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Topics Covered
Background
Pipeline Reeling
Trawl Board Impact Studies
Barge Model Tensioner Tests
Overall Heat Treatment Coefficient Determinations (OHTC)
Pipe Bursting Trials
Background
The Exova Corrosion Centre, based in Dudley, UK, is one of the world’s leading laboratories in the testing of pipeline materials for the Oil and Gas industry. In particular, the Exova Corrosion Centre specialises in qualification testing of materials for use in sour service (Hydrogen Sulphide) environments.The installation and service conditions for offshore oil and gas pipelines are such that extensive testing is normally undertaken to prove the total pipeline system at an early stage in the project. Pipeline installation by the reeling method is particularly demanding.
Pipeline Reeling
A 17m long frame line is available at our Edinburgh facility to undertake pipeline reeling simulations. The process of reeling and installation pipelines imparts plastic strain to the pipeline components. Plastic strain is potentially dangerous and can lead to buckling, ovality problems, coatings damage, etc.
Exova can immediately undertake tests for the entire pipe lay installation vessels currently operating. Should non-routine test parameters arise, then Exova have considerable experience in building test rigs on a strong floor or in a reaction frame.
It is for this reason that Exova are able to offer the following services:
- Pipeline Reeling Studies
- Trawl Board Impact Studies
- Barge Model Tensioner Tests
- Overall Heat Transfer Coefficient Determinations
- Pipe Bursting Trials
Trawl Board Impact Studies
In areas where commercial fishing activities prevail, there is a risk that fishing gear may impact and threaten the integrity of the pipeline. To assess the potential for damage, a trawl board impact can be conducted.
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Barge Model Tensioner Tests
Pipeline barges require a system for tensioning the pipeline. The tension might be applied through a series of electrometric tensioner pads on e.g. a caterpillar system. The reaction between the tensioner pads and the pipeline can be assessed through a model test. Exova has established procedures for performing these tests under both axial and radial loads. The test permits determination of both dynamic and static friction. Once again, the pipe is inspected after test for signs of damage or coating delamination.
Overall Heat Treatment Coefficient Determinations (OHTC)
Critical to safe and efficient operation of many pipelines is the performance of the insulation coating system. A failure in this area might lead to a pipeline waxing up. Exova can determine the overall heat transfer coefficient (OHTC) through the testing of a section of coated pipe in a pressure cell, simulating actual operation conditions.
Pipe Bursting Trials
Exova can offer a hydrostatic pressure test facility with a monotonic pressure capability up to 300 bar. As well as proof pressure testing, the validation of fracture mechanics models for fracture and crack propagation in representative geometrys, the examination of effects such as warm pre-stressing and the evaluation of thotropic behaviour under biaxial loading has been undertaken.
Source: Exova
For more information on this source please visit Exova