AML3D prints world’s largest metal O&G pipe component

AML3D 3D has printed what it claims to be the world’s largest metal Oil & Gas high-pressure piping component vessel to have been verified by Lloyd’s Register.

The company used its wire added manufacturing (WAM) technology equipment to print and high-pressure test the component to the new global API 20S Standard for Additively Manufactured Metallic Components for Oil & Gas.

The demonstrator component was printed as part of AML3D’s internal development program and it showcases capabilities in the subsea oil and gas sector.

Printed with a high strength wire feedstock, the 940kg monocoque “piping spool” component is the first of its type to be metal 3D printed and independently pressure tested, in the world, according to AML3D.

At 850mm in length and 450mm in diameter, the 41mm thick high-pressure piping spool was printed according to the stringent and newly released American Petroleum Institute (API) Standard 20S and has met all test acceptance criteria.

Finally, the component underwent industry-standard high-pressure testing which also passed the acceptance testing for ASME B31.3, a well used American standard for these applications.

Managing director Andrew Sales said: “The ability to demonstrate to this sector the capabilities and outstanding test results of our patented Wire Additive Manufacturing process opens the door for far greater application.”

The highly pressurised testing was undertaken by Trushape Engineering, specialists in high-pressure piping components testing.

The component was pressurised to 34,790kPa and held for an extended period with no loss of structural integrity.

Typically a high-pressure component of this nature would be found in conditions that are generally within the Safety-Critical systems on Oil & Gas facilities, that contain hazardous fluids under very high pressures that are highly corrosive, and typically have high-temperature environments.

The high-pressure component was printed as one piece, eliminating the need for using three separate components using traditional fabrication and welding methods.

Sales said at the same time, the WAM process had introduced improved material properties using a higher strength wire feedstock and optimised process parameters, while reducing the manufacturing time from months to just days.

Picture: AML3D

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