Oil and Gas exploration in Brazil’s Pre-Salt region boasts one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry, despite the challenging environment and the corrosive, CO₂ and H₂S-rich reservoirs. Brazilian ingenuity has led to a program responsible for capturing and injecting nearly 20% of the world’s CO₂ tonnage. Mechanically Lined Pipe (MLP) and Cladtek are key contributors to this success story.
Mechanically Lined Pipe (MLP)
MLP is a bimetallic pipe in which a carbon steel (CS) backing pipe is internally lined with a corrosion-resistant alloy (CRA). This lining creates a barrier against corrosive fluids while preserving the strength and toughness that provide the pipeline its resistance to high pressures and temperatures.
Cladtek’s contributions to advancing this technology have resulted in several technological breakthroughs, including the addition of clad ends and connected pipeline technology. Cladtek holds the broadest track record in the industry, including both the smallest and largest installed MLPs.
Benefits of MLP
- Corrosion Resistance: The CRA liner extends pipeline life and significantly reduces the probability of failure.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Its durability and reliability decrease the need for chemical inhibitors, in-line inspections, and costly subsea interventions.
- Financial Savings: MLP is more cost-effective than alternative solutions.
- Environmental Impact: The CO₂ footprint is 30–50% less than that of metallurgically clad alternatives. MLP can be easily recycled, with connected technology further facilitating this process.
Cladtek’s Sustainability Commitment
Cladtek operates a state-of-the-art facility in Rio de Janeiro. By enabling local supply chains, employing over 850 local talents, and significantly reducing logistical operations, we contribute to Brazil’s sustainability goals. An important milestone was achieved in 2024 with the conversion of our power supply to 100% renewable sources. Our partnership in a pioneering ‘industrial symbiosis’ program, to be proudly presented at ‘Green Rio’ later this year, is another example of our commitment. Cladtek’s Environmental Product Declarations (EPD), Life Cycle Assessments (LCA), and Sustainability Report can be accessed from the Cladtek website.
Supporting Petrobras’ Initiatives
Cladtek’s local presence and strong innovation culture are closely linked to the Brazilian energy market and Petrobras. Several ongoing Research, Development, and Innovation (RD&I) programs aim to support its sustainable development. The ‘connected pipeline’ will enable easier installation, reuse, and recycling of MLP after a field’s service life is complete. MLP’s compatibility with subsea separation technologies like the Hi-Sep concept, ongoing CCS hubs, and geothermal energy projects is also notable. Current explorations into alternative lining materials will further enhance the sustainability and
cost-effectiveness of our MLP.
In conclusion, MLP is an enabling technology that supports the sustainable exploitation of Brazil’s hydrocarbon resources, as well as its current and future Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) programs. Cladtek is a key partner of Petrobras and the local industry, proud to innovate and create local employment and value. By fostering a resilient and highly specialised supply chain, we aim to sustain Brazil’s economic growth while adhering to its sustainability targets.