Assessment of Nondestructive Examination (NDE) and Condition Monitoring Technologies for Defect Detection in Non-Metallic Pipe

Overview

Main Objective

The objective of the program is to quantify the ability of several NDE methods for detection, sizing and characterizing defects, damage and anomalies that may occur in non-metallic pipe (NMP), and to characterize the erosion performance of the inner liners and the potential to detect liner erosion wall loss externally. This program will develop critically important guidance on methods to quantify the condition of NMP for use as a manufacturing plant QC tool and field inspection.

Public Abstract

Project description: Demand for Spoolable Composite Pipe (SCP) and Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipe (RTP) is increasing in many onshore and offshore oil and gas applications supporting production, gathering, transmission and distribution operations. However, limited capability currently exists for nondestructive examination (NDE) of these pipes either as a manufacturing quality control (QC) tool or to assess in-service condition. This presents a significant gap to the development and implementation of robust engineering assessment methodologies and limits expanding use of these types of non-metallic pipe (NMP). Completion of this research effort will provide a critical foundation for the development of robust safety and integrity assessment methods for NMP. This program will evaluate several NDE methods for detecting flaws, damage, and anomalies in NMP, establish detection and sizing thresholds, and develop inspection guidelines for in-plant quality assurance (QA)/QC and field applications.

Anticipated Results: Program deliverables will include NDE procedures for in-plant QA/QC inspection, a guidance document for selecting NDE methods for inspection of NMP, a guide for requirements for in-service NMP inspection, a series of written reports quantifying the detection and sizing of various NDE methods, a virtual workshop to support transfer of the technology to industry, and conference papers.

Potential impact on safety: Enhance quality control during manufacturing, ensure safer operation through effective in-service inspection, and pave the way for broader use of non-metallic pipes in the oil and gas industry.

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