WO2016170360A1 - Composants de tuyau flexible et procédé de fabrication de tuyau flexible - Google Patents

Composants de tuyau flexible et procédé de fabrication de tuyau flexible Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016170360A1
WO2016170360A1 PCT/GB2016/051131 GB2016051131W WO2016170360A1 WO 2016170360 A1 WO2016170360 A1 WO 2016170360A1 GB 2016051131 W GB2016051131 W GB 2016051131W WO 2016170360 A1 WO2016170360 A1 WO 2016170360A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
wires
outer sleeve
flexible pipe
insulating material
tensile armour
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2016/051131
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Fabio De Souza Pires
Original Assignee
Ge Oil & Gas Uk Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ge Oil & Gas Uk Limited filed Critical Ge Oil & Gas Uk Limited
Priority to BR112017022889-0A priority Critical patent/BR112017022889B1/pt
Publication of WO2016170360A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016170360A1/fr

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L33/00—Arrangements for connecting hoses to rigid members; Rigid hose connectors, i.e. single members engaging both hoses
    • F16L33/01—Arrangements for connecting hoses to rigid members; Rigid hose connectors, i.e. single members engaging both hoses adapted for hoses having a multi-layer wall

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to flexible pipe components and a method of manufacture of flexible pipe.
  • aspects and embodiments of the present invention relate to a construction or configuration of an end portion of a flexible pipe body for connection to an end fitting, to an assembly of a flexible pipe body and an end fitting and to a method of terminating pipe layers such as wound wires in an end fitting.
  • a flexible pipe is an assembly of a portion of a pipe body and one or more end fittings in which a respective end of the pipe body is terminated.
  • Flexible pipe is particularly useful in connecting a sub-sea location (which may be deep underwater, say 1000 metres or more) to a sea level location.
  • the pipe may have an internal diameter of typically up to around 0.6 metres (such as from about 0.05 m up to about 0.6 m).
  • flexible pipe is generally formed as an assembly of a flexible pipe body and one or more end fittings.
  • the end fittings of a flexible pipe may be used for connecting segments of flexible pipe body together or for connecting such segments to terminal equipment such as rigid sub-sea structures or floating facilities.
  • flexible pipe can be used to provide a riser assembly for transporting fluids from a sub-sea flow line to a floating structure.
  • a first segment of flexible pipe may be connected to one or more further segments of flexible pipe.
  • Each segment of flexible pipe includes at least one end fitting.
  • the pipe body is typically formed as a combination of layered materials that form a pressure-containing conduit.
  • the pipe structure allows large deflections without causing bending stresses that impair the functionality of the pipe over its lifetime.
  • the pipe body is generally built up as a combined structure including metallic and/or polymer and/or composite layers.
  • a pipe body may include polymer and metal layers, or polymer and composite layers, or polymer, metal and composite layers. Layers of the pipe body are carefully terminated in the associated end fitting, to ensure that each such layer is appropriately secured and linked into the end fitting, with leak paths avoided.
  • the pipe body includes one or more tensile armour layers.
  • the primary loading on such a layer is tension.
  • the tensile armour layer experiences high tension loads from a combination of the internal pressure end cap load and the self- supported weight of the flexible pipe. This can cause failure in the flexible pipe since such conditions are experienced over prolonged periods of time.
  • a tensile armour layer is often formed from a plurality of metallic wires which are configured to impart strength to the layer. The wires typically can be located over an inner layer and can be helically wound along the length of the pipe at a lay angle typically between about 10° to 55°.
  • the tensile armour layers are often counter-wound in pairs.
  • Unbonded flexible pipe has been used for deep water (less than 3,300 feet (1 ,005 metres)) and ultra deep water (greater than 3,300 feet) developments. It is the increasing demand for oil which is causing exploration to occur at greater and greater depths where environmental factors are more extreme. For example in such deep and ultra-deep water environments ocean floor temperature increases the risk of production fluids cooling to a temperature that may lead to pipe blockage. Increased depths also increase the pressure associated with the environment in which the flexible pipe must operate. For example, a flexible pipe may be required to operate with external pressures ranging from 0.1 MPa to 30 MPa acting on the pipe.
  • Flexible pipe may also be used for shallow water applications (for example less than around 500 metres depth) or even for shore (overland) applications.
  • individual wires forming the layer can be deflected somewhat radially outwardly and retained between an inner collar and an outer sleeve.
  • the inventors have appreciated that the location at which the wires are deflected, adjacent said sleeves can be an area both of highly concentrated stresses, and of localised corrosion of the wires and/or the sleeves. Having appreciated the possible presence of such corrosion, and the possible disadvantages of such corrosion at what can be a critical location in the pipe for the durability in service of the flexible pipe, the inventors have sought by certain embodiments of the present invention to prevent, or at least substantially reduce, such corrosion.
