E-GS-9-5-8

GENERAL SPECIFICATION Rev. B

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INTERNAL TREATMENT OF PIPING PRIOR TO ERECTION

COVER PAGE

Rev Date Prepared by Approved by Revision

A Oct-04 E. Fraisse S. Rousse Initial issue - Replaces SG-395-07/SG-395-08/ ST-
273-01
B 10-Dec-10 J. Pacheco Content of the document reviewed and re-
approved

DISCLAIMER
The information contained in this document has been prepared by L’Air Liquide S.A. and/or its controlled subsidiaries (“Air
Liquide”), exclusively for their use, and is Air Liquide property. Air Liquide believes the information is current and accurate,
but circumstances may warrant additional requirements or procedures. This document is subject to periodic review and
users are cautioned to obtain the latest edition.
Air Liquide makes no representations or warranties to third parties as to the quality, accuracy or completeness of
information contained in this document and EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND THE WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE.
No part of this document may be copied or otherwise shown or disclosed to third parties without the prior consent of Air
Liquide.
Unauthorized use of this document by any third Party, including Air Liquide contractors and subcontractors, shall be at
such Party’s own risk, and Air Liquide assumes no liability in connection with information contained herein. Air Liquide
disclaims any liability for any damage suffered by any company or person as a result of or in connection with the use,
application or implementation of the information contained herein or any part thereof. The benefit of this disclaimer shall
inure to Air Liquide and its affiliates.
This document should not be confused with federal, state, provincial, or municipal specifications or regulations, insurance
requirements or national safety codes.

This document is issued and administered by the Air Liquide Engineering Standards Department.
Paper copies of this document are considered to be “uncontrolled” and users should always
check for the most recent revision.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION 4
1.1 Scope of application 4
1.2 Definitions 4
1.3 Applicable Codes, Standards, Regulations and Air Liquide Reference 5
1.4 Conflicts, Omissions and Alternatives 5
2 SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT 5
2.1 Safety measures 5
2.2 Study of risks 6
2.3 Protection of the environment 6
3 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS 7
3.1 Data required by E&C CE 7
3.2 Procedure validation 7
3.3 Cleaning operations and controls 8
4 INTERNAL TREATMENTS AND CONTROLS REQUIRED 8
4.1 Lines which require internal treatment 8
4.2 Illustration of the tables defining the treatment 8
4.3 Carbon steel and low alloyed steel 10
4.4 Stainless steel 11
4.5 Aluminum 11
5 METHODS 13
5.1 Hand cleaning 13
5.2 Sand / Grit blasting 13
5.3 Immersion 14
5.4 Circulation 15
5.5 Injection 16
6 SIMPLE CLEANING 17
6.1 Description 17
6.2 Blowing / flushing 17
7 DEGREASING 17
7.1 Description 17
7.2 Alkaline degreasing 17
7.3 Detergent degreasing 18
7.4 Solvent degreasing 18
8 PICKLING 20
8.1 Principle 20
8.2 Implementation 20
8.3 Precautions 20
9 PASSIVATION 20
9.1 Principle 20
9.2 Precautions 20
10 INSPECTION METHODS 21

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10.1 Odour test 21

10.2 Use of a detector 21
10.3 "White light" visual examination 21
10.4 Ultraviolet or lamp of Wood inspection 22
10.5 Wipe test 22
10.6 Examination by rinsing 23
10.7 Water film test 23
10.8 Choice of the method of inspection 23
11 PRESERVING CLEANNESS 24
11.1 Means of protection 24
11.2 Storage and handling 25
11.3 Labeling / identification 25
12 WORKING AREA AND STORAGE 25
12.1 Working area 25
12.2 Products storage 25
13 UTILITIES 26

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Scope of application

1.1.1 Scope
Pipes are subjected to an internal treatment prior to erection and their cleanliness is preserved to avoid any risk of
violent reaction or malfunctioning and/or to save time during pre commissioning.
The procedure for cleaning shall vary depending on the type of service and class of piping.

1.1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to describe internal treatment for piping only and it cannot be applied to vessels
and tubing as the procedure for chemical cleaning of the above is applied in a different manner.
The internal treatment of any piping featuring a weld executed on backing strips or equipped with a socket-type
accessory is forbidden.
This specification deals only with treatment prior to erection, which excludes the operations of pre commissioning
such as boil out and flushing / blowing of erected piping.
Applicable treatments and controls differ according to the service and the material of piping (carbon steel, aluminum,
and stainless steel).

1.2 Definitions
Cleaning Cleaning is a succession of one or several distinct operation(s) (degreasing, rinsing,
drying...) permitting to obtain and to preserve the required degree of cleanliness.
Air Air dry and free of oil
Blowing Oil free dry air or nitrogen shall be used for blowing to clean or dry piping prior to erection
Rinsing Rinsing is carried out with clean water. It enables the reagents and dissolved compounds to
be eliminated so as to obtain an acidic/alkaline free surface condition close to a neutralized
condition.
Acid inhibitors A corrosion inhibitor is used to limit the chemical attack of a metal by an acidic medium. The
inhibitor would aid in avoiding the dissolution of oxides and the absorption of hydrogen. In
general inhibitors are organic substances.
Neutralizing Neutralizing stops the pickling process after the acidic solution is rinsed.

