Method for determining process parameters in the repairing of pipelines with out-of-spec curvature
Pipe sections with curvatures exceeding the required specified values are often found during the pigging of major pipelines. Process parameters for repairs have to be defined in order to develop a maintenance project that also includes works to restore the specified status of the section found. A corresponding method is known for cases of relocation of an initially straight pipeline. The authors developed a method for determining process parameters for repairing pipelines with out-of-project axis curvature. The method is based on modeling the deformation of a pipeline with initial axis curvature; it takes into account the actual operating conditions of the pipeline and in-line inspection data. Examples of calculating process parameters for repairs and stress-deformed state of pipeline sections with out-of-specs curvature have been presented. The modeling results confirm the possibility of using the method for evaluating the repair process parameters, the length of the required trench exposure, and the magnitude and boundaries of additional digging-in or the need to lift the pipeline in order to determine the stress–strain state of the pipeline section to be repaired during execution and after the completion of repairs.