Session: 03-04-01 Advancements in Pipeline Remediation Solutions and Coatings

Paper Number: 86941

86941 - Optimizing Operator Systems Through the Use of Flexible Composite Pipe 

Pipelines play a critical role in the world-wide demand for energy. Pipeline operators face ever-increasing challenges in operating high-pressure pipelines, and the need for safely and reliably transporting oil and gas products has never been more demanding in terms of our world-wide aging infrastructure. Global expectations associated with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria present even greater challenges for pipeline operators.

The installation of flexible composite pipe offers an alternative to standard integrity management through localized repair methods, as well as to more invasive methods such as HDD or pipe replacements. In addition to rehabilitating aging pipelines, flexible composite pipe can be used as a means for transporting non-conventional products like hydrogen and CO2 for carbon sequestration.

With the aging pipeline infrastructures and the world-wide interest in ESG, flexible composite pipe offers an opportunity as a transformational technology to meet the current and future needs of pipeline operators. It is not uncommon for innovative technologies to experience slow adoption. This is especially true in industries that are capital intensive and regulated, such as the transmission pipeline industry, where there is a careful balance between risk and reward.

This paper looks at the use of flexible composite pipe technology on operator systems, the selection criteria involved in determining where installation would be most advantageous to an operator, and the long-term benefits offered by the installation of flexible composite pipe during a time where the ability to navigate through the energy transition towards a carbon neutral industry is critical. Worldwide demand for energy will continue to increase with growth in population and standards of living. As pipeline operators look to the future, flexible composite pipe is sure to play a critical role in ensuring the continued safe operation of high-pressure pipelines.

Key Words: Integrity Management, Flexible Composite Pipe, ESG, Cost Benefit, Optimization

Presenting Author: Alex Nemeth Enbridge Inc.

Presenting Author Biography: Alex Nemeth has worked at Enbridge and in the energy industry for over 7 years. During this time, he has gained experience in the liquids pipeline risk and reliability area with a focus on quantification and target setting of reliability and risk levels, as well as the application of reliability and risk in both a pipeline and facility setting. Alex is currently involved on the gas transmission side with Enbridge focusing on the sponsorship of non routine integrity projects, and other pipeline integrity optimization initiatives and opportunities. Alex has a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta, as well as an MBA in Finance from the University of Alberta.