Petrobras and Shell have successfully confirmed the TCP (Thermoplastic Composite Pipe) piping system from Strohm for deepwater operations in Brazil's pre-salt fields. This confirmation includes field tests and full-scale experiments designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the TCP system under the specific conditions of Brazil's pre-salt fields, where high CO₂ concentrations can pose significant corrosion challenges for conventional flexible pipes.
Details of Confirmation and Conducted Tests
DNV has approved the TCP Strohm system with a diameter of 6 inches, made from carbon fibers and PA12, for water-gas injection (WAG) services to enhance oil recovery. This approval includes the pipe, end fittings, and sealing interfaces, and is designed for a lifespan of 30 years. The approval program included over 50,000 hours of testing, including material tests, sealing, and full-scale tests. More than 40 full tests were conducted in seven accredited laboratories and testing facilities in Europe and Brazil.
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Corrosion Challenges and Benefits of TCP Technology
Strohm's CEO, Martin van Anna, stated: "This project is of high strategic importance for the subsea sector in Brazil and beyond, as it decisively addresses one of the main challenges to pipe integrity identified in recent years: the risk of cracking due to stress in environments with high CO₂ concentrations."
Following DNV's approval, Strohm completed offshore field tests in July 2026, which included deep submersion performance tests and underwater vertical connection tests. These tests evaluated the piping performance during displacement, installation, and underwater connection.
The non-metallic TCP technology is designed to eliminate corrosion while providing lighter weight and improved fatigue performance compared to steel. Strohm has stated that this piping can be utilized with existing installation vessels without significant changes to standard installation procedures.
The completion of the confirmation and field tests marks the final stage before the installation and commissioning of the TCP trial piping in one of Brazil's pre-salt fields by Petrobras in early 2027.
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