Drying Drying is carried out by blowing of oil free dry air or nitrogen.
Wipe Clean lint-free white cloth
EPI Individual Protection Equipment

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1.3 Applicable Codes, Standards, Regulations and Air Liquide Reference Documents

1.3.1 Industry Codes and Standards

Not applicable.

1.3.2 Associated Air Liquid Documents

E-EP-19-3-1 Internal Treatment Choice for Piping Cleaning Prior Construction
E-FRM-9-5-8 Piping Works Test Pack
E-GS-9-0-15 Management Of The Material On Site
E-GS-9-5-1 Prefabrication and Installation of piping

1.4 Conflicts, Omissions and Alternatives

1.4.1 In case of conflicting requirements between this specification and applicable requirements of the documents
listed in section 1.3, the more stringent shall apply.
1.4.2 In case of conflicting requirements, the following items govern in descending order of precedence.
a. Agreements outlined in mutually approved minutes of review meetings subsequent to the issuance of the
Purchase Order
b. Purchase Order and subsequent related correspondence
c. Project specific addenda
d. This specification and accompanying documents listed in 1.3.2.
e. Any exceptions, deviations, omissions, or alternatives to the requirements shall be submitted for
Purchaser’s approval prior to award of Purchase Order.

2 SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Safety measures

The company in charge of internal piping treatment must work in compliance with local regulations and with regard
to personnel safety and environment protection and the AIR LIQUIDE requirements defined in project documents.
Special care must be taken from the chemical products used which may need specialised equipment. The operators
must be updated of the risks and shall be imparted a specific training. Safety data sheets shall be present at the
work site in a language understandable by the personnel. Recommendations described in these sheets have to be
respected; in particular suitable protective clean clothes shall be worn. Exposure limits, storage and handling shall
be in accordance to the safety guidelines.
Using nitrogen in confine area is forbidden because of the danger of asphyxia. Any derogative must have
been asked to an E&C CE site representative and requires an analysis check of the atmosphere by the
subcontractor.
Equipment used for the erection of an oxygen system should not be assigned to other work during the entire job.

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2.2 Study of risks

2.2.1 Risks of inflammation or explosion

Solvents are practically all flammable. Their vapours may form an explosive mix with air in presence of a source of
heat. The risks of fire or explosion depend on physical and chemical properties of each solvent and must be kept
under control.

2.2.2 Reactivity
Dangerous reactions can persist in the following cases:
 Damages during storage or transport.
 Damages during product utilization due to build-up of excessive temperature or during an accidental mix
between incompatible products.

2.2.3 Toxic effects

 The type of products used may have prejudicial effects on passively or directly exposed people.
 Toxicity may cause mild to irreversible damaging effects on health.

2.3 Protection of the environment

In the event of a leak or accidental discharge, the products must be immediately recovered after having covered
them with inert absorbing material, which shall be kept in reserve in case of an emergency. If an emergency
condition for discharge exists, all potential sources of ignition shall be identified and removed, the surrounding area
shall be ventilated, and the personnel shall be evacuated. Only trained personnel wearing suitable protective
clothing and equipment shall be allowed to enter the area to take control of the situation.
Effluents must be treated before disposal according to local regulation.
The subcontractor is in charge of the wastes resulting from sand blasting. They are considered as special waste and
shall be disposed of to a classified waste dump area in accordance with the local regulations.
Any solution must be neutralized before disposal.
Solvents containing less than 30% of impurities may be recycled either in the company or by a supplier. Solvents
that cannot be recycled and sludge shall be incinerated in specialized centres. The exhaust fumes and smoke
emitted during the incineration of halogenated solvent needs to be treated.
For any complementary information about disposal, recycle and solvents incineration, the company shall consult
competent local organisations.
Note: Disposal of any effluent is banned on the erection site.
The subcontractor is in charge of safety measures and protection of the environment.

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3 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

3.1 Data required by E&C CE

The subcontractor who is specialized in the work shall submit a detailed procedure which shall at least include:
 The justification of the choice of the type of cleaning, if it is necessary according to section 4.
 Technical data
 Data related to the cleaning operations as mentioned hereunder.
- Name of products used.
- Quantity of the products and utilities that would be put into use.
- Acid, base, inhibitor or detergent content in the products.
- pH of solutions that would be used.
- Characteristic values of the loss of effectiveness of baths.
 Data related to cleaning program as mentioned below.
- Stages of cleaning process in chronological order.
- Descriptions of each stage involved describing the duration, methods, equipment, safety measures,
and controls.
 Measures of protection.
 Treatment of effluents before disposal according to the regulations.
 A program for monitoring the cleanliness. This program must permit the monitoring of the use of plugs and
bags of desiccants (number and date of putting in place).

3.2 Procedure validation

3.2.1 Products validation

Products must be permitted for use by the local regulations and shall be chosen taking into consideration the degree
of contamination, easy handling and safe use of the chemicals, type of metal, service and treatments before
disposal of effluents.

3.2.2 Inspection
The subcontractor must verify that the procedure complies to the cleaning process requirements and shall adapt it if
it does not meet the requirements.

3.2.3 Analysis
The subcontractor must:
 Study metallurgical data of the system.
 Ensure the compatibility between products and materials.

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 Check compatibility between the fluid and the protective layer, if presents.
Note: If required by E&C CE, the subcontractor will do a test to validate a method.
 Analysis of risks involved for cleaning work.
 Transmit the result of a preliminary costs study.

