A common application for the induction bending of tubes is in pipelines, such as those used to transport water, gas and oil, for example. But we also provide bending for CO2 pipelines, including a variety of 20” and 12” bends fabricated from L360N PSL2 material. The CO2, a waste product of industry, is transported by these pipelines to local greenhouses, where it is used to stimulate the growth of crops. It means that growers no longer need to use gas to produce the CO2, making the pipeline network crucial for the continuity of the affiliated companies.
The security and reliability of this network are key. Very stringent demands are placed on the bending work, which must be done in strict compliance with ISO-15590. Moreover, the attainment of maximum ovality of 2.5 per cent in the bend and a maximum bend-angle tolerance of 0.5 degrees pose additional challenges. Having set the bar so high, our client chose Van Rijsoort Induction to help them clear it. Thanks to a long-standing relationship, both parties know exactly what they can expect of one other and what is important for the successful completion of this assignment. In addition to the obvious know-how and expertise in the induction bending of pipes, this also includes in-depth knowledge of the relevant ISO standardisation and the smooth facilitation of the certification process.
Destructive testing
To ascertain whether a bend meets the necessary requirements, Lloyds carries out extensive inspections before and during the production process. In practice, this means that we have to do a test bend beforehand. This test bend then undergoes destructive testing in an independent laboratory, under the supervision of a Lloyds’ inspector. To demonstrate that the material properties are not adversely affected by the bending process, several tests are carried out. These include a tensile-strength test, an impact test and a hardness test.
Provided that, under the supervision of Lloyds, all tests are passed successfully, we receive the test report. From that moment on, we can bend this specific tube, for this product, for this client. Lloyds continuously monitors the bending process and keeps tabs on the traceability of the bent tubes. Once a bend has been approved, it is stamped in accordance with the relevant material certificate. In this way, both the origin and quality of the bent tubes always remain traceable.
Lloyds’ approval
The test bend for the CO2 pipeline has now been approved, which means we can start production for the client in question. For us, Lloyds’ approval of the certificate for every bend, represents more than just the approval of the bending work. It is also a reaffirmation of the quality provided by our induction-bending machine and of the knowledge and skills of our professionals throughout the complete process. It assures our clients that they are getting flawless and certified bending work.