  • a flexible pipe comprising a flexible pipe body including a tensile armour layer, an end fitting body and an outer sleeve arranged about the pipe body adjacent the tensile armour layer and within the end fitting body, the tensile armour layer comprising a plurality of metallic wires having a helically wound portion and a radially outwardly splayed portion, wherein a body of durable electrically insulating material is arranged between the tensile armour layer and the outer sleeve effective substantially to prevent contact between the tensile armour layer and the outer sleeve.
  • the body of electrically insulating material is durable in the sense that through the working life of the flexible pipe, which can be in severe or harsh conditions of pressure and/or temperature (and which can include, for example cycling of pressure and/or temperature) the body of electrically insulating material maintains its function of electrically separating the wires of the tensile armour layer and the outer sleeve.
  • the body of electrically insulating material can also be durable in resisting abrasion deriving from relative movement of the wires and the outer sleeve.
  • the body of insulating material can be arranged on, affixed to and/or supported by the outer sleeve.
  • the body of electrically insulating material arranged on, affixed to and/or supported by the outer sleeve can have an inner surface arranged in confronting relation to said metallic wires.
  • the body of electrically insulating material can be arranged proximate a transition of the metallic wires from the helically wound portion to the radially outwardly splayed portion.
  • the body of insulating material can extend from a region within the end fitting whereat the insulating material is in confronting relation to a helically wound region of the wires of the tensile armour layer, via said transition of the wires towards a radially outwardly splayed configuration, substantially to an innermost end part of the outer sleeve.
  • the body of electrically insulating material can have a generally annular configuration substantially centred on the longitudinal axis of the pipe body.
  • said inner surface can include a first generally cylindrical surface portion and a second surface portion which extends obliquely outwardly from the first surface portion such that a boundary of the second surface portion which is distal to the first surface portion is spaced radially further from the pipe body longitudinal axis than the first surface portion.
  • Said obliquely outwardly extending portion can conveniently form a portion of the surface of a cone.
  • the body of electrically insulating material can comprise a plurality of discrete segments arranged generally annularly such that each such segment is in confronting relation to at least one said metallic wire.
  • the respective segments can be arranged in alternating manner with correspondingly shaped complementary sections of the outer sleeve, such complementary sections not being in contacting relation with the respective wires.
  • the body of electrically insulating material can be in the form of an electrically insulating substrate such as a web, layer or coating applied or affixed to an internal surface of the outer sleeve.
  • the body of electrically insulating material can be in the form of an electrically insulating insert attached to an inner end part of the outer sleeve, the insert being in the form of a sleeve, cap, collar or the like.
  • the inner end part of the outer sleeve is that portion thereof proximate a connector of the end fitting, as discussed below.
  • the insert can include one or more reinforcing elements embedded therein.
  • the end fitting can further comprise an inner collar having at least one face arranged in confronting relation to a complementary confronting face of the outer sleeve and configured such that radially outwardly splayed portions of the wires pass between confronting faces of the inner collar and outer sleeve, the body of electrically insulating material being arranged on, or forming, at least part of said confronting face of the outer sleeve.
  • the respective confronting faces of the inner collar and outer sleeve can be obliquely inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the pipe body.
  • the respective confronting surfaces can conveniently each be a conical surface of a conical frustum.
  • a further body of durable electrically insulating material can be arranged on, affixed to and/or supported by at least part of the confronting face of the inner collar, said body of insulating material being effective substantially to prevent contact between the wires of the tensile armour layer and the confronting face of the inner collar.
  • a method of manufacturing or assembling a flexible pipe comprising a tensile armour layer, an end fitting body and an outer sleeve arranged about the pipe body adjacent the tensile armour layer and within the end fitting body, the tensile armour layer comprising a plurality of metallic wires, the method comprising a step of interposing a body of durable electrically insulating material between wires of the tensile armour layer and the outer sleeve such that the body of insulating material, where so interposed, is effective substantially to prevent contact between the wires of the tensile armour layer outer sleeve.
  • the body of insulating material can be arranged on, affixed to and/or supported by the outer sleeve at an inner end portion thereof, and the method can comprise arranging said outer sleeve around said tensile armour layer.
  • the method can comprise transitioning the metallic wires of the tensile armour layer from a helically wound configuration to a radially outwardly splayed configuration and positioning said body of electrically insulating material substantially at said transition of configuration of the wires.
  • the method can further comprise arranging an inner collar radially inwardly of the wires of the tensile armour layer, the wires being in radially outwardly splayed configuration in the end fitting, the inner collar and the outer sleeve each having a radially outwardly extending obliquely inclined face and arranging said faces in confronting relation with the wires therebetween.
  • a body of durable electrically insulating material can be arranged on the obliquely inclined face of the inner collar, and the method can comprise arranging said body of insulating material on the obliquely inclined face in confronting relation to the wires such that the body of insulating material, is interposed between the obliquely inclined face and the wires and is effective substantially to prevent contact between the wires of the tensile armour layer inner collar where so interposed.
