PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
SoluForce System
Design Guideline
FOR STANDARD ONSHORE INSTALLATIONS
version: 04, 2015-01 ref: mm15011 Date: 2015-01-21
1
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
INDEX
Introduction to the design procedure
for standard onshore installations.
3
From steel to RTP
4
1
Scope
1.1
General
1.2Applications of the SoluForce®
pipe system
1.3
Definitions
5
5
5
6
2
General Information
2.1
Serial identification
2.2
Product design
2.2.1 Pipe
2.2.2 Fitting system
2.2.2.1 In-line couplers
2.2.2.2 End fittings
2.3
Pipe connection procedure
2.4
Product selection
8
8
9
9
10
10
10
10
10
3
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
Quality system
Design phase
Construction and commissioning
Operation and maintenance
General
Service conversions
Re-use of SoluForce® pipe
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
4
Chemical resistance and environment
4.1
General
4.2Chemical influence on the pipeline
components
4.2.1 PE liner
4.2.2 Synthetic Fibres
4.2.3 steel cords
4.2.4Aluminium barrier layer in SoluForce®
Classic and Heavy GT
4.2.5 Stainless steel
4.2.6 O-ring
4.2.7 GRE
12
12
5Hydraulic design and diameter
selection
5.1
Diameter specification
5.1.1 Throughput
5.1.2 Pressure loss
5.2
Erosion
5.3
Short-term pressure excursions
5.3.1 SoluForce Heavy
5.3.2 SoluForce Classic / Light
5.4
Water hammer
5.5
Pressure control
6
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.4.1
6.4.2
6.4.3
6.5
6.6
6.7
Above ground pipeline design
General
Required design data
Route selection
Typical loads
Temperature and pressure variations
Local loads and impact loads
Use of supports
Requirements of the ground surface
Road crossings
Cyclic loading
17
17
17
17
17
17
17
18
18
19
20
7
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.4.1
7.4.2
7.5
7.5.1
7.5.2
7.5.3
7.6
7.7
Buried pipeline design
General
Required design data
Route selection
Typical loads
Temperature
Soil & trench
No-dig installation methods
Horizontal directional drillings
Sleeved crossings
Jacketed crossings
Road crossings
Lay-out of pipeline
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
21
22
22
22
22
22
8Design procedure for standard
installations
8.1
General
8.2
Design Windows
8.3
Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure
8.3.1 Local regulations
8.3.2 Elastic bending
8.3.3 Pressure surges
8.3.4 Temperature surges
8.4
Advanced design
23
23
24
25
25
25
25
25
25
12
12
12
12
9
9.1
9.1.1
9.1.2
9.2
Commissioning
Hydrotesting
Test report
Safety
Completion
26
26
26
26
26
13
13
13
14
15
15
15
15
16
16
10
10.1
10.2
10.2.1
Operation and maintenance
Specific requirements for operation
Specific requirements for maintenance
Assessment of damages
27
27
27
27
11
Decommissioning and abandonment 28
12
12
12
12
Disclaimer
29
2
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
INTRODUCTION
Introduction to the design procedure for standard onshore installations.
This version of the design guideline for the SoluForce® RTP system is primarily intended to be used for the
design of oil and gas gathering and water injection pipelines at standard conditions. To use this simplified
design procedure, the system should operate within a well defined "operating window" of hydrostatic
pressure, fluid composition, temperature, service, and installation conditions. In all other cases, the
"full design procedure" must be employed, and well understood.
It is assumed that the reader has prior knowledge about the design of pipe systems, i.e. on an
engineering level. Therefore the emphasis is on specific design details for an RTP system.
The information in this document forms an integral part of the SoluForce® documentation.
3
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
FROM STEEL TO RTP
High-pressure pipelines are thus far generally constructed in steel. Demands from the market have led
to the development of the Reinforced Thermoplastic
Pipe (RTP). Among the advantages can be listed:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Absence of corrosion;
High chemical resistance against a wide variety
of chemical substances;
Superior hydraulic behaviour, resulting in smaller
diameters compared to steel pipe;
Erosion /abrasion resistance, comparable or
better then steel pipe and by far better than GRE
pipe systems;
Production and transportation in long lengths,
coiled on spools (up to 400 metres), strongly
reducing the number of field joints and thus the
increased speed of installation;
Reduction in installation costs because of the
flexibility of the pipe and the limited number of
field joints, allowing for fast trenching techniques, e.g. without dewatering the trench;
High pipe flexibility, reducing the need for
pre-formed bends.
From these characteristics (high flexibility, long
lengths) Pipelife developed a pipe system for flow
lines and transportation pipeline systems, with an
intentionally limited number of components (continuous pipe, in-line coupler and end-fitting), keeping
the advantage of easy and fast construction in the
field, but with the possibility of easy connection to
pipe components of other materials, by standardised components.
More complicated constructions, such as manifolds, Tee-connections, valve pits, etc still can be
executed in traditional steel pipe work, selecting the
proper materials and grades.
4
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
SCOPE
1.1 General
The goal of this document is to answer all questions
necessary for the design of the SoluForce® system,
to be operated at standard conditions, by an engineering company.
The information in this document forms an integrated part of the documentation on the SoluForce®
pipe system made available by Pipelife to its clients.
This documentation shall only be used in combination with the following documents, which are available on request:
−SoluForce® : product information, technical data
and specifications
The barrier layer also prevents the emission of any
substance in the fluid into the environment.
The operational envelope for the use of SoluForce®
pipe system
−The SoluForce® pipe system is limited to the
design conditions as specified in the product
specifications.
−The SoluForce® pipe system is qualified for
"static service" as defined in API 15S. This means that the pipe may be subjected to 7200 full
pressure cycles from zero to MAOP during the
service life of the pipe system. Quite likely,
SoluForce® shows much better fatigue resistance, but this has not been officially verified yet.
− SoluForce®: Installation Guideline
The most recent updates of the documentation can
be obtained upon request from SoluForce®, Pipelife
Nederland BV, e-mail: info@soluforce.com.
1.2 Applications of the SoluForce® pipe system
The SoluForce® pipe system is intended for onshore
use, above ground as well as buried. Offshore applications of SoluForce are not covered in this design
manual.
The SoluForce® pipe system can be used for
transportation of a wide variety of products. The
SoluForce® system is especially suitable for transportation of:
• W
ide variety of (sour) hydrocarbon fluids, which
may contain sour components like H2S and CO2;
• Condensates;
• Gas, both wet gas and treated (natural) gas;
• Water (clean water, salt water and formation
water with all kinds of pollution, water injection
lines, etc).
