Development of Multi-layer and Multi-material Composite Linepipe for Oil and Gas Applications

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Shawcor Ltd. seeks to expand their current product line of reinforced thermoplastic pipes (RTPs) to strengthen their position in today's competitive global market. Quick and cost-effective installation, corrosion resistance and the ability to withstand high pressure in long-term operation are few outstanding characteristics of RTPs, which are increasingly being used as an alternative to steel pipe in oil and gas operations. Shawcor is committed to expanding the capacity of their RTP products to higher service ratings, namely temperature and pressure. Over the past two years, within the scope of joint Alberta-Ontario Innovation Program and NSERC CRD grants, a team composed of researchers from the University of Alberta and University of Toronto and experts at Shawcor has made substantial progress in exploring novel cost-effective RTP solutions. As part of this research, modeling and testing techniques for the assessment of long-term performance were developed. The collaborative research efforts have identified cost-effective composite pipe designs. The addition of corrosion-resistant metallic interlayers into the composite structure has been explored to provide a barrier against diffusion of volatiles through the pipe wall. Through the project that is proposed herein, optimized structural designs for multi-layer and multi-material RTPs shall be enabled, which includes the characterization of mechanical properties, identification of failure mechanisms and correlating properties in coupon specimens to the full-scale operation. Second, the project aims at developing novel solutions to effectively bond organic and inorganic material layers in RTPs. The study will include experimental characterization of short- and long-term properties. These research objectives will advance the knowledge that is critical to successfully develop novel multi-layer and multi-material RTP solutions. The university researchers in collaboration with the industrial partner form an expert team for engineering analysis and design. The project will train various Highly Qualified Personnel to acquire skills related to scientific research while being of high relevance to industry. Ultimately, the research will advance Shawcor's technology leadership in the industry.