Insights Gained Through the Development of a Roadmap for Composite Repair Systems

ABSTRACT:

Over the past 20 years, composite materials have been used around the world to repair pipeline anomalies including corrosion, dents, bends, and branch connections. Since 2007 the Pipeline Research Council International, Inc. (PRCI) has taken an active role in funding research programs focused on evaluating composite repair technology. To date, PRCI has sponsored seven different programs focused on evaluating composite materials used to provide structural reinforcement.

Because of the significant investment by PRCI and other organizations, a Composite Roadmap was initiated to connect past, present, and future research efforts. In this paper, the authors present a roadmap for composite repair systems identifying how previous and ongoing research efforts contribute to industry’s understanding in using non-metallic repairs. Of particular interest is a graphical Composite Repair Roadmap Grid that highlights lessons learned from prior efforts, while also identifying knowledge gaps in the current use of composite materials. Included in this discussion are three PRCI projects that include the MATR-3-4 study to evaluate the long-term performance of composite materials in reinforcing externally-corroded pipes, the MATR-3-5 study focused on the repair of dents and mechanical damage, and the MATR-3-7 program that evaluated the reinforcement of vintage girth welds.

This paper will contribute to the international pipeline community’s overall understanding of composite material performance and provide guidance for areas in need of further research.

Alexander, C., and Mishael, S., “Insights Gained Through the Development of a Roadmap for Composite Repair Systems”, 19th Biannual PRCI – APIA – EPRG Joint Technical Meeting on Pipeline Research, April 29 – May 3, 2013, Sydney, Australia.