FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to transporting fluids (liquids, gases and semi-solids that can flow) by way of a pipeline, and in particular, a modular container piping system for overland, over-water or underwater (sea bed) transportation.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In many industries it is necessary to move large amounts of fluids over long distances quickly and cheaply. Overland pipelines, for example, provide an effective means for transporting bulk fluids and gasses such as: oils; petroleum products; gases; water; slurries; sewage and the like. Typically, the pipelines are installed on site using concrete and/or steel support footings at regular intervals. Overland pipelines can reach total lengths of up to many hundreds and even thousands of kilometres, making them expensive to install and maintain.

[0003] The pipelines are required to negotiate various terrain and surface features such as creeks, rivers, estuaries and open water, drainage channels, areas of archaeological and/or cultural sensitivity, variability in terrain and soil types, roads, and other services and infrastructure.

[0004] At present, the pipeline parts are shipped in via ship, train and/or truck and assembled on site. This is usually carried out manually and involves substantial amounts of manual handling and physical work. The construction is time consuming and costly, particularly in remote areas where personnel must be transported to and from the site and accommodated. Additionally, overland pipelines are typically open to the air, and are exposed to heat, dust and other weather elements thus causing deterioration of the pipeline itself, and also support structures, communications and other services.

[0005] In colder climates, overland pipelines are subject to snow loads, ice build-up and the freezing of components. This can lead to premature wear, failure of components, failure of the pipeline itself and deterioration of the substance being transported. Colder climates, snow and ice, also can contaminate or adversely affect the product being transported. [0006] A concern of any pipeline is that of rupture. Currently overland pipelines that burst, do so often without notice spilling the product being transported into the surrounding environment. Depending on the product, this can be catastrophic for flora and fauna and a large lawsuit can follow.

[0007] Overland pipelines also require installation in usually remote and un-touched locations. This requires an easement to be cleared that is sufficiently large enough to accommodate not only the pipeline itself, but also the equipment to install and maintain the pipeline. As a result, a relatively large tract of land is required to be cleared of vegetation. Local communities and environmental groups are often opposed to such environmental and surface disturbance.

[0008] Currently, overland pipelines also suffer from degradation over time due to being exposed to the elements and the outside environment. This may result in premature failure due to corrosion, cracking and general fatigue.

[0009] Overland pipelines also expand and contract with temperature variations. Such expansion and contraction, if not catered for in the design of the overall system, may lead to failure of the pipeline itself. As such, modified sections, in the form of loops or zig-zag sections, are typically placed into the run of the pipeline to accommodate change in length due to thermal expansion and contraction.

OBJECT

[0010] It is the object of the present invention to substantially overcome or ameliorate one or more of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to at least provide a useful alternative.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011] In one embodiment the present invention provides a modular container pipe system including:

a container having a top, a base, side walls and end walls; and

at least one length of pipe to be contained within the container;

a pipe frame housed within the container in an operationally ready state, wherein in a first configuration, the side walls and end walls are fixed to form an enclosure around the piping frame for transport of the piping system, and in a second configuration, the end walls are removable to allow the piping frame to be extended away from the container, and at least a portion of one of the side walls being removable to provide access to the piping frame during use, so that the container and the piping frame are transported and installed as a single unit on site.

[0012] In one embodiment, the removable side wall is pivotably attached at the base and configured to open outwardly until generally parallel with the base to form a platform or walkway.

[0013] In another embodiment, the removable panel may be slidably attached at or within the base of the container and configured to extend in a parallel manner from within the container to form the platform or walkway. Grating, handrails or the like may be added for additional safety.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the modular piping system includes a plurality of piping frames and brackets, each frame being housed in a respective container in an operationally ready state, and each modular piping system being connectable to an adjacent modular piping system to form a continuous run.