For applications with relatively high (partial) gas
pressures, SoluForce products with a bonded
aluminium permeation barrier layer are available,
designated by the "GT" suffix. This layer prevents
the accumulation of gas pressure in the reinforcement layer, thus avoiding any risk of cover blistering
or the need of venting of permeated gases.
5
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
1.3 Definitions
Definition
Description
Lower Confidence Limit
The 97.5% lower confidence limit of the mean regression curve.
Cyclic
Service condition where the internal pressure fluctuates
Design temperature
Maximum and minimum anticipated system temperature
Design pressure
Maximum anticipated system pressure, for short duration
Maximum Allowable
Operating Pressure
Maximum continuous operating pressure for the duration of the
system design lifetime. Short term pressure surges should not
exceed the “Design Pressure”.
Elastic bending
Bending where the material is deformed elastically
Fluid
Transported medium, can be a fluid or a gas
Pressure surge Pressure in excess of the MAOP over a short period
of time
Hydrotest
Pressure test with water to prove the tightness of the system
Liner
Inner tube made from thermoplastic material. The function of the
liner is to act as a barrier for the transported gas or fluid
Cover
The cover is made of pigmented, UV stabilised PE100. The function
of this layer is to protect the reinforcement layer from soil, (ground)
water, sunlight and (third party) damage
End-fitting
Component to connect the SoluForce® pipe to components of other
materials
In-line coupler
Component to connect two SoluForce® pipes
Erosion
Material abrasion though hard particles or cavitation
Creep
Condition where the material increasingly deforms under constant
load
Relaxation
Condition where the stress level in the material reduces under
constant deformation
Fatigue
Alternating load ultimately resulting in failure
Lifetime
Period of time over which the pipe system can be used technically
and economically
Additives
Added substances to the transported fluid
Service factor
Factor applied to the LCL to calculate the pressure rating, according
to API 15S or API 17J
Table 1-1. Definitions.
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PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
Abbreviation
Description
HDD
Horizontal Directional Drilling
LCL
Lower Confidence Limit
PE
Polyethylene
ANSI
GRE
American National Standards
Institute
Glass fibre Reinforced Epoxy
UV
Ultra Violet
MAOP
Maximum Allowable Operating
Pressuree
Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipe
RTP
Table 1-2. Abbreviations.
The Manufacturer is the party which manufactures
or supplies equipment and services to perform the
duties specified by the Principal.
The Contractor is the party which installs the pipeline system in the field according to the scope and
the requirements specified by the Principal and the
technical specification of the manufacturer.
The Principal is the party which initiates the project
and ultimately pays for its design and construction.
The Principal will generally specify the technical
requirements. The Principal may also include an
agent or consultant to act for, and on behalf of, the
Principal.
In this document should indicates a recommendation and shall indicates a requirement.
Text which appears in italics is informative.
7
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
GENERAL INFORMATION
In order to come to a reduction in construction
costs the use of polymers is favourable when
compared to steel pipelines. However the allowable
pressure has always limited the use of plastic pipelines. Now with the development of RTP systems this
limitation has been overcome.
The fittings and couplings are an integral part of the
system and have the same pressure rating as the
system.
Standard fittings like elbows and tees are not part of
the delivery program and can be ordered from the
usual sources.
The hydraulic properties of the RTP system surpass that of steel due to the smooth surface. As
an example: the transportation capability of the 5”
SoluForce® pipe is similar to a conventional 6” steel
pipe.
Also the chemical resistance is comparable to that
of high alloy steel.
The SoluForce® RTP system is supplied as continuous pipe coiled on a spool. The continuous pipes
are interconnected using an in-line coupler entirely consisting of corrosion resistant material. The
continuous pipe is very flexible so that directional
changes can be made by elastic bending. In cases
where elastic bending is not possible the end of a
pipe can be fitted with a standard end-fitting that is
part of the delivery programme. A pipe elbow can
be mounted to this end-fitting. Except for bends
other fittings like tees can also be inserted. These
fittings will under most circumstances be made of
stainless steel or plastic composite. These standard
fittings are not part of the delivery programme of
SoluForce®, as they can easily be obtained from the
usual sources.
2.1 Serial identification
The delivery programme of the available products
is listed in the most recent SoluForce product
brochure. This brochure, as well as additional
information, can be obtained from Pipelife, or found
on the SoluForce website: www.soluforce.com.
The product range generally consists of:
• Continuous pipe delivered on spools with a
length of up to 400 metres;
• In-line couplers for the connection between two
SoluForce® pipes;
• End -fittings for the connection between a
SoluForce® pipe and a fitting of non-RTP pipe
work.
• Repair couplers and fittings. 8
PIPES FOR LIFE
2.2
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
Product design
2.2.1 Pipe
The SoluForce® pipe is built up as shown in the
figure below.
PE 100 cover
Reinforcement layer
PE 100 liner
Figure 2-1. SoluForce® RTP system.
The liner pipe is made of a high density polyethylene
(HDPE) compound. The function of the liner is to act
as a barrier for the transported fluid. The liner gives
the SoluForce® system its axial strength, and resistance to ovalisation. The liner and cover also add
marginally to the circumferential strength. Specific
advantage of using HDPE based compounds as a
liner is the chemical resistance and good hydraulic
properties (see also chapter 5).
The most important part of the RTP pipe is the reinforcement layer. This layer consists of ribbons made
of synthetic fibres (SoluForce® Light, and
SoluForce® Classic) or steel wire cords (SoluForce®
Heavy) embedded in a PE100 cover. The ribbons
are wound around the PE100 liner at an optimised
angle of approximately 54° clockwise and counter-clockwise. The function of the ribbons is to provide hydrostatic strength. Although the reinforcing
ribbons have a high axial strength and stiffness, the
reinforcement, thanks to the spiralled construction,
does not limit the flexibility of the RTP system.
The outside cover is made of pigmented,
UV stabilised PE100. Function of this layer is to
protect the reinforcement layer from soil, (ground)
water and (third party) damage. When installed
above ground the outside cover also acts as a UV
protection. The white cover reflects sunlight and
reduces solar heating to insignificant levels. The
temperature limitation of a SoluForce pipe system
is therefore normally determined by the fluid temperature, and usually not by the ambient temperature.
The "black bulb temperature" has no meaning for
SoluForce.
