Case Study

A leak in an uncompromising subsea environment demanded speed, flexibility and an innovative approach to joint integrity. Hydratight delivered exceptional lead times and competitive pricing supported by proven technical expertise and a ‘right first time’ philosophy.

The ChallengeA crude oil unloading system 3km off the southwest coast of South Korea had sustained damage due to a misaligned 42" flange 40 metres below sea-level. Urgent action was required, but the leak presented a difficult challenge from an installation perspective.

The client could not afford to disrupt the pipeline. The repair had to be carried out on-line. It had to be fast and it had to be diver-friendly.

The SolutionHydratight presented its Subsea Leak Sealing Clamp solution, part of the range of innovative On-Line Leak Sealing technology services.

Hydratight’s Subsea Leak Sealing Clamps are designed with divers – and budget drivers – in mind. The compact, low profile and easy to install clamps offer a quick, cost-effective, and robust solution for a variety of applications.

None of the competition could come close to the speed and effectiveness of Hydratight’s response, which was underpinned by in-house manufacturing expertise and an established global supply chain. The period from initial enquiry to execution took the joint integrity specialist just eight weeks. The closest proposed alternative was 12 months.

But the winning lead time did not compromise on quality, with Hydratight delivering a comprehensive range of activities in under two months that comprised: scoping, design, development and agreement of procedure, manufacturing (including the development of several custom-designed pieces of equipment), diver training, and transport of manpower and materials – resulting in a DNV GL approved Subsea Repair Leak Clamp solution.

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Rapid deployment of diver-friendly leak sealing clamp technology saves operator millions

Above Hydratight’s leak sealing clamp prior to install

Below Preparation prior to subsea deployment of the diver-friendly solution

“The client was delighted with the solution. The innovative process enabled production to continue without loss of output and put a permanent end to a highly expensive leak in world beating time.”

Herbert Meister Hydratight Application Engineering Manager

Hydratight sourced an experienced dive crew and trained them according to the joint integrity specialist’s rigorous standards – ensuring the team was fully prepared ahead of deployment.

Flexibility is essential when engaging in subsea leak repair. Poor weather conditions forced the planned five day installation to be extended to 15 days.

Fortunately, Hydratight’s rapid lead times had already ensured the project was well ahead of any competitor proposed schedule. The 42" Subsea Leak Sealing Clamp was installed using Hydratight’s proprietary method whereby a mechanical clamp is installed and then injected to provide a permanent seal.

“The client was delighted with the solution,” stated Herbert Meister, Hydratight Application Engineering Manager. “The innovative process enabled production to continue without loss of output and put a permanent end to a highly expensive leak in world beating time – minimizing both environmental and reputational impact.”

Within four months, Hydratight was contracted to provide a similar solution for a North Sea facility, this time requiring a 36" Subsea Leak Sealing Clamp. Again, speed and global presence proved a huge differentiator. Hydratight was awarded the order before the closest competitor returned initial proposals.

Projects like this ensure Hydratight continues to be recognized as the foremost provider of diver-friendly custom leak sealing solutions across a range of diameters for on-line repair in subsea applications.

For more information, visit hydratight.com.

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