3.3 Cleaning operations and controls

The subcontractor must:
 Mobilize equipment, utilities and products that are necessary for carrying out treatments, controls and to
preserve cleanliness.
 Remove any possibly assembled equipment and replace them after the inspection.
 Carry out treatments.
 Change baths when they are becoming less efficient.
 Monitor the progress of chemical treatment and effectiveness of the chemical products (in particular those of
additives as inhibitor) by analyzing the cleaning solutions (pH, dissolved compounds…).
 Re-clean the pipes that have been observed as unclean during an inspection.
 Submit a new method of treatment or control if it is required by the site manager and implement it after
acceptance.
Take necessary measures of protection, conditioning and storage to preserve cleanliness until the erection.
Keep up to date E&C CE’s inspection and acceptance certificates for the implemented treatment.

4 INTERNAL TREATMENTS AND CONTROLS REQUIRED

4.1 Lines which require internal treatment

Lines are either subjected to preliminary cleaning by air or nitrogen blowing before chemical treatment or sand
blasted or subjected to simple cleaning.
Lines are classified into services as per E-EP-19-3-1. These services shall be mentioned in the line list and shall be
cleaned in accordance to this specification.
Quality forms (as per § 1.3) shall be filled in to monitor the completion of the procedure for treatment.

4.2 Illustration of the tables defining the treatment

The tables below represent the treatments that shall be carried out according to the service class for carbon steel
pipes (Section 4.3), stainless steel pipes (Section 4.4) and aluminum pipes (Section Ошибка! Источник ссылки
не найден.).
The table describes the different types of cleaning that are applicable for a given material and service class in
chronological order from top.

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The types of cleaning that are applicable are referred to by their initials, which are defined in the legend. For a given
service, if the type of cleaning isn’t specified in the line list, the subcontractor shall choose one of them among the
applicable types and submit it to the E&C CE site representative. The type of cleaning is chosen taking into
consideration geometry (referred to section that describes the method) and the fact that it is not better to implement
an additional methods for few pipes.

4.2.1 Oxygen service (S0)

This service must be submitted to a complete degreasing. This is necessary, for instance, for all pipes which, when
in operation, contains or might contain a process fluid having an oxygen content exceeding 23.5%, or in every pipes
of ASU cold box, because grease matter might react violently in the presence of oxygen.

4.2.2 Not passivated service (NP)

The following services shall not be passivated:
 Services containing fluids that tend to react with the protective layer formed by passivation (For instance CO
lines shall not be passivated because the passivation layer shall react on carbon monoxide and
decomposes into carbon dioxide and carbon dust).
 Services that do not require passivation (for instance, import/export steam lines).

4.2.3 Engine service (SM)

This service is designated for piping which are prone to a risk of rupture of the pipe wall due to abrasion caused by
the presence of some contaminants, such as metal turnings or metal particles, which may be propelled by the fluid
at high speed.
This service is applicable for lines in bypass or at the inlet of an engine with movable parts or at the interconnections
of PSA skid/ bottles without a filter.

4.2.4 Service that needn’t treatment (NT)

This service includes the lines that do not require chemical treatment or sandblasting. These lines are subjected to a
simple cleaning method. It enables the removal of materials, which by clogging small openings or sticking to moving
parts may cause serious malfunctioning of the equipment, when freezing at low temperatures.
The third letter of the code is used to mention the type of material:
I: Stainless steel
C: Carbon steel
A: Aluminum
For instance, SM-I is used for a stainless steel pipe used for engine service.

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4.3 Carbon steel and low alloyed steel

Table 1: Treatment of carbon steel piping

Services SO-C SM-C NP -C NT
Method S DDP S DDP S SN
Simple cleaning (section 6) NA A NA A NA O
Degreasing with alkaline solution with or without
detergent or neutral solution with detergent (section 7.2 NA O NA O NA NA
and section 7.3)
Fresh water rinsing (section 13) NO O NO O NA NA
Sand blasting (section 5.2) O NA O NA O NA
Acid pickling (section 8) NA O NA O NA NA
Air Blowing O NO O NO O NA
Fresh water rinsing (section 13) NO O NO O NA NA
Neutralizing (section 1.2) NA O NA O NA NA
Passivating (section 9) O O O O NA NA
Water rinsing (section 13) NA NA NA NA NA NA
(1) (1) (1) (1)
Drying (section 1.2 and section 13) O O O O NA O(1)
White light test (section 10.3) O O O O O O
White wipe test (section 10.5) O O NA NA NA NA
Wood’s lamp test (section 10.4) O O NA NA NA NA
Legend:
NA: Not Applicable
A: Applicable
O: Required
NO: Forbidden
S: Sand blasting
DDP: Degreasing- Pickling- Passivation
SN: Simple cleaning
(1)
Drying may be done in open atmosphere if climatic conditions are favourable and after the pipes have been
drained to avoid any water retention.

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4.4 Stainless steel

Table 2: Treatment of stainless steel piping

Services SO-I NT
Method D1 D2 SN
Simple cleaning (section 6) A A O
Degreasing by a non chlorinated neutral or alkaline detergent solution or a non-
chlorinated solvent with low vapour pressure at room temperature. (section 7.3 and O NA NA
section 7.4)
Degreasing by a non chlorinated solvent with high vapour pressure at room
NA O NA
temperature (section 7.4)
Fresh water rinsing (section 13) O NO NA
Hot water rinsing (section 13) O NO NA
Let dry NA O NA
Sand blasting (section 5.2) NA NA NA
Acid pickling (section 8) NO NA NO
(1)
Drying (section 1.2 and section 13) O A* O(1)
White light test (section 10.3) O O O
White wipe test (section 10.5) O O NA
Wood’s lamp test (section 10.4) O O NA
Legend:
NA: Not Applicable
A: Applicable
O: Required
NO: Forbidden
D1: Aqueous solution or non-volatile solvent degreasing.
D2: Volatile solvent degreasing
SN: Simple cleaning
A*: To apply if there is dead zone or if the ambient temperature is low
(1)
Drying may be done in open atmosphere if climatic conditions are favourable and after the pipes have been
drained to avoid any water retention.

