GRP Pipeline Inspector

GRP Pipeline Inspector (TPI / QA-QC Inspector)

Qualification Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in GRP piping inspection, preferably in oil & gas, petrochemical, refinery, water transmission, desalination, and offshore projects.
• Knowledge of GRP manufacturing processes (Filament Winding, Centrifugal Casting, Hand Lay-up).
• Familiar with:
• AWWA C950
• ASTM D3517, D2996, D4161
• ISO 14692 (Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries - GRP Piping)
• ASME B31.3 & B31.4 (where applicable)
• Client specifications such as Saudi Aramco, ADNOC, KNPC, KOC, PDO, QP, etc.
• NDT Level II certification is an advantage.
• Valid coating/composite inspection certification is preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing Inspection

• Review approved ITPs, procedures, drawings, and material specifications.
• Verify raw materials:
• Resin
• Glass fiber
• Catalyst and additives
• Witness pipe manufacturing activities.
• Verify pipe dimensions, wall thickness, stiffness class, pressure rating, and pipe marking.
• Monitor curing process and quality records.
• Witness factory acceptance testing (FAT).

Incoming Material Inspection

• Verify delivered pipes, fittings, flanges, couplings, gaskets, and adhesives.
• Check for transportation and handling damage.
• Confirm traceability and material certificates.

Installation Inspection

• Verify trench preparation and bedding requirements.
• Confirm pipe alignment, joint preparation, and assembly.
• Inspect laminated joints and adhesive joints.
• Verify torque values for mechanical couplings.
• Ensure installation is according to manufacturer recommendations and project specifications.

Quality Control Activities

• Visual inspection of pipes and fittings.
• Dimensional inspection.
• Wall thickness verification.
• Barcol hardness testing (where specified).
• Laminate inspection.
• Joint integrity verification.
• Inspection of field-fabricated spools and fittings.

Hydrostatic and Leakage Testing

• Witness hydrostatic pressure testing.
• Verify calibrated pressure gauges and test equipment.
• Ensure test pressure and holding time comply with project specifications.
• Monitor leakage, pressure drops, and structural integrity.
• Review test records and charts.

Documentation Review

• Review:
• Material Test Certificates (MTC)
• Manufacturer Data Reports
• QC Records
• Calibration Certificates
• Hydrotest Records
• As-Built Documentation
• Prepare inspection reports and punch lists.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of composite materials and GRP systems.
• Ability to read isometric drawings and P&IDs.
• Familiarity with QA/QC documentation and inspection procedures.
• Report writing and client communication skills.
• Good understanding of offshore and onshore pipeline construction practices.