[0015] In one embodiment, a plurality of piping frames may be housed in a single container in an operationally ready state to allow for the transport, installation and use of more than one pipe line. Preferably, the piping frames are housed in a vertical configuration, although may also be housed in a horizontal or other configuration depending on the need or application. That is, the containers can be stacked on top of each other, side to side or end to end.

[0016] The container may be a standard 20 ft (5885 mm) or 40 ft (12,033 mm) shipping container. Alternatively, the container may be of any other suitable size to fit the piping frame or application. Typically, the containers will be assembled offsite and delivered to site ready to go.

[0017] Preferably, the modular piping systems may be connectable in multiple configurations including a horizontally straight and level configuration suitable for level terrain, a vertical and/or horizontal configuration to negotiate undulating terrain, or a horizontally straight and curved configuration to negotiate turns and the like. For example, a configuration may include successive piping systems connected in a straight profile and successive piping systems connected to form a curved profile in any plane. It is envisioned that piping systems may be connectable along a curved plane in any direction. The piping systems may also be connected to span terrain such as water, roads, and the like. In one embodiment, the piping systems are connectable via a strengthened interface to accommodate distances greater than the length of one standard shipping container. This allows multiple piping systems to be connected to clear one span.

[0018] In one embodiment, successive lengths of piping may be joined to another length of piping in another and adjacent container, by way of a joining flange or adapter section.

[0019] Each container will be fitted with the ability to be connected to an electrical earthing point.

[0020] In one embodiment, the access and platform / walkway may be covered by a roof or similar protective structure. The removable panel may be pivotably attached at the top or upper portion of the container and configured to open outwardly until at an angle or parallel with the base to form a roof or cover. The access means may also include a removable panel slidably attached at or within a top portion of a side panel of the container. The panel being slidable in a parallel manner from within the container to form the roof or cover.

[0021] In another embodiment, the access means includes a platform or walkway within the shipping container.

[0022] Preferably, the container is fitted with fixtures and features such as chains, hooks, slings, lifting points, fork tine openings and conventional container securing mechanisms to facilitate transport using conventional transport means, such as train or truck, and other equipment suitable to shipping containers.

[0023] Preferably, the piping system includes all required piped services housed within the container. In one embodiment this may include compressed air lines and/or hoses; fresh, fire and waste-water reticulation pipes and hoses, electrical wiring and communication systems.

[0024] Preferably, the piping system may include a fire protection system fitted within the container. In one embodiment, this may be a water deluge-type system reticulated through, within or along the container, and to successive containers. In another embodiment, this may be a reticulated gas or other flame suppressant-type mixture, substance or material. The system may also include suitable leakage alarms and the like.

[0025] Preferably, the piping system includes insulated electrical conductors, cabling and other associated power reticulation devices fitted within, or to, the container.

[0026] Preferably, the piping system includes communications conductors, cabling, transmitters, receivers and other associated communications devices fitted within, or to, the container.

[0027] Preferably, the piping system includes lighting systems within the container to illuminate the interior and/or exterior of the container.

[0028] Preferably, the container includes attachment means for connecting to an adjacent container to form a continuous piping run. The attachment means may include a mounting plate to seal the containers from the outside environment. The attachment means also includes an optional mounting plate to connect two or more successive containers together in order to span a greater distance between successive foundations than the span achieved with a single container. The attachment means may also include provision for the connection between successive containers, of the piping frame, itself, any walkway or platform within each container and any services, power, reticulated medium or communications within the container and to and from successive containers.

[0029] Preferably, the container is configured to securely attach to ground footings. In one embodiment, ground footings may consist of a concrete footing with appropriate mechanisms to secure the container in place. In another embodiment, the footings may consist of a purely steel structure embedded securely into the ground. In another embodiment, the footings may be of a combination of concrete and steel, or any other material deemed appropriate. The footings may also include spring means and the like to allow movement in earthquake zones.

