Designing Envirolock for Pipelines
Envirolock 101 - What Is It?
TCI’s Envirolock is a portfolio of patented pipeline integrity products designed for use in all service types and operational settings. Our customizable containment system for oil and gas service consists of a polyurea-based dual-barrier installed on new or existing pipelines. The resulting benefits include blocking external damage, capturing internal leaks, enhancing leak detection speed, and enabling continued operation pending pipeline repairs. Building from this foundation, we've also developed options for preventing sewer infiltration and water main leaks. New offerings are also under development to meet the specialized needs of hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and other hazardous materials.
|
Hydrocarbons Potable Water Sewer Flows Carbon Dioxide Hydrogen Mining Slurries Ammonia |
High Pressure Large Diameter Extreme pH & Temperature Directional Drilling Aboveground & Underground Underwater High-Load Crossings High Consequence Areas |
Basic Design Principles
At its core, our customizable exterior containment system consists of two key components: the containment liner and the annulus. These are bound together and capped to prevent the development of any leak pathways.
Containment Liner
Envirolock's liner is primarily comprised of two layers of polyurea. The first is the inner layer, which provides chemical resistance as well as the required thermal expansion properties. Secondly, the outer layer resists abrasion and impacts. If needed, we can incorporate carbon fiber reinforcement to accommodate higher pressures. Similarly, we can also add a ceramic polymer to enhance protection against more severe chemical environments.
Annulus
A porous mat-like PVC (or similar) material dubbed "Enviromesh" creates the annulus. It is wound around the pipe to a thickness appropriate for the desired MOP. Principally, the Enviromesh is used to: 1) dissipate the force (upwards of 5000 psi or more) emanating from a pipe leak, and 2) capture and contain any leaks within the annulus. In addition, the annulus can house a leak detection system. This safeguards the detection system from external degradation while concurrently concentrating even very small leaks around sensors to enhance detection speed and traceability.
Learn More About Envirolock
To learn more about Envirolock for pipelines, jump to sections describing its validation, comparative benefits, and installation/maintenance requirements, You can also read more about our recommended solutions for municipal wastewater, water utility, oil and gas, and hazardous material operators or email us a general question!