Future Pipeline Technology

 

13 April 2005 Aberdeen Evening Meeting

Chairman Dr John Lawson, Pipeline Advisor, ChevronTexaco Upstream

Sponsored by Boreas Consultants and Brinker Technology Ltd

 

Report by Chairman Dr John Lawson, Pipeline Advisor, ChevronTexaco Upstream

 

Overview

The UK sector of the oil and gas business is known for rising to the ever-changing market and the associated challenges. The subsea pipeline business is no exception, and the presentations highlighted examples of innovation to meet the challenges of pipeline integrity and cost effective pipeline solutions.

 

Presentations

Benefits and Barriers to Plastic Lining

Stuart McIntyre, Boreas Consultants

Stuart presented an overview of the benefits available to the subsea pipeline industry from using plastic lining technology. He also highlighted the barriers that have to date prevented the technology from becoming widely adopted, and some of the solutions Boreas believes will change the status-quo.

 

Leak Sealing on a Water Injection Line in the Foinhaven Field, using Platelet™ technology

Ian Chirnside, Brinker Technology Ltd

Platelet™ technology is a novel method of sealing and locating leaks in pipelines, and this presentation described the first ever deployment of Platelet™ technology in the field. The outstanding success of the operation in September 2004 has thereby introduced a new tool to provide a means of rapid top-side response to further pipeline failure during the winter months when subsea intervention and DSV availability is less than certain.

 

5 Minute Technology Bite

The 'Viking' Pipeline Connector

Steven Vorley, Marine Direct Consultants Ltd

The Viking Pipeline Connector is a newly developed and innovative low profile pipeline coupling based on proven sealing technology. It is particularly cost-effective and has applications subsea for remote and diver assisted tie-ins, pipe lay, steel catenary risers and may have applications top side where space is at a premium.