[0030] In another embodiment, the piping system includes a skid plate for mounting directly onto the ground. The skid plate is formed from a suitable material that allows the container’s ground contact foot print to be enlarged or altered than otherwise provided by the ground contact points of the container itself. The skid plate facilitates movement of the piping modules along the ground without the need for lifting and transporting by specialised equipment. [0031] In another embodiment, adjustment mechanisms are fitted to the container to independently adjust the height, position or orientation of the container relative to ground.

Preferably, the container includes telescopic legs adjustable in length to retract within the container and extend outwardly from the container. Still preferably, the container includes locking or other securing means to secure the legs in a selected position. The locking means can include a bolt, pin, hydraulic, pneumatic, screw or any other suitable mechanism.

[0032] In another embodiment, the container is mountable on floating devices for use over water. This means may include pontoons, catamaran hulls or any other floatation means.

[0033] In another embodiment, the piping frame is mountable to rails laid on the ground to facilitate movement of the piping system for adjustment, transport, installation or as the foundation of the container system itself.

[0034] In another embodiment, the container is mountable to another supporting frame or structure secured in the ground. The frame or structure may be formed of steel, concrete, or other suitable material. The supporting frame is configured to raise the container, or series of containers, and hence piping system above the terrain or other surface feature.

[0035] In another embodiment, the container is mountable on a series of supporting rails or other devices that allow the container to move horizontally with respect to the ground if desired.

[0036] In another embodiment, the container is mountable on a series of supporting rails or other devices that allow the container to move horizontally with respect to the ground and longitudinally with respect to other containers in the overall run of containers.

[0037] In another embodiment, the container may be fitted with suitable enclosure material or panelling to one or more walls, top, and base in order to protect the piping frame from the outside environment. The panelling may include insulation to attenuate noise and vibration and/or control the temperature within the container. The panelling may also include the steel wall material already found in shipping containers.

[0038] In another embodiment, the container may be fitted with a sealed internal barrier to prevent any release of fluid, gas or other substance from any piping within the container, escaping to the outside environment. [0039] In another embodiment, the container may include means disposed on or within the container to generate electricity. This means may include solar panelling, other photovoltaic surfaces and devices, wind turbines, or mechanical or electromagnetic devices configured to generate power from the movement or flow of material.

[0040] In another embodiment, the container may include additional structural members configured to support substantial loading, for example due to land and/or backfill material, to enable the piping system to be buried or installed in a sub-terrain position. Additionally, additional structural members may be installed for strengthening the container for use in other loading conditions or situation that requires stiffening or strengthening of the container above that normally provided by the container itself. Preferably, the structural members include deterioration control protecting mechanisms to prevent corrosion, rusting or other deformation of members and components. Structural members may include cross-bracing in a vertical, horizontal or other angled configuration and located in any plane within the container.

[0041] In another embodiment, the container may be constructed such that it may be installed on the surface and back-filled alongside and over the top of the container for environmental reasons.

[0042] In another embodiment, the containers may be fitted with a device or structure, or other system for the transport of a piping system or frame longitudinally along the inside of the container. The device allows the piping frame within the container to be moved length-wise within the container and also within adjacent containers for the purpose of lengthening or shortening the overall piping length, the installation or removal of the piping system from the container, or to temporarily remove a section of the continuous piping system. The device facilitates successive containers to be added to the overall piping system in order to lengthen the system incrementally and install the actual pipeline at the same time. This means may be by way of overhead monorail, overhead pipe system, or other fixed overhead transport mechanism. This means may also be by way of floor-mounted rails, tracks, rollers or other transport mechanism.

[0043] In another embodiment, the container may be fitted with external transport rails or other devices to facilitate to installation or transport of successive containers. [0044] In one embodiment, the container may be fitted with a lifting or hoisting system for the management of heavy components within the container.

[0045] In another embodiment, the container may be fitted with a monorail, series of rails, or other transport mechanisms for the transport longitudinally of personnel, materials or other items along a container or along a successive run of containers.

