• refinery

    DuraPol protects Subsea Pipe Spools

The increase in maximum service temperature initiated a series of tests to find a cost-effective solution for super duplex subsea pipe spools. In July 2003, Shell Global Solutions in the USA successfully qualified DuraPol UHT for the seawater service at temperatures above 100⁰C.

DuraPol UHT was shown to provide anti-corrosion protection for seawater service at a temperature of 152⁰C.

Engineers

After numerous successful trials and applications, DuraPol UHT has been shown to be the best solution for externals of super duplex cooling manifolds, tie-in spools, flanges and valves operating at temperatures between 100⁰C and 130⁰C.In June 2004, Shell UK had a project to protect subsea spools with a total length of 150m. The options considered were thermal spray aluminisation and DuraPol UHT coating.

The thermal spray aluminisation requires additional sealing coating, and the final cost was in the range of £282k. The one-coat DuraPol UHT solution costs £24k including supervision and application.

Using DuraPol UHT, the customer saved over £250,000 on the initial application without any compromise on quality.

DuraPol UHT was the most affordable solution, providing excellent resistance to saltwater at high temperatures in the presence of cathodic protection. DuraPol UHT provides anti-fouling properties. Its smooth, slippery surface prevents marine organisms from sticking, which reduces their growth.

The result of the inspection
After four years in service, the pipe spools are in perfect condition. There was no evidence of pitting or disbandment; marine growth was also minimal and did not inhibit the cooling performance.

The total effect of DuraPol solution
DuraPol eliminated the need to replace the subsea spools after four years in service. The customer keeps the equipment in operation until eventual decommissioning; DuraPol solution saves at least £250,000.