Non-Metallic Pipe Solutions with Permeation Barrier for Safe Transport of Energy Production Fluids – Lab Tests and Case Study

Abstract

Non-metallic pipe systems are the perfect option for transporting highly corrosive fluids from oil and gas production which are potentially environmentally hazardous, since they contain volatile organic hydrocarbons. The operation of oil and gas production in agricultural lands is common in Europe and requires permeation tight solutions in order to prevent any kind of environmental contamination. In the past, leakages caused by corrosion damages on carbon steel pipes or by permeation of hydrocarbons through pipes made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) have resulted in environmental damages. In order to prove the suitability of plastic pipes with an integrated aluminum barrier layer tests over a 4-year time period were done in the context of field- and laboratory trials. For the pilot tests performed in a crude oil production system, the oil and water composition was given by the real case. For the systematic laboratory tests, clearly specified test liquids which came as close to providing a representative sample as possible were used. In order to simulate the most severe conditions conceivable, the test liquids were a saturated solution consisting of various volatile hydrocarbons, some of them also chlorinated, and a mixture of pure volatile hydrocarbons with a 10-per-cent share of aromatic toluene. In contrast to single-layer plastic pipes, the pipes featuring a barrier layer were shown to be resistant to permeation of all of the dissolved volatile organic ingredients examined by the tests. These results could be confirmed by the performed pilot test in Romania. Thus, plastic pipes equipped with a metallic barrier layer can be recommended for loss-free transport of aqueous liquids containing hydrocarbons, such as production water in crude oil. Combined with permanent monitoring for the purpose of damage detection, this non-metallic pipe solution complies with even the strictest environmental requirements, thus enabling oil production in environmental sensitive areas and guarantees reliable protection of the environment.