TPi January 2015

products & developments Polymer technology presents opportunities for pipeline industry

pipeline industry, thanks to major cost advantages, significant reductions in fabrication complexity and increased reliability of corrosion protection in long term service. Carbon steel with a polymer liner can now be considered in a range of applications where previously only CRAs would be specified. It changes the limits for the present cost/ benefit comparison between the two material options.” As part of its research and development programme, Swagelining has also created the LinerBridge ® weldable pipeline connector, which can be used to connect lengths of polymer-lined carbon steel pipelines, and addresses the constraints presented by clad CRA connectors. Mr Feeney’s talk highlighted the extensive testing programme that the LinerBridge has undergone and the product’s scope to change the landscape of the pipeline industry.

Mr Feeney continued, “We are stretching the reach of polymer lining technology and pushing the boundaries with an intensive pre-qualification testing programme and are about to mobilise a joint industry project. This is aimed at proving how polymer linings can prevent corrosion in carbon steel pipes transporting multiphase products at high temperatures. Our integrated lining system and LinerBridge together are a huge step forward for the pipeline industry and we are working with major operators and pipeline contractors who have realised its potential.” The Integrated Liner System can be installed onshore, or subsea by reel-lay, J-lay, CMDT, HDD or S-lay.

Over the last four years Swagelining, a designer and installer of polymer linings for pipeline and riser systems, has been working with a number of oil companies, resin producers, global subsea EPC contractors, universities and niche manufacturers to develop and qualify an integrated polymer lining system that is expected to expand the service application window for polymer lining. One of Swagelining’s technical experts discussed these developments at the Element Oilfield Engineering with Polymers conference. Allan Feeney, technical operations manager, discussed how plastic is being used as a cost- and time-effective method of delivering internal corrosion protection in carbon steel pipelines and risers. Mr Feeney said, “Our developments in polymer lining technology have potential to transform the subsea and onshore

Swagelining Ltd – UK enquiries@swagelining.com www.swagelining.com

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January 2015 Tube Products International