ISSUE 28 | JUNE 2016
Cover story: Construction gets Natural gas Flexible pipeline underway on the Trans Adriatic and investment integrity Pipeline project. opportunities in Iran management
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Clockspring_PINJune15_FP.indd 1 8/05/2015 9:10 am CONTENTS
Issue 28 | June 2016
REGULARS Pigging From the editor 4 Robotic ILI of a Transco pipeline World wrap 6 in an urban area 32 News in brief 8 Case study: Leak-tight double block and bleed isolation on high pressure Events 58 CO pipelines 34 Advertisers’ index 60 2 Projects Interview Project report: Trans Adriatic Pipeline 38 Never stop learning 12 Risk Management Iran ILI vs Direct Assessment: New opportunities in the Iranian gulf 18 The risk management perspective 46 ISSUE 28 | JUNE 2016 Iran’s strategy for natural gas 22 Company news Flexible pipelines APS brings ILF to the world 48 Flexible pipe integrity management: searching for the Holy Grail 26 Events Flexible riser integrity forum Cover story: Construction gets Bahrain conference meets its targets 52 underway on the Trans Adriatic Pipeline project. Natural gas and investment Flexible pipeline comes to Brazil 28 Page 38 opportunities in Iran integrity management Page 18 Pipeline training in Colombia 56 Page 26 Upon closer inspection 30 Cursos de Capacitación en Colombia 57
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2 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com FROM THE EDITOR
ublished in 2015, the Pipeline and Riser pipelines. These are split into 135 on operating Loss of Containment (PARLOC) report pipelines, four during commissioning or testing, Pis the preferred source of risk assessment and nine during pipe removal. data for generic loss-of-containment frequencies For the operating category, 85 incidents for offshore oil or gas pipelines and risers. This concerned steel pipelines and 50 concerned revision updates the previous report, PARLOC flexibles; for the commissioning and testing 2001, and presents data gathered for incidents category, there were two each for steel and flexible that occurred on pipelines and risers on the UK lines; and for the removal category, there were Continental Shelf (UKCS) during the 12-year seven steel line incidents and two flexible line period 2001-2012. The report is unique as it incidents. The predominant cause of a loss-of- provides the only source of such data. containment incident for steel pipelines is The data in this important study have been corrosion; however, for flexibles, there is a wide From the editor collected from leak incidents reported by the 23 range of causes and none predominate. pipeline operators involved to the UK’s Health Flexible risers, joining rigid steel pipelines on and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Department the seabed to floating production platforms of Editor-in-Chief John Tiratsoo of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), as well one type or another, are highly critical Managing Editor Tori McLennon as from a questionnaire survey of the operators. components in an offshore pipeline network, and Assistant Editor Annie Ferguson Data on the population of pipelines and risers – by the very virtue of their flexibility – are less Sales Manager David Marsh on the UKCS have been compiled from two main easily inspected than their rigid counterparts. Sales Representative Megan Lehn sources: a commercial pipelines database Their continuing integrity is consequently less Head of Design Katrina Rolfe developed by Infield Systems Ltd and a database easily assured, and this is increasingly recognised Publishers Zelda Tupicoff, compiled by Oil & Gas UK. The former has been as an issue that needs expertise and investment in Lyndsie Clark used as the basis of the estimated populations of technology. steel and flexible pipelines, while the latter has As can be seen in an announcement on been used as the basis of the population of page 28 of this issue, Pipelines International is control umbilicals on the UKCS. pleased to be supporting the first conference on The report presents failure-frequency statistics flexible riser integrity management, being held in for generic types of offshore pipeline and control São Paulo, Brazil on 23-25 August. umbilical. In order for the estimated failure rates This issue also contains two important articles to be meaningful, considerable efforts have been on the subject: authors from MACAW made to ensure that the records of failures and Engineering describe how they are meeting the ISSUE 28 | JUNE 2016 the pipeline population, which are the basis of the current challenge for operators to develop and analysis, are complete and accurate, although implement robust and cost-effective integrity- inevitably there are some provisos involved. management strategies to maximise the value of The report shows that average loss-of- these critical assets (page 26); while authors Cover image: containment frequencies for steel and flexible from the Rosen Group give a case study of how a
