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CASE STUDY
12” Compact Integrity Clamp for Oceaneering
We received a request from Oceaneering in 2019 for repairing a 12” flowline located in Angola. The general scope of work was quite complex since the issue consisted of a girth weld defect of more than 200 deg, located at the contact of the pipeline with the PLEM. Access, lack of space, and loss of structural integrity were some of the additional challenges encountered during this project.
The temporary solution included a custom clamp based on a compact sealing design, incorporating external structural elements, and a temporary support reinforcement system for the PLEM.
To install the compact integrity clamp with both sealing and structural elements, the pipeline coating needed to be removed using a special coating removal tool.It was then observed that the line had an extensive girth weld defect with a range of over 200 degrees. Additionally, due to trenching, the flowline had a critical bend angle that would continue to stress the crack.
Challenges
Confined space for clamp installation
330 bar of required internal pressure and 130 bar of external pressure
Need for sealing and structural properties
Pipeline bend angle
Outcome
Two solutions: one temporary and one permanent
One side activation clamp, suitable for confined spaces
Structural integrity reinstated
Delivered in time on a tight schedule
Successfully installed
To regain pipeline sealing and structural integrity as part of the permanent solution, we designed and manufactured a compact integrity clamp with single-sided activation to fit the compact space at the PLEM junction. Both the assembly and testing took place in Norway.
Testing included replicating the same challenges encountered in the subsea environment, such as the compact space on the PLEM and the bend angle of the pipeline. After successfully installing and activating the solution on the test rig, the compact integrity clamp (along with other features of the permanent solution) was shipped to the location.
This technically complex scope of work, encompassing both temporary and permanent solutions, demonstrates our long-term commitment to project success and our ongoing, transparent communication with the client. The temporary solution allowed the end customer to operate the manifold at reduced pressure and structural capacity, while we efficiently developed a more robust, high-specification permanent solution. The installation was completed successfully, fully restoring both pipeline pressure and structural integrity.