  • Figs. 1 a and 1 b illustrate a flexible pipe body
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a riser assembly
  • Fig. 3a illustrates a known end fitting assembly
  • Fig. 3b shows a portion of the assembly of Fig 3a on a larger scale
  • Fig 4 shows a portion of an assembly of a flexible pipe body and an end fitting according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Fig 5 shows a portion of an assembly of a flexible pipe body and an end fitting according to another embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 6 shows a portion of an assembly of a flexible pipe body and an end fitting according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 7 shows a portion of an assembly of a flexible pipe body and an end fitting according to another embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 8 shows a portion of an assembly of a flexible pipe body and an end fitting according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 1 a illustrates how a typical pipe body 100 suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention can be formed from a combination of layered materials that together form a pressure-containing conduit.
  • a number of particular layers are illustrated in Fig. 1a, it is to be understood that the present invention is broadly applicable to coaxial pipe body structures including two or more layers manufactured from a variety of possible materials. It is to be further noted that the layer thicknesses are shown for illustrative purposes only.
  • a pipe body includes an optional innermost carcass layer 101.
  • the carcass provides an interlocked construction that can be used as the innermost layer to prevent, totally or partially, collapse of an internal pressure sheath 102 due to pipe decompression, external pressure, and tensile armour pressure and mechanical crushing loads. It will be appreciated that certain embodiments of the present invention are applicable to 'smooth bore' operations (i.e. without a carcass) as well as such 'rough bore' applications (with a carcass).
  • the internal pressure sheath 102 acts as a fluid retaining layer and comprises a polymer layer that ensures internal fluid integrity.
  • the internal pressure sheath 102 can itself comprise a number of sub-layers.
  • the internal pressure sheath 102 is often referred to by those skilled in the art as a barrier layer.
  • the internal pressure sheath 102 can be referred to as a liner.
  • An optional pressure armour layer 103 is a structural layer that increases the resistance of the flexible pipe to internal and external pressure and mechanical crushing loads.
  • the layer also structurally supports the internal pressure sheath, and typically consists of an interlocked construction of wires with a lay angle close to 90°.
  • the flexible pipe body can also include a first tensile armour layer 105 and optional second tensile armour layer 106.
  • Each tensile armour layer 105, 106 is used to sustain tensile loads and internal pressure.
  • a tensile armour layer 105, 106 can typically be formed from a plurality of metallic wires 312 which are intended to impart strength to the layer.
  • the wires 312 typically can be located over an inner layer of the flexible pipe body 100 and can be helically wound along the length of the pipe body at a low lay angle, typically between about 10° to 55°.
  • the tensile armour layers 105, 106 are often counter-wound in pairs.
  • the flexible pipe body shown in Figure 1a also includes optional layers of tape 104.
  • One such tape layer 104 can be arranged in contact with an external surface of the (or of an outer) armour layer (105, 106).
  • the tape 104 can help to contain underlying layers and can to some extent prevent abra
  • the flexible pipe body can also typically include optional layers of insulation 107 and an outer sheath 108, which comprises a polymer layer used to protect the pipe against penetration of seawater and other external environments, corrosion, abrasion and mechanical damage.
  • Fig. 1 b shows another pipe body 100' illustrating a possible lay angle of the tensile armour wires 105, 106.
  • Each flexible pipe comprises at least one portion, sometimes referred to as a segment or section of pipe body 100 together with an end fitting located at an end of the flexible pipe.
  • Each end of the pipe body 100 can have a respective end fitting.
  • An end fitting provides a mechanical device which forms the transition between the flexible pipe body and a connector.
  • the different pipe layers as shown, for example, in Fig. 1 a or 1 b are terminated in the end fitting in such a way as to transfer the load between the flexible pipe and the connector.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a riser assembly 200 suitable for transporting production fluid such as oil and/or gas and/or water from a sub-sea location 201 to a floating facility 202.
  • the sub-sea location 201 includes a sub-sea flow line 205.
  • the flow line 205 can comprise a flexible pipe which can rest, wholly or in part, on the sea floor 204 or can be buried below the sea floor and used in a static application.
  • the floating facility may be provided by a platform and/or buoy or, as illustrated in Fig. 2, a ship.
  • the riser assembly 200 is provided as a flexible riser, that is to say a flexible pipe 203 connecting the ship to the sea floor installation.
  • the flexible pipe may be in segments of flexible pipe body with connecting end fittings.
  • riser there are different types of riser, as is well-known by those skilled in the art.
  • Embodiments of the present invention may be used with any type of riser, such as a freely suspended (free, catenary riser), a riser restrained to some extent (buoys, chains), totally restrained riser or enclosed in a tube (I or J tubes).
  • Fig. 2 also illustrates how portions of flexible pipe can be utilised as a flow line 205 or jumper 206.
