Matthew Green, CSNRI (Henkel), USA, considers why misconceptions persist, and how modern composite repair solutions are reshaping critical pipeline infrastructure.
Myths have power. They shape decisions, influence budgets, and often stand in the way of innovation. In the world of pipeline and infrastructure repair, myths and misconceptions about composite technology have persisted for decades. Steel sleeves have long been the default solution, while composites were dismissed as temporary fixes or niche products. But times have changed. Today, composites are engineered to outperform traditional pipeline repair methods in many scenarios, yet misconceptions remain which may be based on something other than reality.
Why do these myths stick? Because every myth begins with a kernel of truth. Over time, that truth gets twisted through miscommunication, honest mistakes, and echo chambers where familiar opinions reinforce themselves. This article aims to bust the top 10 myths about composite repairs (as determined by the many questions our teams are routinely asked), explain the realities behind them, and show why properly tested and designed composite repair solutions are critical for safe, sustainable infrastructure management.
Myth #1: composites are not approved by regulators
The belief: if it’s not listed in the regulations, it can’t be used.
Kernel of truth: standards do not list composites by name or may restrict their use.
The reality: standards like ASME PCC-2 and ISO 24817 do exist for organisations to successfully implement composite repair solutions into their operating and repair specifications. Numerous other standards and certification bodies also have dedicated documentation around composite repairs which can be used today. US regulations permit repairs proven by properly engineered and thoroughly tested solutions.
Regulatory language can be intimidating, but most standards are written as minimum criteria and may not always be exhaustive lists. Government bodies rarely endorse specific products to avoid conflicts of interest. Instead, they require proof of performance. Composite systems meet these requirements when properly tested and documented. The takeaway? Approval isn’t about name-dropping in a regulation, it’s about proper testing, engineering know-how, and technical integrity.
Myth #2: steel is always better
The belief: steel sleeves have been used ‘forever’, so they must be best.
Kernel of truth: steel sleeves work well in many cases.
The reality: composites offer unique advantages over steel sleeves: no hot work, adaptability, reduced downtime, and directional strength tailored to stress loads. In addition, the technology is now at a point where many testing programmes have been successfully completed to prove their effectiveness and longevity for a wide range of defect types.
Steel sleeves have served the industry for decades, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution (and to be fair, neither are composites). Composites, however, can excel in scenarios where steel struggles: odd geometries, restricted hot-work zones, and environments where downtime costs millions. When you factor in labour, cooling time, and post-weld inspections, composites often deliver a lower total cost of ownership.
Myth #3: composites are temporary
The belief: if it’s not welded, it won’t last.
Kernel of truth: composites have design lives, but so does everything else.
The reality: composite repairs can last decades when designed and installed correctly.
The word ‘permanent’ isn’t clearly defined in most standards. Composite repairs are designed for specific service conditions, and in many cases can exceed 20, or even 50 years of life. For external corrosion or low-fatigue defects, composites are often the go-to permanent solution. Instead of asking ‘Is it permanent?’, ask ‘Does it meet my service life requirements?’
To access the full version of this article and get a free trial subscription to World Pipelines, sign up here!