Hyperlast and Heriot Watt University pool resources on deep subsea flowline insulation and protection tests

The inclusion of glass spheres with the polyurethane, allows the coating to withstand the pressures associated with subsea depths of 3,000 metres (10,000 ft). Simulated tests carried out by Heriot Watt University and Hyperlast Pipeline Engineers make certain that 'Hyperlast' 'Syntactic' DW-512/300 thermal insulation and strength capacities are achieved.

Tests show that with internal pipe temperatures at up to 100 °C (212 °F), and at a depth of 6,550 feet (2000 m), there is
- no change in thermal conductivity, thereby ensuring consistent insulation properties
- no change in coating thickness due to compression by hydrostatic pressure
- minimum water absorption over a 20 year period

Hyperlast 'Syntactic' polyurethane is able to withstand the rigours of laying by reel barge, 'S' or 'J' lay, and provides corrosion protection, impact strength, durability and flexibility, plus excellent adhesion to the raw pipe.

Over 437 miles (700kms) of subsea pipeline and more than 35,000 field joints have been completed using Hyperlast materials, and are to be found from the Gulf of Mexico, North Sea, South China Sea, to the coasts of North West Australia, and West Africa.

Ref: 22-1415   February 2002