OMS has been involved in measuring pipes for over 20 years. It is one of the major parts of our business and, after measuring more than one million pipes, we are deservedly regarded as experts in the field. Despite all our many years of experience, we have never found a single pipe that is uniformly round – but we have also never come across one that we could not fit up.

Modern industrial processes still cause imperfections

Current industrial production methods in pipe mills have been honed over decades. High levels of technological advancement mean that pipes can be produced to a greater level of consistency than ever before. Having worked with dozens of pipe mills since our inception, we are always impressed at their continuing technical achievements.

However, despite technical improvements in the manufacturing process, small variations in shape and size are still inevitable. Differences in ambient temperature, machinery speed, manual operation, automated processes and more result in tiny variations – and even tiny variations can cause big problems further down the line.

Pipe-end dimensions

Strong pipelines depend on strong welds – and strong welds depend on pipes that fit together well. Measuring pipe-end dimensions gives an understanding of shape that helps our clients optimise fit-up. The main components of pipe-end dimensions are internal diameter (ID), outer diameter (OD), wall thickness (WT) and out-of-roundness (OoR).

Minor variations in these dimensions can result in pipes that might look similar, but are actually very different. Sometimes these differences are so pronounced that pipes do not fit together well – and in some cases, will not fit together at all, which causes serious problems for pipe-laying companies.

Measurement + fit-up = optimum asset integrity

When pipes fit together well, however, asset integrity is increased, the pipe-laying process is streamlined, clients save money from reduced weld cut-outs and safety is improved. OMS offers a range of pipe measurement, inspection and fit-up services that help our clients install stronger, higher quality assets in the safest and most efficient way possible.

OMS Autotool

The OMS Autotool is a highly accurate pipe-end measurement system that uses state-of-the-art laser sensors to assess a range of pipe dimensions including internal diameter, outer diameter, wall thickness and out-of-roundness. This industry-leading tool provides the most comprehensive dimension information on the market. Accurate to 0.05mm, the Autotool is easily transportable, reliable and robust enough to handle harsh environments. Tried and tested successfully on projects all over the world, the Autotool provides comprehensive data that allows our clients to sort, group, sequence and rotate pipes for optimum fit-up. It collects 2,048 measurements per rotation, providing both raw and smoothed data for client use. All data is fully traceable and fed back to sophisticated software to provide valuable information that helps clients make effective decisions.

OMS SmartFit

OMS SmartFit technology is an award-winning system that allows our clients to achieve the best possible pipe fit-up, even in complex, critical and fatigue-sensitive sections such as spool pieces, risers and stalk tie-ins. Data collected using our measurement tools is analysed in such a way that all pipes can be fitted up, including those that have been identified as out-of-specification.

SmartFit has powerful analysis capabilities which sort pipes into groups, including a selection of ‘golden’ pipes which are ideal for critical pipeline sections. All pipes can be sorted and grouped to achieve the best fit-up, including smart sequencing from available pipe, thus dramatically reducing the amount of rejected pipes. SmartFit can also carry out sophisticated ovality analysis and optimal material nesting for complex energy projects. Our experienced team can provide remote support to anywhere in the world.

Measurement – getting it right saves money and improves integrity

Taking the time to assess pipe shape and size at the beginning of a project can save time and money in the long term. A good understanding of dimensions means better fit-up, better welds and stronger assets. The pipeline installation process is streamlined and asset integrity improved.

Global project success

OMS Autotool and SmartFit are currently being used on some of the world’s most significant energy projects. If you would like any further information on our measurement and fit-up technology our team is always available. Contact them on +44 1279 656038 or info@omsmeasure.com.

Measuring pipes – why is it important?