Over Land and Sea Turkstream Begins Pipelaying Through the Black Sea – Page 45

ISSUE 34 | DECEMBER 2017

Over land and sea TurkStream begins pipelaying through the Black Sea – Page 45

FEREN ON C C E

EDITION

Prepare for PPIM 2018 JV's plans to coast Pipeline People: in Houston the Atlantic Diane Cordell Page 10 Page 30 Page 56

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ROSEN-Versatile_AD_PPIM_17.1.1_EN.indd 1 11/22/2017 11:46:07 AM CONTENTS

Issue 34 | December 2017

REGULARS PIPELINE INTEGRITY & From the Editor 4 MANAGEMENT World wrap 6 Minimising threats and maximising safety: News 8 an integrity management system 38 Events update 64 Wood investigates the integrity Pipelines International is management of flexible pipes 41 Advertisers’ index 64 a proud media partner of BMT Fleet Technology accesses Features and deadlines 2018 64 pipeline anomalies 43 IPLOCA PPIM 2018 PROJECTS 30 years and going strong 10 TurkStream lays pipe over land and sea 45 Conference Program 14 TransCanada completes a rapid expansion 48 Exhibition Hall 16 Deep drilling in the subcontinent 50 Rosen planting the FLAGS 18 NDT Global goes beyond the crack RISK MANAGEMENT inspection threshold 22 Facilitating insightful discussions T.D. Williamson: shutdown avoided 24 with SMEs 52 STATS Group plugs under pressure 26 B31.8S members responds to Muhlbauer Q-Inline completes unconventional on guidance documents 54 pipeline inspection 28

ISSUE 34 | DECEMBER 2017 CIRCOR Energy leads the field 29 INTERVIEW Over land PIPELINES IN THE US Pipeline people: Diane Cordell 56 and sea TurkStream begins pipelaying through the Black Sea JV’s plans to coast the Atlantic 30 COMPANY NEWS – Page 45 Hurricane Harvey leaves a path of FEREN Asset secured with Fotech Solutions ON C 58 E destruction 34 C

E EVENTS DITION Prepare for PPIM 2018 JV's plans to coast PIPELAYERS AND SIDEBOOMS in Houston Pipeline People: the Atlantic Page 10 Diane Cordell Page 30 IPLOCA Convention attendees show Page 56 PLM conquers the slopes 36 solidarity with Mexico 60 ptc focuses on safety in 2018 61

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United Kingdom (Editorial and Technical) | PO Box 21, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 1NS UK | Tel: +44 1494 675139 Australia (Sales and Subscriptions) | Suite 1, Level 3, 169–171 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy VIC 3065 Australia | Tel: +61 (0) 3 9248 5100 The publishers welcome editorial contributions from interested parties. However, the publishers do not accept responsibility for the content of these contributions and the views contained therein which will not necessarily be the views of the publishers. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any claims made by advertisers. Unless explicitly stated otherwise in writing, by providing editorial material to Great Southern Press (GSP), including text and images, you are providing permission for that material to be subsequently used by GSP, whole or in part, edited or unchanged, alone or in combination with other material in any publication or format in print or online or howsoever distributed, whether produced by GSP and its agents and associates or another party to whom GSP has provided permission.

2 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com FROM THE EDITOR From the editor rguably the primary benefit of industry presentation describing a new technology, or a conferences is the opportunity they solution to a problem, will give the company Aprovide to share knowledge, experiences, involved considerable credibility among the those and new technologies in a forum where all in attendance. contributors can be regarded as equal (maybe The opposite is also true: a presentation that is with the exception of keynote speakers). The free overly commercial or otherwise misjudged can do and open exchange of ideas such events allow actual harm to the commercial prospects of the cannot be reproduced easily in any other way, and company involved. It often appears that this benefits the speakers and the audience alike. aspect is overlooked when a company agrees that Secondary benefits of these events include the a member of its staff should give a presentation. opportunity for networking and for taking a break It cannot be stressed enough that this public from the usual workplace routine. face of the company is extremely important for its It is important for the conference planner to reputation. It may be that the company has on its ensure that presentations are of an appropriate staff the most brilliant and competent engineers; Editor-in-Chief John Tiratsoo quality, and this is not an easy task. A technical if their achievements are presented badly, it could Managing Editor Nick Lovering review committee for the event’s program can be do more harm than good. Journalist Chloe Jenkins set up to review abstracts and advise on which will There are two further benefits that result from Sales Manager David Marsh hopefully meet the program’s objectives. But the taking part in an industry conference. The first of International Account Manager Jessica Kliese truth is that it is not until the paper is received these is networking, and applies to all who attend, Head of Design Katrina Rolfe and the presentation given that the choice of whether as a speaker or delegate. Individuals of Publisher Annie Ferguson accepting each speaker will be seen as justified. all generations interact far better when face-to- As well as the issue of the relevance of the face than via other, electronic, methods: it’s the subject to the theme of the conference, there is human condition! From a networking point of also the issue that many engineers in the pipeline view, there is an important role to be played by ISSUE 34 | DECEMBER 2017 Cover image: industry are not used to making presentations in industry associations. In the pipeline industry, Over land TurkStream commences and sea TurkStream begins pipelaying through front of an unfamiliar audience, and it is not there are several long standing groups, including the Black Sea pipelaying through the – Page 45 possible for the conference planner to provide the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Black Sea between FEREN ON C opportunity for rehearsal. When a speaker is Pigging Products and Services Association, the C E Russia and Turkey. eloquent and totally familiar with the subject, Australian Pipelines and Gas Association; these EDITION Image courtesy of Prepare for PPIM 2018 JV's plans to coast Pipeline People: in Houston the Atlantic Diane Cordell great benefit can accrue; the opposite is also true, have been joined, more recently, by Young Page 10 Page 30 Page 56 Allseas Group S.A. and a poor speaker can both discourage attention Pipeliners Association of Canada and the Young ISSN: 1837-1167 to the presentation, and also turn the listeners Pipeline Professionals USA. away from the subject. In the worst case, a poor Each of these membership groups organises its presentation will actively prejudice the presenter’s own meetings which members – and sometimes Like us on Facebook company’s commercial activities. non-members – can attend, providing valuable PipelinesInternational Despite these issues, there is also considerable networking opportunities. personal benefit to the presenter (and his or her The third benefit of attending a conference is company or organisation) from taking part in a that the individual has time away from their usual Follow us on Twitter good quality conference. On an individual level, workplace, which is not to be underrated. Although @Pipelines preparing a paper or presentation provides an the pipeline industry is not renowned for holding opportunity for career development among events which otherwise might be visited on holiday, younger engineers by virtue of the review process. even a trip to Calgary, Houston, or Aberdeen can FREE Pipelines International At present, there are few ways of publicly make a welcome break from an otherwise routine fortnightly e-newsletter demonstrating competence in the pipeline schedule. And, with the above in mind, I look The latest news, project and technology industry. Preparing a technical presentation that forward to getting be best out of Pipeline Pigging information emailed fortnightly will be reviewed by an independent group, and and Integrity Management Conference (PPIM) then an industry audience, is one of these. From a when it returns to Houston, Texas next year. SUBSCRIBE TODAY corporate viewpoint, a good presentation in front I hope that you will be able to do the same. www.pipelinesinternational.com of an industry peer group has more value than almost any other type of advertising. This is not to say that a conference presentation Remember to email your news, views should be prepared from a promotional John Tiratsoo and article ideas to viewpoint: far from it. But a good technical Editor-in-Chief [email protected]

4 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com WORLD WRAP WORLD WRAP

Alaska and China sign agreement to develop Alaska LNG Statoil partners with Shell and Total to develop CCS A joint development agreement has been signed between Alaska and China, in the presence of US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Statoil, Shell and Total have signed a partnership agreement to develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) on the Norwegian Xi Jinping, to develop Alaska LNG. On 9 November, Alaska Gasline Development Corporation (AGDC), the State of Alaska, China Petrochemical Continental Shelf (NCS). The partnership is the latest development of Norway’s state-owned Gassnova’s efforts to develop Corporation, CIC Capital Corporation, and Bank of China announced they had signed the agreement to advance Alaska’s strategic gas infrastructure full-scale CCS in Norway. As part of the agreement, Norske Shell and Total E&P Norge have entered as equal partners, while project. Alaska LNG is designed as a 20 million tonne per annum integrated LNG system, comprised of a three train liquefaction plant in southcentral Statoil will lead the project. All of the partners will contribute people, experience and financial support to the development of Alaska at Nikiski, and a 1,287 km, 42 inch (1,067 mm) diameter gas pipeline. The project also includes the construction of a gas treatment plant on the the project. Statoil said the first phase of the project could reach a capacity of approximately 1.5 million t/a, but will be designed North Slope of Alaska and various interconnecting facilities to connect the Prudhoe Bay gas complex to the gas treatment plant. to accommodate additional volumes of CO2 with the aim of stimulating new commercial CCS projects in Norway, Europe and across the world.

INEOS acquires North Sea pipeline system INEOS has completed its acquisition from BP of the Forties Pipeline System and Kinneil Terminal in the North Sea. Trans Mountain names construction contractors for pipeline The Forties Pipeline System comprises a 169 km, 36 inch (914 mm) pipeline from the unmanned offshore Forties Unity expansion platform to the onshore terminal at Cruden Bay. From there, a 36 inch onshore pipeline transports the oil 209 km south Kinder Morgan Canada has named the six contractors who will construct the CA$7.4 billion to the Kinneil facility, adjacent to the Grangemouth refinery and chemical plant, where it is processed and stabilised (US$5.7 billion) expansion of its Trans Mountain pipeline. The Trans Mountain Pipeline before output is sent either for export via the Dalmeny terminal and Hound Point loading jetty, or on to Grangemouth. Expansion will increase the capacity of the original 1,150 km Trans Mountain Pipeline – which runs between Strathcona County, Alberta, and Burnaby, British Columbia – from 300,000 bbl/d to 890,000 bbl/d. Kinder Morgan announced that it had either signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with, or selected, six contractors with experience delivering pipeline and major infrastructure projects in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, in anticipation of planned construction activities in September 2017.

Pipeline damage causes disruptions to New Zealand’s largest airport Damage to a 170 km oil pipeline that supplies jet fuel to Auckland International Airport has caused major disruptions to services at the airport in September. The Refinery Auckland Pipeline (RAP) is a 10 inch (250 mm) pipeline with a capacity of 9 million litres, carrying diesel, petrol and jet fuel in Rosneft and Kurdistan establish Production Sharing Agreements controlled batches from Whangarei Harbour, Northland under farmland, towns and part of the Manukau Harbour to the Wiri Terminal, South Auckland. A small pipeline from Wiri is then used to supply Jet Rosneft and the Government of the Kurdish Autonomous Region of Iraq have signed documents to establish A1 product to the airport. The damage to the pipeline – which was caused by a piece of construction Production Sharing Agreements (PSA) at five Kurdish productions blocks. In February 2017, Rosneft and Kurdistan machinery – resulted in dozens of flights out of Auckland being cancelled, as well as ticket sales being signed an agreement for cooperation in the exploration, production, infrastructure, logistics and trading of restricted and the diversion of long-haul flights to Wellington to refuel. Along with First Gas, Refining NZ hydrocarbons. In October, Rosneft and Kurdistan actioned five blocks for exploration and production that have has since conducted coating insulation testing on both RAP and an associated gas pipeline to ensure that substantial geological potential, with conservative estimates stating that the total recoverable oil reserves at the five there is no further coating damage within the immediate vicinity. blocks may be close to 670 million barrels.

Murphy sells its share in MPC TAP passes fifty per cent completion Murphy has sold its 50 per cent share in Australian pipeline developer MPC to The Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG (TAP) celebrated passing the 50 per cent completion mark in early September 2017. It began Viburnum Funds/SCF Partners. In 2011, Murphy committed to a 50 per cent construction in last year in May and, in 16 months, more than half of the project has been completed, including the engineering, investment in Pipe and Civil to form MPC, a leading contractor in the Australian procurement and construction scope; with the first phase of rehabilitation completed in Albania at the end of 2016. More than natural resources, mining and energy sectors. Following the success of MPC, it will 5,500 people have worked on the project across TAP’s host countries, working a collective 16 million man-hours. During this time, pursue future opportunities utilising expertise in other sectors in both Australian TAP’s contractors have cleared approximately 70 per cent – around 539 km – of the 765 km route in Greece and Albania, and and New Zealand markets. Murphy continues grow its operations in the UK and more than 45 per cent of the welded steel pipes are already in the ground. internationally, working both independently and with partners.

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Wood awarded Total acquires Maersk Oil in US$7.45 billion deal Rosen becomes first service company to join EPRG GUL introduces US$12 million FEED Total has acquired Maersk Oil in a deal Patrick Pouyanne said. Rosen Group has become the first service Colorado Springs, Colorado, which featured new remote pipe worth US$7.45 billion, making it the second “The combination of Maersk Oil’s company to join the European Pipeline keynote presentations, research papers, panel inspection system contract largest operator in the North Sea. North Western Europe businesses with Research Group (EPRG). presentations and workshops that addressed Under the terms of the agreement – a share our existing portfolio will position Total as Experienced technical representatives from current issues facing the pipeline industry. Guided Ultrasonics Limited Honghua Group Ltd has awarded and debt transaction – Maersk will receive the second operator in the North Sea with Rosen have joined EPRG’s Design, Corrosion “We have joined EPRG because we are (GUL) has released a remote Wood plc a US$12 million front-end a consideration of US$4.95 billion in Total strong production profiles in UK, Norway and Materials Committees in a commitment to 100 per cent committed to the primary goal inspection technology that will allow engineering design (FEED) contract shares and Total will assume US$2.5 billion of and Denmark, thus increasing exposure to the safe operation of gas pipelines. of the group, which is to work collaboratively operators to scan and map corrosion in for its LNG platform development in Maersk Oil’s debt. conventional assets in OECD countries. The company is also a member of to constantly improve the integrity of gas inaccessible pipe walls. the West Delta area of the Gulf of The transaction will make Total the second “Internationally, in the US Gulf of Mexico, two other industry research bodies: the transmission pipelines,” EPRG Plenary The new technology uses a new type Mexico. largest operator in offshore northwest Europe Algeria, East Africa, Kazakhstan and Angola Australian Pipeline and Gas Association Committee Rosen representative Erik of guided wave technology, known The main objective of the FEED and strengthens the company’s offshore there is an excellent fit between Total and (APGA) and the Pipeline Research Council Cornelissen said. as qualitative short range (QSR), is to finalise the design of the world’s producing business in the UK and Norway. Maersk Oil’s businesses allowing for value International (PRCI). In May this year, “We believe that what is good for the which provides pipe wall thickness first offshore platform based natural It will also consolidate Total’s presence in accretion through commercial, operating and several Rosen representatives presented industry is good for us and it is right that we measurements in unreachable areas. gas liquefaction and storage facility. the Gulf of Mexico, US, with Maersk Oil’s financial synergies. detailed technical work at the 21st PRCI- commit our time and resources to The original long-range guide wave The scope of work includes the interest in the Jack development in the “We are also very pleased that we will have a APGA-EPRG Joint Technical Meeting in this endeavour.” technology was developed by GUL onshore gas pre-treatment plant Wilcox formation. new anchor point in Denmark which will host founder and CEO David Alleyne configuration and layouts, general The transaction is subject to approvals by our North Sea Business Unit and supervise more than 20 years ago to screen utilities, and feed gas processing the relevant regulatory authorities, and is our operations in Denmark, Norway and the large sections of pipe for changes, and compression. expected to be closed in the first quarter of Netherlands. Schuler plant produces first spiral pipe and is used worldwide for a variety It also includes the transportation 2018, with an effective date of 1 July 2017. “We intend to build on the strong of applications, including screening and delivery of gas from Louisiana’s “This transaction delivers an exceptional operational and technical competencies of Steel pipe manufacturer Tuberias Procarsa The plant is 285 m in length and will enable buried sections of road crossings or existing onshore facilities at Toca and opportunity for Total to acquire, via an equity the Maersk Oil teams in the same way we has produced its first large the company to produce spiral pipes with a insulated pipelines. If changes are Venice to the LNG facility located transaction, a company with high quality assets managed to do it in Belgium with the teams diameter spiral pipe after putting a diameter of 508 to 2,235 mm and in lengths found and more detailed inspection is 16 km offshore. which are an excellent fit with many of Total’s of Petrofina in the refining and chemical Schuler-manufactured plant into operation. of 12 to 24.4 m. required, the QSR eliminates the need Wood will compile and core regions,” Total Chairman and CEO businesses,” Mr Pouyanne said. Experts currently estimate that more than The Schuler plant also features equipment to remove obstacles to conduct direct develop the necessary technical 10,000 km of pipeline will be laid each year for inspecting large diameter pipes in testing on the pipe wall. documentation for a deep water port in North America by 2020, most of it accordance with the API 5L standard, as “Often the places you really need to permit application to United States spiral pipes. well as an integrated coil preparation stand, measure are in positions that you can’t Maritime Administration, which Weir Oil & Gas acquires KOP surface products Tuberias Procarsa, equipped with the ensuring short changeover times, increased reach directly and up to now, there includes the design of the onshore, Upstream service provider Weir Oil & President Paul Coppinger. Schuler plant, said it is now set to meet that operational safety, the elimination of the need has been no technology available to do pipelines and offshore elements of Gas has completed its acquisition of KOP “Since opening the first wellhead demand, increasing its production capacity for a crane transfer and a reduction in energy this,” Mr Alleyne said. the facility Surface Products for an enterprise value of manufacturing facility in Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free by 200,000 t. expenditure of up to 30 per cent. “It is a major problem and all sorts As Wood has completed a US$114 million. Zone a short while ago, we have continued of solutions have been proposed, but pre-FEED for the project, it will now The acquisition of KOP Surface Products is to expand our global reach by supporting they can only give an estimate and update and complete the preliminary part of Weir’s commitment to expansion in the our customers, no matter where the job takes are not a reliable way to measure design of the full offshore gas Asia Pacific; KOP has a strong market position them,” Mr Coppinger said. New Managing Editor for Pipelines International thickness. QSR allows you to rapidly liquefaction facility. in Southeast Asia, and an emerging market in “Our ability to manufacture products After 12 months working as the Managing I have developed a genuine passion for the scan wall thickness and provides an The FEED is being conducted in the Middle East. nearby is only part of the equation. Editor of Pipelines International, Annie Ferguson pipeline industry and developed a great accurate measurement. collaboration with EnTX GasTek Weir will be able to employ KOP’s advanced “We must continue to support customers has been promoted within Great Southern working relationship with Editor-in-Chief “Long-range guided wave technique Global Ltd, Baker Hughes and pressure control wellhead technologies, through the service and products we provide. Press to the role of Publisher. John Tiratsoo. was designed as a screening system for Braemar Technical Services. surface trees, valves, actuators and aftermarket “Acquiring KOP underlines that While Annie will no longer be involved in “Annie has done a terrific job in maintaining use with insulated pipes; however it is The facility will be designed to services. commitment and strengthens our promise to the day-to-day production of the magazine’s the high-standard of the magazine and now widely used as a way to test buried produce up to 4.2 million t per year The current management team will operators in this vital region.” editorial, in her new position she will oversee continuing her great work is a challenge that pipes and for more general inspections. of LNG and to store 300,000 m3 continue to lead the business – including at Speaking on the acquisition Mr Cameron the production of the international pipeline I am relishing.” “QSR has been developed as a of LNG. KOP’s Singapore headquarters, Indonesian said, “From a technology, service and talent industry’s leading media brand. Joining Nick will be Chloe Jenkins, a new scanning and mapping tool, with the When it is completed, gas from manufacturing facility, and sales and services standpoint, this is an excellent fit and we look Previously acting as Pipelines International addition to the editorial team occupying the areas behind pipe supports in mind, the Texas Permian Basin will be offices in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, forward to our future together as a combined Assistant Editor, Nick Lovering took over the position of Journalist. however it could be used to map any transported to the offshore platform Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia organisation,” role in July, with the September edition of the Chloe had previously worked as an intern type of system corrosion. where it will be liquefied, stored and and India. “We see this as a substantial opportunity magazine his first in charge. on the magazine from April, and has been “Like the long-wave technique, we ultimately exported globally. KOP Surface Products Chief Executive to offer more to our customers and prospects “I am honoured to act as the Managing with Pipelines International in a full-time capacity believe it is a breakthrough technology Gordon Cameron will also stay on in his in the region. No doubt, we are stronger Editor of Pipelines International,” Nick says. since June. Nick Lovering can be contacted at: and expect it will find much wider current role, and will report to Weir Oil & Gas together.” “During my time working on the magazine, [email protected] applications,” he said.