  • FIGS 3a and 3b illustrate cross-sections of an exemplary known end fitting assembly 300.
  • End fitting 300 includes an end fitting body 301 , which includes an internal bore 302 running along its length.
  • the end fitting body is made from steel or other such rigid material, and the bore can be lined or clad with a corrosion resistant alloy to deter or prevent corrosion of the bulk material of the end fitting.
  • body 301 defines an open mouth region indicated generally at 303 into which an end of a segment of flexible pipe body 100 is located and then terminated.
  • a connector 304 At an opposed end (with respect to the mouth region 303) of the end fitting body 301 is a connector 304.
  • the connector can be configured as desired for connection to a subsequent component or assembly, such as for connecting directly to a matching connector of a further end fitting body of an adjacent segment of flexible pipe body. This can be done using bolts or some other form of securing mechanism known to those skilled in the art. In such a
  • the end fittings can be located in a back-to-back configuration.
  • the connector 304 can be connected to a floating or stationary structure such as a ship, platform or other such structure.
  • Various layers of flexible pipe body are introduced to the end fitting assembly, cut to appropriate length, and sealingly engaged with a particular portion of the end fitting.
  • the flexible pipe body 100 is to be terminated in an end fitting 300.
  • the end of the flexible pipe body is cut across at a desired length.
  • Parts of the end fitting which will in use be located externally of the pipe body are threaded over the free end of the pipe body. These parts can include a jacket 307, outer collar 310, and outer seal ring 311.
  • the various layers making up the multi-layer flexible pipe body can then be cut to respective different lengths appropriate for securing to the end fitting 300.
  • the outer sheath 108 is cut back to expose the carcass 101 , barrier layer 102 and the tensile armour layers 105, 106.
  • the exposed length of the wires 312 of the tensile armour layer(s) (105) 106 can be less than the exposed lengths of the carcass 101 and barrier layer 102. In other arrangements (not illustrated) the particular construction of the end fitting can require that the exposed length of the wires 312 of the tensile armour layer(s) (105) 106 is greater than the exposed lengths of the carcass 101 and barrier layer 102. Where present, tapes 104 can also be cut back, for example to an extent sufficient to expose the tensile armour layer(s) (105) 106.
  • An outer sleeve 412 which can comprise a metallic material, is positioned at the open end of the flexible pipe body 100.
  • Outer sleeve 412 includes a neck portion 412a and a shoulder or collar portion 412b.
  • Neck portion 412a can be generally cylindrical and can extend from shoulder portion 412b in a direction longitudinally away from connector 304 and can extend through the outer collar 310.
  • Neck portion 412a can conveniently be slotted or inserted between the outer sheath 108 and a tensile armour layer (105) 106. Once slotted in position the outer sleeve 412 can be kept in place by pressure between the layers of the flexible pipe body 100. These can in effect squeeze the neck 412a of the outer sleeve 412 effectively locking it in place.
  • a plurality of tensile armour wires 312 are used to form one or more tensile armour layers 105, 106, the wires 312 being wound helically at relatively low angle.
  • the wires 312 being wound helically at relatively low angle.
  • access for termination activities related to sub-layers 103 and 102 of the flexible pipe body 100 can be impeded by such wires 312 forming the tensile armour layer 106. This can depend, for example, on where, in terms of axial distance, such sub-layers are terminated in the end fitting.
  • the wires 312 of the tensile armour layer 105, 106 can be "splayed" radially outwardly so that portions thereof become spaced radially further away from the pipe body (as compared to the helically wound configuration). Such portions can adopt an expanded or more relaxed helical or spiral configuration.
  • the wires 312 can then be secured temporarily in the splayed position. Such a procedure is described in WO2014/170644 the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
  • a so-called “spider” device can be used to retain the wires 312 in the temporary splayed configuration.
  • the spider is a device that is temporarily attached to the flexible pipe for dealing with the tensile armour wires 312 as they are cut and positioned in the end fitting, and to hold the wires 312 out of the way, thereby to allow access for termination activities related to sub-layers 103 and 102 of the flexible pipe body to progress.
  • a spider typically can have an annular body for positioning over a pipe body 100, usually over an outer sheath, and a number of holding arms that extend towards the cut end of the pipe body and having hooked limbs for holding armour wires 312 at the splayed position. Additional separate temporary collars can be positioned where the armour wires 312 exit the flexible pipe body in order to control the bending radius of the wires 312 as they are manipulated during the end fitting processes.
  • each individual tensile armour wire 312 can be attended to separately, for example by using tools to crimp the wire and manipulate the wire. Then each wire 312 can be pulled back (splayed out) to the desired angle, which can be around 30 degrees, or 45 degrees, or even 90 degrees (i.e. up to about perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 302a of the pipe), and positioned in a holding arm of the spider.
