3372 Guidelines for the integrity management of corrosion under pipe supports (CUPS)

Overview:

This publication was compiled to enhance the awareness of corrosion under pipe supports for a large cross section of personnel within the oil and gas industry. It was produced following consultation with a number of UK offshore and onshore operators and specialist contractors who have a role in the integrity management of piping, including the prevention and management of CUPS. This document may have wider application in other industries, worldwide

Corrosion under pipe supports (CUPS) presents a particular threat to pipework integrity due to local deterioration mechanisms and difficulties of inspection. The areas between the pipe and its supports are vulnerable to corrosion attack. This issue has been identified as a very significant source of potential corrosion related failures.

The guidance provides practical information to help prevent and manage corrosion under pipe supports. The guide outlines the causes of the corrosion threats, shows typical locations for their occurrence and gives examples of how the threats may be managed.

The guide is intended for use by personnel with responsibility for the integrity of production facilities.

The information should allow the user to:

• understand the range of integrity threats from CUPS;
• develop an effective inspection and maintenance strategy for managing CUPS;
• understand how to reduce the risks of CUP, and
• implement an effective and safe remediation strategy for piping affected by CUPS, including on-line versus off-line remediation.