R4D, corrosion – Africa
High-performance composite repair solution for pipe reinforcement
Overview
The objective of the job, performed by 3X ENGINEERING (3X) and its local distributor, was to protect a 16” pipe from aggressive environment on several long sections (for a total of 70-meter length).
Results
Initially developed for subsea applications, the BOBIPREG® machine proved to be highly efficient in this onshore pre-fabrication configuration. This application methodology, combined with yard conditions, delivered major operational benefits:
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Streamlined logistics & enhanced safety: Installation was completed in a fabrication yard rather than on an active platform.
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Increased efficiency & cost-effectiveness: Wrapping was completed four times faster than with manual impregnation methods.
 Defect type |
Corrosion |
Details |
16” water line |
Location |
AFRICA |
3X Product type |
REINFORCEKiT® 4D using BOBiPREG® |
Scope of work
The reinforced protection was performed in a yard, prior on-site assembly, using BOBiPREG® machine. This specific machine, designed by 3X, allows a quick and regular impregnation of the Kevlar® tape with the resin before application.
This pre-preg system was very convenient for this case because the REINFORCEKiT® 4D application should be carried out as fast as possible. The reinforced protection was performed following 4 stages:
- Surface preparation of the pipe using sandblasting to get at least 60 µm roughness and thus ensure a good bonding between the pipe and the composite.
- Kevlar® tape impregnated with R3X1060 resin using BOBIPREG®.
- Wrapping around the pipe using 3X specific resin handles to ensure proper tensile strength during application. This device will facilitate and speed-up the wrapping step. Four layers were applied to guarantee an optimal protection.
- Finalization of the protection with reference plate positioning for traceability purpose.
