The composite construction of unbonded flexible pipes makes the failure modes complex and the way to mitigate the risks of failures becomes an important aspect in the system selection. The applications of flexible pipe result from its composite structure, which combines layers with high stiffness to provide strength and polymer sealing layers with low stiffness to provide fluid integrity. This particular structure gives the flexible pipe a number of advantages over other types of pipe, which include reduced transport and installation costs by prefabrication in long lengths stored on reels and suitability for use with compliant structures.