Analysis of Frictional Coefficient in Large-Length Submarine Cable Pipe-Pulling Construction

Addressing the challenges of dynamic uncertainty in friction coefficients and insufficient economic viability in equipment selection during directional drilling and pipe-pulling operations for long-length submarine cables, this study employs the OrcaFlex platform to construct a three-dimensional dynamic model. Utilizing the Jinshan Offshore Wind Farm project as a case study, it systematically reveals the nonlinear relationship between pulling force and friction coefficient for extended-length submarine cables. By establishing a segmented steel pipe geometric model, the study quantified the influence patterns of axial stiffness, bending stiffness, and friction coefficient (μ=0.30~0.50) on pulling force. Findings indicate: the proportion of curved segments correlates positively with friction sensitivity. When μ increases from 0.30 to 0.50, the first segment's pull-out force rises by 56%, significantly exceeding the second segment’s increase. This demonstrates path geometry’s nonlinear regulatory effect on contact pressure distribution. Engineering test data recorded 271.40 kN for the first section and 209.6 kN for the second section, closely matching simulation predictions under μ=0.30 conditions. The study confirms that the three-dimensional contact pressure model improves prediction accuracy by 15%~20% compared to engineering experience, providing a refined solution for other long-length submarine cable conduit installations. This holds significant implications for reducing project costs and mitigating risks.