  • the plurality of arms on the spider are configured to receive and retain the ends of the armour wires 312 once each is bent up to the desired angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the flexible pipe body 100. This is continued until all wires are evenly spaced with the holding arms.
  • the bend occurs at a selected region 708. As shown in Fig. 3a, this region corresponds to the location of the inner surface of the outer sleeve 412.
  • the inner layers e.g. carcass 101 , barrier layer 102, pressure armour layer 103, can be terminated in an end fitting 300 by positioning the cut end of each layer against the end fitting body, with appropriate use of seals and collar members.
  • each wire 312 can again be dealt with separately by taking the respective wires from the holding arms of the spider and, using suitable tools, gradually bending them towards the pipe axis 302a and, typically, into a confronting relation with inner collar 500 and the other tensile armour wires 312.
  • the wires 312 can then be held in position by use of straps, or other suitable means, close to the ends of the wires.
  • An inner collar 500 can then be secured in a position proximate the outer sleeve 412. Once the armour layers have been bent away from being parallel to the barrier layer and the inner collar is in place, a seal ring 600 can be placed around the open end of the pipe.
  • the end fitting 300 can be secured to the pipe body 100 by way of inner collar 500, outer jacket 307, outer collar 310 and bolts 308 or other suitable fastening devices.
  • a cavity 313 can be formed between the inner surface of the outer jacket 307 and outer surfaces of the end fitting 300 (in particular, outer surfaces of inner collar 500), and wires 312 from the tensile armour layer(s) (105) 106 are arranged in the cavity 313 where they are secured.
  • wires 312 from the tensile armour layer(s) (105) 106 are arranged in the cavity 313 where they are secured.
  • epoxy or some other flowable sealant 700 can be injected through injection ports (not shown) to fill the cavity 313 in the end fitting. This further locks the wires 312 in place and helps improve overall mechanical integrity.
  • wires 312 are constrained by the inner face 412aa of neck portion 412a, which inner face is typically cylindrical.
  • the inner face 412aa of neck portion 412a of outer sleeve 412 merges into inner face 412bb of shoulder portion 412b.
  • Inner face 412bb of shoulder portion 412b extends obliquely outwardly such that the edge of the inner face 412bb of the shoulder portion 412b which is distal to the neck portion is spaced radially further from the bore axis 302a than the inner face of the neck portion 412a.
  • Inner collar 500 can include an outer face 500a which face 500a also extends obliquely outwardly such that the edge of the face 500a which is distal to the neck portion 412a is spaced radially further from the bore axis 302a than the inner edge of the face 500a which is proximate the shoulder portion 412b. At least parts of the respective faces 500a and 412bb can be in confronting relation with a gap or space G defined therebetween through which the wires 312 can pass. Wires 312 can thus be positionally constrained by the respective oblique faces of the outer sleeve 412 and the inner collar 500.
  • the wires 312 in the secured configuration within the end fitting 300 can extend obliquely outwardly over oblique outer face 500a of inner collar 500.
  • Outer collar 412 can provide a guide and/or a bend restrictor for the transition of the wires 312 from the wound configuration to the radially outwardly splayed configuration.
  • the wires 312 can be in metal to metal contact with the inner surfaces of both the neck region 412a and the shoulder region 412b of the outer collar 412.
  • the inventors have found that the outer sleeve 412, and/or the wires 312 at locations proximate the outer sleeve 412, can in some circumstances be susceptible to corrosion. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors suggest that the corrosion which they have detected could be galvanic corrosion arising from the presence of moisture in the cavity 313. In some typical arrangements of pipe body 100, at least externally of the end fitting 300, the armour layer 106 can be separated from adjacent metallic layers by the presence of tape 104.
  • tape 104 is typically cut back and in any case may otherwise be breached during the securing of the pipe body 100 to the end fitting 300 and/or during the service life of the flexible pipe.
  • the inventors believe that any tape 104 which may be present between the wires 312 of the armour layer(s) (105) 106 and the outer sleeve 412 cannot be relied upon to provide electrical insulation between the wires 312 and the outer sleeve 412 effective to prevent corrosion.
  • the wires 312 and outer sleeve 412 can be, or can become, directly juxtaposed when the pipe body 100 is secured in the end fitting and that corrosion can occur as a consequence of such close juxtaposition, more especially if moisture is present.
  • aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a flexible pipe body 100, and an assembly of a flexible pipe body 100 and an end fitting 300, in which an electrically insulating material is interposed between the tensile armour wires 312 and the outer sleeve 412.
  • the electrically insulating material can thereby form an interface between the outer sleeve 412 and the tensile armour wires 312 and direct contact of the tensile armour wires 312 with the outer sleeve can be prevented. Corrosion of the tensile armour wires 312 and/or the outer sleeve 412 can thereby be eliminated or at least materially reduced.
  • Figure 4 is illustrative of one embodiment of the invention in which the electrically insulating material is in the form of an electrically insulating insert 420.
