Offshore pipeline certification

Offshore pipeline certification process

1. Design review

Bureau Veritas reviews the calculations, design criteria and drawings. Particular attention is paid to weight and strength verification during loading and bending and to fatigue during installation and operation. Following a positive review, Bureau Veritas issues a Design Appraisal Certificate.

2. Line pipe and material inspection

Following design approval, Bureau Veritas carries out the agreed manufacturer inspections. We review the Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) and production procedures, witness the agreed destructive tests and review the documentation.

Where EN 10204 type 3.2 inspection documentation applies, Bureau Veritas provides the independent verification within the agreed project scope.

3. Coating inspection

Bureau Veritas monitors the coating process, with particular attention to the coating procedures and the applicable quality-assurance and quality-control procedures. We also carry out sample checks on the application of the internal coating.

4. Fabrication, welding and installation

Before installation, we review the fabrication, welding, non-destructive testing and quality procedures. During welding and installation, Bureau Veritas checks that the approved procedures and ITP are followed. Where a new pipeline crosses existing pipelines, we also assess the measures taken to prevent damage.

5. Final testing and certification

Following welding and installation, the agreed tests are used to demonstrate strength and leak tightness. Bureau Veritas reviews the test procedures, witnesses their execution and assesses the results in accordance with the approved ITP.

Following a positive outcome, Bureau Veritas issues the certificates agreed for the project. These may include a Pipeline Leak Tightness Test Certificate and, after completion of the full certification process, a Certificate of Fitness (CoF).