Non-metallic pipe systems for use in oil and gas

This paper relates to the expanding use of non-metallic materials in piping for the transport of oilfield fluids, onshore and offshore. Qualification processes for thermoplastic and composite pipework all involve long term stress rupture tests to establish a relationship between pressure and time to failure. These qualification tests are needed to account for particular long term failure process that occur in non-metallics, and are essential to the successful application of these materials. Uses of both thermoplastics and composites in several types of pipework are discussed. These include fibreglass pipe, spoolable thermosets, reinforced thermoplastic pipe, flexible risers, rigid risers and, finally, repair and rehabilitation.