Latest developments in pipe fit-up
Having inspected many hundreds of thousands of pipes over the years OMS has been in business, we know very well that no pipe is completely round, either on the inside or the outside.
Oil and gas operators are deeply invested in ensuring the two pipe ends to be welded match as closely as possible because then fit-up time can be reduced and installation can be sped up. The reduced misalignment between pipes means the stronger the welds are, the stronger the pipeline will be and the longer it will last. Poor fit-up and alignment can cause delays to a project, increase the likelihood of cut outs or repairs and push up costs. In the worst cases asset lifetime can be reduced and pipeline sections, especially those under critical pressure, can fail, bringing potentially catastrophic consequences.
Independent and dedicated resource
OMS offers a range of measurement tools and services to help our clients achieve the best pipe fit-up. As a measurement and technology company only, we are an independent resource for our clients, dedicated only to making sure the pipes fit together in the best possible way for their project.
Most comprehensive fit-up solution available
We have recently improved SmartFit™, our powerful analysis software, which offers the most comprehensive fit-up information on the market, helping operators to meet project specifications, bring projects in on time and within budget, build the strongest possible pipelines and extend asset lifetime.
Meet stringent project specifications
OMS end-dimensioning services and SmartFit™ technology have been used successfully on multiple complex projects. Even when specifications are high and pipe quality is questionable, we have always managed to find a way to fit the pipes together so pipeline integrity is ensured and project standards met.
Sophisticated ovality analysis
Complex pipe systems such as stalk tie-ins, induction bends and jumper spools often require sophisticated ovality analysis at the fabrication stage to achieve optimal fit-up. OMS has worked on projects such as Julimar, where various sizes of CRA-lined carbon steel and super duplex stainless steel pipes, bends and connection hubs needed measuring before being assembled into prefabricated spool kits.
Maximising chance of strong welds
Determining the optimum pipe fit-up for these complex critical pipeline sections is particularly challenging. Analysis must take into account different angles of rotation, especially in prefabricated sections, which may be assembled in another orientation. Optimal material nesting should be indicated and HiLo reduced to the lowest extent possible across the whole system to maximise the chance of strong weld integrity. OMS can help clients achieve this.
Best possible analysis of critical pipe sections
When working with complex pipeline systems prior to welding, the OMS AutoTool takes measurements at regular increments, sometimes as many as 60 different depth profiles per 12m pipe. Data is sent back to our SmartFit™ software, which offers the best possible analysis for critical sections. Our system provides the most comprehensive insight available on how to achieve the best fit-up scenario even if pipes may require some cut-back at the installation stage. Pipes can be ranked, with the ‘worst’ 10% segregated for use on less critical pipeline sections, then sequenced and issued with rotation marks ready for welding. HiLo is reduced, project specifications met and welding can proceed at the desired time without having to resort to the use of pup pieces.
Clients who have been through the SmartFit™ process can be confident that they have achieved optimum pipe fit-up and therefore have the best chance of installing their pipeline safely, on time and to budget. Project risks are mitigated and asset integrity ensured.
If you would like to find out more about OMS end dimensioning, fit-up solutions and weld inspection our team is always on hand to help. Contact us here.
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Posted 30.03.2021
[5 minute read]
By Marcus Smiles, Global Account Manager