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Exova has developed a ground breaking testing method for the offshore oil and gas industry.

The method developed was to combat or provide more robust test results in relation to stress orientated hydrogen induced cracking (SOHIC). Developed by Exova鈥檚 corrosion experts, this new test will help the qualification of materials against cracking in severe environments.

Exova is currently providing the new service to its customers. Its development has been supported by global oil and gas companies.

New testing method

Dr Chris Fowler, Exova鈥檚 Global Director of Corrosion was the lead scientist in developing the method. He said; 鈥淎s a business we look to continually innovate and develop new testing methods that will safeguard our customers operations. In this case we have developed the SOHIC testing system to help ensure pipeline integrity in the oil and gas industry, particularly as exploration is now entering harsher environments.

鈥淭his new testing method will give companies working in the oil and gas sector the reassurance they require in relation to pipeline management. It鈥檚 a significant step towards minimising the environment鈥檚 impact on this important infrastructure and help safeguard the provision of energy.鈥�

Why SOHIC happens; how to test for it

SOHIC is a cracking mechanism that only affects carbon and low alloy steels in wet sour service. At least nine pipelines (over the past 20 years) have failed by due to this nature of crack and SOHIC has been evident in numerous pressure vessels. In addition, this type of crack has been generally found adjacent to a weld, but not exclusively.

The new method involved a bespoke test rig being manufactured to Exova鈥檚 specifications, which then enable pipelines to be bent and twisted to simulate the residual stress adjacent to a weld. The control and level of the loading is also incorporated, meaning that Exova can create a 鈥榣ive鈥� environment. This now means that more robust test results are achieved which has major cost savings for the oil and gas industry.

Adapted from press release by

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