Pipeline Failure Investigations: Analytical Techniques and Case Studies

1996 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brian R. Wilson
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Analytical Techniques ◽  
Pipe Failure ◽  
Line Pipe ◽  
Failure Investigation ◽  
Transmission Pipeline ◽  
Cause Of Failure ◽  
Pipeline Failure ◽  
External Corrosion

There are a number of analytical techniques which can be employed during the course of a pipeline failure investigation to assist in the collection of all the pertinent information essential to determining the cause of failure. The key is to select the appropriate analytical techniques at the beginning of the investigation and involve experienced and qualified people in every facet of the examination and testing process. Case studies described in this paper involve stress corrosion cracking, external corrosion on a gas transmission pipeline, cracking of fibreglass line pipe, failure of a new mechanical interference fit pipeline joint and mill defects in a large diameter submerged arc weld seam.

Rational Stress Limits and Load Factors for Finite Element Analyses in Pipeline Applications: Part III — Elastic-Plastic Load Factor Development

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rhett Dotson ◽  
Chris Alexander ◽  
Ashwin Iyer ◽  
Al Gourlie ◽  
Richard Kania
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Load Factor ◽  
Pipe Material ◽  
Line Pipe ◽  
Elastic Plastic ◽  
First Case ◽  
Load Factors

In this paper, a methodology is presented to develop load factors for use in elastic-plastic assessments of pipelines and their components. The load factors are based on the pipe material properties and the ASME pipeline code’s design margin for the service and location of the pipeline installation [1, 2]. These codes are recognized by 49 CFR 192 and 195 [3, 4]. Minimum required load factors for internal pressure loads can be derived analytically based on design equations from the ASME B31 piping codes and minimum material requirements for API 5L line pipe [6]. Once the load factor is established for a particular case, the elastic-plastic methodology may be used in the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of pipelines and related components. This methodology is particularly useful in the assessment of existing systems when linear elastic numerical analysis shows that local stresses may exceed the elastic design limits. Two case studies are presented showing analyses performed with Abaqus [5], a commercial, general purpose FEA software package. The first case study provides an assessment of a large diameter elbow where the stress on the outer fibers of the intrados exceeded the longitudinal stress limits from B31.8. The second case study examines an assessment of a tee connection where the stresses on the ID exceeded the yield strength of the component. In addition to the case studies, the paper also presents the results of a full-scale test that demonstrated what margin was present when the numerical calculations were based on specified minimum properties. This paper is not intended to revise or replace any provision of B31.4 and/or B31.8 [1, 2]. Instead, it provides the means for calculating load factors that can be used with an elastic-plastic analysis approach in a manner that provides the same design margins as the ASME B31 codes. The approach described in this paper is intended for use in the detailed FEA of pipelines and their associated components.

Lessons Learned from Large-Diameter Pipe Failure Case Studies

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jayantha Kodikara ◽  
Suranji Rathnayaka ◽  
Jian Zhang ◽  
Craig Crawly ◽  
David Zhang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Pipe Failure ◽  
Large Diameter Pipe ◽  
Diameter Pipe

Implementing a Quantitative Geohazard Frequency Analysis Framework as a Component of Risk Assessment of New Pipelines

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alex Baumgard ◽  
Michael Beaupre ◽  
Mark Leir
Keyword(s):  
Risk Management ◽  
Risk Analysis ◽  
Frequency Analysis ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Management Framework ◽  
Transmission Pipeline ◽  
Forestry Industry ◽  
Annual Frequency ◽  
Pipeline Failure ◽  
The Impact

In the last 5 years in Canada, regulators have been requesting that new pipeline projects provide quantitative risk management of all credible geohazards involving the proposed pipeline corridor so it can be demonstrated that geohazards are being recognized prioritized and that adequate resources are being allocated and to minimize the impact of adverse consequences of pipeline construction and operation. Complete risk management includes risk analysis that identifies credible geohazards sites, estimates their annual frequency or probability of pipeline failure and, when combined with a consequence of pipeline failure, estimates the risk from each hazard. This paper presents a framework and methodology that quantitatively estimates the Frequency of Loss of Containment (FLoC) for several types of geohazards that meet the requirements for geohazard identification and frequency analysis components of risk analysis. This framework builds on an international geohazard management framework advanced in the last decade by the Australian Geomechanics Society, British Columbia forestry industry, used in geohazard management programs for operating pipelines and proposed pipeline projects in Canada. The framework provides a repeatable and defensible methodology that is intended to be scalable to accept inputs from feasibility level desktop studies, through field-based observations, and incorporate proposed mitigations. This updated framework was most recently implemented on a proposed large diameter transmission pipeline route crossing the varied terrains of Western Canada, the results of which have been adjusted for Owner confidentiality, but are presented to demonstrate the application of the methodology and the effectiveness of communicating the overall hazard frequency reduction as a result of applying site specific mitigations.

