X-LOC CONNECTOR CHARACTERIZATION - NORTH SEA | | Project | Fact sheet | ENG | CORDIS

Ziel

The aim of the project is to provide the offshore oil and gas industry with a light and simple to use mechanical connector for pipelines diameters ranging from 20" to 36".
The X-LOC connection system is much lighter and simpler than other existing mechanical connection systems and has the distinct advantage of being designated for installation by Remote Systems, not simply adopted to suit such installation procedures.
The present move by the offshore oil and gas industry into deeper waters has prompted end users of such connection system to show a strong interest in a simple to use, light weight connecting system such as X-LOC, which provides a secure metal-to metal seal.

The principal task of the project proposed is to develop the X-LOC connection system from its present "prototype" and "production prototype" phase into a fully engineered and tested product ready for use and available to be marketed for diameter of 20", 30", 32", 36" which are the more common diameter of flowlines and trunk lines respectively in Europe. To date, the X-LOC concept has already been examined by Saipem and related consolidates companies as regards R&D and conceptual design. The only work performed to develop the X-LOC system has been on sizes 8", 12" and 26" O.D. pipe.
The following is a detailed summary of the work to be performed during this project on each of the X-LOC systems identified.
1. Develop detailed design specifications for each size following the design philosophy.
2. Generate and analyze a detailed Finite Element model of the X-LOC system.
3. Design components (misalignment balls, spool piece, etc.) for the X-LOC system and design specific tools for X-LOC connecting system/components machining.
4. Develop detailed Fabrication Specifications for the manufacture of the X-LOC and associated components.
5. Prototype fabrication of the X-LOC connector designed from item 1 above.
6. Develop detailed test procedures for the prototype testing of the X-LOC connector following the Test Concept.
7. Perform acceptance testing of the X-LOC connector. This testing will follow the Testing Concept and carried out to destruction. It is anticipated that this testing will be witnessed by representatives of a certifying agency (Lloyds, DNV, etc.).
8. Complete a Test Report covering the results of the prototype testing with specific emphasis placed upon the comparison of predicted to actual behaviour of the X-LOC connector.
All aspects of this program will adhere to company QA/QC guidelines, which conforms to ISO 9000.

Programm/Programme

ENG-THERMIE 1 - Programme (EEC) for the promotion of energy technology in Europe (THERMIE), 1990-1994

Thema/Themen

5.8 - PIPELINES

Aufforderung zur Vorschlagseinreichung

Data not available

Finanzierungsplan

DEM - Demonstration contracts

Koordinator

SAIPEM SPA

EU-Beitrag

Keine Daten

Adresse

Via Martiri di Cefalonia 67
SAN DONATO MILANESE
Italien

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