Line Pipe Supply for SH1 Pipeline Project in Algeria
Project Time: Approximately 2021 – 2022
Project Location: Algeria (SH1 Pipeline Route)
Project Owner: SONATRACH (Algerian National Oil & Gas Company)
Product: Large-diameter Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welded (LSAW) Steel Pipes
Standard and Grade: API 5L X70M PSL2
Specification: Φ914mm×25.4mm×11800mm
Quantity: Critical section supply for the SH1 hydrocarbon transport infrastructure
Project Background
Algeria, as a global leader in hydrocarbon exports, continues to modernize its extensive pipeline network through its state-owned giant, SONATRACH. The SH1 Project is a vital strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the transport capacity and safety of oil and gas from inland production fields to coastal processing facilities or export terminals. Given the harsh desert environment and the high-pressure requirements of the transmission line, this project demanded top-tier engineering solutions. Our company, under the rigorous procurement and technical supervision of the Italian EPC giant TECNIMONT, was selected to provide high-performance API 5L line pipes for this landmark energy project.
Client Challenge
● Extremely High Technical Specifications: The project utilized X70M PSL2 grade steel, which requires a perfect balance of high strength, excellent fracture toughness, and superior weldability to withstand high internal pressure and temperature fluctuations.
● Stringent Quality Control (PSL2 Level): As a PSL2 (Product Specification Level 2) project, every pipe required mandatory non-destructive testing (NDT), chemical composition analysis, and mechanical testing to meet the uncompromising standards of both SONATRACH and Tecnimont.
● Complex Logistics and Heavy Wall Thickness: The specification (914mm OD with a 25.4mm wall thickness) means each 11.8m joint is exceptionally heavy. Transporting such heavy-wall, large-diameter pipes from our facilities to the Algerian desert sites required precise logistics coordination and protective packaging to prevent bevel damage.
Our Solution and Results
● Advanced LSAW Manufacturing: We utilized our advanced Longitudinal Submerged Arc Welding (LSAW) production lines to manufacture the 914mm pipes. The thermomechanical rolling (M) process ensured that the grain structure of the steel provided the necessary durability for the X70M grade.
● Full-Spectrum Inspection Protocol: Working closely with third-party inspectors and Tecnimont’s quality team, we implemented a 100% UT (Ultrasonic Testing) and X-ray inspection of the weld seams, along with hydrostatic testing at pressures exceeding field operating conditions to ensure zero-leakage performance.
● Seamless Global Supply Chain Management: 3.Despite the logistical complexities of North African delivery, our dedicated logistics team managed the shipping schedules to align perfectly with Tecnimont’s construction milestones, ensuring that the SH1 project stayed on track.
Project Outcomes
The supply of API 5L X70M PSL2 line pipes for the SH1 Algeria Project was completed successfully, meeting all technical and temporal requirements. This collaboration with TECNIMONT and SONATRACH further solidifies Cortec Steel's reputation as a reliable partner for high-end energy infrastructure projects in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. The project stands as a testament to our ability to deliver heavy-wall, high-grade piping solutions that meet the world's most demanding oil and gas industry standards.
