Full Scale Reeling Simulation Test of X65 HFW Linepipe

Reel-lay method is widely recognized cost effective installation process for offshore pipelines. In the process of reel-lay, cyclic plastic strain is expected at pipelines due to reeling, unreeling, aligning and straightening. In order to maintain integrity of pipelines subjected to large bending deformation it is necessary to understand the bending deformability and change in mechanical properties of pipelines. Advanced HFW (High Frequency electric resistance Welded) linepipe “MightySeam®” has superior low temperature toughness at seam weld and base material and has some advantages in application to offshore pipelines from a viewpoint of change in toughness due to pre-straining, coatings and long time exposure. In this paper full scale reeling simulation tests of X65 HFW linepipe were conducted in order to study bending deformability and the change in mechanical properties. The tests were performed by bending pipe alternately to reeling former and straitening former with different radii. Girth welding were applied to test pipes in order to investigate effect of strain concentration around girth weld by strength mismatch or weld reinforcement. Small scale reeling simulation tests with/without aging were also conducted and the results were compared to those of full scale reeling simulation tests. In full scale reeling simulation test, some strain concentration arose around girth weld by strength mismatch and local contact of weld reinforcement to former. Some ovalizations were advanced during tests, however local buckling could not be recognized throughout pipes even if strain concentration occur around girth welds. Tensile properties were changed proportional to last introduced plastic strain as a result of Bauschinger effect and work hardening at strain history. Low temperature toughness of base material and seam weld did not change significantly by pre-straining or aging.