To prevent permeation of gaseous components in
the fluid through the pipe wall, SoluForce® is also
available with a bonded aluminium permeation
barrier layer, which is situated in between the liner
and the reinforcement layer. These products are
designated by the "GT" suffix. SoluForce® Heavy
GT and SoluForce® Classic GT are required for high
pressure (partial) gas pressure service, and may
also be required when the emission of toxic
components in the fluid into the environment
should be completely avoided.
9
PIPES FOR LIFE
2.2.2 Fitting system
2.2.2.1 In-line couplers
The goal of the in-line coupler is to transfer the
mechanical loads from one SoluForce® pipe-end
to another. In-line couplers may be based on the
electrofusion principle (completely non-metallic and
corrosion resistant) or on clamping of a metallic
sleeve by plastic deformation ("crimping" or
"swaging").
Further details about available in-line copulers are
found in the SoluForce® product brochure, and in
the SoluForce® Installation Manual
(info@soluforce.com).
The couplers are stronger than the highest available
pipe rating. Electrofusion end-fittings cannot be
used for SoluForce Heavy operating at the
maximum pressure rating of the pipe.
2.2.2.2 End fittings
The goal of the end coupler is to connect the
SoluForce® pipe to other pipe work or fittings like
bends, T-pieces etc. The end coupler may be based
on the electrofusion principle, or may be based on
clamping of a metallic sleeve by plastic deformation.
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
2.3 Pipe connection procedure
Reference is made to the SoluForce® Installation
guide for:
− Coupler procedures;
− Installation procedures for the fitting system;
− Mounting conditions;
− Dimensions of machinery on site;
− Capabilities of butt-welding.
Requirements for the welding involved in the
pipe connection procedure can be found in
the SoluForce® installation Guide.
2.4 Product selection
When designing a pipe system the first step is the
product material selection. The required product
is selected on the basis of the required diameter,
design pressure and fluid service (water, oil or
gas). Guidance on diameter selection is given in
chapter 5.
When a suitable pipe system is selected, the pipe
system can be designed as described in chapter
6 for an above ground system or in chapter 7 for a
buried system.
The metallic parts of the end-fitting must be compatible with the fluid in the pipe. By default, the
parts which are in contact with the fluid are made
from stainless steel 316L. For highly corrosive fluids,
other materials may be specified. Consult SoluForce
for advice (info@soluforce.com).
End fittings contain elastomeric seals. By default,
the seals are made from nitrile rubber (NBR). The
fluid in the pipe may require a more resistant sealing
material.
Further details about available in-line fittings are
found in the SoluForce® product brochure, and
in the SoluForce® Installation Manual
(info@soluforce.com).
10
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
QUALITY SYSTEM
The life of a pipe system can be divided into three
phases:
• Design;
• Construction and commissioning;
• Operation and maintenance.
For all three phases a quality system should apply.
ISO 9001-2 gives guidance on the selection and use
of a quality system.
In order to apply for guarantee in case of a failure of
the pipe system, the principal shall keep copies of
the documentation as listed below.
3.1 Design phase
As a completion of the design phase the principal
shall have available as a minimum the following
documentation (if applicable):
• Documentation showing the suitability of the pipe
system for use at the design conditions;
• Route maps showing the routing of the pipeline;
• Documentation on the agreements with authorities
and land owners.
3.2 Construction and commissioning
For application of the correct installation
procedures, reference is made to the SoluForce®
Installation guide.
All installation work shall only be done according
to the procedures outlined in the SoluForce®
Installation Manual, and carried out by welleducated and well-trained personnel, in the
possession of a Pipelife qualification certificate.
After completion of the construction and commissioning the contractor shall hand over to the principal
the following documentation (if applicable):
• Revision measurements and as-built drawings;
• Hydrotest and inspection data;
• Welding reports.
3.3 Operation and maintenance
3.3.1 General
During operation and maintenance the principal is
responsible for maintaining records on:
• Maintenance procedures;
• Periodic tests and inspections;
• Incidents, both loss of containment as well as
near misses;
• Repairs and modifications;
• Service conversions, see 3.3.2.
3.3.2 Service conversions
During the lifetime of a pipeline the situation may
occur where it is desired to change the transported medium and/or the process conditions. This is
called a service conversion. A service conversion
may have an impact on the lifetime and/or pressure
rating. For instance a pipeline, which has transported oil for several years and is converted to water
transportation will still have the service factor for oil.
Due to the specific details involved, a service
conversion should always be discussed with the
manufacturer. In order to discuss a service conversion, documentation of the following parameters
during the entire lifetime of the pipe system shall be
available:
• Pressure history, including magnitude and duration of pressure surges (preferably a continuous
monitoring);
• Temperature (preferably a continuous monitoring);
• Specification of fluid composition;
• Changes with respect to the original design.
3.3.3 Re-use of SoluForce® pipe
With re-use is meant: the re-coiling of a used
pipeline with the intention to use the pipeline again
at a different location possibly in combination with
a service conversion. Re-use is not covered by this
Simplified Design Guideline. Procedures for re-use
and re-coiling are available from SoluForce
(info@soluforce.com).
Due to the specific details involved, re-use of a
pipeline should always be discussed with the
manufacturer.
11
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE & ENVIRONMENT
4.1 General
The Poly Ethylene (PE) based liner is suitable for use
under chemical conditions that would require a steel
pipeline (expensive) high alloy material. SoluForce
products are qualified according to API 15S and API
17J for hydrocarbon service, water, and gas.
A chemicals resistance list can be obtained from
Pipelife, info@soluforce.com
4.2 C
hemical influence on the pipeline
components
Some specific points of attention as to the chemical
influence per pipeline component are described
below.
4.2.1 PE liner
The PE liner is qualified for sour hydrocarbon
service, water, and gas up to the maximum
rated operating temperature, as published in the
SoluForce data sheets.
4.2.2 Synthetic fibres
Within the application envelope of pressure and
temperature, most oilfield fluids, like water, hydrocarbons, sour gases, etc. do not affect the strength
of the synthetic fibre reinforcement. However,
certain amino-based corrosion inhibitors might
affect the strength of aramid fibre. When the use
of such inhibitors is contemplated, contact
SoluForce for advice: info@soluforce.com
4.2.3 Steel cords
Although the steel wire reinforcement cords in
SoluForce Heavy are protected by a zinc coating,
and embedded in a protective layer of polyethylene, H2S and CO2 may cause corrosion of the steel
wires. Below a certain threshold (partial) pressure
of these sour gases in the fluid, the zinc coating
forms a passivation layer, preventing further corrosion. SoluForce® Heavy is tested and qualified for
sour service up to a maximum (partial) H2S and CO2
pressure as indicated in the product data sheets.
