Demand for titanium pipework in the offshore environment is growing, particularly in the Norwegian North Sea where oil and gas field life extensions are underway. Titanium is better suited to high-stress corrosive environments found in these areas as it can resist high chloride and corrosive gases better than conventional steels. In response to this trend, STATS Group designed mechanical pipe connectors to deliver fast, permanent and leak-free connections for titanium pipes without the need for welding.

“Unlike existing alternatives that are limited in size range or lack proper testing capabilities, our connectorsSource: STATS Group provide a reliable, permanent connection with an integrated test port — enabling a leak test to be performed once the connector is fully installed - and negating the need for additional joint testers,” explained the company.

The pipeline connectors are manufactured in 0.75 inch to 60 inch size range with various pressure ratings and are available in connector, coupling and end-cap configurations. They are deemed suitable for topside, terminal, floating production storage and offloading, or subsea installation in the oil and gas sector and are compatible with all process streams. The mechanical pipe connectors are also available to suit a wide range of pipe materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, duplex, super duplex and cupronickel alloys.

These components slide in place and lock using a simple bolted installation procedure, significantly minimizing the cost and duration of maintenance projects.