Inspector - MLP Factory

MLP Shop Inspector

Reports to: Project QA/QC Manager / Deck Yard QC Superintendent
Location: Factory / Pipeline Manufacturing Plant / Fabrication Shop

About the Project
This position supports a major offshore gas development involving two offshore gas fields, new drilling platforms, transmission infrastructure to an existing processing complex, and the addition of a carbon‑capture facility. The development targets up to 750 million cubic feet of natural gas per day, enhancing regional energy security and export capacity. The project scope includes full project management coverage from planning and design reviews to procurement, QA/QC, schedule control, and risk management.

Role Summary
The MLP Shop Inspector provides technical oversight and quality assurance during the production and assembly of Mechanically Lined Pipe (MLP). Responsibilities include monitoring the telescoping process, hydraulic/mechanical expansion, weld‑overlay end sealing, and verifying that the interference fit between the carrier pipe and CRA liner meets all project and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities
1. MLP Manufacturing & Expansion Inspection

• Witness CRA liner insertion and verify annular gap tolerances and cleanliness.
• Confirm hydraulic expansion (hydroforming) or mandrel pressures comply with the approved MPS.
• Inspect dimensional accuracy, including wall thicknesses and interference‑fit uniformity.
• Conduct internal inspections, including borescope checks where needed, for wrinkling or liner damage.

2. End‑Seal (WOL) Inspection

• Oversee preparation and welding of the Weld Overlay (WOL) end‑seal at the “Triple Point.”
• Review WPS/PQR requirements for welding the thin CRA liner to the heavy‑wall carrier pipe.
• Verify PMI readings to ensure end‑seal material chemistry matches liner specifications.

3. Testing & NDT Oversight

• Witness Grip Bond Testing (UT or mechanical testing) to confirm residual gripping stress.
• Witness hydrostatic testing of completed MLP joints for structural integrity.
• Witness 100% PT and UT of end‑seal welds and Triple Point area.
• Confirm results of any liner tightness or air‑leak tests.

4. Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure full traceability of carrier pipe and CRA liner heat numbers for each joint.
• Prepare daily inspection reports, NCRs, and maintain the MLP fabrication log.
• Review and approve the vendor’s Manufacturing Record Book (MRB).

Technical Competencies & Skills

• Strong understanding of mechanical interference fits, hydroforming, and expansion processes.
• Knowledge of liner mechanics, including buckling risks, wrinkling, and pressure effects.
• Ability to assess weld overlays on thin CRA liners and heavy‑wall carbon steel.
• Skilled in interpreting UT results for unbonded fits and PT for seal welds.
• Familiarity with API 5LD, DNV‑ST‑F101, and project‑specific installation analyses.

Interface & Coordination

• Collaborate with Pipeline Engineers on reel‑lay and bending‑radius considerations.
• Provide installation teams with joint‑specific data affecting offshore installation.
• Act as primary technical interface with mill and lining facility representatives.

Qualifications

• Education: BSc in Mechanical, Materials, or Pipeline Engineering from an accredited university.
• Certifications (mandatory):
  • CSWIP 3.1 or CWI
  • ASNT Level II in UT and PT
  • Familiarity with API 5LD mill processes preferred
• Languages: Excellent spoken and written English with strong technical reporting ability.

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