Monetary risk analysis of operating corroded offshore pipelines

Resumo

The offshore oil and gas exploration activity involves a high degree of complexity, being characterized by high extraction costs and long distance to the coastline, turning the use of pipeline essential to guarantee the flow of production. However, one of the main mechanisms of pipeline degradation is corrosion, which results in compromising the integrity of the structure. Therefore, risk analysis is necessary to avoid the consequences of pipeline failure, which could lead to environmental and human tragedies. The objective of this study is to quantify and analyze the risks of operating corroded offshore pipelines, assisting in the decision-making process. To this end, it is important to predict the mechanical behavior of the pipe, to reduce the probability of failure and ensure continuity of operations. A case of study is carried out and presented to verify the operating condition of a corroded pipeline, using semi-empirical methods, finite elements and new methods, obtaining effective answers to assist pipeline operators in decision making.