ཟ In-line Inspection ཟ Cleaning / Gauging ཟ Tethered Inspections 30 years and going strong ཟ Crane Services In 2018, PPIM is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and stands alone as the go-to event for pigging and ILI. ཟ Tracking Survey ཟ Turnkey Services ow in its 30th year, Pigging Pipeline CONFERENCE PROGRAM one-on-one with the world’s top providers of and Integrity Management (PPIM) PPIM’s conference program will feature pigging, ILI, and integrity management services. Nstands alone as the pipeline industry's technical papers that cover inline inspection (ILI), Exhibiting company representatives will be only forum devoted exclusively to pigging for data assessment, prioritisation of repairs, new available to discuss the latest technologies for maintenance and inspection, as well as pipeline tools, improving tool performance, external pipeline integrity management, including ILI, integrity evaluation and assessment. As in coating inspection with ILI tools, pig launch and pigging for cleaning, geometry, sealing, ILI prep, previous years, the event will attract engineering receiving systems, new regulations, pipeline and other utility applications. management and field operating personnel from cleaning and much more. Validation digs, non destructive examination both transmission and distribution companies On Wednesday 31 January, the opening and direct assessment, hydrotesting, data concerned with improved operations and plenary will start with a keynote presentation management, leak detection, mapping, integrity management. from BP Chief Engineer – Materials Simon emergency response, and repair methods, will More than 2,500 pipeline operators and Webster on ‘30 years – technology, materials, and also be showcased. Many companies schedule engineers, manufacturers and suppliers from integrity looking back and into the future’, who demonstrations or presentations, offering a around the globe will converge on the George R. will be followed by a further six speakers. unique opportunity to learn about new products Brown Convention Center and adjoining Following the plenary, the conference program from the engineers and specialists involved in Marriott Marquis Hotel to hear the latest will split into three streams for the remainder of their development. The exhibition reception to technical papers presented by industry leaders, the event. officially open the hall will take place at 5.00pm update their skills at one of the training courses The papers have been reviewed by the PPIM on Tuesday 30 January. An additional reception preceding the conference, and learn about the Program Advisory Committee, which includes will take place in the Exhibition Hall following latest innovations in integrity management representatives from some of the world’s largest the first day of the conference, at 5.00pm on technology and practices from the industry’s and most prominent pipeline companies, such as 31 January. For a list of who to visit at the PPIM biggest names at the exhibition – all while making Enbridge, Chevron Corporation, Spectra, Kinder Exhibition Hall turn to page 16. Powered by Quanta Services (PWR) and renewing important business contacts. Morgan and BP. Turn to page 14 for the full As the one-stop event for those interested in conference program. TRAINING COURSES A Houston based Fortune 400 company pipeline pigging and integrity management, A comprehensive selection of pipeline training PPIM offers an unparalleled opportunity for EXHIBITION courses will be held in conjunction with PPIM, those wishing to highlight their support of, and PPIM’s accompanying exhibition will feature prior to the commencement of the conference, on services to, the pipeline pigging and integrity representation from over 150 companies, Monday 29 January and Tuesday 30 January. management sector. providing the opportunity for delegates to interact Thirteen training courses will be offered at the www.q-inline.com 14411 West Road, Houston, TX 77041 ∙ Office: 832-634-2800 ∙ [email protected]

10 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com AN ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED COMPANY #PPIM18

event, presenting an opportunity for delegates to with a focus on practical applications of this »» API recommended practice 1,173 pipeline brush up on their skills and further their training. technology to the pipeline crack threat. safety management system requirements The courses will be delivered by internationally Additional courses for 2018 include: »» Hydrostatic testing of pipelines renowned industry experts and attendees will »» Pipeline risk management »» Inspection of challenging pipelines receive invaluable course notes and a free digital »» US DOT pipeline regulations: impacts Following its successful introduction to PPIM in subscription to the Journal of Pipeline Engineering and guidelines for compliance 2016, the half-day briefing on pipeline pigging (valued at US$300). »» Introduction to excavation inspection and integrity in non-technical language will once A new addition in 2018 is the two-day course, applied NDE for pipeline integrity again feature on the conference program; ‘Fracture mechanics for pipeline engineers’. assessment however next year, it has been extended to a Presented by Dr Ted Anderson of TL Anderson »» Pigging and ILI full-day course. The class is designed for attendees Consulting – a well-known expert in fracture »» Defect assessment in pipelines who want to familiarise themselves with all there mechanics with many years of experience in the »» Pipeline integrity management is to know about pipeline pigging in an oil and gas industry – the course is ideal for »» Pipeline repair methods, hot tapping, and easy-to-understand way without a lot of the engineers who work in the pipeline industry and in-service welding confusing technical jargon. are faced with the technical and regulatory »» Managing cracking and seam weld It is a must-attend session for anyone new to challenges associated with the seam weld anomalies in pipelines the pigging sector. crack threat. Attendees will receive a grounding in For the most up-to-date information on PPIM 2018 visit www.clarion.org/ppim/ppim18 fundamental concepts of fracture mechanics,

12 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com #PPIM18 #PPIM18

PPIM 2018 conference program TRACK 1 TRACK 2 TRACK 3 THURSDAY, 1 FEBRUARY MODELING COMPOSITES AND REPAIR ILI 2 – 6-8 TRACK 1 TRACK 2 TRACK 3 [13] Recent PHMSA protocols for improving [28] A comparison of steel vs composite sleeves for [43] A case study how reduced uncertainties of models to consider complex loadings and pipeline repairs, by Jerry Rau, RCP, Inc., Houston, latest generation of ultrasonic crack-detection WEDNESDAY, 31 JANUARY 8:00 interactive threats, by Eduardo Munoz, Kiefner TX, USA, and Shawn Laughlin, Pipe Spring LLC, ILI technology benefit engineering-criticality and Associates, Inc., Columbus, OH, USA Houston., TX, USA assessments, by Stephan Tappert, Baker Hughes, 8:00 Opening remarks Stutensee, Germany [1] Keynote address: 30 years – technology, materials, and integrity looking back and into the future, by Simon Webster, Chief Engineer Materials, BP, [14] Modeling pipeline metal loss defects at [29] Monitoring the condition of a pipeline [44] Multi-diameter ILI tools: a cost-effective 8:15 Sunbury-on-Thames, UK tool speed, by Matthew Romney and Adrian repair and the anomaly beneath the repair, by solution for the inspection of complex pipeline 8:30 Belanger, T.D. Williamson, Salt Lake City, UT, USA Alan Turner, Lloyd’s Register Energy - Drilling, systems, by Dr Hubert Lindner and Michael 8:45 [2] ILI validation: what are we trying to prove? by Ian Smith Houston, TX, USA, Ryan LaVergne, and Dr Chris Schorr, Rosen Group, Lingen, Germany Alexander, ADV Integrity, Inc., Magnolia, TX, USA 9:15 [3] Analysis of ILI vendor performance on Enable Midstream’s pipeline system, by Joel Anderson, Enable Midstream, Oklahoma City, OK, USA [15] Modeling of real crack profiles using finite [30] Utilizing consecutive ILIs to monitor corrosion [45] Finding and assessing the severity of 9:45 Coffee element analysis, by Alex Brett and Dr Bob growth underneath composite repair applications, interacting threats using ILI, by Sarah Jane 9:00 Andrews, Rosen Group, Newcastle upon Tyne, by Kevin Spencer, Baker Hughes, Calgary, Dawson and Geoffrey Hurd, Baker Hughes, 10:30 [4] Quality management systems: starting your pipeline off on the right foot, by Melissa Gould and Megan Weichel, DNV GL, Katy, TX, USA UK AB, Canada, and Kevin Seaman, Williams Gas Cramlington, UK Pipeline [5] Identification of a unique geometry that contributed to pipeline ratcheting: numerical and metallurgical findings, by David B. Futch, Dr Melanie 11:00 9:30 Coffee Sarzynski, and Brent A. Vyvial, Stress Engineering Services, Houston, TX, USA [6] Key differences of integrity management regulations and recommended practices for hazardous liquids versus gas pipelines, by Andrew R. Lutz, DATA INTEGRITY ASSESSMENT OFFSHORE 11:30 Satish Pabba, Jay Kaufmann, and Dr Tom Bubenik, DNV GL, Katy, TX, USA [16] Teaching old data new tricks using data [31] Determining the acceptability of bottom side [46] Effective inspection solutions for coated [7] Benefits of networking between the pipeline industry and the AIST Pipe and Tube Technology Committee, by John Cline, Vectren, science, by Jeffrey Lachey and Tony Alfano, DNV dents with metal loss, by Rhett Dotson and C. and non-coated subsea pipelines, by Andreas 12:00 11:00 Evansville, IL, USA GL, Columbus, OH, USA Holliday, Rosen Group, Houston, TX, USA Boenisch, Hans Gruitroij, and Sebastian 12:30 Lunch Hartmann, Innospection Ltd, Aberdeen, UK [17] Statistical approaches for assessment of ILI [32] Considerations and methodology for seam [47] Minimum bore restriction in offshore liquid CORROSION AND SCC CRACKS ILI (1) 1-5 data: two case studies, by Puneet Agarwal, Stress integrity analysis, by Ramsey Hilton and Michael pipelines, by Wayne Fleury, Halfwave A/S, Øvre 11:30 [8] Asset-specific mechanical properties from [23] A probabilistic method for prioritizing [38] A case study for ILI false-positives, Engineering Services, Houston, TX, USA Rosenfeld, Kiefner and Associates, Columbus, Ervik, Norway in-ditch pipeline inspection, by S. D. Palkovic1,2, K. repairs following an ILI crack tool run, by by Matthew Ellinger, DNV GL, Dublin, OH, OH, USA 2:00 Taniguchi1, and S. C. Bellemare1,2, 1: Massachusetts Dr Ted Anderson, TL Anderson Consulting, and USA [18] Benefits of leveraging advanced data [33] Engineering-critical assessment for maximum [48] Parametric study of deep-water Materials Technologies, LLC, Cambridge, MA Jim Andrew and Jason Moritz, Koch Pipeline, integration and information analysis methods, allowable operating pressure verification, by pipe-in-pipe flowline during installation, Wichita,KS, USA 12:00 during the ILI criticality analysis and repair Pushpendra Tomar, Phillip Nidd, and Benjamin by Mary Tayo Akolawole and Yongchang Pu, decision process, by Chad Haegelin and Eric Mittelstadt, Dynamic Risk Assessment Systems, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK [9] Pipeline operator and inspection company [24] CorLAS - the next generation, by Dr Tom [39] Baseline and follow-up inspections: Coyle, Integrity Solutions Ltd, Houston, TX, USA Inc., The Woodlands, TX, USA collaboration to improve in pinhole and pitting Bubenik and Steven Polasik, DNV GL, Dublin, getting a head start on pipeline health, by Kai 2:30 corrosion inspections, by Thomas Hennig, Thomas OH, USA Xin Toh, Quest Integrity Malaysia, and Lisa [19] Assessing repeat ILI data using [34] Pipeline integrity for industrial metropolitans: [49] External subsea pipeline inspection through Meinzer, and Nathan Leslie, NDT Global, and Josh Barkdull, Quest Integrity, Stafford, signal-to-signal comparison techniques, by managing the urban infrastructure crisis, by Ron coating, by Willem Vos, Halfwave A/S, Øvre Ervik, Dobrzeniecki, Marathon Pipe Line TX, USA Sarah Jane Dawson and Geoffrey Hurd, Baker Maurier, Quest Integrity, USA, and T.Y. Liang, Norway Hughes, Cramlington, UK Formosa Plastics Corporation, Taiwan [10] Safe criterion for eliminating SCC on pipelines [25] Assessment of pipeline crack and crack-like [40] IWEX a full matrix capture technique and by metal removal, by Dr Jing Ma and Michael colonies: a case study, by Jonathan Hardy, T.D. the next generation of advanced ultrasonic 12:30 Lunch 3:00 Rosenfeld, Kiefner and Associates, Inc., Dublin, Williamson, Salt Lake City, UT, USA, and Dr Mike testing, by Jeff Vinyard and Harvey Haines, OH, USA Kirkwood, T.D. Williamson Middle East FZE, Dubai, Applus RTD Technology Center, Houston, UPSF [35] Quantification of uncertainty in input ILI 3 – 9-11 variables to understand the variance in UAE TX, USA [20] The challenge of small pipelines, small [50] ILI of hydrogen-carrying pipelines, by Ronald fitness-for-service assessments, by Bruce Young, 3:30 Coffee defects, and small flow figures, by Peter van Wills and Tod Barker, T.D. Williamson, Salt Lake 2:00 Jennifer M.O'Brian, and Mitchell A. Doerzbacher, Beugen, Pipesurvey International, Zwijndrecht, City, UT, USA, and Ronald M Wills, Air Products, [11] Limitations associated with ILI technologies [26] Is the Paris fatigue crack growth relation the [41] Stress analysis of an exposed pipe with an Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH, USA used for assessing corrosion under insulation, only model appropriate for pressure cycle fatigue ILI tool, by Dr Deli Yu, TransCanada Pipelines Netherlands USA by Andrew Kendrick, Kendrick Consulting LLC analysis of pipelines?, by Sergio Limon, Elevara Ltd, Calgary, AB, Canada, and [21] Small diameter tools for low-flow and [36] Going from in-situ nondestructive testing to a [51] ILI: a superior tool over pressure testing for 4:30 Partners, Salt Lake City, UT, USA, and Robert Dr Yuan Wei, Simon Park, and Dr LePing Li, low-pressure environments, by Tod Barker, probabilistic MAOP, by Michael Rosenfeld and integrity management, by Scott Riccardella Pilarczyk, Hill Engineering, Rancho Cordova, CA, University of Calgary, AB, Canada 2:30 T.D. Williamson, Salt Lake City, UT, USA Dr Jing Ma, Kiefner and Associates, Inc., and Dr Pete Riccardella, Structural Integrity USA Columbus, OH, USA, and Troy Rovella and Peter Associates, Centennial, CO, USA, and Dave Katz, [12] Preventing the onset of corrosion and [27] Crack inspections in liquid natural gases, by [42] The development of in-situ test spools for Veloo, Pacific Gas & Electric, Los Angeles, CA, USA Williams, Salt Lake City, UT, USA removing safety hazards for the pipeline industry, Thomas Hennig, Ernesto Suarez, Rogelio Jesus assessing the performance of ILI tools during [22] Robotic ILI of various unpiggable pipelines; [37] Novel and practical approach to consistently [52] Using state-of-the-art ILI services to support 5:00 by Matthew Boucher and Buddy Powers, Clock Guajardo, and Peter Haberl, NDT Global, Dublin, pipeline inspections, by Colton Sheets and over a bridge, under a river, buried, and assess risk for multiple asset types, by Mauricio fitness-for-purpose assessments, by Simon Slater, 3:00 Spring Company LLC, Houston, TX, USA Ireland Puneet Agarwal, Stress Engineering Services, compressor station piping, by Aaron Huber, Palomino, Christian Calvi, and Yeliz Cevik, G2 Rosen Group, Houston, TX, USA Inc., and Matt Krieg, Marathon Pipe Line, LLC Diakont, Calle Fortunada, CA, USA Integrated Solutions, Houston, TX, USA 5:30 End of day, Exhibition reception 3:30 Coffee, End of conference

PPIM 2018 exhibition hall EXHIBITOR STORAGE In 2018, the Pipeline Pigging and Integrity Management Conference (PPIM) Exhibition Hall will feature Visit T.D. Williamson at Booth 813, 815 and 914 For nearly a century, T.D. Williamson (TDW) has helped customers around the booths from more than 120 companies, showcasing the latest in pigging and integrity management products, world safely transport product to their communities. Among many advantages of services and technology. This spread shows where you can find the companies that have supported the PPIM the company’s longevity in the industry are the lasting relationships it has developed with pipeline owners and operators that have enabled TDW professionals to work edition of Pipelines International. with a broad range of technologies, learn distinct operating and management Pipelines International is proud to be an official 355 454 455 554 655 754 755 854 practices, and help develop industry leaders for the future. 353 452 453 552 653 752 753 852 media partner of PPIM 2018. Visit booth Exhibitors Lunch Area 351 450 451 550 651 750 751 850 Evening Bar 647 in the Exhibition Hall and pick up your copy Visit Q-Inline at Booth 907 of the industry’s leading magazine. Q-Inline is a full service inline inspection company that currently 249 348 349 448 349 548 549 648 649 748 749 848 provides deformation and magnetic flux leakage (MFL) inspection 29 January – 1 February 2018 Area services for pipelines with a diameter of 6 to 32 inches. The company’s George R. Brown Convention Center and 247 346 347 446 447 546 547 646 647 746 747 846 847 946 947 1046 1047 Food & Beverage Staging MFL tools have tri-axial sensors and can be combined with deformation Presentation Marriott Marquis Hotel, Houston, Texas, US 245 344 345 444 445 544 545 645 745 845 945 1044 1045 tools and an IMU to provide a full combo tool inspection. Q-Inline is also capable of reviewing difficult to inspect features by using pipe samples at its pull test/flow loop facility in La Grange, Texas. 241 340 341 440 441 1040 538 939 Visit Rosen at Booth 707 138 139 238 239 338 339 438 439 Food and Beverage 1038 1039 Visit Pipelines International at Booth 647 Rosen is a privately owned company providing innovative product 136 137 236 237 336 337 436 437 Evening Reception Buffet 1036 1037 and service solutions for the inspection, integrity, and rehabilitation of 534 935 Pipelines International is a quarterly print and digital publication complex oil and gas infrastructure. The Rosen Group operates in more 134 135 234 235 334 335 434 435 1034 featuring news, technical innovations, project reports and other than 100 countries and employs over 2,000 people. high-level content targeted to the international pipeline industry. Come and talk to our friendly team about the editorial and marketing 331 430 431 630 Lounge 531 631 831 931 1030 opportunities available. Visit Enduro Pipeline Services at Booth 731 Area 329 428 429 528 529 628 629 728 829 928 929 1028 1029

Enduro is a vertically integrated manufacturer and supplier of all types of pipeline pig – 327 426 427 526 527 626 627 726 731 827 926 927 1026 1027 metal-body and uni-body (all urethane) for uni-directional and bi-directional applications Visit Clock Spring Company at Booth 431 – used to clean and maintain pipe and international surfaces, with a complete line of 325 424 425 524 525 624 625 724 925 1024 Clock Spring is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of composite attachments offered to accomplish all pigging applications and uses. 323 422 423 522 623 722 923 1022 pipeline repair solutions. Clock Spring’s cost-effective solutions have withstood the rigours of peer review, management questions and real-world conditions, Sponsor Bar Snack time and time again. Station Station Visit NDT Global at Booth 507 319 418 419 518 619 718 719 818 919 1018 NDT Global is a leading supplier of ultrasonic pipeline inspection and data analysis. With 317 416 417 516 617 716 717 816 917 1016 a state-of-the-art inspection fleet, NDT Global provides the entire inline inspection service Visit STATS Group at Booth 715 and 717 spectrum for on- and offshore pipelines worldwide. 415 514 515 614 615 714 715 814 815 914 915 1014 1015 Sponsor 315 414 Station Founded in 1998, STATS Group is a privately owned specialist engineering 313 412 413 512 513 613 713 813 913 1012 1013 company and service provider that operates in the field of piping, pipeline Visit CIRCOR Energy at Booth 623 and 722 1011 integrity, and maintenance. The company’s comprehensive range of products and services enables piping and pipeline isolation, intervention, repair, CIRCOR Energy is a global manufacturer of highly engineered valve and pipeline 308 309 408 409 508 subsea and shutdown services. Today, STATS provides expertise and full products. CIRCOR Energy specialises in valves and pipeline solutions, offering customers a 507 607 707 807 907 service capability for the maintenance, integrity and repair of oil, gas and 306 307 406 407 506 comprehensive range of products, custom design and engineering services. petrochemical installations and infrastructure. ENTRANCE Visit Girard Industries at Booth 525 and 624 302 303 402 403 502 Pipeline pig manufacturer, Girard Industries, develops and manufactures new pigging 300 301 400 401 500 Visit Pigs Unlimited at Booth 506 and 508 products to meet the demands of a changing industry. From natural gas and hydrocarbon Pigs Unlimited is dedicated to serving the pipeline industry by solving the pigging needs of its customers. The company pipelines to water and special application pipelines, Girard can provide technical assistance not only strives to meet the expectations of its customers, but exceed them. Pigs Unlimited is constantly striving to find and the specific pig to accomplish the most difficult of tasks. Registration new ways to offer the best pig at the best price, coupled with unsurpassed service.