[0046] In one embodiment, the container may be fitted with a ventilation system to provide fresh air into the container, or vent fouled air from the container. In another embodiment, the container may be fitted with temperature or atmospheric control systems and devices to control the internal environment within the container.

[0047] In one embodiment, the container may be stacked more than a single container in height.

[0048] In another embodiment, the containers may also be joined laterally, along the longer side, to form more than one piping system in a parallel fashion.

[0049] In another embodiment, the containers may also be provided with access and egress means vertically or horizontally from the container. This may be by stairs, ladder, walkway, ramp or other access means.

[0050] In one embodiment, the containers may be arranged in such a fashion that allows for the piping within the container to expand and contract due to thermal changes. In embodiment, this may see a section of containers on-end, in a vertical fashion such that pipes can be looped within. In another embodiment, this may see containers installed in a side-by-side fashion horizontally to accommodate a looped or zig-zag section of piping that allows for thermal expansion and contraction.

[0051] In one embodiment, containers may be fitted with designated monitoring stations.

[0052] In one embodiment, containers may be fitted with means to launch and store a“pig” for the purposes of pipeline cleaning, inspection and internal repair.

[0053] In one embodiment, containers may be fitted with means to pump fluids, pastes or gases further along the pipeline. [0054] In one embodiment, containers may be designed and constructed as to be able to connect another pipeline run into the existing pipeline at any angle relative to the pipeline being connected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0056] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a piping system, comprised of multiple container modules, according to the present invention in which the piping system is installed along the ground;

[0057] Figure 2 shows one embodiment of the piping system of Figure 1, detailing one embodiment of the mating flange/adapter as used to close and connect the gap between each successive pipe in each container module;

[0058] Figure 3 shows the piping system of Figure 1 mounted on concrete or steel-type foundations secured into the ground, and wherein a walkway/platform for access to the piping frame is located within the container;

[0059] Figure 4 shows the piping system of Figure 1 on steel or concrete supporting frames and with two pipes of different diameters installed within the container module;

[0060] Figure 5 shows the piping system of Figure 1 on steel or concrete supporting frames and with one large pipe of 2000mm diameter, installed within the container module;

[0061] Figure 6 shows the piping system of Figure 1 on steel or concrete supporting frames and with multiple pipes of l50mm (6”) diameter, installed on suitable racks or supporting frames within the container module, along with a centralised walkway;

[0062] Figure 7 shows the piping system of Figure 1 on steel or concrete supporting frames and with a single pipe of approximately 1, 220mm (48”) diameter, with an overhead monorail for the lifting and/or movement of components within the container module, or along successive container modules; [0063] Figure 8 shows the piping system arrangement of Figure 6 with a powered transport system for the movement of personnel and/or materials within the container, or along successive containers and centralised walkway;

[0064] Figure 9 shows the piping system of Figure 1 with an internal and external walkway for personnel;

[0065] Figure 10 shows a piping system having removable, movable or fixed solar panels on either, several or all sides of the container;

[0066] Figure 11 shows a piping system having fixed solar panels on either, several or all sides of the container;

[0067] Figure 12 shows a piping system according to a further embodiment having a container adapted for burial within the terrain;

[0068] Figure 13 shows a piping system according to a further embodiment having a container adapted for burial by overlain fill material;

[0069] Figure 14 shows the piping system according to another embodiment of the present invention mounted on a pontoon, or catamaran, or other type of buoyancy assembly in water;

[0070] Figure 15 shows a floating catamaran type and floating pontoon type buoyancy assembly connectable to the container;

[0071] Figure 12 shows a floating pontoon type buoyancy assembly;

[0072] Figure 15 shows the container and the relevant fixing, securing and lashing points;

[0073] Figure 16 shows a piping system that is joined along the longest side in order to create multiple piping runs in parallel;

[0074] Figure 17 shows a piping system that is stacked in multiples and joined for stability; [0075] Figure 18 shows an elevation view of the piping system of Figure 1, showing multiple containers installed such as to span across a body of water, road, obstacle or surface feature;