Performance Evaluation of Above Ground Surveys for Locating External Corrosion in Pipelines

2002 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clive R. Ward ◽  
Marcus McCallum ◽  
Gary L. Masters ◽  
Andrew Francis
Keyword(s):  
Structural Reliability ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Operating Pressure ◽  
Integrity Assessment ◽  
Direct Assessment ◽  
Site Investigations ◽  
Transmission Pipeline ◽  
True Condition ◽  
Using Data ◽  
External Corrosion

Integrity management regulations require operators of high-pressure gas pipelines to consider various threats to pipeline integrity including time-dependent degradation due to corrosion. Depending on factors including age and operating pressure, a pipeline will require periodic integrity assessment. Methods available for assessing external corrosion are in-line inspection, pressure testing, or Direct Assessment, which is the subject of this paper. An analysis was conducted on data from a large diameter gas transmission pipeline built in the 1960’s. A 30Km section was investigated, using data spanning an 18-year period. The records analyzed included above ground surveys, high-resolution in-line inspection surveys, and site investigations. Assuming the in-line inspection represents true condition, it was found that the above ground surveys produced indications at between 80% and 90% of the in-line inspection features. Approximately 35% of the survey indications did not correspond to in-line inspection features. This information should benefit those wishing to implement Direct Assessment programs using Structural Reliability Analysis techniques.

Contamination Troubleshooting Approach from Problem to Solution

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor K. F. Chia ◽  
Hugh E. Gotts ◽  
Fuhe Li ◽  
Mark Camenzind
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Semiconductor Devices ◽  
Analytical Techniques ◽  
General Knowledge ◽  
Contamination Source ◽  
Root Cause ◽  
Sources Of Contamination

Abstract Semiconductor devices are sensitive to contamination that can cause product defects and product rejects. There are many possible types and sources of contamination. Root cause resolution of the contamination source can improve yield. The purpose of contamination troubleshooting is to identify and eliminate major yield limiters. This requires the use of a variety of analytical techniques[1]. Most important, it requires an understanding of the principle of contamination troubleshooting and general knowledge of analytical tests. This paper describes a contamination troubleshooting approach with case studies as examples of its application.

Failure Localization in a Multistage S-Band Power Amplifier

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Clarence Rebello ◽  
Ted Kolasa ◽  
Parag Modi
Keyword(s):  
Output Power ◽  
Power Amplifier ◽  
Fault Tree ◽  
Root Cause ◽  
Failure Investigation ◽  
Band Power ◽  
Cause Of Failure ◽  
Design Materials ◽  
Board Level ◽  
Failure Localization

Abstract During the search for the root cause of a board level failure, all aspects of the product must be revisited and investigated. These aspects encompass design, materials, and workmanship. In this discussion, the failure investigation involved an S-Band Power Amplifier assembly exhibiting abnormally low RF output power where initial troubleshooting did not provide a clear cause of failure. A detailed fault tree drove investigations that narrowed the focus to a few possible root causes. However, as the investigation progressed, multiple contributors were eventually discovered, some that were not initially considered.

Development of X80M Line Pipe Steel for Spiral Welded Pipes With Low Temperature Toughness and Excellent Weldability

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nuria Sanchez ◽  
Özlem E. Güngör ◽  
Martin Liebeherr ◽  
Nenad Ilić
Keyword(s):  
Low Temperature ◽  
Life Cycle Cost ◽  
Volume Fraction ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Pipe Production ◽  
Strain Accumulation ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Line Pipe ◽  
Low Temperature Toughness ◽  
Welded Pipe

The unique combination of high strength and low temperature toughness on heavy wall thickness coils allows higher operating pressures in large diameter spiral welded pipes and could represent a 10% reduction in life cycle cost on long distance gas pipe lines. One of the current processing routes for these high thickness grades is the thermo-mechanical controlled processing (TMCP) route, which critically depends on the austenite conditioning during hot forming at specific temperature in relation to the aimed metallurgical mechanisms (recrystallization, strain accumulation, phase transformation). Detailed mechanical and microstructural characterization on selected coils and pipes corresponding to the X80M grade in 24 mm thickness reveals that effective grain size and distribution together with the through thickness gradient are key parameters to control in order to ensure the adequate toughness of the material. Studies on the softening behavior revealed that the grain coarsening in the mid-thickness is related to a decrease of strain accumulation during hot rolling. It was also observed a toughness detrimental effect with the increment of the volume fraction of M/A (martensite/retained austenite) in the middle thickness of the coils, related to the cooling practice. Finally, submerged arc weldability for spiral welded pipe manufacturing was evaluated on coil skelp in 24 mm thickness. The investigations revealed the suitability of the material for spiral welded pipe production, preserving the tensile properties and maintaining acceptable toughness values in the heat-affected zone. The present study revealed that the adequate chemical alloying selection and processing control provide enhanced low temperature toughness on pipes with excellent weldability formed from hot rolled coils X80 grade in 24 mm thickness produced at ArcelorMittal Bremen.

