Subsea Pipeline Repair Readiness Approach for Efficient Underwater Repairs
Subsea pipelines, such as in-field flowlines, trunklines, etc., are an integral part of all offshore field developments. Pipeline damage can occur either during construction phase or during the life of field. Critical pipeline damage such as leak, rupture, or crack requires repair to be performed on an emergency basis. Repair readiness is being prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a major incident resulting in loss of containment. The primary purpose of repair readiness is to ensure that an emergency repair can be carried out in a timely manner, thereby minimizing the consequences of failure and reducing pipeline downtime. This paper discusses the main elements of the subsea pipeline repair readiness plan, each of its elements will help improve the ability to carry out an emergency pipeline repair. Repair readiness approach will ensure that emergency pipeline repair can be performed efficiently and with minimum impact on production.