Subsea Innovation has completed the design and manufacture of two 16-in. mechanical pipeline connectors for use by RasGas. These are the first systems that Subsea Innovation has produced for RasGas, which has a total production capacity of 37 million tonnes of gas per annum.

These connectors, which have been shipped to Qatar, are part of the critical contingency measures that RasGas has in place to support their operational pipelines. The connectors have been designed to withstand pressures of up to 345 BARG, requiring tests to be completed to 431 BARG to take into account safety factors. The acceptance of these stringent tests was achieved as a result of a pressure hold for four hours with a 0% pressure drop. One of the most rigorous test scenarios in the company’s history. The connectors were designed to design code ASME VIII DIV 2.

The significant difference between these connectors and others that Subsea Innovation has produced previously, is that they were required to meet RasGas’ onerous weld specifications that included Inconel cladding. Inconel cladding provides additional protection for the pipeline against sour gas and is notoriously difficult to apply and machine.

As well as securing the order to deliver the connectors, Subsea Innovation also secured an order from RasGas for the delivery of four structural pipeline repair clamps, again to act as a contingency against leaks or damage, for pipelines ranging from 16 in. in diameter to 38 in. The heaviest of these clamps will weigh in at 50 tonnes and require testing to 431 BARG. These clamps will be of the largest diameter that the company has ever supplied and are subject to the same welding qualification as the connectors.

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