pipeline resonance. Using modal coordinates for the hydraulic and the mechanical subsystems, a two-degrees-of-freedom study of resonance coupling is carried out. An experimental modal analysis of the coupled hydraulic-mechanical system confirms the predicted resonance splitting; it illustrates the coupling mechanism and shows the relevant mechanical part. An analytical fluid-structure interaction model succeeds in reproducing the measured coupling effect. This model is also used for modification prediction; it demonstrates that an appropriate assembly of mass and damping on the pipeline can help to reduce hydraulic resonance amplitudes.