The Use of Composite Materials in Repairing and Reinforcing Pipelines, Piping, and Structures

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide the oil and gas industry with an evaluation of composite repair and reinforcement systems to properly evaluate how composite materials should be used to repair and reinforce high pressure pipelines and offshore risers. The contents of the paper will include discussions on what critical elements should be evaluated for each composite system, items of caution and concern, and the importance of evaluation to ensure safe long-term performance. Based on a review of available research, composite materials can be used to reinforce damaged pipe materials. Specific examples include reinforcing mechanical damage subjected to cyclic pressure service and reinforcing corroded offshore risers.Insights gained through the past decade can be used to apply composite repair technology to new systems and structures. The pipeline industry has led the use of these materials as a repair method in the same way the aerospace industry adopted this technology in the 1960s and 1970s. Using a "lessons learned" approach better positions us to understand the capabilities and limitations of this technology.