SwRI: Independent Product Evaluation for Materials Performance and Characterization

Undersea Pads

Because subsea pipelines tend to be buoyant, they are often weighed down with concrete saddle bags or blocks. In the process of using these weights, the epoxy coating on the pipeline can become damaged, leading to holidays. To prevent this damage, protective pads are often used, but concerns were raised about possible cathodic protection shielding and development of stagnant conditions leading to the formation of colonies of microbes. To address these concerns, two manufacturers developed alternative pads, and Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) was tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of cathodic protection current transmission through the pad as well as assessing the likelihood of microbial colony formation. Based on the testing conducted, both products were determined to meet the stated objectives.

		Two manufacturers developed alternative pads, and Southwest Research Institute was tasked with evaluating the effectiveness.

For more information about materials performance and characterization and independent product evaluation capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Marta Jakab, Ph.D., at mjakab@swri.org or (210) 522-5240.