4.2.4 Aluminium barrier layer in SoluForce®
Classic and Heavy GT
The aluminium permeation barrier layer in
SoluForce® Classic and Heavy GT is passivated by
the special bonding layer. Below a certain threshold
(partial) pressure of sour components in the fluid, no
corrosion occurs.
The aluminium barrier layer is tested and qualified
for sour service up to a maximum (partial) H2S
and CO2 pressure as indicated in the product data
sheets.
By specifying the aluminium barrier layer, the sour
service resistance of SoluForce Heavy is significantly increased.
4.2.5 Stainless steel
The end couplers and flanges of the SoluForce®
system are by default made of TP316L stainless
steel (ASTM A312) and are susceptible to corrosion
by hydrogen sulphides. Supply of the fitting components in another steel grade is possible on request.
NACE 0176 or equivalent standards can be used as
a guideline for material selection.
Apart from the stainless steel flange the material of
the gasket should also be carefully selected.
4.2.6 O-ring
The sealing material of the end coupler is made
of nitrile rubber (NBR), which is susceptible to
degradation by high concentrations of hydrogen
sulphide. For sour service, seals made from Aflas
223290 are generally applicable. For service outside
the application envelope of NBR and Aflas 223290,
( -40 ºC < T < -10 ºC) consult SoluForce
(info@soluforce.com).
4.2.7 GRE
Glass fibre Reinforced Epoxy is used in the in-line
and end couplers. GRE has an excellent chemical
resistance to most substances. Strong acids and
bases may however influence the glass fibre reinforcement. The couplers must be externally covered
for these substances. The couplers are delivered
with a white PE sleeve to improve the UV and
impact resistance.
12
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
HYDRAULIC DESIGN AND DIAMETER SELECTION
The aim of hydraulic design is to specify a diameter,
which is capable of transporting the medium under
the specified conditions throughout the lifetime
of the pipe system. Apart from the diameter
specification other hydraulic design issues are
also addressed.
Due to the low friction resistance of the PE liner,
compared to carbon steel, in many cases a smaller
pipe diameter can be applied.
5.1 Diameter specification
The two most important factors in the determination
of the required diameter are the intended throughput and the pressure loss over the pipe length. The
flow diagram for diameter specification is shown
below.
Figure 5-1. Flow diagram for diameter selection.
5.1.1 Throughput
The velocity of the fluid or gas limits the throughput
of a pipeline. Normal velocities for liquids (based
on optimum diameter calculations and practical
pressure limitations) are in the range of 1 – 2 m/s.
Velocities of 4 – 5 m/sec are possible but the pipeline can be subject to cavitation, noise and water
hammer at these velocities. The mean velocity for
continuous service for gas is in the order of 1 – 10
m/s but can be up to 20 – 25 m/s. Based upon this
data the maximum throughput for the 4” and 5” is
approximately:
Diameter
Liquid (2 m/s)
Gas (10 m/s)*
4”
54 m3/hr
≈ 250 Sm3/hr
5”
84 m3/hr
≈ 380 Sm3/hr
Table 5-1. Approximation of the maximum throughput
* With gas transport, the capacity is dependant on the pressure
because of the compressibility of the gas
The throughput can be calculated using the equation:
(Equation 5-1)
With:
Q Throughput
Density of the fluid or gas
(dependant on pressure)
v Velocity of the fluid or gas
A Internal cross section of the pipeline
[kg/s]
[kg/m3]
[m/s]
[m2]
A larger throughput than indicated in the above
table may be possible if the limiting factors for the
velocity are eliminated or controlled or when the
pressure of the gas is increased.
Apart from the transport of solely gas or fluid a
multiphase flow may also be possible. Due to
the many factors involved, it is recommended to
contact a specialised party for multiphase flow
calculations.
13
PIPES FOR LIFE
5.1.2 Pressure loss
Fluid velocity, density of fluid, interior surface roughness of pipes and fittings, length of pipes, inside
diameter of pipes, as well as resistance from valves
and fittings shall be taken into account when estimating pressure losses. Guidance of the calculation of
pressure losses is given in ISO / DIS 13703.
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
approximately 0.01 – 0.05 mm compared to 0.05
– 0.4 mm for un-corroded carbon steel. Internal
diameter reduction such as weld beads and fittings
may result in higher local pressure losses. Also
the inner diameter may decrease in time due to
formation of product on the pipe wall (e.g. wax
formation in crude oil).
The basic formula for pressure loss is:
In this formula, is a dimensionless factor which
is a function of the roughness of the pipe and the
viscosity of the fluid. The formula for depends on
the type of flow (laminar, turbulent etc.) and can be
derived from literature.
For water at 20°C and a pipe with a wall roughness
of 0.05 mm the pressure loss per kilometre is shown
for a 4” and 5” RTP as well as for a 4” and 6” steel
pipeline. The 4” steel pipeline has the same internal
diameter as the 4” RTP. The wall roughness for the
steel pipeline has been taken at 0.5 mm (lightly
rusted). The presence of bends, valves etc. will
increase the pressure loss.
The wall roughness and thus the pressure loss in the
continuous pipe is determined by the liner material.
In case of polyethylene the wall roughness is
From the graph can be concluded that the pressure
loss of a lightly rusted 6” steel pipeline is similar to
that of a 5” RTP.
Figure 5-1. Pressure loss per kilometre as a function
of the velocity for WATER at 20 °C.
The viscosity of crude oils varies over a wide range.
Depending on the viscosity the flow will be either
laminar or turbulent. For different type of crude oil,
gas and multiphase flow comparative pressure loss
calculations have been performed by [...] Shell.
(Equation 5-2)
14
PIPES FOR LIFE
5.2 Erosion
The PE liner has under normal fluid composition
(oil, water and gas) and normal fluid velocity a better
resistance against erosion than steel pipelines.
Factors that should be limited to decrease the
possibility of erosion are:
• Particle content and size;
• Sharp bends;
• Flow restrictions;
• Fluid velocity.
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
Short-term pressure excursions should be limited
to the Lower Confidence Limit (LCL) of the 20-year
hydrostatic strength of the regression curve (for
definition, see API 15S), which is 1.5 times MAOP for
water service.
