Flexible Pipe Annulus Venting and Integrity Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing the integrity of flexible pipe inner annulus regions and venting gases within these regions are inadequate, leading to potential pipe failure due to gas buildup and the inability to effectively test or vent specific areas of flexible pipes used in sub-sea applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize end fittings with ports and passageways to monitor and vent the annulus region between the barrier and seal layers of flexible pipes, allowing for the introduction of test gases to assess integrity and the release of accumulated gases, thereby preventing pipe collapse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional venting techniques are used, then gases can be vented from accessible regions, but gases collecting in certain regions of the flexible pipe body cannot be vented
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible pipe body is divided into multiple annular regions, with different venting strategies applied to each region. The barrier layer is segmented into a first barrier layer and second barrier layer, allowing independent testing and venting of different annular spaces between layers
Solution Approach 2:
A test fluid is introduced as an intermediary substance to detect gas accumulation in the annular region. The test fluid allows indirect detection of gases that cannot be directly accessed, enabling venting verification without direct access to all gas collection points
2Reliability
If known testing techniques are used, then integrity of some layers can be tested, but integrity of inner annular regions cannot be successfully tested
Solution Approach 1:
A test fluid is introduced into the annular region between the barrier layer and inner seal layer to detect integrity issues. This intermediary fluid allows indirect testing of the annular region by monitoring its presence or pressure changes, overcoming the inaccessibility of the inner annular space
Solution Approach 2:
The testing methodology nests multiple testing functions within the end fitting assembly. The end fitting contains both the barrier layer termination and the test fluid introduction capability, allowing nested testing of inner layers while maintaining outer layer functionality
3Reliability
If gases are not released from the flexible pipe body, then the pipe structure remains intact, but gas build-up causes failure of the flexible pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary venting of gases during the manufacturing and testing phase, before the pipe is deployed. By introducing test fluid and detecting gas accumulation early, gases can be vented proactively before they build up to failure-causing pressures during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The testing methodology provides feedback about gas accumulation in the annular region through test fluid behavior. This feedback mechanism allows monitoring of gas build-up conditions and triggers venting actions before critical pressure levels are reached, maintaining structural integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are disclosed for testing the integrity of a portion of flexible pipe body. The method includes the steps of, via at least one port in an end fitting assembly in which an end of a portion of flexible pipe body is terminated, monitoring at least one parameter associated with an annulus region disposed between layers of the flexible pipe body, the annulus region being connected to the port by a connecting passageway.