Apparatus and method for manufacturing flexible pipe

Apparatus for manufacturing a composite layer of a flexible pipe, comprising:

• a layer inspection station comprising at least one sensor, located downstream of and in an in-line configuration with an extrusion station or pultrusion station or winding station or deposition station for providing a tubular composite layer over an underlying substantially cylindrical surface via a continuous process;
• wherein
• the inspection station automatically and continuously determines if at least one parameter of the tubular composite layer satisfies a respective predetermined condition in at least one region of the tubular composite layer as the tubular composite layer is transported proximate to the inspection station and indicates in real time at least one of a type, size and/or location of a defect in the tubular composite layer;
• and
• a repair station comprising at least one heater member and/or pressure applicator located downstream of, and in an in-line configuration with, the inspection station for selectively applying a repair cycle by applying a desired temperature and/or pressure at said at least one region.