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58 Tube Products International July 2015
Exova – UK
The present RTSS camera systems have been used in a
number of two- and four-post test frames ranging from 50kN
to 1,800kN capacity to test specimens of varying length and
cross section with cyclic strain cycles of up to 3.5%.
These alternative uses for the equipment are another key
driving force when it comes to considering this type of OSM
system.
The camera system at Exova Daventry has been used to
perform cycle straining of pipe material then pulled to failure,
with positive results and more investigations underway to
further the scope for the introduction of OSMs into other areas
of the laboratory.
Conclusion
The adoption of OSM systems by Exova has significantly
reduced preparation time when compared with strain gauging.
In what is usually a very time-critical test process, this is an
important aspect that Exova is keen to use moving forward
with its clients.
Looking to the future, non-contacting OSM for pre-straining
has now been adopted in Exova’s laboratories in Daventry
and the Netherlands. It has been recommended that this be
applied as the Exova global standard method for oil and gas
laboratories conducting cyclic plastic strain simulations.
This continued roll out across the Exova labs shows how
influential these new findings have been. The transition to
OSM systems for this aspect of testing of subsea pipelines
will continue to be a popular technique.
Ed Fowkes
Mr Fowkes is a technical specialist and the production
manager based at Exova’s facility in Daventry, UK. He
is responsible for ensuring that test programmes meet
clients’ needs both technically and commercially, as well
as driving continual improvement within the laboratory. He
has experience overseeing multi-stage testing projects,
predominantly for the oil and gas industry, and has proven
success in developing laboratory processes and capabilities.
Camera system