Cover story: Construction gets Natural gas Flexible pipeline TAP linepipe ready for underway on the Trans Adriatic and investment integrity opportunities in Iran management pipelines and risers has remained almost flexible risers can be inspected using a modified Pipeline project. Page 38 Page 18 Page 26 installation. © TAP unchanged in the 12-year period between the first ILI tool (page 30). study, in 2001, and the current one. The authors point out that while traversing a In an interview at the time of publication last flexible riser is not a problem for an MFL year, Brian Bain, one of the report’s authors, inspection tool, inspecting the wall thickness of a pointed out that “The fact that the two studies flexible riser using MFL is not possible because Like us on Facebook reached broadly similar conclusions gives some the internal stainless steel carcass comprises an www.facebook.com/PipelinesInternational reassurance in the validity of each. This is unmagnetisable interlocking layer. However, some reassuring, considering that the expectation may of the most-common inner-carcass defect Follow us on Twitter @Pipelines have been that frequencies would increase as scenarios can be inspected via ILI using tools such infrastructure aged. This shows that safety levels as the one described. have been consistent and maintained.” FREE Pipelines International e-newsletter The report gives a great amount of detail and The latest news, project and technology background information which can only be very information emailed fortnightly broadly summarised here. It shows that in the SUBSCRIBE NOW period examined, there were 148 loss-of- John Tiratsoo www.pipelinesinternational.com containment incidents in the offshore geographic Editor-in-Chief Remember to email your news, region concerned involving steel or flexible views and article ideas to [email protected]
4 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com WORLD WRAP WORLD WRAP
KOGAS to construct Iran to Oman pipeline NDT awarded Statoil ILI pipeline contract Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) is reportedly considering a project to construct a pipeline to transport natural gas from Iran to Oman. NDT Global has received a multi-million Euro contract from Statoil to develop an in-line inspection tool for the 707-km Åsgard Transport The pipeline would be approximately 400-km in length, with a 200-km onshore section between Rudan to Mobarak Mount in the southern gas pipeline. In close collaboration with Statoil, NDT Global is developing a suitable in-line inspection (ILI) tool for the Åsgard Transport gas Hormozgan province in Iran, and a 200-km offshore section onwards to Sohar Port in Oman. pipeline. The company will also supply the in-line inspection tool to perform the corresponding survey. Local news sources have reported that KOGAS could sign a memorandum of understanding or a framework agreement for the US$1.5 billion The Åsgard gas pipeline is part of the Norwegian gas infrastructure system, owned by the joint venture named Gassled. Gassco is the operator project with project partners before June. The news sources also reported that feasibility studies for the offshore section of the pipeline are of Gassled, and Statoil is the technical service provider for Gassco. Statoil has a 5 per cent ownership share in Gassled. expected to be complete by mid-2016. The Åsgard transport pipeline starts at the semi-submersible Åsgard B platform in the Norwegian Sea, and terminates at the Kårstø processing The pipeline would aid Iran in its plan to export LNG to Europe and Asia, and it is proposed that a third of the gas from the pipeline would be plant in southwest Norway. It has been in operation since October 2000. NDT Global said that the project presents a number of unique liquefied at Oman’s 10.4 MMt/a Qalhat LNG plant for this. The remainder of the gas will be used to fulfil a supply agreement between Iran and challenges. In addition to the pipeline’s length, the wall thickness of the pipeline is exceptionally high – up to 55 mm. Under these conditions, Oman under which Iran is to supply 28 MMcm/d of gas to Oman, and for domestic use within the Arabian Gulf. ILI tools must be durable, and to accurately detect any flaws that could compromise the pipeline’s integrity. Moreover, the tools need to negotiate a sizable, 14-inch change in diameter in the 28-42-inch pipeline – all the while maintaining excellent operability, high data quality and accuracy. NDT Global has worked with Statoil in the scope of a Framework Agreement since 2006. The current purchase order was TransCanada wins Tula – Villa de Reyes received in 2015 and ILI is scheduled to commence in 2017. pipeline contract The Comision Federal de Electricidad has awarded TransCanada a US$550 million contract to build, own and operate the Tula – Villa de Reyes Pipeline in Mexico. Russia and China discuss Altai gas pipeline The 36-inch diameter, 420-km pipeline will transport natural gas China and Russia have met to discuss the construction of the proposed 2,657-km from Tula (Hidalgo) to Villa de Reyes (San Luis Potosi) to fuel Altai natural gas pipeline that would link the two countries. power-generation facilities in Central Mexico. China’s Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli and Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller met in Beijing Russ Girling, TransCanada’s President and CEO, said “The to discuss further cooperation in upstream and downstream, natural gas supply Tula – Villa de Reyes Pipeline complements our existing pipeline services, and energy sales, local Chinese news sources reported. network in Mexico and furthers our strategy of owning and operating highly contracted and regulated assets that generate Russia and China signed a memorandum of understanding on the Altai pipeline in stable and predictable earnings and cash flow streams.” November 2014. The pipeline would transport gas from Russia’s West Siberian fields to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. With an anticipated completion date of early 2018, the pipeline will connect to TransCanada’s Tamazunchale and Tuxpan – Industry analysts have stated that Russia is interested in seeking partnerships with Asia Tula pipelines. to help with the production and marketing of its hydrocarbon resources following expanded US and EU sanctions that have led western companies to reduce their Once the pipeline is in service, TransCanada will be operating six operations with Russia. major natural gas pipelines in Mexico, bringing the company’s overall investment in the country to approximately US$3.6 billion.
