High Performance End Fittings

End fittings are a critical aspect of m-pipe® technology. Magma has developed and qualified a unique end fitting solution to complement its pipe. The end fitting design takes full advantage of the pipe construction technology to allow the wall thickness to be locally thickened and profiled to interface with an external high strength steel collar that forms the body of the end fitting

The end fitting assembly is fully preloaded using a hydraulic makeup tool and sealing is achieved using a pressure energised AX type gasket. This arrangement allows m-pipe® to be terminated and transitioned into a steel pipe section with a fitting that is as at least as strong at the base pipe in every respect. This arrangement also allows m-pipe® to be terminated with a conventional or custom flange, hub or threaded connections to suit the specific application.

The end fitting incorporates an external test port to allow pressure testing of the gasket after assembly to confirm integrity. The AX gasket is of carbon/polymer construction and it is located in a polymer gasket pocket. On the steel side of the connection the AX gasket seats in a conventional Inconel 625 inlaid pocket. The Inconel inlay can be extended along the bore of the steel pipe as required by corrosion requirements to maintain resistance equivalent to the m-pipe®

Development of the m-pipe® end fitting has included optimisation using FEA techniques and the finished design has been subjected to an extensive qualification process including pressure testing, axial load testing, bending, high cycle fatigue and low cycle fatigue. Long term pressure testing and thermal testing have also formed part of the test program.