LCL and MAOP of SoluForce Classic/Light are
quoted in the most recent data sheets, which are
available on request: info@soluforce.com
It is advised to use in the pipeline design preferably
wide radius elastic bends from RTP pipe, rather
than small radius steel bends, the latter being more
susceptible to suffer damage from erosion.
The designer can contact the manufacturer for more
information on the susceptibility of the RTP to a
specific fluid and particle content.
5.3 Short-term pressure excursions
SoluForce® has relatively good resistance to
short-term pressure excursions, like the effects of
pressure surges (section 5.4), which may happen
during the operating life of a pipe system.
The maximum short-term pressure resistance of
SoluForce Heavy (steel wire cord reinforcement)
and SoluForce Classic/Light (synthetic fibre
reinforcement) shows rather different behaviour.
5.3.1 SoluForce Heavy
Table 6, and 8 in API 17J rev. 2014 provide guidance
on the service factors for the "pressure armours"
under different service conditions. For short-term
pressure excursions, the service factors for
"Permanent Extreme", and "Abnormal" operation
for the "Tensile Armours" apply. The short-term
pressure ratings of SoluForce® Heavy, being
qualified and certified according to API 17, are given
in the most recent data sheets, which are available
on request: info@soluforce.com
5.3.2 SoluForce Classic / Light
Thanks to the regressive behaviour of the
hydrostatic strength of synthetic fibre reinforced
RTP, the short-term strength of RTP is significantly
higher than the long-term strength for continuous
operation.
15
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
5.4 Water hammer
Due to fast closing of valves or starting/stopping
of pumps, the pipe system can be subjected to
pressure surges (water hammer). Since the RTP
system has a relatively low elasticity modulus
compared to steel, the extent of the pressure surge
will be smaller. However, if the possibility for water
hammer is present, the designer shall investigate the
influence of water hammer using standard methods.
The most common cause for the occurrence of
pressure surges is fast closing of a valve. The most
well known rule of thumb for calculation of pressure
surge due to fast closing of a valve is Joukowski’s
law (also known as Allievi’s relation):
or
(Equation 5-3a/b)
With:
ΔH Pressure surge
c Wave propagation speed
g Gravitational acceleration
ΔvVelocity difference due
to closing of the valve (fluid velocity)
Δp Pressure surge
Density of the fluid
[m]
[m/s]
[m/s2]
A valve, which closes linearly in 5 times the
characteristic times, will still result in the Joukowski
pressure upstream of the valve, if the effective
closure occurs in the last 20%.
The wave velocity is partly a function of the modulus
of elasticity of the pipeline. For a SoluForce® pipeline the wave velocity up to 35 barg is determined
by the PE liner and above 35 barg by the Aramid
reinforcement. For pressures up to 35 barg a wave
velocity of 300 m/s can be used and for pressures
above 35 barg a wave velocity of 450 m/s.
5.5 Pressure control
In case there is a risk of exposing the pipeline to
excessive short-term pressure excursions, above
the rated maximum limit (see sections 5.3 and 5.4),
a pressure control system shall be applied.
Generally a pressure control system consists of a
pressure regulator, a pressure alarm system and a
pressure safety device. Further information on pressure control systems can be found in ISO/DIS 4126.
[m/s]
[Pa]
[kg/m3]
This relation is only valid if the effective closing time
of the valve time is within the characteristic time of
the system and if the total steady friction losses are
small compared to the Joukowski head difference.
The characteristic time, being the time needed for
the first pressure wave front to travel from the valve
to the first upstream reflection and back to the
valve, can be calculated from:
(Equation 5-4)
With L being the length of pipeline between the closing valve and the upstream reflection (e.g. a pump).
If a valve is closed linearly in time, then initially the
flow is hardly reduced, because the valve in fully
open position does not dominate the friction in the
system yet, especially in the case of transportation
pipes. Only during the final stage of the valve
closure (frequently only the last 20%) is the flow
effectively reduced. This is called the effective
closing time. Consequently, the pressure surge
occurs effectively in the last 20% of the valve
closure.
16
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
ABOVE GROUND PIPELINE DESIGN
6.1 General
Above ground application of the SoluForce® system
is possible for a wide variety of fluids and gases.
Among typical purposes are:
•
•
•
•
Oil gathering flow lines;
Gas gathering flow lines;
Water injection pipelines;
Waste water disposal pipelines.
The HDPE cover of the SoluForce® pipe system is
UV resistant for a lifetime of 20 years, therefore allowing the pipe to be installed above ground. Storage
time in a UV environment also counts in this lifetime.
The following paragraphs handle different specific
design aspects for above ground use of a
SoluForce® pipe system.
6.2 Required design data
Before starting the design for an above ground
pipeline it may be useful to collect the required data
necessary for the design.
• Routing (with particular attention to river, road,
and pipe crossings;
• Specifications of the transported fluid, including
additives;
• Design conditions (pressure, temperature);
• Expected loads;
• Environmental conditions;
• Local regulations;
• Type of support, if required (see section 6.4.3);
• Inter support distance;
• Surface condition.
6.3 Route selection
Above ground installation is common in oil and
gas production. The pipeline is preferably installed
directly on the ground. The installation on a sleeper
track is generally not recommended.
When planning a route for an above ground
SoluForce® pipeline, the following aspects shall be
adhered to:
• The pipe shall be allowed some freedom for lateral
motion (0.5 m), to accommodate potential axial
expansion due to thermal pressure variations.
• The elastic bend radius shall be no less than
3 metres;
• Short radius bends should be avoided but can
be made by installing a SoluForce® end coupler,
connected to bends of other pipe materials;
• The possibility of third party damage should be
minimised;
• The use of supports should be avoided where
possible (see 6.4.3);
• At crossings with steel pipelines, direct contact
of the SoluForce pipe with the steel pipe shall
be avoided at all times. It is advised to bury the
SoluForce lines under a shallow sand cover.
6.4 Typical loads
6.4.1 Temperature and pressure variations
In steel pipeline systems the expansion due to
temperature and pressure is absorbed in the form
of dedicated expansion bends or loops. Due to
the axial flexibility of the RTP pipe the expansion
due to temperature and pressure variations can be
absorbed by the system without taking any further
measures, like expansion loops, expansion bellows,
etc.
6.4.2 Local loads and impact loads
Local loads and impact loads are loads which will
have to be absorbed over a small length of pipe (no
more than several times the pipeline diameter). An
example of a local load is a car driving directly over
the pipeline.
Although SoluForce® has a very high impact
strength and axial deformation capacity, local loads
and impact loads are to be prevented, because the
magnitude of them is often very difficult to predict.
