n November 6, Solvay announced that it has signed a cooperation agreement with Baker Hughes to explore innovative solutions for the use of thermoplastic composite materials in offshore oil and gas pipelines and upgraded pipes in the oil and gas industry . Solvay ’s expertise in composite materials, as well as its leadership and innovation in polymers, together with Baker Hughes ’expertise in oilfield equipment, will help accelerate the composite technology ’s role in the oil and gas industry application. Thermoplastic composite materials allow flexible risers to be used in ultra-deep waters, while reducing total expenditure compared to traditional technologies.
"It is an honor to cooperate with one of the world's leading energy technology companies. Our cooperation with Baker Hughes is a milestone in our strategy to expand the application of thermoplastic composites to new markets. Compared to metal materials, its light weight And the non-corrosive characteristics allow it to enter new markets smoothly. "Augusto DiDonfrancesco, a member of the Solvay Executive Committee, said.
Andrea Fibbi, Baker Hughes Oilfield Equipment Technology Executive, said: "We believe that as we increasingly focus on reducing costs and improving efficiency, our partnership with Solvay will accelerate the introduction of non-metallic materials in the energy industry."
Thermoplastic composite pipes are flexible and much lighter than traditional equipment, which makes installation and connection of new equipment faster and more cost-effective. Since the composite material does not corrode and provides excellent fatigue resistance even in ultra-deep water, maintenance is simplified. The flexible pipes associated with FPSO (floating, production, storage and unloading) ships allow the production system to be effectively dismantled when decommissioned.