Life Extension of Corroded Pipelines, a Sustainable Solution

Abstract In the energy industry, pipelines are considered essential assets and are economically vital for continued operations. ADNOC Offshore’s aging pipeline network, with over 60% of pipelines having been operational for more than 35 years, has reached or surpassed their design life and are due for replacement. Ensuring their continued safe operation until replacements are in place is critical for maintaining business continuity. This necessitates extensive repair efforts to sustain pipeline integrity during this transition period. Traditional repair methods, such as using clamps and connectors, have proven to be expensive and not cost-effective for extending the operational life for just a few additional years. Recognizing this, an alternative solution has been adopted: the use of high-strength composites. These composites, combined with hydrophobic resins, offer a sustainable and cost-effective method for temporary repairs. The paper presents the benefits and effectiveness of employing composite materials for pipeline repair. These materials are designed to be applied underwater, providing a "double skin" of composite wrapping on weak links and corroded sections of the subsea pipelines. This innovative approach ensures safe operations for approximately 5-7 years until the pipeline can be fully replaced. The use of composites not only extends the pipeline life but also defers the capital costs associated with laying new pipelines, enabling the company to maintain profitability while ensuring maximum availability of its subsea infrastructure.