pipeline with a speed of approximately 15 m/s through the HTT »» high speed and heavy wall thickness Planting the FLAGS downstream of the HTT The pipeline configuration can be seen in by John Nonemaker and Tom Steinvoorte, Rosen Group, Challenging Pipeline Figure 2. Diagnostics, Netherlands, and Ram Subramanian, Shell UK Ltd. THE SOLUTION Rosen’s overall approach to the project was to In 2016, Rosen and Shell UK teamed-up to conduct a challenging ILI of the Far North Liquids and provide a rugged magnetic flux leakage (MFL) FIGURE 2: A diagram showing the pipeline’s configuration. Associated Gas System, also known as the FLAGS Pipeline. The project required a bespoke solution to tool and a cleaning tool that could perform in the overcome challenges associated with this offshore pipeline, including the avoidance of subsea pigging and low- and high-flow pipeline sections, as well as traverse the check valve and HTT flow without maintaining launch capability. damage to any of the elements that are vital to its performance. he FLAGS Pipeline, a key Shell asset in The main risk associated with low-flow the North Sea, is an offshore 36 inch inspections is a stationary tool due to insufficient T(762 mm), 450 km pipeline that runs sealing capacity. To overcome this issue, the from the Brent B platform to the St Fergus gas engineers designed customised pulling units for terminal in Scotland, as seen in Figure 1. the MFL tool and the cleaning/gauging tool that It was commissioned in 1983 and had had inline decreased gas bypass to an absolute minimum. inspections (ILIs) conducted on two previous The dual-body tool design included protective occasions. frames and bumpers to allow the MFL tool to It was due for its next ILI in 2026; however, push open the check valve and travel without due to the decommissioning of the Brent being damaged or getting caught by the valve platforms, Shell required an ILI with no subsea clapper. The magnetisation of the tool was also pigging operations, while still having topside increased to ensure full measurement launch capability. The ILI of offshore pipelines is specifications for the nominal pipe thickness at a challenging task for several reasons, including: speeds of up to 3.5 m/s. FIGURE 3: The MFL tool during valve testing. »» Many pipelines that were not originally The challenging nature of the inspection designed to be pigged now require meant that the tool designs needed to have It was expected that the flow would put a force THE FIELD WORK inspection sufficient contingency. A safety factor of eight was of 60 t on the new ultra-strong flexible joint. After all testing was completed, the inspection »» Changes may occur in operating used to ensure it could provide enough drive force A tensile test program on the joint, seen in team was mobilised to the platform in November conditions that result in ultra-low flows to push open the check valve. Figure 4, showed that it could withstand a force 2016 to launch the cleaning and gauging pig, and pipelines with bore restrictions The tool could perform at speeds as low of up to 110 t. which was received after 59 hours and »» There may be a presence of inline as 1 cm/s, lower than the expected minimum The initial risk assessment revealed a 53 minutes. The pig brought out little debris components, such as non-return valves, flow of 5 cm/s in the pipeline. Furthermore, theoretical risk of a reversed flow, resulting in the from the pipeline and there was no significant hot-tap tees (HTT), and more the modules of the MFL tool and the tool moving backwards in the pipeline. This damage to the gauge plate or the tool body. »» The increased demand for reduced cleaning/gauging tool were designed to ensure situation could occur in the case of a platform The MFL tool was mobilised to site in January operational impact as a result of pigging they would still be functional if the modules shutdown, after which gas would be removed 2017. It was launched and arrived at the receiver operations. separated as a result of a joint break at the from the pipeline to restart the platform. 60 hours and 6 minutes later. Although the FLAGS Pipeline had been HTT due to exposure to high flow. During the first MFL tool design, solid brushes The tool was initially in the low-flow pipeline inspected before, changes in operating conditions A comprehensive testing program was on the tool were included because they improve section, as indicated in Figure 5, and for the first and the addition of a HTT to the system made performed to confirm Rosen’s tool design. bi-directional capability. However, during testing, 2 km the tool had an average speed of this ILI task a unique challenge. The inspection Differential pressure evaluation tests were excessive wear was observed on these brushes. approximately 10 cm/s, but then the velocity had to overcome: undertaken to confirm the sealing performance, After an in-depth assessment of the issue, a rose sharply at the HTT. After passing the tee, »» ultra-low flow of gas at the inlet of and pump tests were completed with large flows change to lamella brushes proved suitable and the velocity steadily increased as the pressure approx. 0.05 m/s in the test loop to simulate the high speed inflow was selected for the final tool design. The risk of along the pipeline decreased. »» presence of a 750 kg, non-return clapper at the HTT. A mock check valve, seen in the tool running backwards was mitigated by To support the pipeline’s activities, Shell built valve that could not be locked open Figure 3, was used to conduct pull tests, and establishing operational procedures that a Compas/USD model. The scope of the »» high side flow where gas enters the high-speed pull tests were used to validate and prevented removing gas from the pipeline in a model’s functions included the main FLAGS FIGURE 1: A map of the FLAGS Pipeline. calibrate the magnet setup. way that would result in a reversed flow. Pipeline, and the Gjoa-Vega and Tampen Link

pipelines, along with all the associated export flows. 10-12 April 2018 Gent | Belgium During the actual runs, this model was used in the plant information (PI) connected mode to track the tools from launch at Brent B to receipt at St Fergus. Filtered real time PI data was brought into the model by means of a PI Early bird conference registrations available read spreadsheet. Export flows and the pressure at St Fergus were from €1,150 – discount closes 15 February 2018 used directly as inputs at the model boundaries, and the export pressures and St Fergus flows were then plotted against model calculated values to A continuation of the prestigious Pipeline Technology monitor the model performance. Conferences organised by Rudi Denys in Ostend, TFAP is Although it would have been possible to infer aimed at sharing knowledge on the latest achievements in the progress of the pigs through the system from assessment, use and maintenance of ageing high-pressure the flow and pressure conditions, the model and low-pressure gas and oil pipeline systems. The event provided this information in a simple format. A dashboard was developed to show the pig’s will also explore the latest technology for materials and progress and estimated arrival times at key points welding for new pipelines to ensure they are designed for in the system, which included arrival at the valve a maximum effective operational lifetime. assembly spool piece, HTT and St Fergus. Who should attend? The performance of the model was excellent All company and the predicted pig arrival times at St Fergus • In-line inspection tool manufacturers, members of were in line with the run in the field – 1 hour over • Pipe/steel manufacturers, prediction for the cleaning pig and 20 minutes EPRG, PPSA and under prediction for MFL tool. • Pipe transportation logistics, PRCI are entitled to the • Pipeline engineering consultancies, ‘Professional Membership’ RESULT • Pipeline standards and regulations bodies, registration discount for The engineers were able to qualify the MFL the first two individual tool for speeds as low as 1 cm/s and qualify the • Integrity consultants, registrations per chosen polyurethane setup as being suitable for • Pipeline owner/operators, FIGURE 4: A stiff joint during a tensile test. the pipeline conditions. In addition, the engineers company. • Industry consultants, and demonstrated that reliable testing programs for tools can be developed for low-flow gas conditions • Universities. and an array of mechanical and operational challenges. The Shell and Rosen personnel Preceding the conference, 9-10 April, there will be three pipeline-industry technical training courses: operated as one team to identify and overcome inspection challenges in a systematic manner. • Defect assessment in pipelines, presented by Dr Phil Hopkins Thanks to the diligent efforts of the project team, • Pipeline repair methods, hot tapping, and in-service welding, presented by Bill Bruce the project was executed safely, with a first-time success, on budget and with minimal impact on • Advanced pipeline risk assessment, presented by Kent Muhlbauer. normal operations.

About Rosen Group Visit www.pipeline-technology.com for further information. Rosen Group is a provider of solutions in all areas of the integrity process chain, including inspection, cleaning, integrity, research and development, and education systems and services. Organised by For more information visit www.rosen-group.com FIGURE 5: A graph showing the tool’s velocity in the pipeline’s low-flow section.

20 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com VISIT US AT BOOTH 507

One of NDT Globalʼs pipeline specialists onsite. Beyond the crack inspection threshold NDT Global has introduced an enhanced inspection approach to combat industry wide uncertainty in crack depth sizing. Its heightened UT crack inspection method will allow operators to surpass the threshold for the examination of cracks and flaws at a depth of more than 4 mm, and improve their integrity management programs.

DT Global has introduced enhanced “Each range, or bracket, represented the depth assembled. The team worked to secure analyst sizing capabilities to its ultrasonic (UT) tolerance. The introduction of absolute depths feedback before conducting research that utilised Ncrack inspection service. This inspection reduced the level of uncertainty that was present the data gathered, as well as the expert knowledge process provides data about the size and location in the industry, because an absolute value of the team, to investigate the relationship of flaws in an asset before permanent damage tolerance was established. between previously unconsidered reflections and occurs by sending out an ultrasonic pulse and “Nevertheless, depths beyond 4 mm still had the crack and flaw depth. monitoring the reflections to receive a surface this level of uncertainty. This method is To ensure that the enhanced sizing and crack echo. The enhanced methodology state-of-the-art in the industry. methodology would work safely and accurately builds on this process and allows inspections to “The new methodology of enhanced sizing for operators, it was put through its paces during be carried out at depths greater than 4 mm. It sizes the depth of the cracks for the entire wall simulation and modelling exercises, followed by was developed while NDT Global experts were thickness, removing the uncertainty for features small-scale and full-scale testing. This new investigating previously unconsidered reflections. sized above 4 mm.” methodology, removes the restrictions for Before the introduction of enhanced sizing, While the sizing of these deeper cracks and analysing deeper cracks and flaws, allowing there was uncertainty when performing crack flaws was feasible, the associated uncertainty in accurate depth sizing in up to 100 per cent depth sizing for depths anywhere above 4 mm. the results led operators to take a conservative wall thickness. Flaws above this threshold have presented a level approach to their pipeline integrity management By removing the limitations of existing of uncertainty since the introduction of absolute programs. NDT Global decided to develop and UT crack inspection processes, operators depth sizing more than five years ago. introduce the enhanced sizing service in order to will have more accurate and detailed data to In a technical video, NDT Global Manager of meet operators’ needs. use when designing a proactive, rather than UC Data Analysis Rogelio Guajardo explained In order to meet API Standard 1163– the reactive, integrity management program, the evolution of crack depth sizing. inline inspection systems qualification – an which will ultimately result in safer “Traditionally, ultrasonic crack inspections experienced UT crack inspection team was pipelines. were classified into four depth ranges,” Mr Guajardo said. For more information visit www.ndt-global.com

22 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com VISIT US AT BOOTHS #PPIM18 813, 815 & 914

ability to travel in both directions. The tool was mitigations – valve sealant, air mover, venting – able to be launched and retrieved from the same were required to insert the SmartPlug into the TDW took an innovative Shutdown avoided entry point, and its bi-directional capabilities launcher and receiver,” Project Engineer Patrick were used to isolate both the launcher and Moran said. approach, combining hot receiver sides. “The innovative combination of TDW tapping and SmartPlug® When leaking valves jeopardised the safety of pigging operations on two pipelines leading to three downstream This was the first time the tool had been products and services enabled the client to avoid gas plants, TDW combined non-intrusive technologies to provide a solution for isolation and repairs. launched by the SmartTrap® automated launch costly alternatives, such as blowing down the non-intrusive isolation By applying these technologies together, the operator was safely able to avoid shutting down the system. system, which is usually used for urethane pigs for system, and to keep downstream customers the liquids management program. The TDW online, without production delays.” technologies aily maintenance pigging on two SmartTrackTM system was then used to track and The inventive use of multiple technologies to simultaneously and 100 km, 24 inch (610 mm) natural monitor the tool’s progress throughout the perform the isolation proved successful and met Dgas pipelines in Texas, US was pigging and isolation process. the operators brief, allowing downstream providing evaluation compromised when the launcher and receiver “The two valves that were replaced were operations to continue and avoiding production services. valves began leaking. The operator determined significantly leaking to the point that additional issues or drop outs. that action needed to be taken before the seals failed and the doors could no longer be safely opened and closed. About T.D. Williamson The pipelines feed three downstream gas plants, T.D. Williamson has been in operation for nearly a century, helping customers transport product safely and reliably. The relationship it has which meant that the ideal solution would allow established with pipeline owners, operators and communities has allowed the company to work with a broad range of technologies, and to service to continue. Blowing down the system develop its high level of industry knowledge, management and operating practices. would have been an expensive endeavour, and the For more information visit www.tdwilliamson.com pre-existing upstream bypass would not be able to keep gas product from reaching the work zone. While the method of hot tapping is often used to create isolations during pipeline repair, the conditions of the job meant that the operator required a more tailored solution. Being familiar with the technology available from global pipeline solutions provider T.D. Williamson (TDW), the operator requested that the company help provide a more customised solution to access and The new valves installed on the pipeline. repair the two valves. TDW took an innovative approach, combining hot tapping and SmartPlug® non-intrusive isolation technologies simultaneously and providing evaluation services. The SmartPlug inline isolation tool is a remotely controlled pressure isolation device that allows piggable pipeline sections to be isolated at, or close to, their operating pressure. This reduces downtime during both planned maintenance and unexpected repairs, while also keeping pipeline inventory in place. Before deploying the SmartPlug tool, TDW confirmed and verified the tolerances, pipe sizes, materials, wall thickness and maximum isolation pressure. Fittings were provided to create a permanent bypass between the pipelines and a connection to a pipeline from the metering station. To manage safety risks, valve sealant was injected into the leaking valves, and the operator installed air movers and venting systems. TDW was able to minimise the amount of time spent pigging by utilising the SmartPlug tool's The twin 24 inch gas pipeline, which required launch and receiver valve replacement.

using through-wall communication. Through- system that sets and monitors the plug throughout to activate the locks and dual seals. The dual seals wall communication is achieved using an the isolation. When it reached the correct of the plug were then independently tested with extremely low frequency (ELF) radio control location, the isolation plug was hydraulically set full pipeline pressure in the correct direction to confirm leak-tight isolation. This allowed the pipeline to be bled down to ambient from the platform launcher to the rear of the plug. The annulus between the seals was vented to ambient to create a zero-energy zone, and was then subjected to a 12 hour isolation stability hold period before an Isolation Certificate was issued. With the double-block-and-bleed isolation verified, the valve replacement work scope was safely conducted. The isolation plug was constantly monitored and remained stable for the full 10 day isolation period. Once the valve replacement activities were successfully completed, the test plug was set using a second control module and a test boundary was created to perform a reinstatement leak test of The STATS Group team and the client are all smiles after completing the isolation. the new valve. This was achieved by raising the The Remote Tecno Plug isolating the section of pipe where the valve is set to be replaced. pipeline pressure on the launcher side against the seal on the test plug, creating a test boundary to Plugging under pressure confirm the integrity of newly installed valve. Finally, the test plug was unset and the pipeline STATS Group has risen to a challenge in the Middle East, after successfully completing the double-block-and- pressure was equalised, allowing the isolation plug bleed isolation of a 24 inch gas export pipeline, at 45 bar operating pressure, ahead of cutting and hot work, to be unset and reverse-pigged back to the launcher for demobilisation. with minimised disruption to the 120 km line. “This successful isolation prevented the operator from depressurising and purging the TATS Group was contracted by a STATS has designed and incorporated a isolation is maintained independently of the entire 120 km gas pipeline required to ensure the multinational oil and gas operator in dedicated test plug for this purpose which ensures control system; however, it is backed up by the pipeline was hydrocarbon-free prior to cutting SQatar to provide the isolation of a 120 km, that any failure of the test and subsequent hydraulic control system, which maintains the and hot work,” STATS Middle East Regional 24 inch (610 mm) gas export pipeline operating at remediation action would not jeopardise the isolation should the differential pressure drop Director Angus Bowie said. a pressure of 45 bar. STATS used a integrity of the isolation plug. The test plug is below the self-energisation threshold. Prior to “The isolation and reinstatement test allowed DNV GL-approved Remote Tecno Plug to designed to not be self-energised by the test deployment to the worksite, a full factory maintenance activities to be safely completed in a provide a fully monitored leak-tight isolation, pressure, therefore it is capable of full code acceptance test (FAT) was performed in a timely manner, reducing the shutdown duration which facilitated the safe replacement of an pressure tests without over-stressing the pipeline purpose-built test fixture. and providing huge environmental and financial emergency shutdown valve. at the lock and seal location. The test fixture was fabricated to simulate the benefits.” Once the new valve was welded into position, a Using a separate leak-test module allowed the client’s pipeline configuration and all testing was A diagram of the leak test that carried out on the new valve after reinstatement. 52 bar reinstatement leak test against the rear of isolation plug to remain fully operational during witnessed by an independent verification body. the isolation plug was carried out to confirm the the test and ensured a differential pressure was Once offshore, a team of isolation technicians valve integrity. In order to provide an isolation maintained across the isolation plug. This fail-safe successfully deployed the Remote Tecno Plug and About STATS Group and reinstatement test, the plug was configured in design uses the differential pressure acting on the pigged it to the set location with nitrogen. STATS Group supplies pressurised pipeline isolation, hot tapping and plugging services to the global oil, gas and petrochemical industries. a four-module arrangement, which included an isolation plug to energise the locks and seals, The isolation plug travelled 50 m through three Its DNV GL-approved isolation tools provide double-block-and-bleed isolation for the safe and efficient maintenance and repair of onshore, isolation module, two remote control modules, referred to as self-energisation. valves and around three 3D bends to the set topside and subsea pipeline infrastructure. and a leak-test module. When the isolation plug is self-energised, the location, and was then accurately positioned For more information visit www.statsgroup.com

Unconventional pipeline inspection A leader in the field A recent rehabilitation project in Mexico presented Q-Inline with a considerable set of ILI challenges. CIRCOR Energy is a leading provider of engineered valve and pipelines, delivering both advanced flow It required the use of non-traditional methods to examine the pipeline buried in a swampy environment, while technology and pipeline services to the energy sector. To achieve its goals of continuous improvement, it has a lack of product meant a wireline winch had to be used to help the with the geometry and assist MFL tools implemented a streamlining methodology to further advance products and processes, and enhance its customer moving through the line. operational capabilities.

