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.