Where the possibility of local loads and impact
exist, adequate protective measure shall be taken.
Possible protective measures are:
• Markers along the pipeline routing;
• Soil cover over the pipeline;
• (Shallow) Trenching
• Bundling of pipelines;
• Protection sleeves.
17
PIPES FOR LIFE
6.4.3 Use of supports
Supports provoke a form of a local load and should
therefore be avoided as much as possible. In cases
where the use of pipe supports cannot be avoided,
the pipes will tend to show ‘sagging’ between the
supports, because of the low pipe stiffness.
Furthermore the reinforcement may be loaded in
an unfavourable manner, possibly reducing the
strength of the SoluForce® system. The supports,
if any, will have to satisfy the following demands;
• The support will have a length of at least three
times the pipeline diameter;
• Maximum support distance shall be determined
by calculations. However, the pipeline shall
preferably be supported continuously;
• As RTP shows significant radial deformations
under varying pressure, the pipe wall may get
damaged due to rubbing against an improperly
designed support. To avoid damage and abrasion
at a support, the contact surface should be
covered by a smooth and comparatively soft
material, like plastic, rubber or wood;
• When laid on concrete sleepers or a comparable
construction (rough surface), suitable pipe clamps
shall be used to prevent abrasion of the cover
(e.g. PE sleeves);
• The inside diameter of a possible pipe clamp shall
be at least 5% larger than the outside diameter
of the RTP pipe. This due to the expansion in
circumferential direction of the RTP when pressurised. If this radial expansion is prevented the reinforcement will be locally deformed, thus reducing
the strength of the pipe. The free space should be
filled up with a flexible rubber inlay;
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
• The support will be free of sharp edges or other
possible sources of damage to the RTP pipe;
• The use of suitable protection sleeves, e.g. made
from PE pipe of adequate size and thickness,
should always be considered.
A large inter support distance may decrease the
Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure. Therefore
a stress analysis will have to be made when the
pipeline is supported with an interval > 5 metres.
For a gas pipeline the weight for a water filled
pipeline has to be taken into account because
of the hydrotest.
6.5 Requirements of the ground surface
When installed above ground the pipe system will
expand and contract due to the temperature cycle
during the days and the temperature fluctuations of
the product. In order to prevent the RTP from being
damaged, the soil should be free of sharp objects.
Sharp objects, like big sharp stones, in the pipe
bedding, resulting in considerable point loads, must
be removed, because they may be detrimental to
the cover pipe, and may damage the reinforcement.
Above ground installation may be applied anywhere,
where regulations permit, by laying the pipeline
directly on the soil surface.
If preferred by the principal, the pipe may be covered
with sand, impregnated with bitumen, preventing
the soil from being blown away.
Figure 6-1. Schematic drawing of possible pipe
support.
18
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
6.6 Road crossings
Road crossings for frequent or heavy traffic shall be
installed buried. Road crossings for light vehicles or
cattle can be made with a ramp.
At road crossings the pipe shall have a minimum
soil cover of 1 metre. The pipeline shall be surrounded by a fine sand layer of at least one pipe
diameter’s thickness (resulting in a fine sand layer
of 3 pipe diameters’ thickness). No end-fittings and
inline couplers shall be installed in the buried section of a pipeline road crossing. The transition from
buried to above ground shall be smooth and positioned at a distance as specified in the table below.
Care must be exercised to ensure that no sharper
bending than the specified minimum bending radius
in operation (3 metres) occurs in the transition area.
Type of road
Distance from side of road
Main road
30 metres
Off-road
5 - 10 metres
Service roads
2 metres
Table 6-1. Distances for road crossings
A schematic drawing of a buried road crossing is
shown in figure 6-2.
Figure 6-2. Schematic drawing of a buried road crossing.
Road crossings for light vehicles and/or low traffic
frequency can be made with a ramp. The pipeline
shall be surrounded by a layer of fine sand of at
least one pipeline diameter’s thickness. The pipe
soil cover shall be at least 0.5 metres. No end
couplers shall be positioned in the ramp. A schematic drawing of a ramp is shown in figure 6-3.
Original material
min. 3D
Fine sand
D
min. 3D
min. 500mm
SoluForce Pipe
appr. 2000mm
appr. 2000mm
Figure 6-3. Schematic drawing of a ramp.
19
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
6.7 Cyclic loading
Cyclic pressure resistance
SoluForce® has inherently excellent pressure fatigue
resistance. However, until further notice, the cyclic
pressure resistance of SoluForce is not independently tested, qualified and certified. Therefore, the
operation of SoluForce up to the maximum rated
pressure as published in the data sheets should be
limited to "static service" as defined in the latest
version of API 15S.
This includes 1 full pressure cycle, from zero up to
MAOP during the design service life of the system
(20 years) per day, which is 7200 cycles. Small
frequent pressure variations, up to 5% of MAOP, for
instance originating from reciprocating pumps, are
allowed. Any other cyclic pressure variations render
the system “dynamic service”. Until further notice,
for dynamic service, an additional service factor of
0.5 should be applied.
Bending fatigue resistance
Thanks to the high bending flexibility of SoluForce,
the loads on the system components provoked by
bending down to the rated minimum bending radius
during operation (MBR) are negligibly small. As a
result, there is no limit on the number of bending
cycles, provided the bending radius is larger than
MBR. For all SoluForce products, consult the data
sheets for MBR in operation (info@soluforce.com).
20
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
BURIED PIPELINE DESIGN
7.1 General
Buried application of the SoluForce® system is
possible for a wide variety of fluids and gases.
Among typical purposes are:
• Oil and gas gathering flow lines;
• Water injection pipelines;
• Waste water disposal pipelines;
• Dry fuel gas pipelines.
The following paragraphs handle different specific
design aspects for buried use of a SoluForce® pipe
system.
Specific demands for the installation of the
SoluForce® pipe system are described in
the SoluForce® Installation Manual.
7.2 Required design data
Before starting the design for a buried pipeline it is
useful to collect the required data necessary for the
design.
• Specifications of the transported fluid, including
additives;
• Design conditions (pressure, temperature, flow
capacity);
• Expected loads;
• Local regulations;
• Depth of cover;
• Soil condition;
• Groundwater level
• Expected settlements;
• Pipe routing, with particular attention to road, river,
and pipe crossings.
7.3 Route selection
When planning a route for a buried SoluForce®
pipeline, the following aspects shall be adhered to:
• In case the hook-up is outside the trench:
SoluForce pipe shall be fixed to existing pipe works
allowing some pipe length to absorb any expansion
or movement of the existing pipe works.