nited Pipeline de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., Inspections were to be carried out using the while others were inspected using standalone or more than 60 years, CIRCOR Energy has been delivering CIRCOR Energy also applies this methodology to non-manufacturing a subsidiary of Aegion Corporation, geometry tool and the MFL tool. The inspections geometry and MFL tools. engineered valve and pipeline solutions for the energy sector, with processes, including administrative and supply chain processes. Since Ucontacted Houston, Texas based themselves needed to be performed using a In order to meet the tight turnaround time Fan emphasis on the upstream oil and gas, midstream oil and gas, beginning to implement this methodology, the company has been able to Quanta Inline Devices (Q-Inline) requesting wireline winch, which was necessary due to the specified by the client, the Q-Inline data analysis and petrochemical processing industries. The advanced technologies shorten lead times, improve the quality of products and utilise freed space for the inline inspection (ILI) of two pipelines lack of product being available to run standard team worked around the clock to provide reports developed by CIRCOR Energy provide integrated flow control solutions facility consolidations. located in the Coatzacoalcos region of Veracruz, ILI tools. within 24-hours so that United could schedule its to aid the expanding oil and gas industries, working across subsea and land Mexico, utilising magnetic flux leakage (MFL) The data being sought from the inspections repair crews. environments, even in extreme temperature and pressure conditions. About CIRCOR Energy and geometry services. The two pipelines are included providing the size and location of all Pipeline rehabilitation required that repair CIRCOR Energy provides a number of valve solutions to clients, offering CIRCOR Energy is a global manufacturer of highly engineered 12 inches (305 mm) and 18 inches (457 mm) in results that indicated metal loss in excess of crews cut out dents, ovalities, spool actuators and accessories, a variety of valve types, liquid level controllers and valves and pipeline products. CIRCOR Energy specialises in valves diameter, and approximately 28 km long. 50 per cent, as well as the location of all dents misalignments, and excess weld penetration that switches, pressure controllers and regulators, plugs, probes, strainers and and pipeline solutions, offering customers a comprehensive range of Approximately 90 per cent of the pipeline’s and ovalities of more than 1 per cent. The last was identified in the inspection reports, as well as more. It also provides pipeline products for maintenance activities, including products, custom design and engineering services. route runs through swamp land. They originally requirement of the work scope was that the final repairing all metal loss anomalies greater than pigging tools and accessories, weld and joint testers, laydown heads, For more information visit www.circorenergy.com supplied CO2 to a fertiliser plant, but had been report from each inspection be provided within 50 per cent in depth. polyurethane products, quick opening closures, sphere release mechanisms, out of commission for nearly 20 years and were 24 hours. Once United received the reports, crews were tees. These products are complemented by an extensive range of pipeline to be reinstated for CO2 service. scheduled and verifications and repair cut outs services. United had already segmented each pipeline MEETING THE BRIEF were started. The defects that were noted in the CIRCOR Energy professionals are able to offer expertise in project into 13 sections before contacting Q-Inline, In order to fulfil the scope requirements, reports were located, sized, and cut-out of the management, engineering consultancy services, equipment design, tool resulting in sections each roughly 1.5 km long. Q-Inline mobilised its 12 inch geometry and pipeline sections within 10 days of completing the refurbishment, pipeline cleaning throughout the life of an asset, feasibility Each section of pipeline required high density MFL tools from Houston as quickly as possible, first inspection, which provided United with an studies, to name but a few. As a company, CIRCOR Energy’s aim is to polyethylene (HDPE) liners to be pulled through arriving 10 days after the initial contact with opportunity to confirm the results provided in the provide benefits to customers and the industry as a whole by advancing prior to being reinstated and brought back into United. All infield logistics and winch services for reports immediately. technology and improving its global infrastructure, as well as to pursue service. the project were provided by United. The rehabilitation was nothing short of continuously improving processes and results. In 2005, the company began THE RIGHT SERVICE & PRODUCT EVERY TIME Both pipelines also came with original Conditions on site were a difficult challenge difficult. Each repair required that the pipeline to focus on developing a culture of continuous improvement and operational construction issues, including: that had to be overcome, particularly due to the be lifted from the swamp, cut out, refurbished excellence, implementing initiatives to achieve this goal. »» bad girth welds with excess penetration pipeline being submerged in water. Before the and reinstated. Once all the anomalies in the This includes redeveloping its model lines using Lean Six Sigma »» misalignment of pipe spools project could begin, the pipelines had to be section undergoing rehabilitation were repaired, techniques, a manufacturing methodology that relies on a streamlined »» metal loss corrosion floated off the swamp floor to a level at which the United was then able to pull through the collaborative team effort to improve performance by limiting eight types of »» ovality inspections could be performed. HDPE liner. waste and reducing variation. This is achieved by creating a cross-functional »» dents. The pipeline was accessed using a welded Despite all of the project’s complications, this collaborative team structure; rather than one team for one aspect of a job, These defect types meant that United was flange and were thoroughly cleaned prior to work was successfully executed in record time by team members are involved across more than just a value stream. unable to complete the pull through without inspection. Some of the sections were inspected Q-Inline’s operations and data-analysis risking the liners getting stuck or damaged inside using Q-Inline’s combined geometry–MFL tool, departments, United and its local partners. The advanced technologies developed the pipes. by CIRCOR Energy provide integrated About Q-Inline A TIGHT SCOPE The Q-Inline’s fleet of inspection tools has been designed to meet the extreme demands flow control solutions to aid the The scope of work provided to Q-Inline was of liquid and gas pipelines. It delivers robust technology, bundled inspection services and expanding oil and gas industries, very specific. United required that the MFL and a variety of specialty services. The company’s focus is on upholding the highest industry the geometric services tools be mobilised to reach standards of safety and quality. Despite being a new name in the inspection market, working across subsea and land Mexico within eight days of the initial contact Q-Inline’s team has decades of experience in the engineering and pipeline technology Call 1-855-955-CCIS (2247) and, after job commencement, to process two industry, backed by the network of Quanta Services companies. environments, even in extreme or Visit CrossCountryIS.com sections of pipe per day. For more information visit www.q-inline.com temperature and pressure conditions.

28 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com | Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines December 2017 | Pipelines International | 29 PIPELINES IN THE US PIPELINES IN THE US Coasting the Atlantic The Atlantic Coast Pipeline – urgently needed to supply the mid-Atlantic energy market with natural gas – is close to starting construction after FERC approved it for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. The 966 km pipeline is being developed by a JV of four major energy providers with the highest regard for construction and environmental practices, as well as stimulating the local construction and manufacturing industries with new jobs.

he proposed US$5 billion Atlantic Coast operated with 'best-in-class' technology – Pipeline is an important infrastructure in many cases going well above and beyond Project quick facts Tproject that will ensure the economic regulatory requirements. Length: 966 km vitality, environmental health and energy security Seven metering and regulating (M&R) stations Pipe diameters of the US’ mid-Atlantic region. The utilities are will also be located along the route. M&R stations West Virginia: 42 inch (1,067 mm) in need of additional supplies of natural gas monitor the volume of the flow of the gas to meet the growing demands of the market in through the pipeline and, if needed, can reduce Virginia: 42 inch (914 mm) Virginia and North Carolina. the product’s pressure. North Carolina: 36 inch (508 mm) As it stands, the region's natural gas The diameter of the pipeline will vary along Chesapeake lateral: 20 inch (406 mm) infrastructure is at capacity and unable to support the route from 36 inches (914 mm) to 42 inches Brunswick and Greensville major new economic development and other (1,067 mm). It has been designed to have an laterals: 16 inch growing energy needs. To counteract the issue, a operating capacity of 4.25 million m3 of gas Capacity: 4.25 million m3 per day group of regional energy companies are per day. proposing to build the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. Compressor stations: Lewis County, West Virginia; Buckingham County, A map of the pipeline's route, with the Marcellus and Utah formations highlighted in blue. The pipeline will be an energy provider, job PIPELINE ROUTE Credit: Dominion Energy. creator and economic stimulant for West Virginia, The proposed route of the Atlantic Coast Virginia; Northampton County, North Carolina Virginia and North Carolina. This natural gas Pipeline was developed after more than two years transmission pipeline will transport domestically- of extensive study and engagement with produced, clean-burning natural gas from landowners and communities, with the goal of partnership the JV has developed with Dura-Bond. West Virginia to communities in Virginia and finding the best route with the least possible In 2015, following an extensive tendering process, North Carolina. impact on landowners and the environment. Dura-Bond was selected for the US$400 million More than 9,656 km of potential routes were contract to produce the steel pipe for the pipeline. THE JOINT VENTURE studied before was chosen the best 966 km route At the time Dura-Bond Vice President Jason The Atlantic Coast Pipeline is being developed with the least impact. Norris said the production of the pipes was the as a joint venture (JV) between four US energy After consulting with landowners and single largest order in the company’s history. companies: Dominion Energy, Duke Energy, performing extensive field surveys, more than Speaking at the time of the announcement, Piedmont Natural Gas and Southern Company 300 additional adjustments were made to the Dominion Energy’s then President Diane Gas. As the leading percentage owner of the route to avoid environmentally sensitive areas and Leopold said, “We are excited to work with project, Dominion Energy will be responsible for address individual landowner concerns. Dura-Bond, one of the nation's premier suppliers constructing and operating the pipeline. This process significantly reduced the of gas transmission pipeline. Dura-Bond has an The 966 km pipeline will originate in Harrison environmental impact of the project and outstanding reputation in the industry and has County, West Virginia, and travel to Robeson minimised its impact on individual landowners. been a long-term supplier of pipe and pipe County, North Carolina, via Greensville County, The pipeline project’s team also conducted coating for Dominion's gas transmission business, Virginia, where an additional lateral line will extensive studies, consulted many experts, dating back to the 1970s. extend to Chesapeake, Virginia. Two additional, developed plans, and submitted permit “This contract alone will provide significant TOP LEFT AND BOTTOM ROW: Surveyors studying the Atlantic Coast Pipeline route in Nelson County, Virginia, in 2014. Credit: Dominion Energy. shorter laterals will connect to two Dominion applications for each compressor station to ensure economic growth to the region, beyond cleaner Energy electricity-generating facilities in they meet and, in many cases, exceed stringent air, lower customer bills and jobs.” Pending regulatory approvals, construction of the three compressor stations will use roughly surveying, bending, welding, hydrostatic testing Brunswick and Greensville Counties. regulatory requirements for air quality, sound the pipeline is anticipated to begin in late 2017, 75 construction workers, and another 30 will and safety. More than 1,300 inspectors certified by Three compressor stations are also planned for levels and safety. CONSTRUCTION with the majority of the work completed in 2018 construct the seven M&R regulating stations. the American Petroleum Institute Source Inspector construction as part of the project: at the The Atlantic Coast Pipeline will be built using and 2019, and the pipeline in service late 2019. Approximately 50 per cent of craft and trade Certification Programs will be hired to ensure beginning of the pipeline in Lewis County in PIPE PRODUCTION best-in-class engineering and construction Once construction begins, multiple sections will workers will be hired through local unions for safety and a high level of performance. West Virginia, Buckingham County in Virginia, The project is dedicated to safe, quality techniques. It is estimated that the pipeline’s be constructed by teams; approximately mainline, facilities and metering, and regulating and one near the Virginia-North Carolina border construction, as well as to committing to construction will generate 17,240 jobs supported 7,200 construction workers will be needed in station construction. PERMITTING PROCESS in Northampton County, North Carolina. producing the pipeline’s components in the US. across the tristate region and US$2.7 billion in 2018 and 5,600 in 2019 as the construction peaks. All construction activities will be monitored and Before the Atlantic Coast Pipeline can be The compressor stations will be designed and One example of this commitment is the total economic activity. In addition to pipeline construction, each of inspected. Types of inspector positions include approved and construction can begin, the project

30 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com | Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines December 2017 | Pipelines International | 31 PIPELINES IN THE US has had go through a detailed environmental environmental review process and make this practices including protecting native species, review by the US Federal Energy Regulatory critically important project a reality. All three preserving wetlands and waterways, controlling Commission (FERC). In coordination with more commissioners acknowledge the need for more erosion and minimising emissions. than a dozen other local, state and federal natural gas infrastructure to serve consumers in During construction, the working strip needed agencies, FERC has conducted thorough a review Virginia and North Carolina. to build the pipeline will be up to 38 m wide. to evaluate all potential environmental, cultural, “In her dissent, FERC Commissioner LaFleur However, once construction is complete, the socio-economic and other impacts of the project. noted that more than 90 per cent of the Atlantic permanent right of way needed to operate the Throughout the process, FERC and other Coast Pipeline’s capacity is subscribed by public pipeline will narrow and be reduced to little more agencies have analysed the potential impacts to utility customers in the two states. The end use of than 15 m. the land, air and water quality, wildlife and other this gas is well established on the public record The pipeline will be buried with 1-1.5 m resources to ensure the project has adopted all and is a matter of urgent public necessity. of cover, well above the typical depth of necessary measures to protect the environment, “Our public utility customers are depending on groundwater aquifers. In agricultural areas, landowners and public safety. In order to support this infrastructure to generate cleaner electricity, the pipe will be buried with more than 1 m of the review process, the JV has provided more heat homes and power local businesses. The cover to accommodate most types of than 100,000 pages of reports and project will result in a growing economy, a cleaner farming equipment. documentation covering every aspect of environment, and lower energy costs for Once construction has been completed, the the project. consumers and businesses across the region.” JV will restore the land as closely as possible to its The environmental review process has Before construction can begin, the pipeline original condition for the benefit of landowners. provided numerous opportunities for the public to requires approval from North Carolina, It said farmers, for example, can continue provide meaningful input to the agencies, West Virginia and Virginia’s environmental growing crops and pasturing livestock on the right including more than two dozen public meetings departments, stipulating that project is in of way. and multiple public comment periods. Over the compliance with the Clean Water Act. Most of the right of way will be covered by last two years, FERC received more than pasture, croplands and woodland meadows, 35,000 public comments from landowners, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION blending into the surrounding landscape. residents, businesses and organisations in The JV said that, at every stage of the project, The project has taken steps to protect water communities across the region. it has taken care to protect the environment and sources along the route of the pipeline, In addition to working with FERC, the Atlantic minimise impacts on landowners. Its commitment conducting extensive studies of every water Coast Pipeline is working with local, state and to environmental protection began with the source along the route: from streams and federal agencies to receive more than 2,500 other exhaustive process of selecting an wetlands to private wells and underground permits before the pipeline opens. In October environmentally responsible route, but extends springs. The findings have allowed the project 2017, FERC approved a Certificate of Public through every phase of the project – from the first management to adjust the route, where necessary, Convenience and Necessity for the Atlantic days of construction through to the final days to protect sensitive resources and develop Coast Pipeline. of restoration. site-specific water protection plans. In the certificate, the commission stated that Data has been collected from archaeological The route has already been adjusted to avoid the benefits of the project outweigh the and cultural resources, sensitive species and public drinking water sources, private wells and potential adverse effects on shippers, other habitats, as well as wetlands and waterbody natural springs. Water body crossing methods pipelines, landowners and the surrounding resources to avoid and minimise impacts on specifically designed to avoid impacting communities. The commission also noted that sensitive resources. Construction of the Atlantic sensitive aquatic species will also be adopted if the pipeline was constructed in accordance Coast Pipeline will follow best management during construction. with applicable laws and regulations, and the recommendations for mitigating impacts supplied by the Environmental Impact About the JV Statement were applied, impacts would be Dominion Energy: Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, Dominion Energy is a leading reduced to acceptable levels. provider of energy services in the mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and northeast regions of the US, Dominion Energy Vice President Engineering operating nearly 24,000 km of transmission, gathering and storage pipelines. and Construction Leslie Hartz said the company Duke Energy: Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Duke Energy is one of the was pleased to receive FERC approval for the largest energy holding companies in the US with electricity-distribution, electricity-generation “vitally important project”. and natural gas distribution in seven states in the south and midwest US. “This is the most significant milestone yet for a Piedmont Natural Gas: Also headquartered in Charlotte, Piedmont Natural Gas is an project that will bring jobs, economic growth and energy services company primarily engaged in the distribution of natural gas for customers in cleaner energy to our region,” Ms Hartz said. North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. “In the coming days we will fully review the Southern Company Gas: Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Southern Company Gas certificate and finalise our plans for complying is an energy services holding company with operations in natural gas distribution, retail with its conditions. operations, wholesale and storage services and is the parent company of Virginia Natural Gas. “We will also continue working with the other For more information visit www.atlanticcoastpipeline.com state and federal agencies to complete the

32 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com PIPELINES IN THE US PIPELINES IN THE US

related refinery shut downs and the impact to Colonial’s facilities west of Lake Charles, Colonial’s Line 2, which transports primarily diesel and aviation fuels, will suspend service this evening. For the same reasons, we expect that Line 1, which transports gasoline and is currently operating at reduced rates, will suspend service tomorrow. “Once Colonial is able to ensure that its facilities are safe to operate and refiners in Lake Charles and points west have the ability to move product to Colonial, our system will resume operations. Of the 26 refineries that connect to the Colonial system, 13 are located between Houston and Lake Charles. “Colonial is one part of the fuel delivery system, and there are multiple means of supplying the market to mitigate concerns with supply, including other pipelines, trucks, and barges.” michelmond / Shutterstock.com In early September, the operator commenced assessment of its pipelines, facilities and rights of way in the Houston and Herbert area to identify any areas that required repair before the operations were restarted. During this time, it continued to ship as much gasoline and other refined products as were available from its Louisiana-based refineries, as well as other refineries, on the Colonial system east of Lake AMFPhotography / Shutterstock.com Charles, and continued to do so as markets returned to normal. It was not until 4 September that the pipeline’s Line 2 was restarted between Houston and Lake Path of destruction Charles; Line 1 was restarted on 5 September. Reuters reported that the disruption to the In August, the southeastern US was devastated by the destructive force of one of the most powerful tropical pipeline reduced its operational capacity by at storms ever recorded, Hurricane Harvey. In addition to the potential US$50 billion worth of damage caused by least 4 million bbl/d. During this time, the average retail US gas prices increased to a Harvey was the disruption it caused to energy operations along the Gulf Coast, including in Houston, Texas. two-year high of US$2.621 per gallon.

michelmond / Shutterstock.com ne of the biggest scalps of the storm most of which is underground; 15 storage tanks Herbert and other facilities located to the east of ADDITIONAL DAMAGE was the disruption flooding – caused are also strategically located along the pipeline Houston were still capable of moving product Other energy operators in the area were also The operations of the company’s Beaumont company’s Third Quarter financial results, Valero Oby as much as 50 inches (1,270 mm) of route to meet the demands of the market; and inwards and outwards as supplies became affected by the disruption of the storm. refinery and chemical plants were also safely shut Chairman, President and CEO Joe Gorder said, rain fall in five days – had on the US’ largest fuel connect to more than 260 terminals. available. The Washington Post reported that the roof of down as a result of the storm. A number of the “Hurricane Harvey disrupted operations at five pipeline, the Colonial Pipeline. The disruptions The pipeline passes through 11 states – in A few days later, on 30 August, a statement ExxonMobil’s oil refinery at Baytown, east of Exxon’s offshore operations in the Gulf of of our refineries during the quarter. I’m proud of highlighted the fragility of the country’s pipeline addition to Texas and New York – along its route, from the operator said, “As of this morning, Houston, had sunk under the pressure of heavy Mexico were also affected, including shut-ins at our team’s response and commitment to the infrastructure, reinforcing the importance of as well as servicing seven airports directly and Colonial facilities west of Lake Charles, rain to below the level of the product inside. Hoover and Galveston platforms, while its safety of our workers, their families, and pipelines to daily life. providing fuel to multiple Department of Louisiana, are temporarily out of service due to At the time, the refinery – the second largest in subsidiary XTO Energy was also forced to shut surrounding communities during the recovery Every day, the Colonial Pipeline delivers more Defense installations. the storms. Once Colonial personnel can safely the US – could not be repaired until the tank down as it was in the direct line of the storm. efforts.” than 378 million litres of gasoline, home heating access these facilities, we will evaluate and provide could be drained, which could not be completed Phillips 66 encountered disruptions at its Valero said it worked closely with local, state, oil, aviation fuel and other refined petroleum DISRUPTIONS an estimate of the time necessary to ensure our until the weather subsided. On 5 September, Sweeny refinery, as well as its terminal in and federal government organisations to address products from operations on the Gulf Coast to On 28 August, the pipeline’s operators pipe, pumps, tanks and related infrastructure are Exxon said it was still in the process of assessing Beaumont, while Valero Energy Corporation the impact of the storm. The company also the northeast of the country. Starting in Houston announced that extensive flooding had affected safe to resume operations between Houston and and restarting activities at the refinery, but that it suffered disruptions at five refineries as a result of provided millions of dollars of financial and other and terminating at New York harbour, the system the system at its Houston origin, which included Lake Charles. had made progress, as well as on pipelines and Hurricane Harvey. assistance to employees, affected communities, is made up of more than 8,851 km of pipeline, Pasadena and the Cedar Bayou. However, its “Due to supply constraints caused by storm other infrastructure in the Houston area. In a statement with the release of the and charitable organisations.

