Braids and Coverings

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By admin 23 March 2017

As per API RP11 S5, supplementary layers of materials, named: braids and coverings, are
used to guarantee a specific mechanical performance characteristics. It could be either applied
over the insulation or on both sides of the jacket. Braids and coverings provide additional
strength and protect the underlying cable components. On the other hand, these materials
increase the cable diameter and the associated cost. Furthermore, they are also susceptible to
deterioration depending on well fluids and conditions.

Braids:
Braids are a woven reinforcement layer of synthetic material applied over the insulated
conductor. One of the most common braid materials is Nylon (polyamide). The main purpose
of a braid is to provide additional hoop strength for the insulation during decompression of
entrapped well gases. However, the braid could create path for migration of well fluids under
some well conditions.

NB: Nylon is susceptible to degradation when exposed to moisture at temperature above 100
C (212 F).

Barrier tapes:
Barrier tapes are commonly applied directly over the insulation to provide a produced fluids
barrier. The tapes are generally used in conjunction with and overlying braid covering. Two
types of barrier tapes are most commonly used:

Polyvinyl Fluoride (PVF) tape,

Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE)

NB: PVF is very resistant to chemicals but it has a temperature limit of 149 C (300 F). On the
other hand, ETFE is less resistant to chemicals but it has higher temperature capabilities up to 193
C (380 F).

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Extruded barrier coverings:
Extruded barrier covering is another type of barrier which uses an extruded covering in place
of braid and tape. It is extruded over and under the insulation to provide mechanical protection,
chemical resistance, decompression resistance and electrical strength.

Depending on temperature condition, there are a couple of extruded barriers commonly used:

For temperature up to 149 C (300 F), thermoplastic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVF2) and
ethylene chlorotetrafluoroethylene (ECTFE) are used,
For temperature up 204 C (400 F), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) is used.

Lead sheath:
A lead sheath or jacket is a continuous seamless covering over the insulated conductor. It is
applied onto the cable via an extrusion process and it provides an excellent gas and liquid
barrier for the insulation.

Leads are known as an effective barrier to protect the copper against H2S effects. However it
is a soft material and can be easily damaged. Also, cables with this type of covering are very
heavy and can pose handling difficulties.

NB: Bedding materials are required during the manufacture of lead sheath cable to protect the
lead surface from mechanical damage during armoring. A typical bedding material is nylon braid.

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