2025 Spring Meeting and 21st Global Congress on Process Safety

(32am) Non-Metallic Piping Implementation in Offshore Platform Drainage Systems: Addressing Challenges and Risk Mitigation.

This study evaluates the risk associated with replacing existing drainage piping with non-metallic piping in offshore platforms and assesses its impact on system reliability and availability. The focus is on remediation of damage pipping open drainage systems.

Aging infrastructure on Brazil platforms, coupled with life extension and decommissioning projects, has led to a rise in damages necessitating open drainage system upgrades. This study examines the use of non-metallic piping as a solution to expedite repairs and restore system functionality, acting as a critical mitigation barrier against containment breaches. System failures pose significant risks, particularly during containment loss events. The analysis considers various fluid types and area classifications:

  • Non-hazardous fluids in unclassified areas (no cross-classification): Non-metallic piping is suitable.
  • Hazardous (flammable/combustible) fluids in unclassified areas (no cross-classification): Risk assessment required.
  • Hazardous (toxic) fluids in unclassified areas (no cross-classification): Risk assessment required.
  • Hazardous fluids crossing classified areas: Non-metallic piping is not recommended.

This tiered approach facilitates comprehensive risk assessment. The study presents case studies illustrating risk analysis methodologies and appropriate recommendations for non-metallic piping implementation in open drainage systems.