  • the insert 420 can be generally annular such as in the form of a sleeve or the like.
  • the insert 420 can be inserted between an internal surface of the outer sleeve 412 and outer surfaces of the wires 312 such that the insert 420 extends between the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312, such that the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312 are prevented by the insert 420 from coming into contact.
  • Insert 420 can be configured to define at least the oblique inner face 412bb of shoulder portion 412b and can further define a portion 412aa' of inner face 412aa of neck portion 412a as well as the transition between inner face 412bb and neck portion inner face 412aa.
  • the insert 420 can include one of more reinforcing or strengthening elements such a metal rods, mesh or rings. Such elements can be embedded within the insert 420.
  • the insert can comprise a plurality of segments arranged in annular manner so that each such segment is substantially equidistant from the longitudinal axis 302a.
  • the respective segments can be alternated with complementary portions of the outer sleeve 412.
  • the insert 420 segments can be inserted between an internal surface of the outer sleeve 412 and outer surfaces of the wires 312 such that the segments extend between the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312, such that the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312 are prevented by the insert 420 from coming into contact.
  • the segments, wires 312 and complementary portions of the outer sleeve 412 can be so arranged that the wires 312 are juxtaposed only with the segments of the insert 420 and thus do not contact the complementary portions of the outer sleeve 412.
  • Each segment of insert 420 can be configured to define at least the oblique inner face 412bb of shoulder portion 412b and can further define a portion 412aa' of inner face 412aa of neck portion 412a as well as the transition between inner face 412bb and neck portion inner face 412aa.
  • the alternating complementary portions of the outer sleeve 412 can preferably have the same profile as the inner surfaces of the insert segments so that said portions and segments form a substantially continuous, preferably generally smooth, surface.
  • Figure 5 is illustrative of another embodiment of the invention in which the electrically insulating material is in the form of an electrically insulating insert 422 forming a cap or collar arranged on the inner end (distal from neck portion 412a) of the outer sleeve 412.
  • Cap or collar 422 can form the whole of the inner end of the inner sleeve 412 and can thus be configured to define at least the oblique inner face 412bb of shoulder portion 412b and can further define a portion 412aa' of inner face 412aa of neck portion 412a as well as the transition between inner face 412bb and neck portion inner face 412aa.
  • the insert 422 can comprise a plurality of segments arranged in an annular manner, analogous to the arrangement described above in relation to Figure 4. Reinforcing or strengthening elements as described may also be present.
  • the electrically insulating insert 420, 422 or respective segments can be formed from any of a variety of insulating materials and may consist of a single material or may be a composite of different materials.
  • the insert 420, 422 can desirably be of self-supporting construction.
  • the insert 420, 422 can be rigid and in other embodiments the insert 420, 422 can have a degree of plasticity which, for example, can allow the insert 420, 422 to be deformed or moulded into conformity with the shape of the adjacent outer sleeve 412 and/or wires 312.
  • the insert 420, 422 (or the respective segments thereof), optionally in conjunction with supporting parts of outer sleeve 412, can be sufficiently rigid in order to positionally constrain the wires 32 in the transition from the helically would configuration to the radially outwardly splayed configuration and as the wires 312 extend into the cavity 313.
  • the insert 420, 422 (or segments thereof) can be bonded, such as by an adhesive to an adjacent side or face of the outer sleeve 412.
  • the insert 420, 422 (or the segments thereof) can be a friction or interference fit with complementary surfaces of the outer sleeve 412 thereby to retain the insert 420, 422 on the outer sleeve 412.
  • the insert 420, 422 (or the segments thereof) can be attached to outer sleeve 412 by screw fittings, bolts or the like.
  • Suitable materials for forming the insert 420 can include electrically insulating ceramic materials and electrically insulating polymeric materials such as PTFE.
  • Figure 6 is illustrative of an alternative embodiment of the invention in which the electrically insulating material is in the form of an electrically insulating substrate 424 such as a web, layer or coating which can typically be applied to an internal surface of the outer sleeve 412 such that the substrate 424 extends between the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312, such that the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312 are prevented by the substrate 424 from coming into contact.
  • the insulating substrate 424 can be applied to the outer sleeve 412 prior to securing of the pipe body 100 in the end fitting 300.
  • the substrate 424 can be applied to the outer sleeve 412 as a manufacturing step of the outer sleeve 412.
  • the insulating substrate 424 can be applied to the outer sleeve 412 at the time of assembly of the pipe body 100 into the pipe fitting 300.
  • the substrate 424 is in the form of a coating. Such coating can conveniently be initially in liquid form and applied by appropriate means such as painting or spraying.
  • the substrate 424 is a web or layer
  • the web or layer can conveniently be adhered to the outer sleeve 412.
