Numerical study of annular flaws/defects affecting the integrity of grouted composite sleeve repairs on pipelines

Abstract

Grouted sleeves are one of the accepted techniques used for the repair of corroded pipelines. The sleeves are attached over the region of pipe that requires repair, creating an annulus that is then filled with grout material. In this study, the repair system consists of a composite sleeve with polymeric grout. A finite element (FE) study is carried out to predict the effects of selected properties of the composite sleeve and grout on the pipe integrity, subjected to internal fluid pressure. The primary purpose is to identify the main effects and interactions between different material properties, which are useful to aid design decisions for such repairs. While structural reinforcement is provided by the sleeve, the grout plays an important role in transferring hoop pressure in the pipe to the sleeve. Since experimental observations indicate the development of cracks in the grout solely under curing conditions, it is imperative to investigate the effects of such defects. Several different repair conditions that have potential to critically influence the integrity of a repaired pipe are investigated.

Materiales, métodos y normativa para refuerzos de material compuesto en reparación de tuberías y equipos a presión

“…En los sistemas de reparación es crítica una correcta definición de los defectos de la tubería, pues el diseño del laminado compuesto dependerá de la naturaleza, ubicación y dimensiones del defecto [4], [5]. Las reparaciones y rehabilitaciones con polímeros reforzados con fibras (FRP) ofrecen una alta relación resistencia a peso, excelente resistencia química a la corrosión, transparencia a radiación electromagnética, fuerte resistencia a la fatiga y gran versatilidad, siendo posible su instalación en tees, codos, tramos de tubería y componentes estáticos sometidos a presión, brindando la posibilidad de continuar con la operación del activo sin detener la producción, ofreciendo un servicio de reparación (restauración al nivel operativo) y rehabilitación (reconversión al nivel de diseño) [6].…”

Optimization of sealing parameters of double-sealing pipeline repair clamp

“…For the repair of pipeline defects, a metal sleeve has been studied, and the wall thickness of the metal sleeve has been optimized by the finite element method (Arif et al, 2012). The grouted sleeve has been designed and its effect on pipeline integrity has been studied by the finite element method (Sum and Leong, 2014). A composite clamp with light weight and good corrosion resistance has been developed.…”

Design, testing and field deployment of a composite clamp for pipeline repairs

“…These are often referred to as grouted sleeves. [8][9][10] Apart from pipe repair applications, grouted sleeves have also been considered for strengthening of damaged (e.g. dents due to accidental loading) tubular steel structural members in offshore platforms.…”