TPi May 2015

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May 2015 Tube Products International 49
OCTG & pipel ine products
Optimising multiple
sections of pipe in
oil and gas projects
Oil and gas pipe measurement specialist
Optical Metrology Services (OMS) has
released a new version of its SmartFit™
pipe fit-up optimisation software. In
addition to the sequencing of single
pipe ends, the new software is now
capable of sequencing multiple pre-
welded sections of pipe, while providing
improved visualisation of pipe fit-up and
new, automated reporting features.
Winner of a Queen’s Award for Innovation
in 2014, the SmartFit service is a system
for managing pipe preparation and fit-
up in readiness for welding prior to
pipelaying. Used predominantly in the
oil and gas industry, SmartFit ensures
accurate fit-up of pipes prior to welding
and laying in trenches, preventing
environmentally damaging leaks.
In parallel, OMS has developed
bespoke laser measuring equipment
and methodologies with supporting
software, for optimising pipe fit-up.
The service allows faster pipelaying,
and improves quality by eliminating
mismatched pipe ends.
Each pipe end is measured, identified
and entered into the SmartFit software,
which then analyses the fit-up of pipes,
allowing the operator to mark the best
rotational position on each pipe end.
In the bead stall, these marks are
aligned to immediately achieve the best
rotational position so that misalignment
is minimised and
the project HiLo is
easily achieved.
Any problem pipes
that will not fit at a
specified HiLo are
also indicated and
are re-sequenced
or removed completely so that fit-up
problems do not occur in the bead stall.
This avoids production delays due to
mismatched pipes.
The latest version of the SmartFit
software was developed by OMS in
response to the changing needs of the
oil and gas industry. Rather than welding
single pipe ends, some of the latest
pipelaying vessels are now designed
and equipped to carry and/or weld
multiple sections of pipe – in doubles,
triples or quads. Typically, these vessels
carry pipe ends that have either been
pre-welded onshore into multiple
sections, or the vessels have facilities
to weld the pipe ends on-board into
multiple sections prior to the pipeline
reeling and laying processes.
David Briscoe, senior software engineer
at OMS, commented, “The SmartFit
software is now able to simulate,
sequence and optimise batches of
double, triple or quad pipe ends to suit
individual customer requirements. For
the pipe contractor, this enables pipe
ends to be part-welded into multiple
sections onshore, which in turn means
less time is spent welding individual
pipe ends on board the pipelaying
vessel. This can significantly reduce
vessel hiring costs and project risk.”
The software provides 2D/3D
visualisation of pipe ends, which not
only reduces operator error but also aids
the end customer or pipe contractor’s
own understanding of the benefits of
using pipe fit up optimisation software
in order to reduce weld cut-outs and
delays to the pipe welding and laying
processes.
Results and automated statistical
reports can be generated and exported
directly into different formats, including
Word, Excel, .CSV file, and image/
graphical reports, as well as more
detailed technical reports that include
every pipe joint/HiLo value in a pipeline.
Optical Metrology Services Ltd – UK
OCTG, line pipe and PVF
Flow Control Technologies is a supplier
and distributor of OCTG, steel line pipe,
HDPE pipe and PVF to the energy
industry worldwide.
The company has global operations
working towards the whole oil and gas
value chain: upstream (exploration and
production, offshore and onshore);
midstream (pipelines, compression
stations, pumping stations, storage
and distribution terminals); downstream
(refining, gasprocessing, petrochemicals
and cogeneration); and mining, power
generation and metal industries.
The company describes itself as a one-
stop source for hard-to-find inventory
items and short lead-time production.
Flow Control Technologies has
constructed a network of quality vendors
such as OEMs, leading producers,
recognised mills, master stockists,
foundries, castings, extrusions, forgings
and machining shops to manufacture
complex and critical components.
It offers reliable sources to meet
certifications established by ASTM,
ASME, API, DIN, ECN, ISO and other
international industry standards.
Flow Control Technologies, LLC –
USA
Screenshot of the new SmartFit software