34 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com | Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines December 2017 | Pipelines International | 35 PIPELAYERS AND SIDEBOOMS Conquering the slopes PLM’s line of Cat® pipelayers are fine tuned to the pipeline industry’s need for high production and versatility across varied environments. The company says the PL87 pipelayer’s design provides a heavy-duty lift capacity and exceptional performance on sloped terrain, while also being easy to use and providing safety to operators.

ipeLine Machinery International’s (PLM’s) Cat PL87 pipelayer is a purpose-built Pmachine designed for low ground pressure and side-to-side stability, with a lengthened track roller frame and repositioned rear idler raising its performance on slopes by improving the machine’s centre of gravity. Its counterweight profile increases its weight and provides a lift capacity of 97,976 kg – more than 20,000 kg higher than any of the other pipelaying machines in the range – giving it the ability to work with an increased range of large diameter pipes.

OPERATIONS Despite its increased weight, the PL87 features PLM presents the Cat PL87 pipelayer. differential steering that maintains power and manoeuvrability in difficult locations with spatial constraints, particularly on slopes. This type of steering also helps it maintain a solid performance in soft ground conditions, which often prove difficult for operators. Operation of the pipelayer is kept simple through the use of a single lever joystick, which allows operators to simultaneously control all pipelaying functions, including the throttle, counterweight extension and retraction, hook control, boom control, and quick drop activation for emergency situations. Equally as important as its ability to perform, the design of the PL87 also takes into account operator comfort, safety, and economy. The PL87's sister machine, the PL83, also has enhanced slope capabilities. CUSTOMISATIONS Operators can choose an open or closed cab; keep track of the PL87’s status. The operator The boom mount bearings are replaceable, the optional enclosed cab features extended glass presence detection system allows the machine to and other major components – such as the panelling for an improved line of sight in the remain on while the operators not seated, but engine, transmission and final drives – are trench and around the machine during prevents unintentional movement by locking out removable, meaning that costs can be minimised demanding pipeline operations. The enclosed cab the power train. by the machine’s high level of serviceability. is also sealed, and the air is filtered and pressurised, so that the machine can also be used in harsh environments without compromising PLM is a Cat equipment dealer that supports the global needs of the pipeline construction industry with access to purpose-built pipeline equipment, expertise, technology and training safety. in environmental compliance, safety and equipment operation. PLM’s equipment includes Inside the cab, an LCD dash screen keeps pipelayers, track type tractors, hydraulic excavators and motor graders. operators informed of machine diagnostics, For more information visit www.plmcat.com allowing them to make a customised profile and

36 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com PIPELINE INTEGRITY & MANAGEMENT PIPELINE INTEGRITY & MANAGEMENT

contractor competencies, and the establishment contributes to an organisation’s safety culture. them as projects. The performance plan needs Minimising threats and of management systems for decision making and Organisational structure: a reflection of measurement: without measurement, it is almost resource allocation. corporate strategy showing that SGIR is relevant impossible to design improvement action plans for company sustainability, and that the leader that are assigned to specific activities and focused maximising safety: an integrity Phases responsible for SGIR should have a ‘privileged’ on specific geographical locations. The SGIR conceptual model considers three position in the organisational structure. Aspects of this measurement problem include consecutive phases: It was observed that the organisational difficulties in collecting necessary data, lack of management system »» Development – the collection and formal structure had not been successful in the cases depth with regard to the knowledge of documentation of the SGIR elements, where the SGIR Unit leadership was located at procedures and/or creativity to design such as policies, manuals, organisational the third or fourth organisational level instead of management indicators that allow the by Enrique Acuña C, President, Dandilion Ingeniería Ltda, Santiago, Chile structure, procedures, etc. the second level. The SGIR Unit leadership was measurement of the effectiveness of activities, »» Implementation – the organisation not given enough independence from other and goals are only established for program New safety regulations for the management of pipeline risks were introduced in 2010 by the Chilean Pipeline ensures that each of the elements from operational processes, creating a conflict of fulfilment rather than the effectiveness of Regulator after a serious incident in Valparaíso, Chile, caused four deaths and multiple casualties. A guide to the development phase is known, interest, as well as poor empowerment of the procedures. Adequate integrity management plan successfully implementing this new safety management system was released in 2014; this paper discusses the understood, and applied by users. SGIR Unit leadership to receive information, measurement makes it possible to identify »» Management control – review the outputs investigate incidents, and propose solutions/ improvements and take actions for activities that implementation and scope of the guide. of the development and implementation actions. The SGIR responsibilities were also not are not effective or efficient with regard to risk phases: documented processes, trained being assigned to operational units. control. The integrity management plan takes n 2010, the Chilean Pipeline Regulator issued SGIR IMPLEMENTATION personnel, and reliable records will SGIR manual: the manual describes how the care of planning and controlling periodic new safety requirements requiring pipeline In December 2011, SEC assessed the progress produce quality information to measure operator will adapt to legal requirements, and activities and improvement projects. Iand distribution operators to formally related to the development and implementation those processes and the management constitutes the principal guide for SGIR In each case there exist opportunities to perfect manage asset risk in order to control threats and process, and found that companies had system’s performance. Management development, implementation, and maintenance. the plan, but difficulties arise due to: minimise consequences. accomplished only 31 per cent of the SGIR control produces the necessary system »» Lack of participation of operational units To ensure successful implementation, this model objectives. dynamic for the continued improvement Procedures to explain the cause of deviations regulation – Sistema de Gestión de Integridad de Based on the assessment, SEC concluded that of the SGIR as a function of risk. It was relatively easy for companies to adapt »» Problems translating deviations into Redes (SGIR) – was modelled, evaluated, and a common understanding of regulation operational procedures to SGIR requirements, as specific, focused, action plans improved with the participation of industry requirements should exist to avoid wasting The scope the procedures were essentially the same used »» Minimal participation of operational players, resulting in the publication of the resources on evaluation, with assessments The SGIR model was developed considering since 1997. The primary difficulties were related units in developing plans and projects for SGIR Development and Implementation stopping for rule interpretation. three scopes: to the formal aspects of procedures, the depth of improvement Guide in 2014. »» Strategic position – this is a fundamental content, or the use of forms to register data. »» Lack of analysis, coordination, and This paper presents the concepts developed in SGIR METHODOLOGY GUIDE prerequisite for sustainable SGIR Some difficulty was related to the new integrity periodic SGIR progress meetings the SGIR Guide and demonstrates how this In early 2014, a study was initiated, supported development, implementation and procedures, shown in Figure 1, two of which are »» Minimal empowerment of SGIR management system will provide important by the Energy Secretary and SEC participating as operation. important to highlight: leadership to show what should be done, improvements in pipeline integrity management, the technical counterpart. The final Guía »» Procedures – ensuring the availability of »» Incident/accident investigation: this is a rather than what can be done. through commitment and policies, organisational Metodológica para el Desarrollo e procedures and relevant instructions or powerful risk-management tool, as it A competencies management plan, which has structure, performance management and Implementación del SGIR was published in documentation through which the SGIR permits learning constructively from been included in the SGIR model, is a indicators, risk management, and the decision November 2014. In April 2015, SEC enacted a can be developed and implemented procedures failures; in these cases, the fundamental tool to take personnel with adequate making process. guide[2], which complemented SGIR successfully. SGIR Unit should investigate these knowledge, skills, and values, and build and requirements.[1] »» Integrity management program – events, not the operational unit improve these skills on a continuing basis. THE CONTEXT provides the management control tools of responsible. What has been observed to date is limited The utilisation of natural gas on a large scale SGIR MODEL Enrique Acuña C, President, Dandilion Ingeniería Ltda. the system that will be used during the »» Risk assessment and analysis: this key application of competencies’ management in an in central Chile began in 1997. After the start of SGIR’s lifecycle. integrity procedure provides the instance early stage of development, rather than an ideal transport and distribution activities, the focus Philosophy of the model for the organisation to ‘think about’ the competencies’ management model, which is changed to operation and maintenance process The model establishes the fundamentals for The model establishes Key elements of each scope item existence of risk, the level of exposure based on observation of the worker by a improvement. SGIR as comprehensive, systematic, and In this section, the key elements of each scope and the way in which it can potentially be supervisor, who is qualified to ‘educate’ while the In February 2007, a serious accident occurred integrated operation by transport and distribution the fundamentals for are presented, emphasising the most important managed; risk management needs to be a worker is performing his assigned tasks. in Valparaíso, resulting in four deaths, multiple companies, through resource allocation to findings discovered during the last seven years of day-to-day activity. casualties, the collapse of five buildings, and normalisation, inspection, incident prevention, SGIR as comprehensive, SGIR development. CONCLUSIONS significant damage to 36 other heritage buildings. mitigation of incident consequences, and systematic, and Integrity management program The success of SGIR development, In April 2010, Electricity and Fuels integrity management activities, to continually Strategic position In general, it has been seen that SGIR Units implementation, and operation depends on a Superintendence (SEC) enacted a new network improve processes and achieve a controlled integrated operation by SGIR policy: a statement from management have had difficulties in the use of the SGIR series of factors, where the concurrence of all gas safety rule[1] that explicitly adds the ‘risk risk level. transport and to implement areas related to safety and/or risk model’s integrity-management tools. of them are mandatory. There is no doubt management’ concept for transport and In operational terms, the guide works to ensure of corporate strategy at the different levels of the Management of change plans have low, or no, that the strategic position – policy, structure/ distribution operators, based on ANSI/ASME that the SGIR focuses on pipeline risk control, distribution companies. organisation, producing a commitment from application, as the SGIR Unit does not get notice responsibilities, and the SGIR manual – plays a B31.8S. process improvement, improved staff and personnel to achieve policy objectives, which of changes and does not know how to model fundamental role in that desired success.

There is also no doubt that the strategic SGIR STRUCTURE position makes an integrity management program Investigating the integrity (PIM) evolve into an integrity management system (SGIR or PIMS/DIMS). SCOPE ELEMENTS Relevant factors in SGIR implementation are management of flexible pipes mentioned in chronological order: SGIR policy In order to implement SGIR successfully, Strategic position Organisational structure companies must complete a number of relevant SGIR manual by Ian Macleod, Wood, Aberdeen, UK actions. This includes organising internal education, particularly for senior management, Normalisation Wood plc’s Ian Macleod details the findings of the Sureflex JIP’s report into the use of flexible pipe. about gas industry risks and risk management Prevention Operational procedures Established in 2015, the JIP consisted of 13 industry members – led by Wood – involved in the operation, systems at the early stages of implementation; Inspection implementing SGIR as part of corporate Mitigation manufacture, certification and regulation of flexible pipes. management systems at companies with gas Procedures networks; the SGIR policy must be intimately to Data management hile recognised as an essential global damage and failure statistics. It focused on corporate strategy, such as integrating risk Impact area management technology that enables key accurately classifying the severity of the different management objectives from the company Integrity procedures Risk assessment and analysis Woperations in a way that fixed pipe failure events. The key categories were: mission. Inspection plan cannot, flexible pipes are still seen as a more-risky »» Damage: an issue that has degraded the SGIR leaders must be adequately skilled and Safety manual option. To understand more about the reality flexible pipe’s construction or competent, independent, and empowered to of flexible pipe deployments the Sureflex joint performance, but may allow continued obtain support and participation from operational Quality control plan industry project (JIP) was launched in 2015. operation. units. Leaders should also be able to perform Management of change plan By creating a global database covering pipeline »» Failure: the loss of the primary Integrity management effective management control for the Communications plans population, failure, and damage statistics, the containment; failure is then divided into: measurement of the performance plan and the program JIP’s aims were to: • Leak: low level leakage caused by an Performance plan integrity management plan. »» Research the quantities and types of internal pressure-sheath (IPS) defect Integrity management plan A well operated SGIR produces effective installed flexible pipe • Rupture: bore containment failure processes for risk control, as well as efficient Competencies Management Plan »» Improve industry knowledge of flexible due to a defect in the IPS. financial processes, as resources are allocated in pipe integrity management The JIP’s focus has been to understand the Ian Macleod. the correct quantity, when and where they are DEVELOPMENT »» Update industry guidance for managing differences between the defects that result in required. As the SGIR matures, competency the integrity of unbonded flexible pipes damage or failure. This includes pipes that have Of the 584 incidents reported: 451 were cases IMPLEMENTATION » Aid the personnel responsible for flexible of degradation without a leak or rupture; management should evolve to include the PHASE » been shut down or replaced but with no perfection of skills at the workplace. MANAGEMENT CONTROL pipe integrity. containment loss. 123 resulted in a leak; and 10 cases resulted in a For its part, the regulator should continue to The JIP’s 13 industry members included This is important, as some recent studies have rupture. Of the 584 incidents, 465 were related to FIGURE 1: SGIR conceptual model. advance with its SGIR control strategy, making operators of flexible pipe, manufacturers, classed all defects or the change-out of a pipe as a risers and the remaining 119 are attributed to available the SGIR audit model, qualified Distribution Pipeline Integrity Management (IM)”. dandilion.cl), 2015. Enrique Acuña C. certification bodies, and regulatory authorities. failure. Correct categorisation of reports allowed flowlines and jumpers. Looking at these results in auditors, and mandatory audits, applying all of ACUÑA, E.: “Natural Gas Distribution “Evaluación de Riesgo y Estrategia Corporativa: Their contribution was supplemented by the the JIP to provide an accurate threat assessment. more detail, the JIP shows that: these, together with proactive management Integrity Management in Chile: a New Way of Una reflexión de las ideas de W.K. Muhlbauer y experiences of non-member organisations. The JIP has focused on damage and failure »» 45 per cent were classed as damage: an control, through industry SGIR indicators. Doing Things”. In: Journal of Pipeline E. Acuña” that occurs during installation and operation of anomaly that had degraded the piping [1] DS N° 280_2010 Engineering, 4th Quarter, p. 263 – 266, 2009. MUHLBAHUER, W. K., W. K., Where is the RESEARCH FRAMEWORK flexible pipe. A limited number of damage or but not caused a loss of containment [2] RES N° 8265_2015 Ministerio de Economía, Fomento y Turismo risk control strategy?, Pipelines International, 2015. The work of the Sureflex JIP resulted in a failure events occurred at the FAT stage. »» 21 per cent resulted in a containment loss – Chile, Decreto Supremo N° 280: “Reglamento API, 2015. ANSI/API Recommended Practice report, ‘Flexible pipe integrity management The JIP found these were more likely to be »» In 16 per cent of cases, the pipe was REFERENCES de Seguridad para el Transporte y Distribución 1173: “Pipeline Safety Management Systems”. guidance & good practice’ that shows 15,750 km significant events that were rectified prior to operating with a minor defect that was Ministerio de Economía, Fomento y de Gas de Red”, 2010. Ministerio de Energía – Chile, Resolución of unbonded flexible pipe, consisting of delivery. There were also a few damage or failure unlikely to affect the service life Reconstrucción – Chile, 1995. Decreto Supremo ACUÑA, E., Distribution Integrity Exenta N° 8265 (RE N° 8265): Establece Guía 17,500 individual sections, had been supplied by events at load-out, but these were more likely to »» The two most commonly reported causes N° 254: “Reglamento de seguridad para el Management Program (DIMP): A diagnosis of Metodológica para el Desarrollo e 2016 – often in harsher conditions than rigid steel require minor repairs. of degradation led to annulus flooding, transporte y distribución de gas natural”. the implementation process in Chile. In Rio Implementación del Sistema de Gestión de piping. The report also shows that the use of with 212 cases reported ASME.2001. ANSI/ASME B31.8S_2001: Pipeline Conference, 2011. Integridad de Redes, 2015. flexible pipe for static flowlines accounts for more FINDINGS »» In a further 15 per cent of cases, pipes “Managing system Integrity of Gas Pipelines”. MAYBERRY, A., DOT, PHMSA, Pipeline Corromin, 2015. Enrique Acuña C.: “Gestión than 70 per cent of total supplied length and half The JIP found that the number of catastrophic had been shut down because of integrity DOT 49 CFR 192_2007: “Transportation of Risk Assessments and Recordkeeping, 2011. del riesgo en ductos”. of pipe sections, while dynamic risers account for rupture events is relatively low: five cases reported concerns, but damage was not necessarily Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum ACUÑA, E., La Encrucijada Compliance – NCh – ISO 55.001, 2014. “Gestión de activos approximately 20 per cent of supplied length and in the past ten years. Reported incidents are still identified Federal Safety Standards, Sub part O: Gas Competence. In: Dandilion Ingeniería Ltda. – Sistema de gestión - Requisitos”. 26 per cent of pipe sections. dominated by annulus flooding or outer sheath »» Less than two per cent of cases resulted in Transmission Integrity Management”. (www.dandilion.cl), 2015. ACUÑA, E., Pipeline Integrity Management: Flexible pipe jumpers account for 2.5 per cent damage, accounting for just under 40 per cent of containment loss/rupture. These were DOT 49 CFR 192_2007: “Transportation of Pipelines International, Interview: “In A Program or a System? The key of success. In of globally installed length, and 18 per cent of flexible pipe damage and failure. primarily caused by: Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Conversation with Dr. Phil Hopkins”, 2015. the 29th Pipeline Pigging and Integrity installed individual sections, due to their shorter The majority were classified as damage or • corrosion Federal Safety Standards, Sub part P: Gas ACUÑA, E., Dandilion Ingeniería Ltda. (www. Management Conference, Houston, USA, 2017. lengths. The JIP combined these numbers with minor defect with no loss of containment. • tensile armour wire breakage