[0076] Figure 19 shows the piping system of Figure 18, and details the location of a

span/joining flange allowing multiple containers to be supported across as a single span;

[0077] Figure 20 shows a piping system according to a further embodiment having a container adapted with an external and foldable walkway and external handrail;

[0078] Figure 21 shows a piping system according to a further embodiment, having a floor- mounted system for the transport of personnel and/or equipment within the container and longitudinally along successive containers, along with associated walkways;

[0079] Figure 22 shows a piping system whereby the container is mounted and connected to the ground on wheel, or an alternate type of skid or moveable system, allowing the container to move horizontally with respect to the ground;

[0080] Figure 23 shows a piping system whereby the piping frame is mounted within the container on wheels and rails, or an alternate movable mechanism that allows the frame to move within the container and along multiple successive containers;

[0081] Figure 24 shows a piping frame installed in the container and supported by an overhead rail, allowing the piping system to traverse longitudinally along the container or successive run of containers; and

[0082] Figure 25 shows a piping system whereby the container has been modified and fitted with external rails, or other transport means, to facilitate to movement of personnel and/or materials and/or other containers for installation and along successive containers in the run.

[0083] Figure 26 shows a plan view of a piping system whereby a number of containers have been turned perpendicular to the main run of containers and in a horizontal plane, for the purpose of installing a section of piping able to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction. [0084] Figure 27 shows an elevation view of a piping system whereby a number of containers have been turned perpendicular to the main run of containers and in a vertical plane, for the purpose of installing a section of piping able to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction

[0085] Figure 28 shows a plan view of a piping system whereby one pipeline enters and intersects the flow of another pipeline. While shown in a perpendicular manner, this can be at any appropriate angle given the circumstances of installation.

[0086] Figure 29 shows a plan view of a piping system whereby a number of container modules are situated proximate to one another such that a deviation is created in the main pipeline, allowing a“Pig” or other inspection tool or means to be able to enter the pipeline. For clarity, valves and other flow restrictions are not shown and will be specific to the circumstances of installation.

[0087] Figure 30 shows a plan view of a piping system whereby a number of containers are situated proximate to one another for the purposes of installing and operating a pumping and monitoring station.

[0088] Figure 31 shows an elevation view of a piping system whereby a number of containers are supported above natural ground level by a supporting structure and joined with span/joining flanges, allowing the containers to span across a surface feature or impediment.

[0089] Figure 32 shows a section view of a piping system whereby a number of containers are supported above natural ground level by a supporting structure and joined with span/joining flanges, allowing the containers to span across a surface feature or impediment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0090] Figures 1 to 32 show various embodiments of a modular container pipe system 10 according to the present invention. The piping system 10 includes a container 12 having a top 14, a base 16, side walls 18 and end walls 20. A piping frame 22 housed within the container 12 in an operational ready state containing at least one length of pipe 5. Wherein in a first configuration, the side walls 18 and end walls 20 are fixed to form an enclosure around the piping frame 22 for transport of the piping system 10. In a second configuration the end walls 20 are removable to allow extension of the piping frame 22 therethrough, and at least a portion of one of the side, top or bottom walls or surfaces 18 is removable to provide access to the piping frame 22 during use, so that the container 12 and the piping frame 22 can be transported and installed as a single unit on site.

[0091] As shown in Figure 1 and 2, the length of the pre-installed individual pipes 82 of the piping system 10 and frame 22 housed within the container 12 is shorter than the overall length of the container 12. This is to prevent damage during transportation. To complete the gap between successive pipes 82 a closing flange/adapter pipe section 2 is installed between each pipe 82 section to form a continuous piping system 10.

[0092] As shown in Figure 1, the container 12 may be a standard size (40 ft or 12 m) shipping container or any other appropriate size to accommodate the piping frame 22 and/or the application. The piping system 10 is shipped as a modular unit to an installation site.

