There are product developments that are the subject of much discussion.
And there are product innovations that are actually being put to use.
OurGluBi® pipe falls into the second category. The pipe has been delivered, installed and is now in operation – in several projects worldwide. Under real offshore conditions, using the intended installation method and meeting the requirements that today’s projects actually demand.
For decision-makers in the oil and gas industry, this is precisely the crucial difference: its ‘fit for purpose’ has been proven. This provides planning certainty.
Why reel-lay calls for new solutions
Mechanically clad pipes have been an integral part of demanding onshore and offshore pipelines for decades. Over many years, more than a thousand kilometres of such pipelines have been installed worldwide. The technology is well-established, and its performance is well known.
As the reel-lay method has grown in importance, standards have also shifted. Reel-lay is regarded as one of the most cost-effective offshore laying methods – fast, efficient and logistically advantageous. For mechanically clad pipes, this method of installation was long only feasible with additional measures: internal pressure during reeling or increased CRA liner thicknesses ensured the necessary flexibility, but led to greater weight, increased logistical complexity and, in some cases, a significant rise in costs.
The objective behind the development was therefore clearly defined: ‘
’ – a mechanically clad pipe with a diameter range of 6" to 18" that can be reeled – without internal pressure and without increased CRA liner thickness.
Technically sound. Functionally advanced.
GluBi® is a mechanically clad pipe featuring an additional, innovative composite concept, specifically developed for use in the reel-lay process. It builds on tried-and-tested design principles and extends them in such a way that reelability is possible without the need for additional measures.
A key factor for projects is that the pipe can be used in accordance with the familiar design and fabrication rules. It requires no additional calculations, no new welding processes and no project-specific special approvals.
This approach has already proven its worth: the solution has been successfully supplied, installed and commissioned in recent years.
Why using it pays off early on
The added value of the solution becomes apparent during the project process. Weight, logistics and installation costs are reduced; laying concepts can be finalised earlier; interfaces become clearer; and risks are more manageable.
The economic benefits arise both at sea and as early as the initial project phase – where installation methods can be finalised and additional measures avoided. For decision-makers, this means, above all, planning certainty: fewer bespoke solutions, fewer coordination efforts, fewer adjustments – and thus a more robust cost and schedule profile throughout the entire project.
Thinking ahead – with industrial maturity
The solution is the result of consistent development work. The path to this outcome was characterised by extensive trials, tests and evaluations under realistic conditions. Over several years, the long-standing expertise of experienced specialists was specifically drawn upon to guide the pipe concept step by step towards industrial maturity.
The aim was to carefully adapt tried-and-tested methods whilst deliberately exploring new avenues, questioning assumptions and probing technical limits. This development work required courage, perseverance and a willingness to take responsibility for new approaches – always with the clear aim of creating a solution that stands up to the demands of day-to-day project work.
The production approach is largely based on tried-and-tested processes and has been specifically refined to ensure stable, predictable delivery. As one of the world’s leading suppliers of clad pipes, BUTTING has deliberately positioned this solution as an extension of its existing portfolio – as an additional option for projects where reel-lay is essential without the need for additional measures.
“A solution is only relevant if it can be reliably supplied, installed and used in day-to-day project operations. That is exactly whatGluBi® demonstrates today,” says Marc Brauße, Head of the Clad Pipes business unit. “And in 2025, two further successful deliveries have now been added, confirming the added value for our customers,” he adds.
When the project and the solution are a perfect match
This solution is not an option for every project.
However, where reel-lay is planned and additional measures are to be avoided at an early stage, it delivers its greatest economic impact – without creating new technical or organisational dependencies.
The most critical moment in an offshore project does not occur at sea. It comes earlier – when the course is set.
That is precisely when it is decided whether complexity will increase or remain manageable.
Now is the right time to act.
Let’s talk about it.
BUTTING – more than pipes – for a better quality of life
