New release: SAGE Profile version 3.0

We are pleased to announce the release of SAGE Profile version 3.0. This major upgrade of our 3D pipeline analysis software features a brand new graphical user interface and a wide variety of new capabilities.

Graphical User Interface

In order to support the development of additional features, a brand new Graphical User Interface (GUI) has been developed, together with a significantly re-designed numerical architecture and file I/O communication. The new GUI uses a “wizard” type of approach to guide the engineer in a quick and user-friendly fashion through the different steps required to simulate the mechanical response of an offshore pipeline.

SAGE Profile new Graphical User Interface

Seabed rectification

SAGE Profile automatically detects the free spanning pipeline sections and performs fatigue screening according to the DNV recommended practice for free spanning pipes. For critical spans susceptible to fatigue damage induced by vortex induced vibrations, seabed intervention may be required. The new seabed rectification tool allows the simulation of the removal of ridges and infilling of depressions, to obtain a smoother pipeline profile and hence reduce the potential for free spans.

Pre-lay seabed rectification

Trenching module

SAGE Profile 3.0 allows simulating the trenching process, by gradually excavating the original surface soil underneath the pipe. The pipeline will subsequently sink in the trench under its own submerged weight. When the trenching simulation has been completed, the backfilling process can be simulated as well.

<< Transition to trenched section in virtual reality graphics environment

Backfill soil springs

When simulating the backfilling process, an ‘intelligent’ backfill soil spring is activated. It captures the interaction between the pipeline upheaval movement and the mobilized backfill resistance through specific a load transfer curve. The backfill soil spring enables an accurate prediction of the onset of upheaval buckling and the post-buckle response of buried pipelines.

Backfill soil spring definition >>

Fully bonded pipe-in-pipe systems

In addition to single wall pipe sections, this new release offers the ability to model fully bonded pipe-in-pipe systems, which consists of two steel layers, separated by one insulating coating layer. The outer steel layer can be surrounded by several outer coating layers, whereas the inner steel layer may encompass several inner coating layers. The fully bonded pipe in pipe system assumes no axial displacement between the inner and the outer steel layer.

Schematic representation of a pipe-in-pipe section

New identity

A subtle name change comes together with the new identity of this major upgrade: “SAGE Profile 3D” is now simply “SAGE Profile”. The software also adopts a new rounded logo, symbolizing both the shape of a pipeline section and the dynamism of its explicit finite element solver.

This new name and new logo are messengers of our vision to bring a new impulse to the development of our state-of-the art pipeline analysis software. It is intended to be a user-friendly and reliable tool for assisting pipeline engineers in the design and analysis of subsea pipelines. The essence of this vision is expressed by SAGE Profile’s new baseline signature: “Solid design. Reliable pipelines.”.

SAGE Profile new identity

>>SAGE Profile 3D is no longer available for leasing or purchase. However, the last features released in SAGE Profile 3D v2.6 can be seen here