Accordingly, transport costs are limited to the shipping container 12 which is typically not weight dependent and easy to move to virtually anywhere on the planet.

[0093] It is envisioned that other container widths and heights are also applicable. In this system 10, container 12 may be that of a modified cube, having a width greater than a standard container. The larger width allows for an access platform 26 within the container 12. This negates the need for a fold-down or slide-out walkway 54 to accommodate pedestrian traffic and allows an internal walkway 26 to be installed. The additional width also allows for more than one piping frame 22 to be installed across the width of the container 12. The container 12 may also be of increased height to accommodate additional piping frames 12.

[0094] As best seen in Figures 9 and 20, the container 12 includes removable panels 54 which can be positioned adjacent the base 16 to serve as a platform / walkway 26 along the piping frame 22 and also for access to the piping frame 22.

[0095] As shown in Figures 9 and 20, a side wall 18 is removed from its transport configuration and attached to the base 16 so that it extends outwardly from and generally parallel to the base 16. It may also be rotated from its transport to its operating configuration. Walkway grating 54 and handrails 53 are already included or added later for safety.

[0096] Figures 3, 4, 6 to 13, 15, 16, 17, 20 to 32 show a piping system 10 having a platform / walkway 26 within the container 12. In this configuration the top 14 acts as a roof from environmental conditions, with the side walls 18 and floor 16 as optional in an operating configuration.

[0097] In use multiple piping systems 10 are connected in series to form a continuous run. Each container 12 includes a piping frame 22, or multiple piping frames 22, along with any associated piping, reticulated services 40, electrical cabling and devices, communication and lighting equipment, fire suppression 41, vents 43, walkways 26, lighting and any other required installations which can be connected with an adjacent container 12. This may also include continuous runs of high- or low-tension electrical power.

[0098] As shown in Figures 1 to 32 multiple modular piping systems 10 may be installed to form a continuous piping run. The piping systems 10 may be installed in multiple

configurations including a horizontally straight and level configuration suitable for level and flat terrain, a combination of vertical and/or horizontal configurations to negotiate undulating terrain in a vertical plan or a horizontally straight and curved configuration to negotiate turns in a horizontal plan, or in any combination of both vertical and horizontal curves and the like.

[0099] As shown in Figure 27, piping systems 10 may be installed in a vertical orientation 70. Multiple containers 12 may be stacked end-on-end in a vertical manner 70, and stacked in a vertical arrangement along the longest edge such that the top 14 of the container 12 supports the base 16 of the container 12 above.

[0100] As shown in Figures 1 to 32, the piping system 10 is typically mounted on pier-type foundations 30. It is envisaged that the containers will be appropriately affixed to the piers by mechanical fixings of either steel or another appropriate material. Pile/pier footings 30 are positioned at each end of each container 10 equating to every 40 ft (12 metres), or other distance as appropriate. If multiple containers are adjoined to form one rigid structure, the pile/pier footings 30 may be at a greater distance than 40 ft (12 metres) if connected via an appropriate connecting mechanism 64 (Figure 31). The container 10 is securely attached to the footings 30 with appropriate mechanisms. The footings 30 may be concrete or steel depending on terrain and application.

[0101] As shown in Figure 4, the piping system 10 may be comprised of more than one pipe 5,

6 and piping frame 22. Different pipe diameters, types and construction materials can be accommodated within the container 12. Similarly endless types of piping frame 22 arrangements and designs are possible.

[0102] As shown in Figure 5, the piping system 10 may be comprised of one large diameter pipe 7 that takes up the majority of available space within the container 12.

[0103] As shown in Figure 6, the piping system 10 may be comprised of many smaller pipes 8 of varying diameters, types and uses. These can be arranged in a rack type format 9 along the inside walls of the container 18 or along the middle of the container, or in any other

configuration as desired. This can accommodate a combination of piped and non-piped services (eg power, communications etc).