ANALYSIS FUTURE RISKS The safety record of flexible piping is more The results are broadly positive; however, Witness the fitness benign than previously perceived. When its previously undocumented failure modes identified typical deployment is taken into account; notably, in this report include: by Vlad Semiga, BMT Fleet Technology, Senior Pipeline Integrity Specialist, Nepean, harsher conditions than those experienced by »» fatigue failure in the main pipe section Ontario, Canada fixed-pipe counterparts and the role it often plays »» carcass tearing as an enabling technology; the JIP concluded that »» smooth bore riser ruptures as a result of flexible pipe integrity experience compares reverse permeation in pressurised J- tubes. BMT Fleet Technology recently assessed a lack-of-fusion weld anomaly during a post-weld inspection on a favourably with rigid steel pipes. Flow-induced pulsations can also occur in large-diameter gas pipeline. During the process, the company utilised an innovative analytical approach that Despite some failures, leaks, and ruptures, the unbonded flexible pipes. Flexible pipe is only the removed the need for finite-element modelling and showed that the assessment for fillet-weld features is also industry’s experience is that flexible pipes exhibit initiator, but it’s important not to underestimate robustness under abnormal conditions. the potential threats to safety. capable of facilitating fitness-for-service assessments. Examples of where abnormal loading has The oldest flexible pipes were manufactured resulted in damage include: 42 years ago and 56 per cent of all manufactured Figure 1: A complex flexible riser configuration. MT recently conducted the fitness-for- »» A mooring system failure that led to large flexible pipes were supplied in the last 15 years. service (FFS) assessment of a lack-of- displacements of riser bases. Nonetheless, 9 in 10 were manufactured in the last 30 years. management methods. However, with new threats Bfusion weld anomaly identified in a sleeve- no ruptures were reported and the only Operators need to remain vigilant as an coming online, the JIP has created a standardised end fillet weld on a large-diameter pipeline during loss of containment was caused by a increasing proportion of their flexible pipe reporting template for flexible pipe damage and a post-weld inspection. The FFS was carried topside rigid spool failure deployments enter late-life state. failure. out using a linear-elastic fracture-mechanics’ »» Large dropped objects that impacted Finally, the report itself makes a number of key approach, based on a conservative estimate of the flexible pipes. However, the pipes CONCLUSIONS recommendations: axial loads in the pipeline. re-entered service following re-validation Flexible pipe is a specialist product, with 1. Operators should consider the guidance This assessment was completed using both assurance activities distinct differences to rigid steel pipe. Historically, concerning the global experience of finite-element (FE) analysis and an empirical »» A number of mid-water arch failures flexible pipes have often been inspected, repaired, flexible pipe usage, damage, and failure. analysis approach – developed by the Pipeline resulted in multiple risers being dropped maintained, and assessed by personnel with 2. Annulus flooding events remain the most Research Council International (PRCI)[1] and on to the seabed or significant abnormal limited knowledge of flexible pipe technology. prevalent cause of damage to dynamic not requiring FE modelling – to assess the loading. Several of the ‘dropped’ risers The industry now acknowledges that flexible risers. Dynamic risers are increasingly significance of defects in sleeve-end fillet welds. were reinstated. pipe integrity should be managed by those with being designed for flooded conditions. This novel analytical technique permits the Despite the relative youth of flexible pipe, the demonstrable flexible pipe system competence Operators should still make every effort to assessment of finite-length sleeve-end fillet weld statistics show that even though new failure and experience. mitigate any anomalies leading to annulus features without FE modelling and can be applied modes have been observed, the rate of failure has To that end, the JIP report also includes a flooding. within a variety of FFS assessment techniques. declined since the mid-1990s. Reported damage comprehensive inspection and monitoring 3. Operators should perform risk-based increases are largely a result of increased technology review to help operators identify how integrity-management programs to THE LOF SCENARIO monitoring. In addition to the core work of the to mitigate the threats. The report also identify the specific threats to a flexible The lack-of-fusion (LOF), shown schematically JIP, a review of independent studies showed that acknowledges that many operators have pipe system. in Figure 1, occurred in a sleeve-end fillet weld on when acknowledging the incident rate per established long track records of applying 4. The JIP database should be kept a large-diameter gas pipeline and was identified installed pipe, flexible pipe has lower rates of integrity management techniques detailed in up-to-date to advance understanding. through the use of in-ditch shear-wave ultrasonic containment loss than rigid pipe. previous JIP reports. Finally, the JIP recommends using its inspection (UT) following the completion of the Improvements in materials and design of standardised reporting template for flexible pipe welding procedure. flexible pipe has led to greater confidence among damage and failure. The LOF, which occurred adjacent to the FIGURE 1: LOF feature identified by NDE. operators in the effectiveness of their integrity sleeve-end face, was measured to be 9 mm long Pipe outer diameter (OD) 42 inch (1,067 mm) (in the circumferential direction) and was located Pipe wall thickness (tp) 0.5 inch (12 mm) 16.2 mm from the outside surface of the Sureflex JIP’s ‘Flexible pipe integrity management guidance & good practice’ report was caption published in 2017 and is available via the 25.4-mm thick sleeve. The height of the LOF was Pipe grade X70 Oil & Gas UK website: www.oilandgasuk.co.uk assumed to be the height of one weld pass, which Specified minimum yield strength (SMYS) 70,000 psi (483 MPa) is approximately 3 mm. A summary of the particulars relevant to the assessment is shown in Sleeve length (Ls) 19.7 inch (500 mm) About the Sureflex JIP Table 1. A schematic of the idealised LOF as Sleeve thickness (ts) 1 inch (25.4 mm) Established in 2015, the findings of the Sureflex JIP demonstrate that flexible pipe failure rates have been in decline since the mid-1990s, analysed in the assessment is shown in Figure 2. Sleeve grade A516 Grade 70 as technology and design has matured and application has expanded to more challenging environments. For the purpose of assessment, the embedded SMYS of sleeve 38,000 psi (262 MPa) It builds on a series of initiatives led by Wood dating back to the late 1990s and previously run under the auspices of Oil & Gas UK, which led LOF was conservatively assumed to be a to the development of integrity management guidelines for flexible pipes in 2010. semi-elliptical surface breaking flaw with a total Minimum CVN for weld 19.9 ft-lb (27j) depth of 9 mm – equal to the depth of the 3 mm Widely supported by a group of 13 participants the project comprises major operators including: BP, Shell and Repsol Sinopec, flexible pipe Maxiumum operating pressure (MOP) 1,260 psi (8,690 kPa) manufacturers and certification and regulatory bodies, including the UK’s Health & Safety Executive. crack, plus the depth of the remaining ligament to the inner surface of the sleeve. TABLE 1: summary of assessment particulars.

The load case considered in the assessment had an internal pressure equal to the MOP, assuming end caps, such that the pressurisation results in axial tension in the pipeline.

The fracture toughness (KIC) of the weld metal was estimated based on the minimum Charpy V-notch energy (CVN) of 27 J, using a CVN to K correlation [1].

KIC/SMYS = 0.64 ((CVN/SMYS) – 0.01) (MPa√m, MPa, J) Based on the minimum CVN of 27 J and the equation above, the estimated fracture toughness

(KIC) is 2,015 MPa√mm.

FINITE-ELEMENT MODEL A quarter symmetry FE model was used to estimate the applied stress-intensity factor along the crack front, and a plot of the model showing FIGURE 2: Crack geometry idealisation. the location of the crack-tip elements can be seen in Figure 3. Based on an internal pressure of 8,690 kPa, along with the resulting axial stress in the pipe wall due to end cap effects, the stress-intensity factors at the deepest points and surface-breaking points along the semi-elliptical The Pioneering Spirit passes under Istanbul’s Golden Horn bridge. Image courtesy of Allseas Group S.A. crack front were estimated to be:

Kdeepest = 53 MPa√mm

Ksurface = 17 MPa√mm Over land and sea For comparison, the assessment was also carried out using the PRCI sleeve-end fillet-weld Russian energy company Gazprom is in the process of constructing TurkStream, a new pipeline link between stress-intensity estimation method [1], which is an FIGURE 3: Finite-element model. Russia and eastern Turkey, via the Black Sea. It is the first time that a 32 inch diameter pipe has been laid at analytical approach that can be applied relatively quickly without advanced FE modelling – crack- a pipeline repair-sleeve-end fillet weld is not gratefully acknowledges the technical direction and depths of more than 2 km. tip simulation – to evaluate the potential for crack expected to be injurious. This statement can be sponsorship of PRCI in the development of the extension by fatigue, fracture, or plastic collapse. made because the fracture ratios estimated for the stress-intensity-factor solution research discussed in urkStream is one of several projects From its landfall near Kiyikoy, the pipeline’s route ship to Allseas’ Pioneering Spirit, the largest Based on the analytical approach, the stress feature deepest and surface-breaking locations are this project. Initial validation of the sleeve-system underway designed to supply Europe – will connect to the existing network at Luleburgaz, construction vessel in the world. On board the intensity factors at the deepest point (K ) and well below 1.0, and the flaw is not considered to modelling process was supported by the US in the midst of an energy crisis – with a where it will continue to its end point on the border pipelaying vessel, each pipe joint is successively deepest T surface breaking point (Ksurface) were 75 MPa√mm pose a risk in terms of failure by fracture. Department of Transportation. new and reliable source of gas. Once it has been of Turkey and Greece. Each of the two offshore welded onto the main string, before the weld is and 15 MPa√mm, respectively. Note that the Note that the assessment did not consider completed, TurkStream will directly connect the pipelines is made up of thousands of 12 m long, tested and then coated, and the pipe string is sleeve length of 500 mm is outside the validation the potential for crack growth due to cyclic REFERENCES large gas reserves in Russia to the Turkish gas 1.54 inch (39 mm) wall thickness high quality lowered into the water. base of sleeve lengths that are considered in the pressure loading; given the nature of the 1. V. Semiga, A. Dinovitzer, A. Eshraghi, and transportation network, providing reliable energy carbon manganese steel pipes, manufactured by Operating around the clock, Pioneering Spirit can development of the PRCI approach, which may operation of the gas pipeline, crack growth due R. Lazor, 2016. Development of pipeline sleeve supplies for Turkey, south and southeast Europe. Europipe, OMK and Severtal’s Izhora pipe mill. lay more than 3 km of pipeline a day. contribute to the difference between the analytical to pressure cycling was not considered to be a end fillet weld stress intensity factor and reference The route of the more than 900 km long, twin At the shore approaches, the pipes are being and FE-analysis approaches. The fracture ratio threat for this pipeline.[3] stress solutions for fatigue and failure assessment. 32 inch (813 mm) diameter pipelines will start on concrete coated for added protection; elsewhere, PIONEERING SPIRIT (Kr), a metric of how close a flaw is to failing due This sample application illustrates that International Pipeline Conference, IPC2016- the Russian coast near the town of Anapa and they are provided with a three-layer Formerly known as the Pieter Schelte, the to fracture, is calculated as: sleeve-end fillet weld features can be assessed to 64491, Calgary, AB. run through the Black Sea to Kiyikoy, in the polypropylene coating to combat corrosion. Pioneering Spirit is the largest construction vessel

Kr = Kapplied/KIC consider their fitness-for-purpose, and the specific 2. J. Barsom and Rolfe, 1987. Fracture and Thrace region of Turkey, around 100 km west The pipes have also been lined internally with an ever built. Inspired by the offshore heavy lifting A fracture ratio greater than 1 indicates failure. feature considered did not need to be repaired. fatigue control in structures: applications of of Istanbul. epoxy lining to reduce friction between the gas pioneer Pieter Schelte Heerema (1908–81) and Based on the FE estimated stress-intensity factors The sample application also illustrates that the facture mechanics. 2nd Edn, Pearson. The TurkStream Project has been planned and and the pipe wall. designed completely inhouse, the vessel is and the estimated fracture toughness, the PRCI-developed stress-intensity-factor solution 3. V. Semiga, S. Tiku, A. Dinovitzer, and W. developed by Gazprom. For the offshore section Allseas’ Pioneering Spirit vessel commenced equipped for the single-lift installation and resulting fracture ratios for the crack front are: for fillet-weld features is capable of facilitating Wagster, 2016. Evaluation of fatigue in gas through the Black Sea, Gazprom is being pipelay for the first line of the pipeline in the removal of large oil and gas platforms and the deepest Kr = 53/2015 = 0.03 FFS assessments. pipelines. International Pipeline Conference, supported by its subsidiary South Stream Black Sea in June 2017. At depths of up to 2,200 m, installation of record weight pipelines. surface Kr = 17/2015 = 0.01 IPC2016-64486, Calgary, AB. Transport BV, based in Amsterdam. With a team TurkStream has become the first 32 inch pipeline The emergence of the vessel signifies a ACKNOWLEDGMENTS of more than 200 people, South Stream be laid at depths of more than 2 km. step-change in offshore installation and RESULTS The fitness-for-purpose assessment sample For more information visit Transport is fully equipped to construct the decommissioning. Built at the Daewoo The analysis was successful in demonstrating application presented in this article was completed www.fleetech.com deepwater pipeline in a safe manner, with due PIPELAYING AT DEPTH Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering shipyard in that an isolated weld feature, i.e. lack of fusion, in by the team at BMT Fleet Technology. BMT regard for the environment. The pipes are being directly transported by South Korea (2011–14), the vessel commenced

offshore operations in 2016 with removal of the 13,500 t Yme field's production unit in the Norwegian North Sea. The single lift of Shell’s 24,200 t Brent Delta platform topsides – in April 2017 – was the world’s heaviest offshore lift. The twin-hulled vessel is 382 m long and 124 m wide. At the bow is a slot, 122 m long and 59 m wide, that enables Pioneering Spirit to straddle a platform and remove entire topsides – weighing up to 48,000 t – in a single lift using eight sets of horizontal lifting beams. Two tilting lift beams for the installation and removal of jackets – weighing up to 20,000 t – are located at the vessel’s stern. Complementing the lifting systems is a 5,000 t special purpose crane for additional lifts such as lighter topsides and jackets, modules, and bridges. The sheer size of the Pioneering Spirit gives her very good wave-response behaviour, superior to other semi-submersible crane vessels in operational wave conditions; topsides and jackets can be installed or removed in significant wave heights of up to 3.5 m. While the vessel moves A view of the Pioneering Spirit’s stinger as the welded pipes are lowered in an S-curve to the sea bed. Image courtesy of due to wave action, all motion relative to the Allseas Group S.A. platform is eliminated by engaging the active motion compensation system, which enables her to make large lifts in hostile seas. A map of the route TurkStream is taking through the Black Sea. Image courtesy of TurkStream. Pioneering Spirit can sail under her own power at a high transit speed, making her suitable for Following the success of the Nord Stream worldwide use. Operating on full dynamic pipeline, construction has started on a second positioning, she can work accurately in any water pipeline – Nord Stream 2 – which will closely depth, while her light ice class will extend the follow the route of the original. In April 2017, periods in which she can operate in Polar regions. Allseas was awarded the project’s pipelaying The vessel is also equipped with pipelay contract. equipment that makes it possible to install record Since 2003, gas has also been transported weight pipelines from shallow to ultra-deepwater, directly to the eastern part of Turkey through the and achieve high lay rates. With an S-lay tension 24 inch (610 mm) diameter, 1,213 km long Blue capacity of 2,000 t, she surpasses Allseas’ Stream pipeline that runs north-south from the other vessel Solitaire as the world's largest Beregovaya compressor station on Russia’s pipelay vessel. coastline to the Durusu terminal on Turkey’s northern shore. LATEST OPERATIONS Despite these recent achievements, the west of At the time of publication, in early November, Turkey and a number of neighbouring European 373 km of pipe had been laid, divided over the countries do not have the security of gas supply two lines. In Anapa, construction of the landfall from Russia. They instead rely on an older facility – which began in 2014 – is on track. system, which runs via Ukraine that, over the past In Turkey, the Environmental Impact 20 years, has suffered from lack of investment and Assessment was approved by Turkish authorities The 32 inch diameter pipes are welded on board the giant pipelaying vessel. Image courtesy of Allseas Group S.A. modernisation. in early October, and South Stream Transport These issues have made this system less BV is progressing with permitting and plans to SECURING EUROPE’S GAS SUPPLY and other European countries. Commencing reliable, posing a risk for those countries that start construction in the first quarter of 2018. TurkStream is one of a number of recently operation in 2011 (2012 for the second line) the depend on it for all their energy. With a view to Petrofac has been contracted to construct the completed or proposed pipeline projects to secure twin 42 inch (1,067 mm) diameter, 1,224 km long the future, TurkStream will solve this by providing receiving terminal, and first gas is on schedule to Europe’s supply of energy into the future. pipelines run from a compressor station at a direct connection to Russian gas reserves, to The area nearby Kiyikoy, Turkey where the pipeline will make landfall. flow through TurkStream in December 2019. Crossing the Baltic Sea, the Nord Stream pipeline Vyborg near St Petersburg in Russia to Greifswald transport up to 31.5 billion m3 of gas to the guarantees uninterrupted gas flows to Germany in Germany. region each year. For more information visit www.turkstream.info

A pump station on the Grand Rapids Pipeline route. Image courtesy TransCanada. Two crew members onsite. Image courtesy TransCanada. A rapid expansion minimal impact on the stakeholders along the Director Economic Development and Tourism Over the past 65 years, TransCanada’s energy Five years of planning, development and construction in Strathcona County, Alberta, Canada, has culminated route of the pipeline. Gerald Gabinet says, “The activity that’s been network has operated with careful consideration Grand Rapids Pipeline Project Director Wendy happening here in Strathcona County has been of long-term societal and environmental in TransCanada’s Grand Rapids Pipeline commencing operations, delivering oil and diluent to markets West says extensive time was dedicated to really exciting. outcomes, as well as prioritising the safety and in Alberta. The pipeline’s installation has expanded the potential for the development of the community’s navigating these issues, and that it was thrilling to “Currently we have over CA$7 billion worth of quality of its network. The Grand Rapids infrastructure and resources, and will continue to do so for many years to come. see the pipeline entered into operation. projects planned, recently completed or under Pipeline is now part of a network of cross- “This milestone marks the culmination of over construction in the county. Another really good continental transportation systems with an five years of planning and consultation and over thing for us is the increase to the county’s total tax elaborate and strategic safety goals in place. ive years of efforts in the Strathcona agreement for the proposed CA$3 billion place to move oil to market from emerging seven million hours of dedicated efforts by the assessment which happens when pipelines and Ms West says it is important to stay involved County community have culminated in the (US$2.4 billion) project in 2012. The agreement developments west of the Athabasca River. project team, contractors and various their associated facilities are completed and with communities after the line is established. F460 km, 20 inch (508 mm) Grand Rapids stipulated that TransCanada would operate the This is the first major pipeline project to meet the stakeholders including landowners, indigenous operational.” “The Grand Rapids Pipeline system will be Pipeline System commencing operations in late system, while PetroChina Canada entered a needs of this fast-growing area.” groups and communities along the route in order able to move crude oil from both the established August 2017. It is TransCanada’s latest major long-term commitment to ship the crude oil and In 2015, the JV entered into an additional to make this project a reality. We are thrilled to SAFETY FIRST Athabasca producing region as well as the crude oil pipeline system to become operational diluent produced, with PetroChina Canada 50-50 JV, with Keyera contributing a 45 km celebrate this important milestone, and are During construction operations, the Grand emerging developments west of the Athabasca in Canada since the Keystone Pipeline System bringing its production facility into operation southern portion of the 20 inch diluent pipeline, grateful to everyone who played a role in Rapids Pipeline team was honoured with the River, making it an important piece of began operations in 2010. in early 2017. which was to be built by Grand Rapids. its success.” 2016 Occupational Health and Safety Award infrastructure to move energy to market from this The pipeline has the capacity to deliver “We have come a long way in achieving great The section of pipeline extends from the Keyera from the Sherwood Park Chamber of Commerce, growing oil-producing area. 900,000 bbl/d of oil and 330,000 bbl/d of success for the Grand Rapids Pipeline in this Edmonton Terminal, where Keyera contributed a WORKING LOCALLY acknowledging the outstanding performance of “The pipeline will safely and reliably deliver diluent, and connects production areas in challenging environment,” Grand Rapids new pump station, to TransCanada’s Heartland Construction of the Grand Rapids Pipeline workplace health and safety through employee crude oil that will end up fuelling transportation Fort McMurray, Alberta to markets in the Business Development Manager Dan Morrison Terminal near Fort Saskatchewan. allowed TransCanada to work extensively with training, work systems and a record of safety. and products to consumers across North Edmonton and Heartland regions. Grand Rapids says. “This strategic partnership with Keyera will the local community and its officials, particularly “We’ve had a couple of onsite visits to the America. is the first to pipeline to connect the West “This is the first new pipeline development in bring value to Grand Rapids shippers,” given that operations are planned to extend for Grand Rapids Pipeline that was going on in the “We don’t just drop into communities through Athabasca region with these markets. the West Athabasca region that can transport Mr Girling says. “It will enable Alberta oil sands decades into the future. community with the new tanks and the pipeline,” construction and then disappear. TransCanada The pipeline system is an important addition to crude oil to market. Our partner is as proud as we producers to gain access to a reliable and cost The tax revenue derived from infrastructure Mr Gabinet says. will be operating this pipeline through Strathcona TransCanda’s infrastructure assets, are to have accomplished this major milestone on effective source of diluent and help them meet projects, such as the Grand Rapids project, “We were really struck by how serious County and other communities for generations. complementing its operations in Alberta, as well the first leg of a larger pipeline system.” the growing demand for the energy that powers provide a significant boost to the budgets of local TransCanada takes its safety program and their “That’s a responsibility we’ve always taken as extending its liquids transportation capabilities. TransCanada President and CEO Russ Girling our daily lives across North America.” communities. This money goes towards workers program. As soon as we arrived onsite extremely seriously. We care about these says the expansion of crude oil production developing the local community, often in the form they ensured that we had hard hats, safety vests communities as our neighbours, and as the places AGREEMENTS created a need for infrastructure development to PLANNING FOR SUCCESS of improving local infrastructure and facilities or and safety boots for our tour there going forward.” we live and work, too.” The pipeline was developed by TransCanada provide for emerging markets. As a long-term project, extensive and detailed supplying new or improved service. and PetroChina Canada (formerly Phoenix “As Alberta crude oil production continues to planning was involved to ensure that the impacts Speaking on the positive effect of the project For more information visit www.transcanada.com Energy Holdings), who signed a joint venture (JV) grow, it’s critical to have the infrastructure in of its construction and operation would have a on the local community, Strathcona County

The pilot hole is drilled. The HDD Rig is positioned in the alignment of 16 inch pipeline profile for the pilot hole drive.

