Gazprom and major Russian pipe manufacturers sign Sci-Tech Cooperation Programs

Alexey Miller, Chairman of the Gazprom Management Committee gave a task at the meeting with the heads of pipe manufacturing companies in Vyksa last September to work out the Programs with due consideration of the need to expand the scope of import substitution activities.

The Programs will contribute to higher construction and operation efficiency of gas production, transmission and processing facilities equipped in accordance with the latest and strictest requirements. The pipe manufacturers are going to expand their product range and raise its marketability.

The Programs also provide for pilot manufacturing of pipes of higher cold resistance, heat- insulated and highly tight-threaded ones, as well as those intended for offshore gas production and operation in a hostile environment. Onshore gas pipelines will be constructed using large-diameter pipes of high strength – up to K90 (X120) (K65 (X80) pipes are used now) – fit for operation under super-high pressure. Such pipes will allow reducing steel consumption for future gas pipelines as well as cutting down the costs of long-distance gas transmission due to a smaller number of compressor stations.

The new solutions will be needed, primarily in development operations on the Yamal Peninsula, Eastern Siberia and the Far East.

While running the Programs, Gazprom will provide organizational and consultancy support, and the pipe manufacturers will set up the corresponding innovative R&D and engineering activities.