Pipelines are laid in sections, each of which is connected to the next with welded flanges. Pipelines have to go round boundaries, avoid obstacles and branch off in various directions. A combination of bending techniques and pipe fittings ensure this can happen – all meticulously planned on a PC.
The pipe flanges and fittings in pipelines are composed of super-strong, highly resistant alloys such as Super Duplex. Because pipelines are welded, the flanges must be resistant to the heat used – if a pipeline is going to fail, it will be at these joints.
Laying a pipeline takes preparation. Once permission has been granted, the site is surveyed and the right-of-way cleared, fenced and graded. The right-of-way is where all construction occurs. It is also where bulk items, such as pipes and pipe fittings, are delivered. For this reason, gravel pads are laid to allow passage of vehicles, personnel, supplies and equipment. Once the pipeline is laid, the company use this right-of-way for maintenance, inspection and repairs – replacing pipe flanges, for example.
The next job is the “hauling and stringing” of the pipe: lengths of steel pipe are moved from the stockpile to the right-of-way and arranged ready for welding. As the pipeline must cross hills, curve round reservoirs and avoid ancient monuments, it has to be curved. Specialised pipe bending techniques are used wherever possible to achieve this: whenever pipe fittings are introduced into a pipeline, it’s a potential weak point.
We at Chemipetro understand the importance of using strong, highly resistant steel alloys and top quality manufacturing techniques for industrial pipe fittings.