The Trenchless Engineering Services team at the Chambal River. Deep drilling

In January 2015, Trenchless Engineering Services was awarded a project for the installation of a section of The construction site. pipeline across the Chambal River in Kota, India. The project achieved a record breaking maximum vertical depth for India of 140 m below ground level in rocky conditions using HDD. permission for construction work from a number running the mud motor to increase its power to pilot hole, this time with an additional 20 m of agencies in the jurisdictions; once permission achieve multiple trips in and out. added to the drive depth, taking operations to he Chambal River crossing was a Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary, which is meeting the project requirements, Trenchless was granted, HDD rig anchoring was completed By the 13 June, approximately 990 m of the 140 m below ground level. This pilot drive was challenging section of the 192 km classed as a highly sensitive environmental Engineering Services carefully selected and by 8 March, and pilot hole drilling for the 6 inch pilot drill was completed. At this stage operations successfully completed on 27 October. TVijaipur-Kota Pipeline Project, involving zone. Before operations could commence, a deployed a range of machinery. It determined conduit pipeline began on 9 March. were taking place 120 m below ground level; the horizontal directional drilling (HDD) topography survey was designed and actioned that a HDD rig with more torque would meet The location of operations in an ecologically progress here was also difficult as this layer PUSHING ON installation of three lengths of 16 inch (406 mm) to assess the feasibility and optimum the job requirements better than one designed sensitive zone meant that care had to be taken to contained boulders on the drive path. After the pilot hole was complete, the lead pipeline, as well as a 6 inch (152 mm) high-density installation route under the river for the to pull, thus it selected a machine with minimise the impact on local flora and fauna. The pilot hole drill for the conduit pipeline was pieces were removed and the survey wire was polyethylene (HDPE) pipeline to house a fibreoptic planned pipeline. 170 KNm torque. To ensure that operations were as accurate and completed on 10 August, and the pipeline was taken from inside the drill pipes. Reaming took cable. The three installations were 1,400 m, With a ground elevation difference more The HDD rig had a 320 t pulling capacity, in least disruptive as possible, a ParaTrack guidance successfully pulled through and laid just six days place across two stages. 480 m and 530 m long. Trenchless Engineering than 100 m between the rig positioned at addition to two high pressure mud pumps system was used to evaluate the borehole profile, later. The HDD rig was then disassembled and During this process, a section of drill pipe was Services used HDD to install the pipeline through ground level and the river bed, the crossing which had the ability to disperse 2,728 L of and a surface coil was laid to monitor the position repositioned to begin pilot hole boring for the added to the trailing end of the hole opener and a geology of hard rock with a compressive profile was designed to take place at a depth of mud per minute. The bore hole itself was of the drill bit. 16 inch pipeline, and launched on 21 August. drawn towards the rig. Bentonite was pumped strength of 220 MPa, while also accounting for the 140 m. The depth of the drive created another designed to ensure that minimum stress was put The nature of the rock proved to be more By 9 September, 870 m of the drive had been through the reamers, to flush the cuttings and presence of boulders. challenge; the effort of bringing up the on the pipeline, with as little pull load as difficult than anticipated, with its aggressive and completed when operations came to a halt. stabilise the hole. bentonite slurry and cuttings from a depth of possible. abrasive character slowing the rate of pilot The boulders that slowed progress for the conduit After an assessment of the reaming operation CHALLENGES 140 m would require high powered machinery, drilling. At times, a single joint could take more pipeline’s pilot bore were impossible to navigate and the pipe to be installed, the 1.4 km pipeline The project presented a set of unique and a high pressure mud pump to maintain the DEEP DRIVE than 2 or 3 hours to penetrate. and the pilot bore had to be abandoned. was pulled through the hole on 17 October 2016, challenges that had to be overcome. circulation of the bentonite. Work site setup began with the mobilisation of The ground conditions meant the drill bit Further analysis and discussion of the ground with the pipeline achieving final gas on The Chambal River runs through the National To manage these challenges while also heavy machinery and equipment. It required would require frequent cleaning, which involved profile lead to the decision to commence a new 13 October.

50 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com | Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines December 2017 | Pipelines International | 51 RISK MANAGEMENT RISK MANAGEMENT Facilitating Managing group dynamics in a meeting can be challenging, but it is this same insightful group dynamic that often leads to more valuable outcomes – group think! discussions with Pitfalls include: reluctance in providing estimates of FACILITATING INSIGHTFUL »» no clear objectives risk elements. MEETINGS »» no control of pace/progress These issues are addressed with careful Meeting facilitation is an art. The best SMEs »» loss of group focus meeting planning, and proper introductory facilitators can read an audience and know when »» excessive dominance by a small fraction materials and training. In extreme (and very rare) to push and when to allow latitude. by W. Kent Muhlbauer, WKM Consulting, of attendees cases, management intervention may Knowledge of pipeline risk is valuable. Austin, Texas, US »» under-participation by some attendees. be required. Often, an overheard side conversation or a casual The facilitator’s role is to achieve the meeting Regarding the reluctance to participate listed remark by an attendee leads to the acquisition of objectives. This requires avoiding these pitfalls. in the potential difficulties, some additional key risk insights. Risk assessment uses pipeline system data to help operators develop While capturing SME information one person comments are warranted. If the facilitator lacks specialised pipeline accurate risk management plans; however, there is always a desire for more at a time is an alternative to a meeting, it is In a typical risk assessment meeting, SMEs will knowledge, he should seek an ally who can be data. This article discusses the essential nature of involving SMEs, who can usually less fruitful. Managing group dynamics in be asked to estimate things like soil corrosivity, alert to the ‘gems’ that might arise in detailed a meeting can be challenging, but it is this same frequency of vehicle incidents, flooding potential, technical discussions. provide specialised knowledge to complement the statistics developed from group dynamic that often leads to more valuable landslide potential, and more. If an SME, Action registers are a must – they are perhaps hard data, and how to best facilitate discussions at risk assessment meetings. outcomes – group think! experienced with the system being assessed and the single best way to get a wandering meeting Specific to a pipeline risk assessment SME often charged with managing the risk of that back on track. Much can also be said about the subject matter expert (SME) is As a common operator-specific SME example, metallurgists, integrity managers, and others who meeting is also the need for at least a bit of system, claims to be unable to estimate such use of presentation materials, geographic someone who has specialised a typical pipeline field technician might not hold have both general and system-specific expertise. training. It’s not reasonable to expect all attendees things, then it’s probably only because the information system (GIS) tools, and databases as A knowledge. This specialised knowledge specialised technical knowledge that is superior to The role of SMEs in risk assessment is to study risk assessment concepts and come to a framework within which the questions are being meeting aids. can be in a field of science or technology, all other field technicians. However, they likely essential. We will never have all the ‘hard data’ we meeting prepared instantly to provide the asked is unfamiliar. Such tools help keep attendees engaged and including the application of a technology – such hold extraordinary knowledge and experience want, so we are forced to make estimates. The required answers; some introductory training will Once the intent is understood, the SME participating; there are many online resources on as an inspection technique – and it can also be with their area’s facilities, roads, weather, soils, people involved in day-to-day oversight are often normally be needed. A mini-workshop on risk should be able, with very little difficulty, to this topic that can provide further details. location specific, including knowledge of a certain drainage, and other characteristics that are of in a key position to provide estimates that are assessment and risk management often initiates provide reasonable estimates. If they still can’t, Modern risk assessment must acknowledge all geography or set of assets. interest to a risk assessment. most appropriate to specific facilities. an SME meeting. then an admonition is in order. credible threats and consequences, which In their days, weeks and years of travelling the A meeting facilitator does not necessarily have Frankly, an SME who does not understand the requires dozens, if not hundreds, of inputs into WHY DO WE NEED SMEs? same roads, SMEs see the types and frequencies of: SME RISK ASSESSMENT to be an SME in risk assessment in order to phenomena potentially endangering the systems the assessment. While all risk assessment inputs SME knowledge is always needed in a risk »» traffic accidents (maybe even train MEETINGS conduct an efficient meeting. The facilitator only under their direct control, and is unnecessarily must ultimately have some estimated value assessment; it supplements the more-rigorous derailments and aircraft crashes) But how to best extract this knowledge and use needs to understand the objectives and the basic putting both the company and innocent parties assigned, it is never necessary nor useful to datasets informing our risk estimates. »» foreign pipeline and utility crossing it in a risk assessment? The key is in conducting mechanics of building the needed datasets. at increased risk.[1] subject SMEs to dull and frustrating meetings in The typical ‘hard data’ sources of information maintenance activities facilitated SME meetings. As another example of reluctance to order to get those values. on a pipeline system include location-specific »» ditch and road maintenance A properly prepared and managed DEALING WITH DIFFICULT participate, some SMEs may have experience in Risk assessments are interesting efforts, usually reports from inspections, studies, and general »» new construction, population changes SME meeting efficiently captures SME ATTENDEES providing qualitative or scoring type inputs to an leading to new insights and enjoyable ‘ah-ha!’ record keeping, as well as general pipeline data »» land use changes knowledge. ‘Efficiently’ in this sense means In addition to the general meeting pitfalls listed old style risk assessment, like a scoring model. moments. Proper SME meeting facilitation normally available from agencies such as the »» ice, wind and storms keeping all attendees engaged and participating above, typical difficulties that may be encountered These methods were sometimes accompanied by ensures that attendees are productively assisting Department of Transport, National »» flooding in working through a well-conceived with some SME groups include: long, painstaking, meetings that left attendees in the risk assessment, but also enjoying Transportation Safety Board, Federal Aviation »» landslides meeting agenda. »» inability to understand, or agree with, the tired and frustrated, which was unfortunate the process. Administration, and others in the US. All of this »» subsidence All the classic pitfalls in general meeting meeting objectives and underlying risk and unnecessary. A good motto for the modern pipeline risk information is supported by the science and »» and many others. management can interfere with achieving the concepts Those past experiences may initially hamper a assessment SME meeting facilitator is: get the engineering that underpins our knowledge of There are other SMEs in a typical pipeline objectives of an SME meeting, sometimes leading »» negative attitude towards the meeting’s modern SME meeting, but are easily overcome work done, but keep it light, and make it fun. pipelines as structures and transportation systems operation, including corrosion control specialists, to a complete failure – i.e. a waste of everyone’s effort through proper meeting facilitation. Attendees may even look forward to the update – additional SME topic areas. hydraulic specialists, control centre experts, valuable time. »» reluctance to participate – specifically, meeting the next year.

W. Kent Muhlbauer is a regular columnist for Pipelines International, author of Pipeline Risk Assessment: the Definitive Approach and its Role in Risk [1] For more insights on this potential obstacle, the author suggests reviewing his previous articles on this topic: ‘Myth busting – I don’t have Management, and presenter of the Advanced Pipeline Risk Management course run internationally with Clarion Technical Conferences and enough data’, published in two parts in the June and September editions of Pipelines International in 2013. Tiratsoo Technical. To access digital versions of the articles, visit www.pipelinesinternational.com/magazines For more information, visit www.pipelinerisk.net

Regulatory HCAs are based on counting 20 or measures the threat and they provide the quality future prevention and mitigation requires Responding to Muhlbauer on more dwellings or having one or more identified control necessary to validate that the outcomes; additional analysis to prioritise and schedule sites within the potential impact radius (PIR) both quantitative, and qualitative, are reasonable, future P&M activities. screening tool circle. The designation of HCAs and fit with experience. If the geometry of a flaw was measured B31.8S guidance documents was deemed unnecessary in B31.8S because risk, Before combining the threats, the same SMEs recently, and the material’s properties and the or the product of the likelihood of failure times must help make the different threats comparable deterioration rates are reasonably well known, B31.8S Member Dr Keith Leewis, of Leewis & Associates, Alberta, Canada, responds to Kent Muhlbauer’s the consequence at each location along the in magnitude, and ensure that the process does then the interval to failure can be predicted. risk management article in Pipelines International, Issue 30, December 2016, pp 50-52, regarding the B31.8S pipeline(s) should govern the priority to select, not skew the system risk assessment outcomes. Worrisome imperfections can be monitored or initiate, and complete the appropriate prevention In many cases when the values are unknown, scheduled for early repair or replacement as part guidance documents. and mitigation activities. choosing inappropriate default parameters or of this year’s, or some future year’s, P&M ASME B31.8S Article 3.3 specifies looking for assigning weighting factors was guaranteed to program as decided in the periodic planning here has indeed been a significant hydrostatically pressure tested before leaving additional receptors inside the PIR screening skew the outcome. meetings. number of changes made to the gas the mill. Defects that can’t withstand the mill circle. ASME B31.8S requires the operator to There is no substitute for validated data and Tpipeline integrity management standard pressure test fail, and that pipe is rejected. consider a broad range of consequences and to known relationships. To make informed decisions REVISION since the 2004 version was referenced in the Imperfections remain behind since they identify intensifying hazards (such as energy today, you really need to know: Mr Muhlbauer is not alone in suggesting that US regulations 49CFR192. For a variety of successfully passed this initial acceptance standard transportation corridors, propane or fertiliser 1. What you bought the language in Article 5.5 should be updated. reasons, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety limit. Imperfections also describe the collective storage) beyond the regulatory minimum of 2. Where you put it The National Transportation Safety Board has Administration (PHMSA) has not yet chosen examples table found on page 51 of the article. 192.903 counting of occupied structures. 3. How it has performed lately. instructed PHMSA to report on pipeline to use the updated 2010, 2012, 2014, or 2016 Pipeliners know from past service history that The very high consequence receptors can be probabilistic and other types of risk assessment versions. some seam welding techniques have systemic considered ‘black swans’. DETERIORATION methodologies. Any new language will consider One aspect of this resistance to change seems problems even though they have passed their The new PHMSA proposed rule suggests An IMP requires that a risk assessment is a key the many suggestions and attempt to make Article to have been the need to reference the initial initial mill hydrotest and the final construction extending the length of pipelines requiring full element in prioritising prevention and mitigation 5.5 more helpful and clear. It will be instructive to external corrosion direct assessment (ECDA) and pressure test. These contain imperfections that IMP or extra care. The regulator has suggested (P&M) decisions. The P&M decision is generally wait until the PHMSA Risk Assessment Working internal corrosion direct assessment (ICDA) can be initiation sites for growth by corrosion, adding medium consequence areas (MCA > 5 focused on the failure avoidance, since there are Group has completed its report before improving language housed in Appendix B inside a fatigue, and or overload forces. people) and the addition of adjacent ‘people- more opportunities for risk reduction compared the language in Article 5.5. recognised standard. Now that NACE The interactions between these imperfections transient’ sites such as roads and railways. to consequence minimisations that are usually set In the meantime, studying alternative International has written standards for external and the deterioration mechanisms can cause the Again, sound risk assessment should guide by physics. language from similar standards such as ASME and internal direct assessment (plus stress imperfection to grow into defects and then as resource allocation decision making along the Work priority driven by risk assumes that PCC-3 and CSA Z662 also provides guidance corrosion cracking and confirmatory), the defects lead to failure in normal operations. Similar whole length of the pipeline not just to the today’s risk will decrease, given that the work to to the committee. The ASME B31.8 committee language in Appendix B was removed and users deterioration can initiate at stress risers such as at regulatory focus in these new MCAs or (currently) remove the priority threats will be completed in a maintains liaisons with many of these are directed to the appropriate NACE standards. large changes in wall thicknesses especially if pipe Dr Keith Leewis. in HCAs. timely fashion. However, deterioration rates are alternative activities to improve the transfer Being regulatory compliant may not ensure an ovality leads to a hi-lo mismatch. managed through prevention or surveillance, different across each system, and planning for of knowledge. incident free system. Operators should consider Cracks usually originate from imperfections or because it could occur at any time after a periodic RISK METHODOLOGY incorporating the current versions of B31.8 and stress risers. Cracks have always been covered in condition assessment. The list of four risk assessment methods In many cases threat assessments are a blend of B31.8S when updating their integrity Article 2.2, just not in the previous bulleted listing described in Article 5.5(b) has not changed since management systems. but in the language that follows these historical CONSEQUENCES the original green cover version was written in qualitative and quantitative approaches which use a groupings listed in a 1985 summary of natural Most risk users focus just on the language of 2001. However, over the last 15 years, much has 2.2 THREAT CLASSIFICATION: gas reportable incidents. 49CFR192 Subpart O which defines high been learned, and these initial categorisations of variety of analytical techniques to provide a realistic Static is now known as Resident Threats arise from the interaction of consequence areas (HCAs). The choice of HCA risk assessment methods are proving to be greatly and repeatable likelihood of failure for each of the Materials contain resident imperfections and imperfections and deterioration mechanisms or was a political convenience because, in 2002, the over simplified. these are due to the choice of fabrication excessive loading. Interactions can be considered knowledge and resources were insufficient to In many cases threat assessments are a blend of different threats. processes used in the mill, in construction, or in as resident threats acted upon by time dependent apply integrity management plans (IMPs) to all qualitative and quantitative approaches which use equipment assembly. Why use the word and/or random or time independent threats. 300,000 miles (483,000 km) of natural gas a variety of analytical techniques to provide a About Keith Leewis imperfection? In Figure 13-1 (old 2004 edition There can be multiple interaction types. pipelines. realistic and repeatable likelihood of failure for Figure 5), one of the three final results is an Note that the term ‘time independent’ has The use of HCAs meant the industry had to each of the different threats. Keith Leewis is the President of Leewis & Associates, based in Alberta, Canada. The imperfection which is defined in Section 13 as an been replaced with the term ‘random’ which apply the new rule across only 10-35 per cent of Kent Muhlbauer is correct in that subject organisation provides practical regulatory and integrity solutions for transmission pipelines operating on either side of the US-Canada border. Leewis & Associated also provides anomaly with characteristics that do not exceed better describes how those threats occur in the their system. ASME B31.8S does not contain this matter experts (SMEs) are not a single likelihood engineering assessments, ECAs, periodic integrity assessment plans and other technical acceptable limits. time domain. This term informs the user that the HCA limitation but assumes that the whole estimation method, but these individuals are integrity related documents. Since 1928, all API-5L pipe has been random nature of the threat implies that it is best pipeline is to be assessed. essential to designing the methodology that

