Resin-based Gas Distribution Pipe Replacement

Completed

Fossil Fuels: Oil Gas and Coal(Oil and Gas, Refining, transport and storage of oil and gas)

Applied Research and Development

PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS (Metallurgy and Materials)
ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
Cadent Gas

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 June 2017

01 December 2017

6 months

£60,446

Technical Consultancy

London

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, Cadent Gas

Service pipe development: o Investigate BAE improvements and alternative resin deposition methodso Investigate service to mains connectionso Identify in-process inspection methods for service pipes Mains pipe development: o Investigate joint filling methodso Investigate PRISM pipe to PE pipe connectionso Identify in process inspection methods for main pipes Satisfactory evidence that conceptual solutions have been identified and modelled (with physical proofs of concept developed where appropriate) to enable such solutions to be taken forward into the broader, ongoing, PRISM/BAE programme of work, leading to a technically, commercially, and operationally viable pipe replacement system. The MTC will produce specific deliverables, for review and approval by Cadent, to include 3D CAD models supported by existing technologies to illustrate the concepts put forward.

Cadent is seeking to utilise technologies which can deploy resin-based materials in both gas mains and services to create a homogenous, fully structural, method of replacing our steel / iron legacy network. A series of NIA-funded projects, undertaken in the period 2014-17, has achieved significant progress in many key areas, enabling the progress of some solution components to TRL levels 5/6. However, there are several areas in which significant technical challenges still remain and no technically or commercially viable solutions have yet been identified. Hence, in order to complete the development and delivery of a holistic commercial solution, Cadent believes it is necessary to independently determine the limits of use of the technologies utilised in the project to date, and determine how these could be extended or overcome. In addition, as part of the proposed work, any potential new technologies, drawn from not only the utilities sector but also other relevant sectors, would be identified and the relevant suppliers would join the collaboration team to deliver a commercial solution for the industry. Cadent are seeking to utilise a growing relationship with the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) - part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, supported by Innovate UK - to undertake this project. The MTC develop innovative manufacturing processes and technologies in partnership with industry, academia and other institutions. This project will leverage the MTC’s technical know-how in a bid to overcome the remaining challenges, keeping the PRISM Programme technically, commercially and operationally viable, and facilitate continuation of the development and testing activities through increasing TRL levels.Note : Project Documents may be available via the ENA Smarter Networks Portal using the Website link above

29/10/18