The present paper approaches fluid-structure interaction by means of a 4-equation model. Experimental data collected from a straight copper pipe-rig lying directly on the lab floor is used for the model validation in terms of wave shape, timing and damping. The main focus lies on the friction coupling modelling considering skin and dry friction. For skin friction three approaches are analysed: quasi-steady, Brunone’s and Trikha’s unsteady friction. For dry friction Coulomb’s model is added in the beam momentum conservation equation. Results present a good fitting between experimental and numerical data, showing the dissipative effect of dry friction phenomenon which complement that of skin friction, specially in the short term simulation.