[0104] As shown in Figure 8, the piping system 10 may include an overhead monorail or other similar means 37 for lifting, manipulating or moving tools, equipment or additional piping 82 sections, ideally alongside the installed pipe 5, or pipe of other suitable diameter.

[0105] As shown in Figure 8, a system for the transport of personnel and/or materials has also been provided for. This is by means of an overhead monorail 37 and powered traction mechanism 31, carrying and moving an appropriate carrying/transport frame 52 or series of frames.

[0106] As shown in Figure 9 and 20, an external walkway 54 and associated handrail 53 may be installed to aid personnel access and transport along the piping system 10 and containers 12.

This walkway may be part of the side wall 18 and extend from within the base of the container 16 or rotate from the base of the container 16 and from a stored/transport position into a horizontal/operating position. An additional section may rotate from above to form a protective overhead canopy.

[0107] As shown in Figure 10, movable and/or angled solar or other photo-voltaic panels 46 may be added as a power source. These may be mobile or able to move/rotate to maximise the amount of sunlight being received. Such devices may also include other non-solar energy sources (eg wind etc).

[0108] As shown in Figure 11, fixed solar or other photo-voltaic panels 55 may be added as a power source. [0109] It is envisaged that a scenario may be desirable whereby the piping system 10 may be buried in a below ground level 58 arrangement. As best shown in Figure 12, in this scenario a trench would be excavated, the containers 12 installed and back-filled 59 in order to provide protection and cover over the top. Appropriate ventilation and access/egress means would be provided.

[0110] It is also envisaged that a scenario may be desirable whereby the piping system 10 may be installed on the surface and above ground level 58 and then covered with surface soil, rock or other material 60. Appropriate ventilation and access/egress means would be provided. (See Fig. 13)

[0111] It is envisioned that the piping system 10, is suitable for use in on-water applications. As best shown in Figure 14, the containers 12 and piping system 10 is installed on floating devices to form a continuous piping run 82, or multiple piping runs above water level 61. Depending on the installation circumstance, side walls 18, top 14, and bottom 16 panels may be left installed or removed as desired.

[0112] It is envisioned that a multitude of on-water mounting methods are suitable. For example, the container 12 may be mounted on pontoons 34 or catamarans 36 (see Figures 14 and 15), allowing the piping system 10 to be used over water. This helps to reduce Capital Expenditure costs for port construction and negates the need for costly barging or other shipping of bulk solids materials across or along rivers, estuaries, open water or other waterways. This also helps to avoid the costly construction of marine structures that must be anchored to the under-water floor.

[0113] As shown in Figure 16, containers 12 forming modular piping systems 10 may be positioned beside each other and secured thereto 62. This allows for multiple piping runs to be installed and run simultaneously.

[0114] As shown in Figure 17, containers 12 forming modular piping systems 10 may be stacked on top of each other and secured thereto 63. This allows for multiple piping runs to be installed and run simultaneously.

[0115] As shown in Figure 18 and 19, successive modules 10 may be connected in a generally straight profile and span a waterway 28, surface feature or other installation or the like. In this arrangement whereby multiple containers 12 are joined and are required to be un-suspended for more than one container length, a joining mechanism 64 will be used to provide a structurally secure connection between successive containers 12.

[0116] As shown in Figure 21, a piping system 18 within a container 12 may require the installation of a transport system appropriate for personnel, goods, tools or materials along the length of the system. In this figure, a cart/vehicle/train 65 or similar is supported by wheels 66 running along floor-mounted rails 39. The rails 39 are arranged such that a safe walkway 26 still exists within the container 12.

[0117] As shown in Figure 22, the piping system 10 may be installed on a series of wheels, rollers, slides or skids 32 and associated ground supports 33 for mounting such that horizontal movement, laterally with respect to the pipeline direction, may be tolerated. This is to accommodate any differential and lateral movement in the pipeline, such as across a fault zone or other unstable surface structure.

