Experiment on quick plugging of the leakage in submarine pipeline

In the light of the problems existed in current quick pipeline plugging technique and based on the newly developed rubber composite material, the research is conducted on flexible self-adhesion air bag plugging technique for submarine pipeline leakage. Accordingly, the self-adhesion quick plugging air bag with proprietary intellectual property rights is developed and tested in laboratory and field onshore. The results show that this product, with advantages like high pressure-bearing and maintaining capacity, short construction period, convenient operation, low cost, safety and reliability, can be applicable for quick temporary plugging of submarine pipelines with water depth not less than 25 m, internal pressure of 0.5 MPa, and diameter of 80-600 mm, in case of leakages like punching, cracking or bending. The product can help to reduce the amount of leakage in submarine pipeline and accordingly protect marine environment. Besides, it can be used in emergencies for pigging and pipeline maintenance and repair. Therefore, the product is prospective for engineering application.