Providing Independent Technology Validation
C-FER Technologies collaborates with oil and gas pipeline operators to independently validate technologies for inspecting and repairing high-pressure pipelines and wells.
Our evaluations include side-by-side comparisons of inspection tool performance in controlled, full-scale tests.
These test programs help operators choose the best inspection technologies. They also enable operators to develop clear, risk-based criteria for maintenance and repair decisions.
Four Ways to Validate Pipeline Inspection Technologies
Comparing inspection tool performance: We compare inspection tool performance by setting up full-scale test sections of pipe with known defects. There are various vendors who can inspect these defects. During our comparison, we grade the vendors on their ability to detect and characterize the defects. Pipeline operators receive an independent evaluation of each vendor’s technology.
After the test, we give the vendors a detailed list of the defects on the pipe. They can use this data to compare their tool responses to the actual defects. Vendors can improve their data processing algorithms to better identify and characterize the defects.
This process leads to fast and verifiable improvements in inspection technologies.
Validating inspection and repair technologies: C-FER uses a variety of approaches to validate pipe inspection and repair technologies and to use this information to develop models to predict the remaining strength of pipe.
This includes cutting sections through the damaged areas. We can then directly measure cracks, material loss, and corrosion.
This detailed information on the actual defect characteristics is then compared to the inspection tool’s response. We validate tool characteristics such as:
- probability of detection,
- probability of identification (differentiating between defect types), and;
- defect sizing accuracy.
If enough defects are assessed, some of these tool characteristics can be expressed as a function of defect type, size, and location on the pipe.
Information on the tool’s performance helps interpret pipe inspection data within a reliability-based framework, accounting for the uncertainties associated with the inspection tool.
Quantifying remaining strength of damaged pipe: We quantify the remaining strength of damaged pipes by conducting burst tests on pipes taken out of service, or on new pipes with manufactured defects that simulate field damage. Various non-destructive techniques are used to characterize these defects.
The defect information is used to build detailed models of the pipe, which are analyzed with advanced structural modeling techniques. These models predict the effects of the defects on the pipe’s remaining strength. If cyclic pressure loads causing fatigue failure are a concern, the models can also evaluate the pipe’s remaining life based on expected pressure cycling.
Validating pipe repair methods: We validate pipe repair methods by installing various repairs on sections of pipe with manufactured defects. Then, we test the pipes under simulated operating conditions, which combine pressure, load, and temperature. This helps determine how much of the original pipe strength can be restored with the repair.
Gang, Tao, PhD, PEng
Senior Engineering Advisor
With over 16 years experience at C-FER, Gang Tao is currently a Senior Engineering Advisor in our Drilling and Completions department.
His experience includes downhole tubular design and integrity assessment, full-scale testing of tubulars and threaded connections, downhole inspection tool assessment, and corrosion assessment for downhole tubulars and pipelines.
