Flexible pipe comprises several different layers. The main components are leakproof thermoplastic barriers and corrosion-resistant steel wires. The helically wound steel wires give the structure its high-pressure resistance and excellent bending characteristics, thus providing flexibility and superior dynamic behavior.

Source: Technip. Click to enlarge.

This modular construction, in which the layers are independent but designed to interact with one another, allows each layer to be made fit-for-purpose and independently adjusted to best meet a specific field development requirement.

The combination of both contracts covers the supply of approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) of flexible pipes for oil production, gas lift, and gas injection. It also includes related equipment for the pre-salt area, to be installed on the floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units, Cidade de Angra dos Reis and Cidade de Ilhabela.

The gas injection top risers are designed for high internal pressure, using the Teta profile developed by Technip’s R&D team in its Flexi France plant in Le Trait, France). Teta wire features a specific, patented, T-shape used in flexible pipe to resist the radial effect of the internal pressure, and is used for high pressure and harsh environments.

The gas injection top riser, together with the majority of the scope above, will be manufactured in Flexibras Açu, Technip’s new flexible pipe manufacturing plant in Brazil. Production starts in the first quarter of 2014 in line with previously announced plans. The remaining scope will be manufactured in Flexibras Vitória. Technip’s operating center in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) will perform the engineering and project management.