Applus+ conducted a subsea piping failure investigation and analysis in Australia

03/05/2023

    In a recent project, Applus+ in Australia was engaged to conduct metallurgical analysis on two corroded swivel flanges and pipe spools that had received corrosion damage.

    The analysis included a variety of advanced inspection techniques, such as 3D Laser Scanning, Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing, Photogrammetry, Visual Examination, Chemical Analysis, Hardness Testing, Metallography, and SEM/EDS Analysis. With the use of these advanced inspection techniques, we were able to detect the cause of failure. In the case of this failure, CO2 corrosion of the internal pipe surface had caused extensive loss of wall thickness, resulting in through-wall cracking.

    Additionally, as well as performing the inspection and analysis, we also provided recommendation to ensure that all pipe spools have corrosion-resistant alloy (CRA) overlays or linings before being introduced into service. We also recommended that the quality assurance and quality control procedures be reviewed and that a non-destructive examination (PAUT or remote internal visual inspection) should be conducted on any other similar pipe spools that were procured from the same supplier.

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