Case Study
Umbilical Cable Inspection

NECIT Services have the capability to provide specialist inspectors anywhere in the world for specific project needs. This case study discusses how NECIT supported a leader in the design and manufacturer of sub-sea umbilical systems, by rapidly sourcing an inspector who specialises in the field of umbilical cable inspection.

WHAT WAS REQUIRED?

The manufacturing of subsea umbilical is a complex process requiring components to be purchased from sub suppliers around the globe. To ensure consistency in quality of the purchased product, various inspections are required to take place, including the testing of the electrical and fibre optic cables, as well as the super duplex steel tubes.

Additionally, the inner and outer sheath which protects and encloses the umbilical’s needs to be tested to establish whether it is fit for purpose, as they must be able to withstand wear and tear as well as under water environments effectively.

NECIT were therefore required to source specialist inspectors with experience and qualifications in this field of inspection, to determine if the umbilical and the components comply with contract specifications and international codes and standards.

WHAT SERVICE DID WE PROVIDE?

NECIT, as always, worked closely with our client to specifically determine their needs. We were able to rapidly source the most appropriate inspector for the project using our unique software. The inspector we provided, completed a range of specialised inspections tailored to the project requirements, which included: Super duplex tube cold pilgering, annealing and straightening as well as Straight Tube NDE, Mechanical testing, Welding, Post weld NDE, Coiling, Pressure testing and Flushing and Cleaning.

Additionally, cable inspections including DC Conductor Resistance Tests, DC Loop Conductor Resistance Tests, and IR (insulation resistance) Tests were carried out. Our inspectors also provided documentation review prior to packing and shipping as well as overseeing the inspection of the materials which were delivered to the site.

Furthermore, our specialised inspectors witnessed the layup of operations as well as the Welding Procedure Qualifications, including Tie in Weld Operations, Non-Destructive Testing and Splicing.

Termination and FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) Testing of Static and Dynamic Umbilical’s were another service our inspectors provided, including: Hydraulic FAT Testing, Helium Leak Test on connectors, Flow and Continuity Testing, Pressure Decay and Proof Testing, as well as Coiling and Load Out Inspections.

The inspector, being the eyes and ears of our client on site, highlighted any issues when completing these tests and advised our clients in a thoroughly detailed report, making sure that the umbilical manufacture lived up to our client’s specification.

WHAT WERE THE RESULTS AND NECIT DIFFERENCE?

The results of this project showed that NECIT can quickly source fully vetted and multi-skilled inspectors with specific skills and experience, directly tailored to the needs of the client and project requirements, resulting in an efficient and cost-effective service.

NECIT were in constant communication with the client, vendor, and inspector to make sure everything ran smoothly throughout the completion of the requirements. We are determined to make sure we provide a quality service and our effective communication helped make this project a success.

Our difference, as demonstrated in this case study, is that we can rapidly source inspectors who specialise in specific aspects of inspection, auditing and expediting. So, you can be sure that NECIT will provide a quality and tailored service for your project needs.

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