Paterson & Cooke
December 7, 2016
Executive Summary
Layflat hose is currently being used in many countries around the world, but little information is available for use at extremely low temperatures. Properly inspected and pre-commissioned water transport systems operate with small risk for leakage. However, catastrophic failure due to mechanical puncture is a reality and mitigation strategies to limit the amount of alternate waters that may be lost to the environment as well as a better understanding of the environmental impact of water discharge should be further studied.
The main categories of layflat hosing that are used for hydraulic fracturing are Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC)/Nitrile (rubber) hosing and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). The TPU hosing is generally used for higher risk waters such as the flowback and produced hydraulic fracturing waters as it is 4 to 5 times stronger and more resistant to chemical attack.
There are currently no CSA standards for layflat hose, but all the manufacturers that were contacted have quality assurance programs and almost without exception their manufacturing plants are ISO 9001 or better certified. Regarding the fittings and clamps used to connect the layflat hose, there are CSA certifications in place and failure of a properly inspected and maintained fitting is unlikely. It is acknowledged there is added risk at the discharge of pumping stations as the hose sees higher pressures and is usually off grade and bent causing additional strain at the fitting.
# 16-WIPC-04