  • the outer sleeve 412 can include a recess or rebate to
  • Substrate 424 can advantageously be configured to define at least the oblique inner face 412bb of shoulder portion 412b of outer sleeve 412 and can further define a portion 412aa' of inner face 412aa of neck portion 412a as well as the transition between inner face 412bb and neck portion inner face 412aa.
  • Suitable materials for the insulating substrate 424 can include epoxy based, PTFE based, polyethylene, polypropylene, PVDF, PPS, or polyurethane based coating systems, optionally containing filler particles of, for instance, a ceramic, glass, metal oxide or carbonate, basalt or metal powder, provided any such filler particles do not significantly increase the bulk conductivity of the system.
  • Figure 7 is illustrative of an further alternative embodiment of the invention in which, similarly to the embodiment of Figure 6, the electrically insulating material is in the form of an electrically insulating substrate 426 such as a web, layer or coating which can typically be applied to an internal surface of the outer sleeve 412 such that the substrate 426 extends between the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312, such that the outer sleeve 412 and the wires 312 are prevented by the substrate 426 from coming into contact.
  • the substrate 426 is attached to the outer sleeve 412 by means of one or more screw fittings 428.
  • the screw fittings 428 can preferably be arranged in a generally annular array about the axis 302a.
  • Outer sleeve 412 can include one or more apertures or bores 430 to accommodate the screw fitting(s) 428, each aperture 430 accommodating one screw fitting 428.
  • the apertures 430 can preferably be arranged in a generally annular array about the axis 302a.
  • Each aperture 430 can be a through aperture extending from an inner to an outer side of the outer sleeve 412.
  • the substrate 426 is configured such that a plug or body 432 thereof is formed within the or each aperture 430, and preferably fills the or each aperture 430.
  • the screw fitting 428 is thus in securing engagement with the plug or body 432.
  • The, or each, aperture 430 can include an outer well 434 of greater width configured to accommodate a relatively larger head portion 436 of the screw fitting 428.
  • useful screw fittings can be grub screws or socket head cap screws. It can be readily appreciated that similar securing arrangements using screw fittings can equally well be used with other embodiments of the invention, notably that of Figure 4 with insert 420 (or the segments thereof).
  • Figure 8 is illustrative of a further embodiment of the invention, similar to that of Figure 6.
  • the outer sleeve 412 can have substantially the same construction as that of Figure 6, that is, including the electrically insulating substrate 424.
  • the inner collar 500 can further be configured to include an electrically insulating material.
  • the electrically insulating material can be arranged on or over the outer face 500a which extends obliquely outwardly, as discussed above.
  • the embodiment of Figure 8 shows the insulating material in the form of a web, layer or coating 524 extending over the oblique outer face 500a of the inner collar 500.
  • the electrically insulating material (web, layer or coating 524) can form an interface between the inner collar 500 and the tensile armour wires 312 and direct contact of the tensile armour wires 312 with the inner collar 500 can be prevented. Corrosion of the tensile armour wires 312 and/or the inner collar 500 can thereby be eliminated or at least materially reduced.
  • Figure 8 illustrates a web, layer or coating 524
  • the insulating material can take forms analogous to those illustrated in relation to the outer sleeve 412 in Figures 4, 5 and 7.
  • the insulating material can be in the form of an electrically insulating insert such as a sleeve or the like, or in the form of an electrically insulating insert forming a cap or collar, arranged on or at the end (proximate the collar portion 412b) of the inner collar 500.
  • the outer sleeve 412 is shown in Figure 8 with a web, layer or coating 424 of insulating material
  • the outer sleeve can, in alternative embodiments have any of the constructions as described in relation to Figures 4, 5 and 7.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 424, 524 or the electrically insulating insert 420, 422 are formed from a polymeric material
  • the material of which the insert 420, 422 or substrate 424, 524 is formed may comprise (for example may be dosed or doped with) one or more corrosion inhibitors which can be released over time and can be further effective in preventing or minimising corrosion of the wires 312 and/or the outer sleeve 412.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Rigid Pipes And Flexible Pipes (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un tuyau flexible comprenant un corps de tuyau (100) flexible comprenant une couche de protection contre la traction (105, 106), un corps de raccord d'extrémité (301) et un manchon externe (412) agencé autour du corps de tuyau (100) adjacent à la couche de protection contre la traction (106) et à l'intérieur du corps de raccord d'extrémité (301), la couche de protection contre la traction (106) comprenant une pluralité de fils métalliques (312) ayant une partie enroulée de manière hélicoïdale et une partie où lesdits fils s'écartent, un corps (420) de matériau électriquement isolant durable est placée entre la couche de protection contre la traction (106) et le manchon externe (412) essentiellement efficace pour empêcher un contact entre la couche de protection contre la traction (106) et le manchon externe (412).
