Equinor and Tenaris marked a significant milestone in one of Brazil’s largest offshore energy projects, the Raia project, with a special event held at Tenaris’s Confab welded mill in Pindamonhangaba, São Paulo, Brazil. The celebration, attended by leaders and project teams from both organizations, highlighted the successful completion of steel pipe production for the ambitious development, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration and technical innovation driving the initiative.
A Landmark Project for Brazil’s Energy Future
The Raia project represents a transformative step for Brazil’s energy sector. At its core is the construction of a 200-kilometer subsea gas pipeline that will connect a state-of-the-art floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) unit in the Campos Basin to the gas network at the Cabiúnas terminal in Macaé. With an anticipated operational start in 2028, the project is designed to enhance Brazil’s energy self-sufficiency while incorporating advanced engineering to maximize efficiency and sustainability.
The project’s scale is underscored by its $9 billion USD investment and an estimated 1 billion barrels of oil equivalent in recoverable reserves. Once operational, the pipeline is expected to deliver up to 16 million cubic meters of natural gas daily, capable of meeting 15% of Brazil’s natural gas demand. This will not only strengthen Brazil’s energy infrastructure but also set new benchmarks for environmentally responsible energy production.
Technological Innovation and Local Industry Impact
A key component of the Raia project is the steel pipeline, with a total of 83,000 tons of pipes and coatings manufactured entirely at Tenaris’s Confab facility. The One Line™ service, which integrates production and coating under one roof, played a pivotal role in ensuring seamless execution and high-quality standards.
The pipeline’s design incorporates cutting-edge technology to address the challenges of subsea operations. The deepest sections of the pipeline, located at depths of up to 2,900 meters, feature advanced collapse-resistant pipes engineered to withstand extreme pressure and environmental conditions. To optimize performance, the pipes are coated with internal layers to enhance gas flow, external anti-corrosion protection, and concrete coatings for added negative buoyancy and mechanical durability.
Renato Catallini, President of Tenaris in Brazil, underscored the significance of the achievement, stating, “Delivering a project of this scale requires exceptional collaboration and technical expertise. We are proud to support Equinor and its partners with our advanced pipe solutions, enabling the Raia pipeline to meet the highest performance standards.”
Economic and Environmental Contributions
Beyond its technical feats, the Raia project exemplifies a commitment to local industry and sustainability. More than 99% of the steel used for the pipeline was sourced domestically, fostering the growth of Brazil’s industrial sector. Additionally, the project is expected to create up to 50,000 direct and indirect jobs over its lifecycle, offering a substantial boost to the national economy.
On the environmental front, the Raia pipeline is designed to minimize its carbon footprint and maximize resource efficiency. By incorporating advanced coatings and materials, the project reduces energy loss during gas transportation and extends the lifespan of the pipeline, contributing to sustainable operations in the long term.
Strengthening Partnerships
The collaboration between Equinor and Tenaris highlights the value of strong partnerships in achieving complex engineering goals. Both companies have combined their expertise to deliver a project that not only meets Brazil’s growing energy needs but also aligns with global standards of sustainability and innovation.
As Brazil continues to expand its offshore energy portfolio, projects like Raia will play an essential role in shaping the nation’s energy future. By leveraging local resources, advanced technologies, and collaborative efforts, the Raia project sets a precedent for future developments in the region.
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The completion of the Raia pipeline’s steel pipe production marks not just a milestone for the project but also a significant step forward for Brazil’s energy ambitions, showcasing the potential of innovation and partnership in driving sustainable progress.
