CWC Removal
Concrete Weight Coat (CWC) Removal from a Steel Pipeline
This proven method effectively removes short sections of Concrete Weight Coat (CWC) from steel pipelines for various purposes:
- Pipe Repairs, Investigations, or Tie-Ins: Suitable for onshore or habitat environments.
- Pipe “Cut to Length”: Applicable on pipelay vessels or onshore.
We collaborate with specialists who cut slots in the CWC, while ThinJack Ltd handles the removal, as demonstrated in photographs A to E below.
Subsea Pipelines:
For subsea applications, a ThinJack Ltd (non-diving) technician collaborates with those inside the subsea habitat. The technician assists with the installation and operation of the ThinJack system, providing expert knowledge and guidance throughout the process.
Summary
A
Tracks are cut in the concrete jacket: one track axially, along the crown of the pipe at 12 o’clock, and up to two tracks radially.
B
One of several curved ThinJacks inserted into a radial track before inflation.
C
The same ThinJack inflated with 400 bar of pressure, with a stroke of around 10 to 12 mm, forcing the CWC in an along pipe direction with a force of around 200 tonnes.
D
To finish: An axial or straight ThinJack inflates, pushing the 12 o’clock crown of the pipe in a radial direction.
E
Leaving the CWC exfoliated, or peeled off, below. The adhesive mastic covers the steel pipe.