Baker Hughes introduced the next generation of onshore composite flexible pipes for the energy sector, aimed at solving the corrosion and cost challenges of traditional steel pipes.

Flexible, lightweight reinforced thermoplastic pipes (RTP) provide an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to resource-intensive onshore steel pipes for optimizing the core structure of flow lines and oil and gas pipeline networks. 

A key feature is its time-tested windable design, which makes transportation easier, faster and more cost-effective-reducing installation costs by more than 20%. The installation also requires fewer on-site support facilities and heavy vehicles, reducing operational risks, occupying the width of the pipeline right of way and reducing the environmental impact on the surrounding land.

"This pipeline is the result of our strategic investment in the growth of innovative non-metallic materials," said Hatem Haidar, global vice president of Baker Hughes Onshore Flexible Piping Systems. "We are committed to supporting safer, more efficient and more cost-effective technical solutions to serve the energy sector, and non-metallic materials play a key role. We regard flexible pipes as an important component of the energy and industrial sectors today and in the future. Part-enable transportation of multiple energy sources, including hydrogen and natural gas."

The pipeline provides an economical solution for the transportation of carbon dioxide and hydrogen and the conversion of existing infrastructure to transport gas. 

It can be up to 8 inches in diameter, is lined with various linings, including nylon, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and provides fluid pressures up to 2250 PSI and temperatures up to 180°F.

In addition, the non-corrosive materials of the pipeline can withstand contaminants without the need for chemical inhibitors, corrosion monitoring and inspections, or destructive maintenance work—significantly reducing operating costs.

The composite pipe will be produced at Baker Hughes’ 400,000 square foot facility in Houston. 

Baker Hughes recently announced an order with Petrobras to provide digital solutions for its Brazilian site, covering torch monitoring and calibration technology, cyber security and remote monitoring services, and interconnected machinery protection systems and sensors.