4.5 Aluminum
Table 3: Aluminum treatment

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Services SO NT
method D1 D2 SN
Simple cleaning (section 6) A A O
Degreasing by a non chlorinated neutral or slightly alkaline detergent solution
(without caustic soda) or a non-chlorinated solvent with low vapour pressure at O NA NA
room temperature. (section 7.3 and section 7.4)
Degreasing by a non chlorinated solvent with high vapour pressure at room
NA O NA
temperature (section 7.4)
Fresh water rinsing (section 13) O NO NA
Hot water rinsing (section 13) O NO NA
Leave drying NA O NA
Sand blasting (section 5.2) NA NA NA
Acid pickling (section 8) NO NA NO
(1)
Drying (section 1.2 and section 13) O A* O(1)
White light test (section 10.3) O O O
White wipe test (section 10.5) O O NA
Wood’s lamp test (section 10.4) O O NA
Legend:
NA: Not Applicable
A: Applicable
O: Required
NO: Forbidden
D1: Aqueous solution or non-volatile solvent degreasing.
D2: Volatile solvent degreasing
SN: Simple cleaning
A*: To apply if there is dead zone or if the ambient temperature is low
(1)
Drying may be done in open atmosphere if climatic conditions are favourable and after the pipes have been
drained to avoid any water retention.

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5 METHODS

5.1 Hand cleaning

5.1.1 Principle
This process involves cleaning by hands by means of rubbing, wiping and brushing the surface of pipe.
5.1.2 Advantages
 This method is easy to carry out.
It allows removing stains observed during a control test.

5.1.3 Drawbacks
 Surfaces that are to be cleaned must be accessible.
 Low productivity

5.1.4 Precautions
Any wire brushes previously used on carbon steel mustn’t be used on stainless steel surfaces.
Wire brushes manufactured from non-ferrous wire must be used.
Wire brushes shall not be used on aluminum.
Verification check for any leftovers of the metal wires from the brush shall be done

5.1.5 Implementation
 Surfaces to be cleaned must be accessible by a brush or a wipe and an aspergillum may be used in the
case of small diameter.
 Hand cleaning may be improved by adding solvent or detergent on the wipe. We can then dry the surface of
metal after detergent solution rinsing by wiping with a clean white wipe free of fibers.

5.2 Sand / Grit blasting

5.2.1 Principle
This mechanical treatment may be described as the use of abrasives (sand SA 2.5, grit, glass) propelled through
nozzles against the surface of pipe by means of compressed air.
5.2.2 Advantages
 This method helps in removal of varnish or paint adhering to the surface of the pipe.
 This method is useful for removal of mill scales, weld spatters and hydrocarbon deposits and in particular
this method helps perform a better cleaning without depositing contaminants that cannot be removed by
subsequent cleaning.
 This treatment is an alternative to both degreasing and pickling.
 It allows pipes to be internally and externally blasted in only one step, which means less of handling.

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 Sand blasting is a commercially viable method of cleaning if diameter of the pipes exceeds 20”.

5.2.3 Drawbacks
Pipes must be submitted to a complete white light inspection.

5.2.4 Implementation
All carbon steel fittings must be sand blasted according to E.GS-9-5-1 to remove varnish and paint.
After blasting, the pipes must be blown with compressed oil free dry air to remove sand that has remained on the
surface of pipes.
Sand blasting shall be carried out in better temperature conditions and humidity (temperature exceeding
10°C and relative humidity below 70%).

5.2.5 Precautions
 This cleaning method shall not be used on the surfaces that cannot be seen visually.
 Sandblasting requires the implementation of a protective method to avoid the dispersal of sand.
 It is necessary to take care not to erode spools that have elbows. A thickness test is advised before and
after the sandblast.
 This treatment must not be applied for stainless steel or aluminum surfaces.
 Caution Boards which mention: «FORBIDDEN ACCESS – SANDBLASTING »shall be displayed.
 Mark out the work area (Ray of 10 m between the jet and the work area).
 The sand injection shall work only with a manual action of the operator.
 Use flexible devices equipped with anti whipping cable.
 The power feed for TBT monitoring shall be less than 50 volts.
 Respect the EPI wear (impermeable boiler suit, gloves with cuffs, boots with non-skid soles, helmet with
eyeshade, anti noise device, coat of mail or leather apron).

5.3 Immersion

5.3.1 Principle
Cleaning and intermediate rinsing may be performed by immersing spool pipes in baths filled with the solution.

5.3.2 Advantages
 The contact between the surface of the pipes and the solution is fast: During rinsing it enables cleaning
reagents (in particular detergents) to be removed before any precipitation can take place.
 This method helps in obtaining a protective layer with a good homogeneity.

5.3.3 Drawbacks
 The bath dimensions limit the use of this method.

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 This method makes the implementation of treatments more stringent because pipes must be externally
painted after treatment.

