Delivering Precision by Combining Finite Element Analysis with Inline Inspections

NDT Global conducted a combined inline inspectionA method used to assess the the integrity and condition of pipelines. It involves the use of specialized tools that are inserted into the pipeline and propelled… service and a fitness for purpose analysis (FFP) for South American pipeline operatorAn entity or organization responsible for the operation, management, and maintenance of a pipeline system. The operator is entrusted with ensuring the safe, rel… SONACOL. The FFPA process of evaluating whether a product, system, or service meets the required functional and performance criteria for its intended use. It involves examining… analysis is a level 2 assessments (per API 579-1) which revealed a crackA fracture or discontinuity in the wall of a pipeline, where the material is separated or broken, potentially compromising the integrity and safety of the pipel… featureGeneral term for an anomaly detected during an assessment. Features can be anomalies, components, nearby metallic objects, welds, appurtenances, or some other i… showing critical pressures located in a natural reservoir. This 6” pipeline systemAll portions of the physical facilities through which liquid or gas moves during transportation. This includes pipe, valves, and other appurtenances attached to… transports jet fuel across high consequenceThe outcomes or impacts that result from events or incidents related to the pipeline's operation, integrity, or safety. Consequences can range from minor disrup… areas (HCAs). The FFP identified diverse anomalies, that require attention and mitigationAppropriate action based on an assessment of risk factors to reduce the overall level of pipeline integrity risk by reducing the amount of risk from a probabili… measures. 

FEA results showed that the maximum stressThe internal forces and pressures experienced by a pipeline as a result of various factors, including internal and external loads, operating conditions, and env… generated was an effect of the internal pressure and longitudinal loads located inside of a “crackA fracture or discontinuity in the wall of a pipeline, where the material is separated or broken, potentially compromising the integrity and safety of the pipel…-like” anomalyAny irregularity, defect, or abnormal condition identified in a pipeline system that deviates from the expected or normal operating condition. Anomalies in pipe… in a specific area of the depth profile. Under the pipeline’s current operational conditions, the remaining lifeThe estimated duration that a pipeline is expected to remain in service before it reaches the end of its operational life. This estimate is based on various fac… is 1,481 cycles of load, with every operative cycle corresponding to 24 hours; therefore, the remaining life of the jointA single section (also pipe spool) of pipe that is circumferentially welded to form a pipeline. is approximately four years. Because the maximum stress generated was less than the SMYSThe minimum yield strength prescribed by the specification under which pipe is purchased from the manufacturer. of the pipe material, NDT Global concluded that the deformationRefers to any change in the shape, configuration, or geometry of a pipeline from its original or intended form. It results from various factors, including exter… generated was within the boundary of an elastic behavior. The failureThe inability of a pipeline system to fulfill its intended function or meet the required performance criteria. Pipeline failures can have significant consequenc… pressure and safe pressure indicated the mechanical capacity was calculated at 1,440 psi (99.3 bar). These results, in addition to the remaining life, allowed the operatorAn entity or organization responsible for the operation, management, and maintenance of a pipeline system. The operator is entrusted with ensuring the safe, rel… to manage the pipeline understanding the mechanical capacity subject to completing the repair within four years. NDT Global provided the elements, precise assessments and results to enable a better decision on the operator side a timeline to safely and cost-effectively continue operations, while simultaneously planning a strong course of action for the future.