Emerson awarded contract for Pemex Los Ramones pipeline system Uganda, Kenya to decide on export pipeline route Mexican oil and gas pipeline operator Pemex and Engie, a French energy company, have selected Emerson to help upgrade Uganda and Kenya will meet to further discuss the feasibility of a new export pipeline between the two countries. and expand Mexico’s gas pipeline infrastructure. Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta and Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni recently met to discuss route options for The US$8.9 million automation project is part of Mexico’s energy reform initiative. Because existing natural gas availability construction the pipeline from Hoima on Lake Albert via a Kenyan northern route through the oil fields of Lokichar, is expected to fall short of demand from a growing population and industrialisation, the country is increasing capacity for and a Kenyan southern route through the town of Nakuru, with a loop to Lokichar were discussed, as well as a route importing natural gas from the United States. Pemex estimates demand for natural gas will grow 3.6 per cent per year from from Hoima to Tanga in Tanzania. 2012 to 2028, with total imports increasing to 3 Bcf/d. The two leaders plan to discuss the most cost-efficient construction option, and to address construction issues along all Emerson Process Management will automate the southern portion of the Los Ramones Phase II pipeline. When completed, route options, including existing and planned infrastructure, terrain and elevations. The viability of export port options the 291-km Los Ramones II Sur pipeline will have the capacity to deliver 1.4 Bcf/d of natural gas. at Lamu, Mombasa, and Tanga will also be discussed. The US$2.3 billion Los Ramones pipeline system project is one of the largest infrastructure project investments in Mexico’s Industry analysts have stated that the construction of the export pipeline is critical to boost East African oil production; history, and will extend from the Texas border to Central Mexico, with capacity to transport up to 2.1 Bcf/d of natural gas to however deliberation over the best route has been ongoing for some time. Operators Tullow Oil and Africa Oil prefer a Mexico, supplying a fifth of the country’s total natural gas demand. pipeline route from Uganda through northern Kenya to Lamu, whereas Total East Africa prefers southern routes due to security concerns in northern Kenya. “Our project specialists will help Pemex and Engie bring the pipeline into service quickly and safely so that Mexico’s homes and businesses get the energy they need,” said Leo Rodriguez, President of Emerson Process Management – Latin America. “In our past projects with Pemex, we’ve helped ensure safe operations, reduce measurement uncertainty, and maintain uninterrupted process flow.”
6 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 7 NEWS IN BRIEF NEWS IN BRIEF
NDT expands global T.D. Williamson Share your snaps inspection services IN BRIEF Take a photo featuring your ‘I ♥ pipelines’ sticker and send it to launches Solutions Global pipeline inspection supplier [email protected] and your picture could appear in the next edition Pigs Unlimited introduces Engine of the magazine! Don’t forget to share on our social media channels too: Below is a great NDT has announced it is now offering its high Square Edge utility pig picture captured by Pipelines International reader Rob Liddicoat. resolution pinhole and pitting (UMp) metal loss The Square Edge utility pig features The new digital research tool inspection service as a standard inclusion in all a solid cast construction for durability, is designed for pipeline owners and @Pipelines markets globally. various durometer options for flexibility, operators and will deliver targeted www.facebook.com/PipelinesInternational NDT says that the UMp service reliably and a hollow core to allow for even answers for more than 80 integrity and detects defects as small as 5 mm, representing pressure distribution. throughput challenges. a two-fold improvement in the minimum The pig’s most distinctive feature The Solutions Engine covers sizing threshold. This higher accuracy ensures is the square edge on its sealing discs, everything from mechanical damage ABOVE: Example of pinhole corrosion. accurate input to integrity models, thereby which is useful for more aggressive and corrosion to tie-ins and leaking reducing costs to operators. needs this higher resolution to better identify cleaning operations. valves. With operators increasingly identifying and size all features in the corrosion area. For additional information contact Other pipeline operations and pinhole and embedded pinhole defects as The inspection results of the UMp service [email protected] management issues included in a significant risk factor in their integrity identify the true deepest point of pinhole the Solutions Engine are: valve management programs, the inspection of morphology within the larger area of corrosion replacement, material properties general corrosion fields with embedded pinholes with an overall shallower depth. identification, commissioning, paraffin build-up and line relocation. Jeff Wilson, TDW Chief Technology Alberta’s Premier supports Energy East Pipeline Officer, said “By following the Alberta Premier Rachel Notley has Speaking on the Alberta Jobs Plan, Ms Solutions Engine tool prompts, the expressed her support for new Canadian Notley said “Every Canadian benefits from