SRJ Technologies completes trial of weld-free coupling product for pipeline connections
SRJ Technologies’ coupling technology is believed to save 90% of the time taken to perform traditional valve changeouts.
Specialised engineering firm SRJ Technologies (ASX: SRJ) has completed a trial of its weld-free coupling product for pipeline connection applications with mobile offshore platform builder Keppel FELS.
The trial was carried out during the September quarter at Keppel’s Singapore yard and focused on ease of installation and pressure retaining performance testing for 4-inch pipes widely used across multiple industries.
Keppel confirmed that SRJ’s coupling could be easily installed by operators without the need for prior welding experience or other specialist skills.
It also reported significant time savings over traditional pipe connection technologies, as well as clear weight and spatial savings over flanged connections.
Standard pressure tests revealed no leakages or drops in pressure throughout the trial period.
Ideal partner
SRJ chief executive officer Alexander Wood said Keppel was the ideal partner to trial the coupling product.
“Keppel FELS and its network of offshore yards are significant participants in our market, having successfully delivered almost half of the world’s new-build jack-up rigs and semi-submersibles over the past decade,” he said.
“We see great benefits for the deployment of our technologies across the assets built by Keppel.”
Weld-free technology
SRJ’s coupling technology enables weld-free spool replacement in a safe manner that saves up to 90% of the time taken to perform traditional valve changeouts.
The product is believed to be up to 60% lighter than the equivalent flange and has been approved as a permanent repair solution for pipes between 1.25 inches and 16 inches in original diameter.
It is available in multiple configurations to address different piping system needs including pipe-to-pipe, pipe-to-flange and blind end and – unlike ball-grip mechanical couplings – does not introduce added stresses to the pipe.
SRJ’s coupling is also suitable for greenfield applications as it can enable time-efficient spool or modular tie-ins, especially where pressure testing is not practical.
Mr Wood said SRJ would hold ongoing discussions with Keppel FELS alongside existing partner and SRJ shareholder Mitsui & Co (Australia) to identify the commercial benefits of the coupling and other technologies across greenfield and brownfield projects.