Pipeline people: Diane Cordell Pipelines International speaks to PPSA Executive Secretary Diane Cordell about the association’s important role in the industry, the part that PPIM played in its establishment and how it provides up-to-date and impartial whether the enquiry is relevant to them and young people into the industry – this year we also run our golf tournament on the Monday information on its members. respond accordingly. sponsored the Oklahoma State University before the conference commences. The other type of enquiry is technical in Institute of Technology’s Pipeline Integrity PPIM is a fantastic conference for finding out How did your late father-in-law Jim What role does the PPSA play the nature, which is sent to a technical adviser. Program and the Young Pipeline Professionals’ what is new in the pigging industry, with Cordell come to found the Pigging pipeline industry? The technical adviser then responds to the (YPP) Symposium in the USA. numerous technical papers presented and an Products and Services Association PPSA was formed to enable pipeline operators enquirer directly. We are also running an activity with YPP for exhibition of the latest advances in pigging (PPSA)? to source pigs and pigging services quickly and PPSA is completely impartial and does not young pipeliners at Pipeline Research Council technologies, all under one roof at the George R In 1988, while working on a project for a major efficiently, and to obtain independent advice. It advise the enquirer about which company to International Technology Development Center’s Brown Convention Center in Houston. We can’t operator, Jim needed to contact all the pig also enables pigging vendors to find out about the work with. We recommend that the enquirers ask pipe loop in Houston directly after PPIM. In wait to celebrate its 30th year. manufacturing companies. At that point he needs of the operators. for references and set requirements when they addition, we are developing an online learning realised that although it was important for Another aim of the association is to educate approach the members. tool and have developed an interactive online pig Will pipeliners be able to find you at operators to be made aware of pigging products and inform, which we do through our annual simulator/launcher. any other events during the 2018 and services, it was equally important for the pigging seminar, our newsletter, and the What are the most important calendar year? suppliers to be made aware of the needs of members’ and Buyers’ Guide information contributions PPSA has made to the Why is PPIM so important to the There are some great events coming up this the operators. available on our website. pipeline industry? pigging and ILI industry, as well PPSA? year. As well as PPIM, PPSA will be at the So, Jim – with the help of Gill Hornby – sent Each year our members work hard to keep key As I have mentioned, PPSA’s first AGM was Pipeline Technology Conference in Berlin, letters to 25 suppliers asking them whether they What is your role with PPSA? pipelines around the world running. Often held during a PPIM because it has always been IPC in Calgary in September and, of course, would be interested in forming a trade I’m the Executive Secretary of PPSA. As the cleaning, inspection, and repairs are made while attended by a great number of our members, and PPSA’s own seminar in Aberdeen in November. association. A total of 18 responded, with 15 in Secretary, I handle the day-to-day running of the Diane Cordell. pipelines are in operation. Jim was a regular presenter at the conference. I enjoy meeting members and non-members at favour. This convinced Jim that an association association and all enquires that are sent to PPSA By helping the industry quickly source products That was 27 years ago, and PPSA has attended these events, so come and visit me at our was needed. come to me. our members are our primary concern, and we and services, PPSA can help the pipeline every year since. We are regular exhibitors and exhibition booth. The PPSA was officially founded in 1990, with The management of PPSA is by the Board of like to hear their suggestions and adapt the operators provide an efficient, cost-effective, and the first Annual General Meeting (AGM) taking Directors, without whom the association wouldn’t benefits we offer accordingly. safe service. Pipelines are integral to our everyday For more information visit www.ppsa-online.com place at the Pipeline Pigging and Integrity be able to run. The Board of Directors includes a lives as we rely on the products that they carry to Management Conference (PPIM) in Houston, President, Vice President, directors and a Does the PPSA have separate divisions, serve our needs. for example for utility pigging company US. The first President and Treasurer was Chris treasurer. PPSA has helped to keep pipeline operators PPSA Membership Kershaw of McAlpine Kershaw. All are from PPSA member companies and are members and inline inspection (ILI) and service companies stay up-to-date with new nominated and voted for by our members. At our company members? pigging products and developments as they take PPSA offers three main levels of membership: What was Jim’s background in the AGM, the Board of Directors and AGM PPSA’s Buyers’ Guide breaks down the place in the industry. • Full member – companies manufacturing or marketing pigging products or services. pipeline industry? attendees help to set PPSA’s strategy for the activities of our members into different sections • Associate member – companies connected with the industry, such as operators, Jim joined T.D. Williamson (TDW) in coming years, and plan how our resources will be of the industry, showing which pigging products What does the future hold for the supplier’s, allied industries, etc. 1967, where he worked for Hershel Vanzant. used to give the best value to our members. and services each member provides. The guide association? • Individual member – anyone with an interest in pigging products or services. He designed his first pig to remove metal The first Executive Secretary was Jim, who was has five main categories: pipeline pigs, pipeline PPSA will continue to support its members in coupons from a BP pipeline that ran from succeeded by Gill Hornby when he retired. I first pigging components and equipment, pipeline delivering pigging services around the world. We For more information on the benefits being a PPSA member, or, to join the association, email: [email protected] Angle Bay to Llandarcy at Morriston in got involved in PPSA by helping Gill at the pigging services, ILI services, and consultancy are also getting actively involved in bringing South Wales, UK. Aberdeen seminars and became the Executive services and industrial pigging. A few years later Jim moved to Belgium to Secretary in 2010. We also offer a free Directory of Members manage TDW’s marketing operations for Europe, which is a great source of information on the Africa, and the Middle East. In 1985 he left Why do you think the PPSA’s activities of our members. TDW and set up as a pigging consultant, working membership has grown significantly closely with operators, helping to design and since those early days? How do you ensure PPSA’s technical develop their pigging requirements. I think PPSA’s success comes down to its key enquiry service provides users with the One of his most notable projects was working values that were set by Jim at the start. Today appropriate and impartial advice? with Chris Kershaw, Arne Vingerhagen and PPSA has over 120 members from over The technical enquiry service is free of charge, Dr Aidan O’Donoghue to develop the 28 inch/ 20 countries. and anyone with a question about pigging can 42 inch (711/1,067 mm) dual-diameter pig which All the enquiries are dealt with individually, not contact us. Usually there are two types of enquiry. significantly advanced dual-diameter pigging at by an automated response, and we aim to Requests for quotations or sales enquiries are that time. respond by return to each enquiry. The needs of sent to all the full members. The members decide

As a result, fibre-optic sensing technologies, in operators, solutions need to provide the greatest scaled to cover any distance. The extended Heading particular distributed acoustic sensor (DAS) possible range and accuracy to ensure pipeline 100 km range also means that fewer individual solutions, have become absolutely vital to networks can be effectively and reliably modules are required to monitor a given pipeline. operators’ security strategies. For operators to monitored 24/7. As a result, operators can deploy LivePIPE II protect their assets effectively, fibre-optic sensing Fotech is addressing these requirements with more cost-effectively than any other DAS technologies are now essential; they are no longer the launch of LivePIPE II. Dual-channel solution, without sacrificing quality, reliability, or seen as a luxury item. technology delivers a continuous monitoring accuracy. Although this technology should by no DAS-based pipeline intrusion detection systems range up to 100 km from each individual module, means be seen as a replacement for existing Preamble (PIDS) are recognised across the globe as a with no multiplexing or loss of detection. security measures, its capabilities add significant proven technology for the protection of pipelines. LivePIPE II also introduces Fotech’s enhanced potency and an invaluable layer of intelligence to DAS PIDS are already providing protection to data and acoustic management (EDAM) security monitoring and leak detection systems. thousands of kilometres of pipeline every day. technology, giving operators enhanced insight to When it comes to protecting pipeline assets and This includes being deployed in harsh their pipeline’s integrity. EDAM allows operators preventing the environmental damage that can environments, densely populated areas, and in the to listen to activity at a specified location on the result from threat incidents, operators are looking most remote locations that were often installed fibre in real time – offering new to significantly enhance their security measures. unmonitorable with traditional security measures. assistance in identifying the exact nature of Given the intensifying threats to pipelines, DAS solutions harness the fibre-optic cables potential threats. EDAM can also identify and technology vendors need to respond to these that run alongside a pipeline to help operators record segments of data that can be stored for up heightened demands. understand and locate what is happening along to three months, replayed, listened to, and used to With LivePIPE II, Fotech is pushing the the entire length of their pipelines, at all times. analyse and enhance detection. boundaries of what is possible with DAS DAS gives operators the information they need to LivePIPE II’s modular design simplifies solutions. As such, it represents a significant step react within minutes of the first sign of a deployment, enabling the solution to be quickly forward for pipeline operators. third-party intrusion threat or a leak incident, and allows resources to be directed effectively. For more information visit www.fotech.com However, for DAS to deliver the most value to

A diagram of how LivePIPE II integrates to secure a pipeline. Asset secured by Stuart Large, Fotech Solutions, Sales & Product Line Director, Church Crookham, UK

Fotech Solutions has released what it says it the world’s most reliable, real time pipeline protection technology. The company says the release of the DAS-based product is a step forward for pipeline operators.

n the US, the Pipeline and Hazardous terms of clean up costs. Indeed, the clean up of Operators must deal with these serious risks, Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) the infamous Kalamazoo River oil spill, where and the resulting financial and environmental Ihas recorded over 11,000 pipeline incidents approximately one million gallons of oil spilt consequences, every day. And these issues aren’t in the past 20 years . The causes vary from from a pipeline, cost over US$1.2 billion alone. going away anytime soon. Faced with significant corrosion to excavation damage and criminal There are 3.5 million km of pipelines currently amounts of ageing pipeline infrastructure, more activity, but these incidents have led to installed around the world, and more than 83,000 km sophisticated criminals, intensifying regulatory hundreds of thousands of gallons of product planned or already under construction. pressure, and harsher financial repercussions than being spilled. Theft, criminal tampering, and accidental or ever before, it is no surprise that oil and gas They have also ultimately cost operators almost corrosive damage could occur anywhere on this operators have increased their focus on tightening US$4 billion in fines and many more billions in vast network at any time. security measures.

58 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com | Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines December 2017 | Pipelines International | 59 EVENTS EVENTS IPLOCA Convention attendees ptc focuses on safety in 2018 Taking place in March next year, one of Europe’s leading pipeline conferences, ptc, will once again focus on show solidarity with Mexico the vital industry issue of safety. In 2018, the event will feature panel discussions and technical sessions, as well Despite an earthquake occurring in Mexico prior to the commencement of its Annual Convention, IPLOCA as a hall with more than 70 exhibitors. made the decision to go ahead with the event, and, by doing so, show solidarity to the country’s people. Many n 12–14 March 2018, Berlin, Germany of them openly expressed their sincere gratitude that IPLOCA members were present in such circumstances; will once again host one of Europe’s leading pipeline conference and the program was run as planned. O th exhibitions. The 13 edition of the Pipeline Technology Conference (ptc) will provide a he 51st Annual IPLOCA Convention comprehensive overview of all developments was hosted in Mexico City on 25–29 in the onshore and offshore pipeline industry, TSeptember. As a result of the effects covering planning and design, construction, of the earthquake, the number of participants operation and maintenance. was reduced from the 520 delegates that had “The ptc conference has become the biggest been registered. The IPLOCA Board and the and most important pipeline conference in Secretariat said they were appreciative that all of Europe,” DNV GL Norway Global Director the event’s sponsors – including major sponsors Pipelines Asle Venas said during ptc 2016. CAT, CRC-Evans, Worldwide Group, Liebherr, “At last we have a big pipeline event in Europe Maats and Euro Pipeline Equipment – honoured that can compete with IPC in Calgary, Canada their commitment to the association, and to the and IBP in Rio di Janeiro, Brazil.” majority of registered delegates that attended. Every year, more than 600 pipeline operators, as well as technology and service providers, and More than 70 companies will be displaying in ptc’s Exhibition Hall. NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS researchers and regulators from 50 different The Annual General Meeting (AGM) took countries gain an insight into the latest place on Friday, 29 September and included the technologies and new undertakings in the pipeline President's Year in Review, the Treasurer's IPLOCA’s new Board of Directors for 2017-18. industry at the ptc. report on the status of IPLOCA’s accounts and Underscoring the value the event has for his the incoming President's objectives for the year. AWARDS the initiative and the fact that it is a long term company, MOL GROUP Pipeline Operation Amendments to the By-laws were approved and The 2017 IPLOCA Health & Safety Award, and highly diverse initiative. Manager Ferenc Péterfalvi said, “I have been the results of the 2017–18 Board of Directors sponsored by Chevron, was awarded to The 2017 IPLOCA New Technologies attending ptc for years. It is good to meet old elections were also ratified. DODSAL Engineering and Construction Pte. Award, sponsored by BP, was presented jointly acquaintances and to get to know new colleagues. Andrew Ball of J. Murphy & Sons was elected Ltd, represented by Ramadugu Devanandam to CRC-Evans Pipeline International and “In addition to the European focus, we can see as IPLOCA’s new President, taking over from and Anil Shivashankar, in recognition of their LaValley Industries LLC, represented by Brian how our industry is advancing technologically Immediate Past President Ruben Kuri of Road Safety Initiative – Robot Road Safety Laing and Jason LaValley, for their work on their elsewhere in the world. Several concepts and Arendal, who was elected in Paris in 2016. Manager. The adjudication committee granted onshore TONGHAND Exit Side Wrench. The solutions introduced to us during the conference John Tikkanen of Shawcor and Iosif Panchak of the award because the project includes an IVMS adjudication committee granted the award have been implemented and we are already Stroygazmontazh were elected first and second with a robot for drivers’ self-evaluation, it because it is innovative, improves health and seeing net efficiencies in our operations,” Vice Presidents, respectively, while Adam Wynne provides positive recognition for good behaviour safety and had the highest score. Mr Péterfalvi said. Hughes of Pipeline Induction Heat was and it is an innovative solution where leadership The IPLOCA Scholarship Program named The 2018 edition of ptc will feature two panel confirmed as the new Treasurer of fails. 20 recipients, who are children or grandchildren discussions on pipeline safety and public One of the technical sessions at ptc in 2017. the association. The 2017 IPLOCA Corporate Social of employees of IPLOCA member companies. awareness and 18 technical sessions covering all During the Open General Meetings (OGMs), Responsibility Award, sponsored by Total, is They were each awarded US$4,500 as a aspects of lifetime extension strategies for ageing The results of ptc are published for free on the high profile speakers covered a wide variety of awarded in recognition of an initiative aimed at financial contribution to full-time studies at an and future pipeline projects. More than event website and in a special issue of Pipeline topics, including safety culture and risk improving the living conditions of the people in accredited college, university or vocational 70 exhibiting companies from all over the world Technology Journal (ptj). Pipeline Technology management, large projects in Mexico, the use communities local to and impacted by pipeline school of the student’s choice. Preparations have will present solutions in the ptc Exhibition Hall The technical papers from ptc 2017’s special Conference of polyethylene pipes, the gas industry and the industry work. The 2017 award was given to already started for IPLOCA’s 52nd Annual where all conference breaks will take place, session, ‘Safety by DVGW – German 12–14 March 2018 United Nations, the removal of large offshore Fluor, represented by Larry Bolander, in Convention, which will take place in London offering great networking opportunities at the Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Estrel Convention Center platforms, and global energy trends. During the recognition of their 2016 Global Community from 10 to 14 September 2018. same time. Water’, have recently been published in a special Berlin, Germany OGMs, three industry awards were also Project Fund. The adjudication committee Two seminars – ‘Inline Inspection’ and issue of ptj on ‘Pipeline Safety in Germany’. presented, as well as the 2017 IPLOCA granted the award because of the project’s ‘Geohazards in Pipeline Engineering’ – will See www.pipeline-journal.net for www.pipeline-conference.com For more information visit Scholarship Program recipients strong corporate global commitment, the conclude the program on the following two days. more information. www.iploca.com being announced. employee and stakeholder engagement shown in

IPC continues support of pipeline education

On 24-28 September 2018, members of the pipeline industry from around the world will gather in Calgary, Canada for the 12th International Pipeline Conference (IPC 2018). Organised by volunteers representing leoks © Shutterstock.com international energy corporations, energy and pipeline associations, and regulatory agencies, IPC has TFAP opens registrations become internationally renowned Registrations are available for the assessment in pipelines’, presented by Dr as the world's premier pipeline Technology for Future and Ageing Pipelines Phil Hopkins; ‘Pipeline repair methods, hot conference. (TFAP) Conference, taking place on 10–12 tapping, and in-service welding’, presented IPC 2018 is designed to inform, April in Gent, Belgium. Formerly known as by Bill Bruce; and ‘Advanced pipeline risk enlighten and motivate, and Rudi’s Pipeline Technology Conference and assessment’, presented by Kent Muhlbauer. delegates have been encouraged held in Ostend, TFAP is co-organised by Registration at TFAP will be valuable for to actively participate in all that Tiratsoo Technical, UK, and the Lab. Soete of technical consultants and managers, engineers, the event has to offer. Operating Universiteit Gent. academics, project managers, heads of as a not-for-profit conference, the The conference is aimed at sharing operations, and CEOs and managing directors. proceeds from the event continue knowledge and will feature the latest Full conference registration starts at €1,150, to support educational initiatives achievements relating to the assessment, use if registered by 15 February 2018. Company and research in the pipeline and maintenance of ageing high-pressure members of European Pipeline Research industry. (cross-country/offshore) transmission and Group, Pigging Products and Services Held in partnership with ageing low-pressure distribution gas and oil Association, and Pipeline Research Council the IPC 2018, the biennial pipeline systems. A parallel theme will explore International are entitled to the ‘Professional International Pipeline Exposition the latest technology for materials and welding Membership’ registration discount for the first (IPE) will bring together thousands for new pipelines to ensure they are designed two individual registrations per company, at of leading professionals to explore for a maximum effective operational lifetime. a cost of €1,080. For more information visit a showcase of more than 250 of Three training courses are available: ‘Defect www.pipeline-technology.com the industry’s most recognised brands and the latest pipeline technologies, products, and MOGC dedicates itself to midstream services. In 2018, IPE’s showcase will feature an expanded show The Midstream Oil and Gas Congress MOGC is expected to attract more than floor with more exhibitors than (MOGC) will be held in Copenhagen, 250 delegates, as well as more than ever before. Denmark on 26-27 March in 2018. MOGC 30 exhibitors, 100 companies and 50 esteemed New lower level exhibits and is dedicated to the midstream environment: speakers. In addition, more than 40 meetings a trivia bar have been added, as pipelines and all that is related to pipelines’ will be held, and over 200 processed requests. well as a CSA Group Innovation issues from construction and installation, Speakers at MOGC include Baltic Forum. IPE will also dedicate to maintenance and inspection, and oil and Connector Oy President and CEO more time to networking than gas transportation strategies and methodology, Herrko Plit, TANAP Dogalgaz Iletim A.S. ever before, allowing delegates to especially marine logistics. CEO H. Saltuk Düzyol and Shell Projects & meet with over 6,500 technical and The event will provide delegates with a Technology Global SME – Pipelines Graham business leaders from more than platform for the transfer and exchange of Freeth. The event’s two-day business program 50 countries. the most innovative practices and business features 10 sessions, covering topics such as For more information visit approaches between key players of the market, oil and natural gas pipelines transportation, www.asme.org/events/ipc together with new technical solutions and pipeline inspection, and pipeline planning and cases presented by experienced engineering construction. companies and service providers. For more information visit www.mogc.eu

62 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

BMT Fleet Technology Ltd, 57 Girard Pipeline Pigs 25 ROSEN Group 1 CIRCOR Energy 5 NDT Global IFC STATS Group OBC Clock Spring 13 Pigs Unlimited International 59 TD Williamson, Inc. 3 Cross Country 29 PipeLine Machinery International 37 Enduro Pipeline Services 12 Q-Inline 11

Features and deadlines 2018

MARCH 2018 JUNE 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 DECEMBER 2018

Trenchers and earthmoving Pigging and ILI Valves and instrumentation Vacuum lifters equipment Machinery and equipment Transport and logistics Pipelayers and sidebooms NDT Welding Coating and linings Pigging and ILI FEATURES Corrosion Ageing pipelines Pipeline cleaning Safety Rehabilitation and repair Education and training Industry standards Unpiggable pipelines Trenchless Technology REGIONAL FOCUS Europe Canada Central America United States IPCE 2018 TFAP (official conference edition) Clarion Training Courses Clarion Training Courses Clarion Training Courses PPIM 2019 EITEP ptc APGA Convention Global Petroleum Show EXTRA UPSF IPLOCA Annual Convention Pipeline Opportunities Global Petroleum Show ASCE Pipeline Conference Conference 2018 DISTRIBUTION Pipeline Week Clarion Training Courses Mexico PECOM 2018 Pipeline Opportunities Rio Pipeline Conference Offshore Pipeline Technology Pipeline Leadership Conference PLCA Canada Annual Conference 2018 Convention Iran Pipeline Pigging Conference & Exposition

DEADLINE 5 JANUARY 2018 4 MAY 2018 27 JULY 2018 19 OCTOBER 2018

Events 2018 PPIM 2018 MIDSTREAM OIL AND GAS CONGRESS 29 JANUARY – 1 FEBRUARY 2018 26-27 MARCH 2018 Houston, Texas, US Copenhagen, Denmark www.clarion.org/ppim/ppim18 www.mogc.eu MEDIA PARTNER MEDIA PARTNER

EITEP PTC GLOBAL PETROLEUM SHOW 2018 12-14 MARCH 2018 12-14 JUNE 2018 Estrel Convention Center, Berlin, Germany Stampede Park, Calgary, Canada www.pipeline-conference.com www.globalpetroleumshow.com MEDIA PARTNER MEDIA PARTNER

TECHNOLOGY FOR FUTURE AND AGEING PIPELINES 2018 INTERNATIONAL PIPELINE CONFERENCE 2018 11-12 APRIL 2018 24-28 SEPTEMBER 2018 Het Pand Convention Centre, Gent, Belgium TELUS Conference Center, Calgary, Canada www.pipeline-technology.com www.asme.org/events/ipc MEDIA PARTNER MEDIA PARTNER

64 | Pipelines International | December 2017 Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines | www.pipelinesinternational.com ADVERTISE IN PIPELINES INTERNATIONAL Promoting the interests of the global pipeline industry

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Pipelines International 2017_update Oct 17.indd 1 14/11/2017 10:20:06