ETPs & composites | materials feature
Thermoplastic pipe offers benefits in oil and gas sector
The oil and gas industry has, for some time, used thermoset composites to make tough, durable pipes. However, despite their high performance, there are shortcomings – including brittleness, and a lack of spoolability. For this reason, thermoplastic composite pipes (TCPs) have been gaining industry attention. A TCP is a fully bonded, flexible pipe typically
consisting of: l a polymeric inner layer – which ensures that the pipe is fully tight, and there is no permeation of gas or fluid through it;
l fibre-reinforced thermoplastic polymer layer, ensures the pipe’s integrity, strength and stiffness – and can be made of carbon fibre or glass fibre in a wide variety of matrices; and,
l an outer polymer jacket if needed, and protects the TCP against external loads such as impact. Other than being flexible and spoolable, there are
other advantages of using TCPs, including: very low strength to weight ratio; corrosion resistance; high
www.pipeandprofile.com Ramin Moslemian of DNV GL
describes how a joint industry project has developed a recommended
practice for qualifying thermoplastic composite pipes for oil and gas
pressure and temperature capabilities; high flow rate – as they have a smooth inner surface; and, recyclability. These advantages could lead to significant cost
reduction in installation and operations costs. They are also easier to deploy because of their light weight and simple configuration. Their added flexibility means they can be used where higher bending strains are needed such as exploration and extraction environments.
The greater spoolability of thermoplastic
composite pipe is a huge
advantage in certain
applications January/February 2017 | PIPE & PROFILE EXTRUSION 13
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PHOTO: AIRBORNE OIL & GAS
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