PCT/GB2016/051131 2015-04-24 2016-04-22 Composants de tuyau flexible et procédé de fabrication de tuyau flexible WO2016170360A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BR112017022889-0A BR112017022889B1 (pt) 2015-04-24 2016-04-22 Tubo flexível e método de montagem do mesmo

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB1507027.9A GB201507027D0 (en) 2015-04-24 2015-04-24 Flexible pipe components and method of manufacture of flexible pipe
GB1507027.9 2015-04-24

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2016170360A1 true WO2016170360A1 (fr) 2016-10-27

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Country Status (3)

Country Link
BR (1) BR112017022889B1 (fr)
GB (1) GB201507027D0 (fr)
WO (1) WO2016170360A1 (fr)

Cited By (7)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2018149462A1 (fr) * 2017-02-20 2018-08-23 National Oilwell Varco Denmark I/S Ensemble comprenant un embout et un tuyau flexible non lié
WO2019129806A1 (fr) * 2017-12-29 2019-07-04 Technip France Embout de connexion d'une ligne flexible, procédé de fabrication et méthode de surveillance associés
CN110691933A (zh) * 2017-04-12 2020-01-14 泰克尼普法国公司 将锚固件固定于柔性管铠装件的方法、相关管和安装方法
WO2021102329A1 (fr) * 2019-11-22 2021-05-27 Trinity Bay Equipment Holdings, LLC Systèmes et procédés pour raccord de tuyau en pot
US11293571B2 (en) 2015-05-06 2022-04-05 Baker Hughes Energy Technology UK Limited Apparatus and method for terminating flexible pipe body
US11378207B2 (en) 2019-11-22 2022-07-05 Trinity Bay Equipment Holdings, LLC Swaged pipe fitting systems and methods
US11739865B2 (en) 2017-03-16 2023-08-29 Baker Hughes Energy Technology UK Limited Mounting and cathodic protection

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FR2214852A1 (en) * 1973-01-24 1974-08-19 Inst Francais Du Petrole Flexible conduit with sealable monitor - has metal sheathing insulated with epoxy resin
GB2439147A (en) * 2006-06-16 2007-12-19 Wellstream Int Ltd Pipe or hose connector
WO2014170644A1 (fr) * 2013-04-15 2014-10-23 Wellstream International Limited Tuyau souple et procédé de fabrication de tuyau souple
WO2014174244A1 (fr) * 2013-04-24 2014-10-30 Wellstream International Limited Élément de bague d'étanchéité

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2214852A1 (en) * 1973-01-24 1974-08-19 Inst Francais Du Petrole Flexible conduit with sealable monitor - has metal sheathing insulated with epoxy resin
GB2439147A (en) * 2006-06-16 2007-12-19 Wellstream Int Ltd Pipe or hose connector
WO2014170644A1 (fr) * 2013-04-15 2014-10-23 Wellstream International Limited Tuyau souple et procédé de fabrication de tuyau souple
WO2014174244A1 (fr) * 2013-04-24 2014-10-30 Wellstream International Limited Élément de bague d'étanchéité

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11293571B2 (en) 2015-05-06 2022-04-05 Baker Hughes Energy Technology UK Limited Apparatus and method for terminating flexible pipe body
WO2018149462A1 (fr) * 2017-02-20 2018-08-23 National Oilwell Varco Denmark I/S Ensemble comprenant un embout et un tuyau flexible non lié
US11300237B2 (en) 2017-02-20 2022-04-12 National Oilwell Varco Denmark I/S Unbonded flexible pipe and an end-fitting
US11739865B2 (en) 2017-03-16 2023-08-29 Baker Hughes Energy Technology UK Limited Mounting and cathodic protection
CN110691933A (zh) * 2017-04-12 2020-01-14 泰克尼普法国公司 将锚固件固定于柔性管铠装件的方法、相关管和安装方法
US11187354B2 (en) 2017-04-12 2021-11-30 Technip France Method for attaching an anchorage element to an element of the armor of a flexible pipe, associated pipe and associated fitting method
WO2019129806A1 (fr) * 2017-12-29 2019-07-04 Technip France Embout de connexion d'une ligne flexible, procédé de fabrication et méthode de surveillance associés
FR3076340A1 (fr) * 2017-12-29 2019-07-05 Technip France Embout de connexion d'une ligne flexible, procede de fabrication et methode de surveillance associes
WO2021102329A1 (fr) * 2019-11-22 2021-05-27 Trinity Bay Equipment Holdings, LLC Systèmes et procédés pour raccord de tuyau en pot
US11242948B2 (en) 2019-11-22 2022-02-08 Trinity Bay Equipment Holdings, LLC Potted pipe fitting systems and methods
US11378207B2 (en) 2019-11-22 2022-07-05 Trinity Bay Equipment Holdings, LLC Swaged pipe fitting systems and methods

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB201507027D0 (en) 2015-06-10
BR112017022889B1 (pt) 2023-02-07
BR112017022889A2 (pt) 2018-07-17

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