Pipeline engineering critical assessment (ECA) is an analytical procedure, based upon fractur mechanics, that allows determination of the maximum tolerable sizes for defects and imperfection of the pipeline weld. ECA is part of integrity cycle which is implemented to evaluate the machanical integrity of pipeline having defect size beyond acceptance limit design criterion.
Marine pipelines for the transportation of oil and gas have become a safe and reliable part of the expanding infrastructure put in place for the development of the valuable resources below the world's seas and oceans.