[0118] An alternate to having pipes pre-installed in container modules, during installation the piping frame 22 may either be pulled along as each successive module 10 is installed and joined to a free end, utilising a floor-mounted rail arrangement or other system as shown in Figure 23, or may be installed in one operation after all modules 10 are in place. This arrangement also allows the pipeline to move along the longitudinal axis of the piping system 10, is desired.

[0119] Another alternate to having pipes pre-installed in container modules, during installation the piping frame 22 may either be pulled along as each successive module 10 is installed and joined to a free end, utilising a monorail arrangement 37 or other system as shown in Figure 24, or may be installed in one operation after all modules 10 are in place. This system utilises an overhead monorail 37 or series of monorails, an associated transport/haulage mechanism 31 and a frame 67 to carry/suspend the pipeline 82 itself.

[0120] As shown in Figure 25, the modular piping systems may be installed over the top of one another by utilising a specialised transport sled, mounted on wheels 50 situated on rails 51 or similar on top of the container 12, and lowered into place from above. The modular piping systems 10 may also be installed by crane or any other appropriate lifting mechanism from any side. [0121] As shown in Figure 26, the modular piping system 10 may be arranged in such a way as to allow for the overall piping system’s thermal expansion and contraction. As the main length of piping expands or contracts, the bend/curved section 68 allows the expansion and contraction to occur in a horizontal plane, minimising the risk of pipe 82 rupture or failure. Access to the bend/curved section is via walkway 26, in similar fashion to the remainder of the piping system 10

[0122] As shown in Figure 27, the modular piping system 10 may be arranged in such a way as to allow for the overall piping system’s thermal expansion and contraction. As the main length of piping expands or contracts, the bend/curved section 70 allows the expansion and contraction to occur in a vertical plane, minimising the risk of pipe 82 rupture or failure. Access internally to the bend/curved section can be by way of ladder 69 or other appropriate personnel elevation means.

[0123] As shown in Figure 28, the modular piping system 10 allows for one or more separate piping branches 71 to join and connect into other pipes in the system. By adding modules 10 at any required angle, multiple pipelines can be joined to form a network. In Figure 28 the branch pipeline 71 is joined at right angles 84, although any appropriate angle by design can be selected.

[0124] As shown in Figure 29, the modular piping system 10 allows for the introduction of a “Pig” into the piping run 82. Typically such“Pigs” are used to travel the interior of the pipeline 82 and clean, inspect, scan and repair the internal surfaces of the pipeline 82. The“Pig” is introduced in a section 75 directly off, but typically in-line with the main pipeline run. The main pipeline run then is routed around the portal area 75 at an angle 74 to allow the pipeline 82 to continue. For clarity, valving and other control mechanisms to isolate either the pipeline 82 or portal area 75 are not shown as this will depend on the design of pipeline and pig used. Access to the pig portal area is via doors in the container 73 and a large valve closure in the portal section itself 72.

[0125] As shown in Figure 30, the modular piping system 10 allows for the installation of pumping and monitoring stations 86. Pumping stations 86 can be used to increase the flow and/or pressure within the pipeline, and monitoring stations 86 to monitor various parameters within the pipe 82 or surrounding environment, both inside or outside the container. The pumping and monitoring station 86 can be fitted completed with required electrical distribution 76 and controls 7, pumps 79 and electrical motors 78. Access to both the pumping station and pumps are via doors 73 in the containers 12.

[0126] As shown in Figure 31 and 32, the piping system 10 and containers 12 may also be installed on a supporting structure 80 formed from steel, concrete, or other suitable material. To aid personnel and material access, a walkway 26 is included in the typical container module 12. Suitable concrete foundations 81 upon prepared ground level 58 support the entire structure. Joining mechanisms 64 will be used to provide a structurally secure connection between successive containers 12.

[0127] Although the invention has been described with reference to a specific example, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in other forms.