CO₂ Storage Solutions
Permanent geological storage is the final and most critical step of the CCUS value chain. Injection wells must safely contain CO₂ over decades while withstanding demanding operating conditions, including pressure cycling, low temperatures, corrosive environments and evolving reservoir conditions.
Combining premium OCTG, VAM® gas-tight connections and advanced materials expertise, Vallourec helps operators build storage infrastructure designed for safe, reliable and long-term CO₂ containment.
Ensuring long-term well integrity for permanent CO₂ storage
Why CO₂ Storage Is Challenging
Maintaining well integrity throughout the life of a storage project requires addressing the combined effects of low temperatures, impurities and formation water. These factors can impact both materials performance and sealing integrity over time.
Managing impurities
The composition of captured CO₂ varies depending on the capture source and technology. Impurities such as oxygen, H₂S, SOx and NOx can partition into the aqueous phase and influence corrosion mechanisms, material compatibility and long-term storage performance.
Preserving Sealability at Low Temperatures
During injection and depressurization events, significant temperature drops can occur within the well system. Both tubular materials and premium connections must maintain mechanical integrity and gas-tight sealability under these demanding conditions.
Protecting Against Corrosion
The interaction between CO₂, impurities and formation water can create corrosive environments, particularly during shut-in periods. Material selection therefore plays a critical role in preserving well integrity and preventing long-term degradation.
Our CO₂ Storage Solutions
Vallourec supports CO₂ storage projects through a complete portfolio of premium tubular solutions designed to maintain containment throughout the life of the well.
Material Selection for Long-Term Storage Integrity
CCS projects require a detailed understanding of the interactions between reservoir conditions, impurities, materials and well design. Vallourec supports operators from the FEED phase through services including:
- Material selection studies
- Corrosion risk assessments
- In-situ condition modelling
- CO₂ stream compatibility evaluations
- Fit-for-purpose testing
- Well integrity engineering support
By addressing storage risks early in the project lifecycle, operators can make informed decisions and optimize long-term asset performance.
Premium OCTG and VAM® Connections
Vallourec’s storage solutions combine premium OCTG pipes with industry-leading VAM® gas-tight connections engineered to provide reliable sealability under demanding CCS operating conditions. VAM TOP® and VAM® 21 have been qualified for CO₂ injection applications through Vallourec’s dedicated CCS qualification program:
Every storage project presents unique challenges depending on reservoir characteristics, operating conditions and CO₂ stream composition. Vallourec offers a broad portfolio of materials including:
- Carbon steel solutions
- Chromium grades: VM S13Cr 95/110 ksi
- Corrosion-resistant alloys (CRA): such as VM 22 or VM25S proprietary grades
This allows operators to select the optimum balance between corrosion resistance, low-temperature performance and project economics.
A Qualification Protocol Designed Specifically for CO₂ Storage
CO₂ injection wells are exposed to operating conditions that are not fully addressed by traditional oil and gas connection qualification standards. Low temperatures, pressure cycling, rapid depressurization and the specific thermodynamic behavior of CO₂ create additional challenges for connection sealability and long-term well integrity.
To address these challenges, Vallourec has developed a dedicated CCUS qualification protocol for premium connections. Built on API 5C5 requirements and enhanced with CCS-specific testing, the protocol evaluates connection performance under conditions representative of real CO₂ injection and storage operations.
The protocol includes:
- Low-temperature cycling representative of normal operating conditions
- Exposure to temperatures as low as -80°C during blowout scenarios
- Thermal transient testing with significant temperature differentials between pin and box
- Sealability assessment under combined mechanical and thermal loads
- Rapid depressurization evaluations
Using this qualification methodology, Vallourec has successfully qualified VAM® TOP, VAM® 21 and CLEANWELL® solutions for CCS applications, demonstrating their ability to maintain sealability and integrity under demanding CO₂ storage conditions.
Qualified dope-free solution
For operators seeking cleaner and more efficient operations, Vallourec’s CLEANWELL® dope-free technology is also qualified for CCS applications while maintaining the performance requirements of premium connections. CLEANWELL® is a non-polluting, multi-function coating replacing both storage and running compounds applied on the surface of VAM® connections. It is designed to provide exceptional anti-corrosion and lubrication properties.
Operational Services for Increased Efficiency
Vallourec’s operational services help operators improve execution quality, reduce operational risks and ensure full compliance with project specifications.
Tubular Management Services (TMS)
Optimize tubular logistics and well construction operations through dedicated project management, inventory control, inspection and coordination services. TMS helps streamline operations, reduce non-productive time and ensure the right products are available when needed.
VAM® Field Service (VFS)
VAM® Field Service specialists provide on-site support to ensure premium connections are properly handled, made up and installed according to Vallourec’s recommended practices, helping maximize connection performance and well integrity.
TallyVision
TallyVision is the ultimate digital solution for seamless pipe traceability at the rig site. It ensures efficient deck management, controlled running sequences, and enhanced safety by eliminating manual handling.
Advancing CCUS Through Research and Industry Collaboration
CCUS presents new challenges for materials, pipelines and well infrastructure, many of which are not yet fully addressed by existing industry standards. Vallourec plays an active role in advancing the understanding of CO₂ transport and storage through research, industry collaboration and technology development.
Our experts participate in multiple Joint Industry Projects (JIPs), contribute to industry standards and regularly publish technical papers covering topics on CO₂ transport via pipelines, CO₂ injection and connection technology for CO₂ environments.
This first-of-a-kind project is the state’s inaugural CCS facility to secure U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Class VI permits for CO₂ injection and storage in depleted oil and gas reservoirs, representing a significant milestone for the global CCS industry.
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