In general 5 metres of free SoluForce pipe with
two small bends suffices;
• The elastic bend radius shall be no less than
3 metres;
• Short radius bends should be avoided but can be
made by installing a SoluForce® end coupler, connected to flanged bends of other pipe materials;
• The possibility of third party damage should be
minimised;
• Soil conditions shall be such that no damage to the
pipe can occur during installation and operation
(see also paragraph 8.4.2);
• Minimum distances to buildings or areas of
frequent human occupation shall be adhered to
according to local regulations. Where no local
regulations exist a minimum distance of 5 metres
for fluid pipelines and 7 metres for gas pipelines
shall be used.
More information on route selection can be found in
ISO 13623.
7.4 Typical loads
7.4.1 Temperature
Due to the low modulus of elasticity of the RTP
the amount of axial expansion will be small for a
buried pipeline. Therefore expansion loops are
not necessary.
7.4.2 Soil & trench
When SoluForce® is projected in a settlement
sensitive area no restrictions apply. The flexibility
of SoluForce will compensate for soil movement.
7.5 No-dig installation methods
No-dig installation methods include:
• Horizontal directional drillings;
• Sleeved crossings;
• Jacketed crossings.
The following general recommendations apply
for installation by no-dig methods:
• The maximum axial load of SoluForce@ pipe shall
not be exceeded. Consult the product data sheets;
• Observe the cooling time after application of
electrofusion fittings to ensure sufficient axial load
bearing capacity. Consult the SoluForce Installation
Manual;
• In SoluForce installations, where axial pulling is applied in order to pull the pipe in place, it is strongly
advised to use a load-cell in the pulling cable. This
enables the installer to measure the pulling force
and directly stop in case the pulling force exceeds
the maximum limit;
• Before pulling, make sure the pipe and fittings
are free to run and make use of rolling or sliding
supports if necessary.
21
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
7.5.1 Horizontal directional drillings
Horizontal directional drillings (HDD) with the
SoluForce® system can be made using standard
methods. The maximum allowable axial load, as
published in the data sheets, shall not be exceeded
(info@soluforce.com).
minimum soil cover of 1 metre. General requirements
for soil conditions and backfilling are described in
section 6.6 and in the SoluForce® Installation Manual.
The pipeline will be elongated during pulling. When
pressurised, the pipeline will tend to shorten due to
realignment of the fibres. Therefore sufficient extra
length of pipeline shall be projected on either side of
the HDD. Alternatively, before connecting the HDD
section to the rest of the pipeline, the HDD section
could be pressurised in order to allow the pipeline
resume its original length.
A schematic representation of a road crossing is
shown in figure 7-1.
The use of couplers shall be avoided if possible.
When a coupler is necessary extra protection for the
coupler during installation shall be used. Make sure
the reamer has a larger diameter than the outside
diameter of the in-line couplers.
• Never install an end-coupler or an in-line coupler in
a road crossing;
• In-line couplers and end-fittings should not be
installed in soil settlement areas;
• Special attention shall be paid to locations where
jacketed crossings are connected to pipe laid in an
excavated trench;
• End fittings should preferably not be situated buried;
• When making a connection between an above
ground pipeline and a buried pipeline, the first
coupler in the above ground pipeline shall be
located at least 5 metres from the underground/
above ground transition point;
• Be aware of the required free space to cope with
the dimensions of the machinery (field welding
equipment);
• SoluForce pipe floats, even water filled. If the water
table may rise above the SoluForce pipe, ensure
the pipe is kept in position by taking adequate
measures. These include, for instance, covering
with concrete slabs or sand bags before closing
the trench. As the pipe is flexible, it needs to
be anchored at regular relatively small intervals,
at least every 3 metres.
7.5.2 Sleeved crossings
In case sleeved crossings are necessary precautions
shall be taken to prevent damage to the
SoluForce® pipe during installation and operation.
Couplers shall be located at least 10 metres outside
the crossing.
The outside diameter of the SoluForce® pipe will
expand due to internal pressure. Therefore the
SoluForce® pipe shall not be restricted in radial
direction. In casings the free space shall be at least
20% to allow for radial expansion and settlements.
7.5.3 Jacketed crossings
Jacketing with the SoluForce® pipe is not allowed.
7.6 Road crossings
Buried road crossings shall be constructed with a
No couplers shall be installed in the road crossing or
within 10 metres from the road.
7.7 Lay-out of pipeline
The SoluForce® pipe is delivered on coils in sections
of up to 400 metres. Care shall be taken in determining the location of the SoluForce® couplers. The
following points of attention should be observed:
Minimal 10 meter
Minimal 10 meter
ROAD
surface
Minimal 1 meter
No end or in-line coupler
Figure 7-1. Buried road crossing.
22
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
DESIGN PROCEDURE FOR STANDARD INSTALLATIONS
8.1 General
The pressure ratings of SoluForce are determined
according to API 15S or API 17J, and are quoted in
the data sheets.
The pressure-based design is aimed at a swift
application of the RTP system without the
necessity of elaborate calculations. In order to
reduce the amount of calculation a "design window"
has been determined. When the RTP is operated
within this design window, this is called a "standard
installation", and only a simplified design procedure
will have to be applied. When operated outside the
design window an advanced analysis will have to be
performed to document the suitability of the pipe
system to the applied loads. The advanced design
procedure is not covered in this guideline.
The design procedure is shown in the flow diagram
below.
Collect data
Yes
conditions
within design
window
ch. 8.2
Simplified
analysis
according to
chapter 8.3
No
Advanced
analysis
according to
chapter 8.4
Figure 8-1. Flow diagram for determination of extent
of calculations.
23
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
8.2 Design Windows
The design window for simplified analysis for SoluForce pipe systems are tabulated below:
Parameter
Limit value
Location
Onshore
Temperature Hydrocarbon and Water Service
-40 °C / +65 °C (standard grades) or
-40 ºC / +85 ºC (HT grades)
Maximum Operating Pressure
Below product MAOP (see specifications)
Design lifetime
20 years (surface installation, UV exposure), or 50 years
(buried, without UV exposure)
Maximum short-term peak pressure (duration
max. 1000 hrs per event)
As indicated in the product data sheets
Maximum short-term temperature excursions
(duration max. 1000 hrs per event)
20 ºC above rated maximum allowable operating
temperature
Soil cover (buried pipeline)
< 2.5 m
Abrupt settlement (buried pipeline)
< 30 mm
Inter support distance (above ground pipeline)**
< 4.0 m
Elastic bend radius in operation
See product data sheets
Full pressure cycle
< 7200 over the full design life
Composition of gas/ fluid
• All hydrocarbon compositions, like oil, gas, and condensates, including those with a high content of light
aromatic components, sweet or sour service.