Full Well Corrosion Insight – Case Studies in the Added Value of Electromagnetic Thickness Measurements During Well Interventions

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrew Imrie ◽  
Maciej Kozlowski ◽  
Omar Torky ◽  
Aditya Arie Wijaya
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Wall Thickness ◽  
Added Value ◽  
Metal Loss ◽  
Outer Diameter ◽  
Metal Thickness ◽  
True Condition ◽  
Pass Through ◽  
External Corrosion ◽  
The Individual

AbstractMonitoring pipe corrosion is one of the critical aspects in the well intervention. Such analysis is used to evaluate and justify any remedial actions, to prolong the longevity of the well. Typical corrosion evaluation methods of tubulars consist of multifinger caliper tools that provide high-resolution measurements of the internal condition of the pipe. Routinely, this data is then analyzed and interpreted with respect to the manufacture's nominal specification for each tubular. However, this requires assumptions on the outer diameter of the tubular may add uncertainty, and incorrectly calculate the true metal thicknesses. This paper will highlight cases where the integration of such tool and electromagnetic (EM) thickness data adds value in discovering the true condition of both the first tubular and outer casings.These case studies demonstrate the use of a multireceiver, multitransmitter electromagnetic (EM) metal thickness tool operating at multiple simultaneous frequencies. It is used to measure the individual wall thickness across multiple strings (up to five) and operates continuously, making measurements in the frequency domain. This tool was combined with a multifinger caliper to provide a complete and efficient single-trip diagnosis of the tubing and casing integrity. The combination of multifinger caliper and EM metal thickness tool results gives both internal and external corrosion as well as metal thickness of first and outer tubular strings.The paper highlights multiple case studies including; i) successfully detecting several areas of metal loss (up to greater than 32%) on the outer string, which correlated to areas of the mobile salt formation, ii) overlapping defects in two tubulars and, iii) cases where a multifinger caliper alone doesn't provide an accurate indication of the true wall thickness. The final case highlights the advantages of integrating multiple tubular integrity tools when determining the condition of the casing wall.Metal thickness tools operating on EM principles benefit from a slim outer diameter design that allows the tools to pass through restrictions which typically would prevent ultrasonic scanning thickness tools. Additionally, EM tools are unaffected by the type of fluid in the wellbore and not affected by any non-ferrous scale buildup that may present in the inside of the tubular wall. Combinability between complementary multifinger caliper technology and EM thickness results in two independent sensors to provide a complete assessment of the well architecture.

Pressure Test Planning to Prevent Internal Corrosion by Residual Fluids

2012 ◽  
Author(s):  
Trevor Place ◽  
Greg Sasaki ◽  
Colin Cathrea ◽  
Michael Holm
Keyword(s):  
Structural Integrity ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Long Distance ◽  
Internal Corrosion ◽  
Pressure Testing ◽  
Practical Strategy ◽  
Leak Testing ◽  
Pressure Test ◽  
Transmission Pipeline ◽  
Pipeline Project

Strength and leak testing (AKA ‘hydrotesting’, and ‘pressure testing’) of pipeline projects remains a primary method of providing quality assurance on new pipeline construction, and for validating structural integrity of the as-built pipeline [1][2][3]. A myriad of regulations surround these activities to ensure soundness of the pipeline, security of the environment during and after the pressure testing operation, as well as personnel safety during these activities. CAN/CSA Z662-11 now includes important clauses to ensure that the pipeline designer/builder/operator consider the potential corrosive impacts of the pressure test media [4]. This paper briefly discusses some of the standard approaches used in the pipeline industry to address internal corrosion caused by pressure test mediums — which often vary according to the scope of the pipeline project (small versus large diameter, short versus very long pipelines) — as well as the rationale behind these different approaches. Case studies are presented to highlight the importance of considering pressure test medium corrosiveness. A practical strategy addressing the needs of long-distance transmission pipeline operators, involving a post-hydrotest inhibitor rinse, is presented.

Buckling Resistance of Large Diameter Spiral Welded Linepipe

2004 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tom Zimmerman ◽  
Chris Timms ◽  
Jueren Xie ◽  
James Asante
Keyword(s):  
Oil And Gas ◽  
Weld Seam ◽  
Large Diameter ◽  
Ground Movement ◽  
Finite Element Analyses ◽  
Line Pipe ◽  
Diameter Pipe ◽  
Buckling Resistance ◽  
Analytical Research ◽  
Full Scale Tests

This paper contains the results of an experimental and analytical research program to determine the compressive buckling resistance of large-diameter, spiral-welded linepipe. Buckling resistance is important for pipe intended for service in Arctic, oil and gas pipeline systems, where pipes may be subjected to high bending strains caused by various ground movement events. The experimental work consisted of four full-scale tests of 30-inch (762 mm) diameter pipe subjected to various combinations of internal pressure, axial force and bending. The pipe specimens were fabricated using two material grades (X70 and X80) and two D/t ratios (82 and 48). Finite element analyses of the four tests were conducted to develop a better understanding of specimen behavior. The results suggest that spiral welded linepipe is as good as longitudinally welded line pipe in terms of buckling capacity. The spiral weld seam was in no way detrimental to the pipe performance.

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