5.3.4 Implementation
Immersing method limits to small or medium sized parts, i.e. parts which can be immersed into the baths.
Baths with minimum dimensions of: length: 12 500mm - width: 2 400 mm - height: 1 000 mm are advised.
 Applying mechanical energy, injecting compressed air or vapour or using ultrasonic generation will increase
the effectiveness of soaking or dip rinsing.
 The bath temperature is chosen and controlled to ensure the expected efficiency against the scheduled
time.
The bath shall be monitored:
 Visual Inspection of the bath: grease matter and metallic particles in suspension as this may contaminate
the pipe when it is removed from the bath.
 Analysis of the bath: A known volume of a sample of the bath is evaporated for checking the quantity of the
dissolved products (grease).

5.3.5 Precautions
Pipes must not be introduced in a bath when they are painted, varnished or passivated: The varnish and paint are
preliminary removed by means of sand blasting and the surface shall be visually inspected for cleanliness.
Immersions must be total.
An only one type of material must be introduced in a same bath even if two materials must be cleaned by the same
solution.
During pickling, the concentration of ferric ion shall be monitored every hour and acid solution replaced if it exceeds
0.4% by weight.
 Ensure the compatibility between the solution used and the system of agitation.

5.4 Circulation

5.4.1 Circulation without changing of phase

5.4.1.1 Description
The circulating method is applied in the case of systems or lines installed on the ground prior to erection.
5.4.1.2 Advantage
The kinetic energy increases the efficiency of a treatment, which permits the use of lower temperature.
5.4.1.3 Drawbacks
This method may be difficult to implement and to monitor.
5.4.1.4 Implementation
 When this method is chosen, it is used for all the cleaning stages.
 This method is adapted to clean a sinuous spool.

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5.4.1.5 Precautions
It is necessary to check that the high points are cleaned and that dead zones are drained.

5.4.2 Vapour phase degreasing

5.4.2.1 Description
It is the removal of soluble organic materials from the equipment surfaces by the continuous condensation of
products vapours and their subsequent washing action.
5.4.2.2 Advantages
 Vapour phase method spends less time than circulation of liquid.
 The kinetic energy of the fluid helps in removal of insoluble solid particles.
5.4.2.3 Drawbacks
Geometry must be adapted to the circulation of condensed flux.
5.4.2.4 Implementation
Steps and products of each treatment are the same with this method than in the case of typical circulation.
5.4.2.5 Cautions
Check the treatment of high points and dead zones draining.

5.5 Injection

5.5.1 Description
It is possible to carry out low-pressure injection with a spray or high-pressure injection using pumps (80 to 120 bars)
with adapted hoses and nozzles.

5.5.2 Advantages
This method is used to clean:
 Equipment made from several materials (which cannot be introduced in a bath or subjected to circulation) by
applying cleaning agents adapted to each type of material.
 Spools with complex geometry.

5.5.3 Drawbacks
This method needs a mean to reach every parts of the surface to be cleaned.
Handling is long.

5.5.4 Implementation
A High-pressure jet nozzle may be used for long pipes (up to 12m) if there are not too many accidents.
A jet may be used to rinse pickling solution after immersion treatment.
After detergent cleaning using the injecting or immersing method, the surface must be rinsed with water free of oil by
a jet or by a hydro pneumatic gun.

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Rust, oil and scale may be removed by injecting hot water or steam in witch detergent is added.
According to the easiness of the application of the solution of passivation, the injection can give a sufficiently
homogeneous surface.

6 SIMPLE CLEANING

6.1 Description
Pipes that needn’t to be pickled or passivated are submitted to a simple cleaning to remove rust and other
superficial contamination.

6.2 Blowing / flushing

A simple cleaning can be performed by flushing with high-pressure water or by blowing with nitrogen or compressed
air.
The simple cleaning must allow removing of particles, filing dust, burrs, swarf and scale rust.
If air or nitrogen blowing is not sufficient enough to obtain the degree of cleanliness required, then high pressure
rinsing must be used. This method is very efficient but requires draining of water to avoid any retention, and then
shall be dried in open atmosphere or by using air blowing.

7 DEGREASING

7.1 Description
Grease, hydrocarbons and oil can react violently in presence of oxygen leading to fire and explosions. The aim of
degreasing is to remove these contaminants.

7.2 Alkaline degreasing

7.2.1 Principle
Alkaline degreasing (such as caustic soda or potash degreasing) is a process where the soda works by the
hydrolyzing effect on grease, biological oil and fat converting them to a readily soluble form of glycerine and aliphatic
sodium salts. Soda would also aid in tearing the oil and greasy compounds from the metal surface and suspend
them in the cleaning solution.
Draining the solution and rinsing, the cleaned surface afterwards will give the desired cleaning result.

7.2.2 Advantages
 This method of cleaning using the alkaline reagents would enable the removal of stubborn hydrocarbons
that remain sticking to the surface of the pipe.

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 Alkaline solutions are not flammable and present a low risk of toxicity by inhalation and are generally
compatible with oxygen.

7.2.3 Drawbacks
 Draining and rinsing must be done as soon as possible after the treatment to avoid residual deposits.
 The possible formation of residual deposits increases the time needed for rinsing
 Drying can be for a long period.

7.2.4 Precautions
 The temperature of the alkaline solution is chosen in taking into consideration the degree of contamination
and the material, taking a merge of 10°C to ensure that the solution never exceeds 90°C, which is the
temperature of precipitation.
 Highly alkaline solution, in particular those which contain caustic soda, react on aluminum.
 Eye and skin contact with alkaline chemicals should be avoided as it can lead to burns or serious skin
disorders.
 Baths with a temperature exceeding 60°C release alkaline aerosols that are irritating for respiratory tracts.

7.3 Detergent degreasing

7.3.1 Principle
We can add detergent to hot water to obtain a degreasing aqueous solution. Detergent solution contains some
surfactants: they allow aqueous solution to carry away lyophilize substances such as grease.

7.3.2 Advantages
 Detergent solutions are not flammable.
 Detergent products are not expensive.

7.3.3 Drawbacks
Neutral detergent solutions, irrespective of the temperature, are less efficient than organic solvents for degreasing
and their drying time is longer.
Note: Mixing base / surfactant are very often used

7.3.4 Implementation
The main processes are immersion and injection.

7.4 Solvent degreasing

7.4.1 Principle
Solvents have the property to dilute, to dissolve or to extract others substances, without causing a chemical
modification of these substances and without being changed.

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7.4.2 Advantages
The advantages of volatile solvent to aqueous solution (detergent and/or alkaline solution) are:
 The fact that rinsing isn’t necessary.
 An easier drying.
 Fewer effluents to be treated.

7.4.3 Drawbacks
 This method is difficult to implement because of possible toxic emissions and solvents flammability.
 Solvents, in particular fluorinated ones, are expensive.
 Terpenes, which are products extracted from vegetables, may cause allergic reaction.

7.4.4 Implementation
 In general, solvent degreasing is performed by circulation followed by blowing with air or nitrogen to remove
small particles and to remove remaining solvent.
 In general, circulation of solvent is carried out at ambient temperature
 If there is circulation, it is necessary to check without interruption the efficiency of the load of solvent to
replace it.
 During drying by air or nitrogen blowing, the effluent of gas is monitored to control that there is no trace of
solvent in verifying that there is not the odour of solvent in the gas or in using a detector.

7.4.5 Precautions
 Solvents that deplete the ozone layer (T-111, CFC-113…) are forbidden.
 Many solvents that were very often used, such as acetone, are unadvised because they are carcinogenic.
The new solvents are terpene, aliphatic hydrocarbon, alcohol, ester, hydrochlorofluorocarbon,
hydrofluorocarbon and silicone based solvent.
 The treatment area must be ventilated to maintain the concentration of solvent in atmosphere inferior to
25% of the inferior limit of explosion.
 It is necessary to ensure that the temperature products used shall not reach the level of flashpoint (Volatile
and flammable products).
 Chlorinated solvents shall not be used on aluminum and stainless steel because it stresses the oxidation
(corrosion) of these materials.
 The contact between oxygen and the remaining traces of solvent may cause an explosion.
Note: The mix hydrocarbon / surfactants may be used. It forms an emulsion more efficient than a solvent in
removing an important contamination. This mix permits to decrease solvent volatility and therefore to reduce harmful
emissions, but rinsing is necessary and drying is longer than the solvent one.

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8 PICKLING

8.1 Principle
Pickling after degreasing is a chemical treatment using an aqueous solution, which allows eliminating from the metal
surface any carbon deposits, oxides, residuals of thermal treatment or welding material.
Pickling shall be carried out only on carbon steel pipes. Pipes may be pickled with solution that contains sulfuric
acid, hydrochloric acid…

8.2 Implementation
 Concentration in acid must be between 5 and 50%.
 Inhibitors must be added to acid solution to avoid an excessive corrosion attack of the metal. The
percentage of the inhibitor added to the solution shall be directly proportional to the increase of temperature.

 The ferric ion (Fe3+) content and the pH shall be monitored every hours.
 After pickling, spool pipes are rinsed and subjected to the neutralization process for removal of any acidic
traces that would damage the metal.

8.3 Precautions

 Do not carry out agitation of a bath filled with an acid solution by injecting compressed air to avoid
any risk of explosion. Agitation may be performed by injecting nitrogen.

 This treatment could cause a chemical attack of the metal and the duration of the treatment shall be decided
taking into account the concentration of acidic solution.
 Eye and skin contact with acid chemicals, even when diluted, should be avoided as it can result in burns or
serious skin disorders. The company shall ensure that EPI, which are proven worthy for the risks involved
while handling the reagents shall be worn by all the participating personnel.

9 PASSIVATION

9.1 Principle
This chemical treatment, with sodium nitrite or phosphoric acid being used most often, provides a temporary white
gleaming corrosion protection layer on the pickled surfaces.

9.2 Precautions
The passivated layer is not compatible with carbon monoxide

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 Any blackish deposits left on the surface which are slightly sticky to touch, shows an indication that draining
after the passivation has been incomplete.
 If grinding has to be carried out to eliminate a defect, it shall be performed using a smooth abrasive tool with
fine grains to obtain a surface finish similar to the surface roughness of the pipe.
 Ferric ion content in the passivating solution must be lesser than 5g/l.

10 INSPECTION METHODS

10.1 Odour test

After hydrocarbon degreasing, drying cannot be considered as finished as long as the odour of solvent vapours can
be detected in the vicinity of the effluent of purge gas.

10.2 Use of a detector

After solvent degreasing, the use of a probe is advised to make sure that drying is complete.

10.3 "White light" visual examination

10.3.1 Principle
All visually accessible surfaces shall be submitted to "White light" test. This test enables greasy specks, patches of
oxidation, scaling particles, traces of water or moisture, carbon deposits, remnants of paint or varnish, foreign
bodies, welding or brazing residuals, remaining cleaning agents etc. to be detected.

10.3.2 Implementation

This test must be carried out using a sufficiently strong natural or artificial light, exceeding 500 lux (100W à 30cm),
to detect the contaminants. It will detect particles of matter in excess of 50 microns and moisture, oils, greases, etc.
in relatively large amounts. The efficiency of this method depends on the suface finish that has been achieved.

10.3.3 Acceptance criteria

 Stainless steel and aluminum: no trace shall be observed.
 Carbon steel: uniform greyish colour.
Traces of grease matter, water, moisture, carbon deposits, scale, coating products and paint are unacceptable.
Straws, stripes, depressions or degradations which could decrease the mechanical resistance of the pipe are
unacceptable.

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10.4 Ultraviolet or lamp of Wood inspection

10.4.1 Principle
Ultraviolet light (« black light ») causes many common hydrocarbons or organic oils and greases to fluoresce under
exposure.
All organic oils do not fluoresce, or else fluoresce to different degrees. Hence, ultraviolet inspection alone cannot be
relied on as a test for cleanliness. This test shall also be accompanied by a wipe test.

10.4.2 Implementation
Wood lamp enables the presence of grease to be detected in pipes for oxygen service.
This examination is carried out with a so-called "Wood lamp” (wave length 3650 Angstroms) whose shape must be
appropriate for the configuration of the pieces to be examined. The lamp is used in dark or near darkness, without
parasitic light, at 10 to 15 cm from the surface, which may require the implementation of an appropriate temporary
protection.
The efficiency of this control is directly proportional to the ambient lighting conditions:
In a dark room, a lamp with two 15 W tubes is sufficient.
The examination of apparatus in partially dark environment, outside or in a temporary protection will require a 100 to
125 W lamp.
Controls carried out in bright light are totally inefficient.

10.4.3 Acceptance criteria

Fluorescent traces (of milky colour) even if extremely weak, are not permitted. Isolated textile fibers are permitted, if
there are no local accumulations.
A uniform white colour is not accepted.
Accumulation of rust or rust bloom may be visible and must be removed by air or nitrogen blowing or by wiping.

10.5 Wipe test

10.5.1 Principle
The surface is rubbed lightly with a clean white paper or lint-free cloth, which is then examined under white and
ultraviolet light.

10.5.2 Implementation
This method must not be used on rough surfaces because of risks of deposits of wipe fibers. It may be used where
white light test is not possible.

10.5.3 Acceptance criteria:

 Stainless steel and aluminum: the item being examined must be re-cleaned if it is not perfectly clean.
 Carbon steel: any trace of grease, or supposed to be grease and metallic particles are unacceptable: the
item must be re-cleaned.
A low brown coloration due to the presence of oxide is acceptable.

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10.6 Examination by rinsing

10.6.1 Principle
This method may be used to check inaccessible surfaces cleaned by a solvent or an aqueous solution. The surface
is rinsed with clean new solvent. The rinsing liquid is then collected for examination. It is recommended to use a
volatile solvent.

10.6.2 Implementation
The amount of cleanliness shall be based on the following examinations:
 By comparing, under white light or ultraviolet light, between a sample of used solvent and a sample of clean
solvent.
 By filtering the gathered liquid with a laboratory filter or blotting paper and subsequent examination of the
residual traces.
 By laboratory analysis to quantify and identify, if applicable, any contaminants.
Note: all traces of solvent must be removed after examination.

10.6.3 Acceptance criteria

During a white light test, metal particles, greasy traces or traces assumed to be greasy are not permitted.

10.7 Water film test

A film of water is formed on the surface to be inspected. The layer must remain unbroken for at least five seconds.
Beading of the water droplets indicates the presence of oil contaminants and re-cleaning is required.
This method is generally limited to horizontal surfaces and may be used to detect oily residues not found by other
means.

10.8 Choice of the method of inspection

The pre-manufacturing piping condition shall allow an examination of the whole internal surface. The method used
must be chosen according to the service and the conditions of access:
 All visually accessible surfaces shall be inspected using the white light.
 A wipe test shall be used if a direct inspection with a white lamp is impossible.
 For oxygen service, the wipe test method must be used if direct inspection with the wood lamp is
impossible.
The easiest methods (white light, lamp of Wood and wipe test) are not efficient enough to detect a lower level of
pollution than 500mg/m2, either a layer of 0.5 micron.
There is no point using an inspection method more accurate than the easiest methods because the possible
contamination observed could not be removed by implemented treatments. In fact, the limit of detection corresponds
to a layer adsorbed by the roughness of the surface and is therefore adherent.

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11 PRESERVING CLEANNESS

11.1 Means of protection

Means of protection after cleanliness has been approved on the site of treatment:
After treatment validation, carbon steel pipes cleanliness is conserved either in carrying out nitrogen blowing twice a
week or in putting desiccants bags.
Note: the bags of desiccants must not be in direct contact with the metal, they must be secured to the removable
plugs to avoid local corrosion and to prevent them from being forgotten.
Note: The bags of desiccants must not be placed in pipes with a diameter inferior to 4’’.
The dehydrating agent shall remain in its original sealed package until use.
The volume of dehydrating agent shall be decided so as to guarantee that the internal atmosphere does not exceed
40 % of relative humidity during more than six months.
As an indication, the following values regarding tubes of 10 to 12 meters long may be taken into account.

Table 4
Nominal diameter of tube Capacity of bag containing dehydrating Corresponding weight
agent in French units (*)
in kg
< 100 1/4 unit 0.147
125 to 175 1/2 " 0.295
200 1,00 " 0.590
225 to 300 1,50 " 0.885
325 to 350 2,25 " 1.327
375 to 450 3,00 " 1770
(*) A French unit corresponds to 0.59 kg of clay able to absorb 100 g of water steam with 40 % of relative humidity.
Every extremities of the pipes must be sealed with plugs designed to ensure perfect tightness, not to warp during
handling operations, not to be easily removed from the tubes, and to efficiently protect the bevel from shocks.
Heated air may be used to heat the plugs in order to facilitate their fitting. Their tightness shall be improved by
sticking three turns of strong adhesive tape around the rim, taking care not to hide the marking.
 Upon receipt on site:
- The bags of dehydrating agent are removed.
- The internal aspect of tubes is examined at both ends (white cloth inspection), and the both ends of
pipes are hermetically sealed.
 Means of protection on construction site:
- Carbon steel pipes are subjected to nitrogen blowing twice a week.
- Equipments may be kept under pressure with air.

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Note: Equipment under pressure with air must be identified appropriately, with the indication of the pressure.
The piping assembly company is in charge of the air or the nitrogen used and remains responsible for the
cleanliness condition and inerting of the pipes until the end of erection protocol is signed.
Air Liquide may request dismantling and re-treatment of a pipe until the required cleanliness be reached.

11.2 Storage and handling

 The storage area must be located in closed premises protected against atmospheric influences, with a
treated homogenous floor that is not susceptible to generate dust. The equipment is placed on supports
(wood pallets or cradles). The premises must be cleaned and dust removed in regular intervals.
 Stainless steel materials shall be stored in isolated areas that are protected from any contact with carbon
steel or contaminants.
 The equipment is kept in its protected or conditioned state during the entire storage time and during
transportation, except if it is inspected. After inspection, the protections or conditioning are put back in place.
 All handling shall be carried out with non-rigid straps.
 The cleanliness of handling equipment is ensured.

11.3 Labeling / identification

Clean pipes shall be labeled and identifiable from unclean pipes. For example, piping for "Oxygen service" will have
the following label:
CAUTION
Oxygen Service
No oil, no grease
Do not open before setting-up
Date of inspection

Labels are furnished by the subcontractor. Their dimension is 200100 and writing is red on white.

12 WORKING AREA AND STORAGE

12.1 Working area

The working area must be clean, neat and organized in a manner as to prevent an accidental mix-up of clean and
unclean parts. For this purpose, a separate surface, located at reasonable distance from other manufacturing
operations, in particular welding operations, is required.

12.2 Products storage

Except during usage, the containers intended to receive solvents must be carefully closed and correctly labeled. In
the event of splitting up of packing, it is necessary to ensure with the suppliers of containers the compatibility
between the product and its package and has to be relabeled.

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The room where are stored solvent containers shall be in accordance with the measures of prevention bellow:
 Rooms must be efficiently aired, protected from any source of heat or ignition (sun rays, flames, sparks...).
 The ground must be fireproof, impermeable and to form retention dike, so that in the event of accidental
discharge the liquid cannot be spread outside.
 The electric material used must be adapted to the risk of explosion: it must be held in conformity with the
regulation.
 Extinguishers, a shower and a safety wash eye must be installed in the vicinity. The lanes must be
sufficiently broad for the passage of people and/or handling engines.
To ensure a safe storage of solvent containers, it is advised:
 To separate incompatible products,
 To store full and upright packing,
 Not to pile up on more than 2 heights,
 To prohibit smoking.

13 UTILITIES
The exhaustive list of utilities depends on the detailed procedure and must be determined by the subcontractor.
Air (dew point -40°C) used for purging and drying must be dry and free of oil (oil content inferior to 5ppm). This
necessitates a source supplied by a dry compressor equipped with an efficient controlled deoiler system. Attentive
equipment inspection and control are required by E&C CE before starting the degreasing operations.
Nitrogen may only be used after a derogative of the E&C CE representative.
The subcontractor must carry out a water analysis. The analysis report must be transmitted to E&C CE.
Characteristics of the water used must be as follow:
 Chloride ion content shall be inferior to 50ppm,
 Halogenated ion content (chloride ion not included): inferior to 30ppm,
 NH3 2 – ion content: inferior to 12ppm,
 Absence of suspended particles,
 Absence of pollution by grease matter with mineral or vegetal origin,
 PH  to 7.5.
If the subcontractor wants to use water that does not comply with the characteristics mentioned above, he will
submit to E&C CE a procedure of purification:
 Neutralizing by nitrous soda,
 Using filters,
 Neutralizing by caustic soda or ammonium,
 Etc.

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The proportioning of neutralizing agents depends on water analysis. The dilution of neutralizing products must be
homogeneous, and there must not be any precipitation or formation of deposits.
The subcontractor is allowed to implement a procedure of purification if it has been accepted by writing by the
representative of the site. This procedure must be joined to the file of test with water analysis report.

Table of Revisions
Section Description
All Content of the document reviewed and re-approved

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