• For SoluForce Heavy and SoluForce GT grades, consider maximum rated partial CO2 and H2S pressures.
• (Salt-)Water (any grade of pollution).
• Natural gas (dry and wet).
• When contemplating use of special chemicals, like
amino-based corrosion inhibitors, consult SoluForce.
Table 8-1. Design Window Specification for SoluForce
Where the possibility of third party damage exists,
extra attention shall be paid to measures to prevent
third party interference. The installation shall be
according to the SoluForce® Installation Manual and
the requirements of this design guideline.
When the design conditions of the pipe system fall
within the design window and fulfil the requirements
as described above, the pipe system can be used
by applying a simplified analysis as described in
section 8.3.
24
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
8.3 Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure
The Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure
(MAOP) for SoluForce products is given in the
appropriate data sheets.
The MAOP may depend on the type of service:
8.3.4 Temperature surges
For operation within the design window, occasional
short-term temperature surges above the specified
maximum temperature rating for continuous service
are allowed. The following restrictions apply:
• WATER SERVICE:
water based fluids, with partial gas pressure < 1
Bar, and with hydrocarbon content < 1%
Maximum duration per surge: < 1000 hours
Maximum peak temperature:< 20 ºC above the
maximum rated
temperature for
continuous operation
• HYDROCARBON SERVICE:
any fluid, including multiphase fluids, not being
dry gas, containing > 1% hydrocarbons. Restrictions may apply for the (partial) gas pressure in the
fluid. Consult the SoluForce datasheets.
• DRY GAS SERVICE:
a gaseous fuel as defined in ISO4437
For operation under different conditions as stated
above, Pipelife shall be consulted.
"Hot oiling" for cleaning and de-waxing is allowed
at a temperature up to 20 ºC above the rated
temperature for continuous operation
8.4 Advanced design
For all applications of SoluForce outside the design
window (section 8.2), Pipelife must be consulted.
An advanced system design manual is available
upon request.
8.3.1 Local regulations
Local law and regulations may impose other design
factors than those used to calculate the pressure
ratings in the data sheets. It may be necessary to
adapt the MAOP values accordingly.
8.3.2 Elastic bending
All elastic bends shall have a radius larger than
the specified MBR as quoted in the data sheets
(info@soluforce.com). Bends with a smaller radius
can be installed using end fittings and standard
pipe elbows.
8.3.3 Pressure surges
For operation within the design window, occasional
short-term pressure deviations (pressure surges)
above the specified MAOP are allowed.
The following restrictions apply:
Maximum duration per surge: < 1000 hours
Maximum peak pressure:< Design Pressure
(SoluForce Heavy), or
< LCL (SoluForce
Classic/Light)
25
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
COMMISSIONING
9.1 Hydrotesting
The procedure for hydrotesting SoluForce installations is found in the SoluForce Installation Manual.
9.1.1 Test report
The results of the pressure test shall be summarised
in a report containing as a minimum the following
aspects:
• Name of the principal;
• Name of constructor and test company;
• Pipeline number and location;
• Design pressure and/or MAOP;
• Test pressure;
• Date and time of the test;
• Test fluid;
• Records of the pressure and temperature
monitoring;
• Test procedure.
9.1.2 Safety
Testing is conducted at high pressure, and requires
adequate safety measures. Consult the SoluForce
Installation Manual.
9.2 Completion
After the pipeline is tested, and dried and cleaned if
required, it is handed over to the principal.
The contractor shall demonstrate that all components of the pipe system are working properly.
Start-up of the pipeline with the fluid takes place
after the completion.
After commissioning of the pipeline the contractor
shall submit to the principal all the documents as
listed in paragraph 3.2.
26
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
It is the responsibility of the principal that the pipe
system is operated safely throughout its lifetime.
This goal can be reached by implementing a management, control and maintenance system.
Guidance on requirements for operation and
maintenance can be found in ISO 13623, chapter
13.1 through 13.3
In the following paragraphs the specific aspects
for the SoluForce® pipe system with respect to
operation and maintenance are summarised
10.1 Specific requirements for operation
During the lifetime of the pipe system it shall be
monitored that the operation conditions remain
within the design conditions as specified by the
principal. For instance, the fluid composition of an
oil gathering pipeline may change in time.
10.2 Specific requirements for maintenance
Pigging of the pipe system shall only be done with
foam pigs.
When an incident or (third party) damage is
reported the pipeline shall be made visible for
inspection. The damage shall be assessed
according to paragraph 10.2.1.
10.2.1 Assessment of damages
Consult the SoluForce Installation Manual about
damage control procedures.
27
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
DECOMMISSIONING AND ABANDONMENT
Guidance on decommissioning can be found in
chapter 13.2.4 of ISO 13623.
When decommissioned the SoluForce® pipe can
under certain circumstances be re-coiled and reused. The requirements for re-use are described in
chapter 3.
After abandonment the SoluForce® pipe can be
(partially) recycled. Whether the pipeline can be
recycled depends on the chemical substances
absorbed by the PE liner. The composition of the
fluid and additives shall be documented. The
manufacturer shall be contacted for specific details.
28
PIPES FOR LIFE
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE
DISCLAIMER
All products purchased from or supplied by Pipelife
are subjected to terms and conditions set out in
the contract, order acknowledgement and/or bill of
lading.
Pipelife warrants only that its product will meet
those specifications designated in such contracts,
order acknowledgements, and/or bills of loading.
All other information including that herein, supplied
by Pipelife, is considered accurate but is furnished
upon the express conditions that the customer shall
make his own assessment to determine the product’s suitability for a particular purpose.
Pipelife makes no other warranty either express or
implied, regarding such other information, the data
upon which the same is based, or the results to be
obtained from the use thereof; that any products
shall be merchantable or fit for any particular
purpose; or that the use of such other information
or product will not infringe any patent.
29
PIPES FOR LIFE
Pipelife Nederland B.V.
Flevolaan 7
NL-1601 MA ENKHUIZEN
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)228 355 555
Fax: +31 (0)228 355 520
info@soluforce.com
www.soluforce.com
SoluForce® is a Pipelife brand.
SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINE