Inspection: SAAM® Surveys
Inspection: SAAM® Surveys
Inspection: SAAM® Surveys
Dewatering - after hydrostatic testing, using advanced design to drive nitrogen or air.
Drying - using chemicals, on-site generated nitrogen, forced air or vacuum to lower
internal dew point.
Weatherford’s Temporary Air Compression Stations (TACS) boasts the largest fleet
of purpose-built air compression equipment in the world. The fully stand-alone TACS
includes feed compressors, air dryers, high-pressure boosters, coalescing and carbon bed
oil removal filters, flow meters, centralized remote monitoring system, fuel pumping and
distribution system and all support facilities (electrical generation, lighting, etc.).
The SAAM unit is installed completely within a utility pig, and measures and records the
pig’s behavior through a pipeline. Post-survey interpretation of the data logged provides
useful information, enabling operators to make informed decisions about the integrity of
their pipeline. Applications of the SAAM tool include:
• 3D out-of-straightness measurement
• Locate internal debris (e.g. paraffin wax)
• Locate internal bore restrictions (e.g. dents)
• Locate internal corrosion
• Log process data (pressure, temperature)
• Diagnose and optimize pigging
The SAAM tool can be used in a regular direct assessment and maintenance
role, as well as in one-off troubleshooting applications.
Technical Details
The software, anomaly database and analysis report (generated by the analysis center) are
then compiled to form a comprehensive final report to document the integrity of the
pipeline.
The software, anomaly database and analysis report (generated by the analysis center) are
then compiled to form a comprehensive final report to document the integrity of the
pipeline.
Weatherford builds on this proven technology with its MFL high-resolution tool. High-
resolution translates into more reliable and accurate identification and characterization of
pipeline anomalies, thus better data on the pipelines integrity status.
The software, anomaly database and analysis report (generated by the analysis center) are
then compiled to form a comprehensive final report to document the integrity of the
pipeline.
TFI technology incorporates a magnetic flux technique to detect and characterize narrow
axially oriented anomalies by inducing a circumferential field path, rather than a
longitudinal one. This method is sensitive to defects not normally detected by
conventional magnetics, such as narrow axial external corrosion, cracks in long seam
welds (SCC), gouges, axial notches in dents—as well as large individual cracks or large
colonies of stress corrosion cracking (SSC).
Both of these tools have a proven track record, minimizing the need for expensive client-
initiated verification excavations—important considerations when building a superior
pipeline integrity management program. They are both well suited for use in any type of
product line, whether oil, refined product, gas, water or condensate. They can be
used onshore or offshore and are available in many different diameters.
The software, anomaly database and analysis report (generated by the analysis center) are
then compiled to form a comprehensive final report to document the integrity of the
pipeline.
Pigging
With over 30 years’ experience in pipeline pigging and pig manufacture, we have a vast
array of high-quality, reliable pigs, suitable for all diameters, media and purposes, either
off-the-shelf, or specifically designed. Our bi-directional (Bi-Di) pigs comprise a
standardized modular design with interchangeable components, enabling simple
adaptation for any challenging pipeline. Other pigs available include cup, foam, dual-
diameter, Polycast™, flexible, D-Scaling, D-Waxing, and dual-module, many of which
can be fitted with our various pig accessories or pig locating systems. We can also offer
pig traps, for onshore and offshore operations.
Pig Location Systems
Our onshore pig location systems combine the highest manufacturing quality and proven
operational reliability. They are designed for service in tough conditions and for long
periods of operation. These systems are suitable for use with pigs deployed in the
cleaning and drying phase of newly constructed pipelines, or during pipeline flooding and
maintenance pigging of operational lines. Further applications include use with
separation pigs during product changes, and use with on-line inspection tools.
Abandonment
Studies have shown that the effectiveness of pipeline pigging and cleaning procedures
prior to abandonment is the most critical determinant of potential quantities of residual
contaminants. Weatherford can engineer and design the most efficient and economic
pigging and cleaning runs to ensure that cleanliness specifications are achieved. Pipeline
abandonment can be a sensitive operation and can differ greatly in approach to standard
pigging and cleaning operations. Weatherford can provide sound environmental
protection practices for pipeline abandonment cleaning processes.
In addition to pigging and cleaning services, Weatherford can provide abrasive cold
cutting services for the disconnection of risers and other pipework, and for nitrogen
inerting and corrosion inhibition.
Leak Detection
Barring some external influence, such as anchor drag, jack-up deployment or storm
activity, major leaks in operating oil and gas pipeline systems usually start out very small.
Typically caused by corrosion or material defects, these small leaks are often overlooked
during initial construction.
The Weatherford suite of leak detection systems provides the means to detect very small
leaks in newly constructed pipeline systems during hydrotesting and also in systems
already in service. By identifying small leaks early on, Weatherford can help prevent
catastrophic events typically accompanied by suspended production, environmental
damage and associated cleanups costs, expensive repairs, loss of revenue and public
image issues. Identification of very small leaks in the initial precommissioning phase of
any subsea system is the first step towards system integrity.
Weatherford offers multiple, independently operated systems that can be effectively
utilized to locate leaks in systems already in operation and/or during the hydrotesting of
new construction in water depths. All systems are capable of optimal performance
regardless of water column clarity. These systems are available to support highly active
oil and gas production and construction markets worldwide.
Dye Detectors
Identify traces of fluorescein dye as small as 1 parts per billion (ppb) in the water
column.
Acoustic Sensors
Passive Acoustics (hydrophone) detects the acoustic energy generated (sound) that a
liquid or gas makes as it seeps through whatever defect or leak path that might exist.
Takes samples along a pipeline route or near a subsea assembly and determines the
presence of specific compounds in the sampling area that have an atomic mass unit of 1
to 150. Light hydrocarbons and their associated gases fall within this range of
compounds.
Umbilical Testing
Weatherford provides a full range of umbilical testing services:
Weatherford handles topside tie-in of all umbilical components into platform junction
boxes. Supply and cleaning of control fluids for particulate removal or water
contamination can also be provided