ABS published an advisory addressing the importance of subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR). In the advisory it discusses options for damaged equipment and the procedure for life extension assessments.
The IMR aspects of the subsea integrity management provide detailed methods and action items for managing the integrity of each system or components of equipment. The subsea integrity management process also explains the benefits of cost savings, efficiency in repairs, and detailed information on the asset and its anticipated life.
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The inspections can also provide detailed information that can be utilized for damage assessments for life extension projects. The refined data can then provide vital insight into analysis that can predict the remaining life of a structure or equipment.
The specific challenges regarding IMR include:
- Lack of inspection technologies capable of deep depths;
- Industry resistance;
- Unreliable/incomplete data needed for analysis.
As the industry is continuing to advance technologies related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of subsea equipment, the implementation of the subsea integrity management process will continue to improve project execution.
In fact, the implementation of subsea integrity management across the globe is increasing. For this reason, ABS says that there is great importance in planning and maintaining the longevity of structures, equipment, and systems.
Moreover, integrity management is crucial for both new and aging subsea assets. The increasing awareness of asset integrity has driven the inclusion of integrity management into project planning and has increased the understanding of the conditions affecting the remaining life of existing structures and systems.
For new projects, subsea integrity management can evaluate risks, establish the inspection and maintenance intervals and repair expectations, and limit the possibility for failures or lost time. Namely, subsea integrity management can benefit operators, manufacturers, and regulators by boosting confidence that the equipment or system will function properly, will be safely installed and operated.
For existing assets, a subsea integrity management plan can assess the condition and set out a baseline to advance inspections, maintenance, and repair via fitness for service assessments. A subsea integrity management plan may also increase the original design life through a life extension assessment.
Subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR) are key components within an overall integrity management system. Inspection of systems can provide assistance in identifying areas of improvement or noncompliance. The maintenance plan is the pathway for equipment to maintain the longevity that it was originally designed for, or even extend service life
ABS states.
You may see further information on subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair, in the PDF below
