Flexible pipes
The unsung heroes of energy networks , modern flexible pipe systems are faster to install and have better robustness than their rigid counterparts . Made of layered polymer and ( stainless ) steel layers , they offer high strength and corrosion resistance in tough environments .
By Joanne McIntyre , Stainless Steel World
Baker Hughes recently announced significant contracts with Petrobras to provide 77 km of flexible pipe systems to be deployed in Brazil ’ s pre-salt fields . The multi-year project includes risers and flowlines for hydrocarbon production and associated gas and water injection with support for equipment storage , maintenance and installation . With delivery scheduled to begin in mid-2026 , the equipment will be utilised across Petrobras ’ Búzios , Libra , Berbigão , Sururu and Sépia fields . The company has been deeply involved in the development of Brazil ’ s offshore oil and gas fields for decades , and its localisation strategy contributes to the nation ’ s economy while strengthening its energy supply chain . The company ’ s plant in Niteroi , Brazil , where these systems will be manufactured , is a major supplier of flexible pipe systems for the industry and employs hundreds of people in the state of Rio de Janeiro . Contracts were also awarded for 69.1 km of flexible pipe systems and associated services in the third quarter .
Flexible pipes are manufactured onshore and are delivered ready to install , significantly minimising the need for offshore welding and enabling rapid deployment . Photo : Baker Hughes
Flexible connectivity In a 2023 interview , Domenico Di Giambattista Vice President , Flexible Pipe Systems ( FPS ) at Baker Hughes , explained that the pipe systems are critical to delivering energy to the world . “ Flexible pipe systems are a range of different products , for different purposes ,” says Di Giambattista , a mechanical engineer with a master ’ s in project management and a long career working in the energy industry . www . stainless-steel-world . net