Spring systems for vortex suppression devices

摘要

A vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression system configured to accommodate a change in an underlying tubular diameter. The system including an encircling member dimensioned to at least partially encircle an underlying tubular. The encircling member may be, for example, a collar or a VIV suppression device such as a strake, or any other type of VIV suppression device. The system further including a band member dimensioned to encircle the encircling member and hold the encircling member around the underlying tubular at a desired axial position. A spring member may further be provided. The spring member may be positioned between the encircling member and the band member and dimensioned to contract in response to an increase in a diameter of the underlying tubular and expand in response to a decrease in a diameter of the underlying tubular such that the encircling member remains at the desired axial position.

主权项

1. A system for reducing vortex induced vibration (VIV) about a tubular, the system comprising:
a strake section having a shell portion dimensioned to encircle an underlying tubular and a fin extending from the shell portion; a slot formed through the fin portion; a band member dimensioned for insertion through the slot and around the shell portion; and a resilient member positioned around the shell portion, the resilient member having discrete sections that are spaced apart and dimensioned to expand or contract in response to a change in diameter of the underlying tubular so that an axial alignment of the strake section about the underlying tubular is maintained, each of the discrete sections being positioned at an opening formed through the shell portion such that a portion of each of the discrete sections is exposed through the shell portion to an underlying tubular.