Underwater pipeline repair by automated composite lamination

摘要

An apparatus for repairing pipelines or the like under water, comprising an enclosure (1) which is adapted to be placed around a pipeline section (4) to be repaired and form an enclosed chamber between the pipeline section (4) and the enclosure (1). A lamination tool (6) for applying a repair chemical, typically epoxy, and a sheet material is adapted to orbit around the circumference of the pipeline section. The enclosure on the inside surface of the enclosure is equipped with at least two pitch racks (5a, 5b) along which the lamination tool (6) is moveable. A method for applying is described whereby the repair chemical is provided with magnetic particles to attract the chemical to the surface of the pipe. The repair chemical per se is also claimed.