user will be guided to a precise solution pipeline projects in a recent public address. a strong energy sector. But we can’t continue set. That response will encompass Ms Notley’s address touched-on the “oil to support Canada’s economy, unless Canada ABOVE: applicable technologies, services, and The Square Edge utility pig. price collapse” and the impact it is having on supports us. products spanning in-line inspection, Alberta’s economy and unemployment levels. “This means one thing: building a modern non-destructive evaluation, pigging, Notice something new? In response to the lower oil price, the and carefully regulated pipeline to [the east of hot tapping, and intrusive and non- The Pipelines International Alberta Government is planning to introduce the country]. intrusive isolation. website has a fresh new look. Tell us a number of economic strategies including the “We now have a balanced framework to “This can provide a head start on what you think and don’t forget to send ABOVE: Diakont’s RODIS robotic crawler preparing for a non-traditional ILI inspection in the western Climate Leadership Plan and the Alberta Jobs develop our industry and every government in implementing the solution, which your news, views and article ideas to United States. Plan. Canada understands this issue must be dealt increases efficiency and often translates query@pipelinesinternational. The Alberta Jobs Plan will support families with. to cost savings.” com and communities by investing in infrastructure “But I can promise you this: I won’t let up. T.D. Williamson is a global solutions Want some stickers of your own? and diversifying local energy markets. This We must get to ‘yes’ on the pipeline.” provider for the owners and operators Email [email protected] to join in the fun! includes increased support for the Energy East To read Premier Rachel Notley’s full New hydrostatic testing of pressurised piping systems. The Pipeline, a proposed 4,500-km pipeline that address, visit www.alberta.ca company has a range of solution for manual available for will transport approximately 1.1 MMbbl/d For further information on the Energy onshore and offshore applications, pre-order from Alberta and Saskatchewan to refineries in East pipeline, visit including hot tapping and plugging, A new manual entitled Hydrostatic Eastern Canada. www.energyeastpipeline.com pipe cleaning, integrity inspection, and Audubon Field Solutions appoints new Director of testing of pipelines: Zen and the art of non-tethered plugging pig technology. Pipeline Engineering the squeeze is now available for pre- order from the Pipelines International Jerry Gump has been announced as mapping, and midstream inspection. Bryan shop. Audubon Field Solutions’ new Director of McDonald, President of Audubon Field This manual is a comprehensive Pipeline Engineering. Solutions, said “The wealth of pipeline reference tool in the field of hydrostatic Mr Gump has over 30 years of experience expertise that Jerry brings to our organisation testing of pipelines, primarily in management, consulting, and business is outstanding, and I have no doubt that his those transporting liquid and gas development in the oil and gas industry. He talents will strengthen and expand Audubon hydrocarbons; however, the general has worked with natural gas liquids, crude Field Solutions’ current offerings to our principles apply to water and other oil, condensate, natural gas processing clients.” types of pipelines. plants, compressor stations, pipelines, and Mr Gump said “It’s always great to be a For further information, visit metering. part of such a dynamic team of individuals. www.pipelinesinternational. Mr Gump will be based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Given Audubon Field Solutions’ record of com/shop/products USA where he will focus on initiatives for excellence, I’m proud to have the opportunity © BGSmith / Shutterstock routing, right of way, engineering, surveying, to contribute to the legacy.”
8 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 9 NEWS IN BRIEF
First phase of Texas Roadrunner gas pipeline complete ONEOK Partners has completed the first and El Paso, Texas. ONEOK Partners President The third and final phase of the project is phase of the Roadrunner Gas Transmission and Chief Executive Officer Terry K. Spencer expected to be completed in 2019 and will Pipeline Project in West Texas, USA. said “The addition of Roadrunner to our increase the total capacity on the pipeline to Roadrunner is a 321-km pipeline connecting extensive natural gas pipeline infrastructure in 640 MMcf/d. ONEOK Partners’ existing WesTex natural West Texas positions ONEOK Partners to serve The project is a 50-50 joint venture with gas pipeline system near Coyanosa, Texas, to a Mexico’s rapidly expanding natural gas markets Mexico City-based natural gas infrastructure new international border-crossing connection at by connecting them with USA producers in the company Fermaca and is estimated to cost the US and Mexico border near San Elizario, Permian Basin.” approximately US$430-480 million, a decrease Texas. The project is fully subscribed under The second phase, which will increase the of US$20 million from previously announced 25-year firm fee-based commitments. The pipeline’s capacity to 570 MMcf/d, is currently cost estimates. The reduction in project capital completed first phase provides under construction and is expected to be is a result of lower material and labour costs 170 MMcf/d of capacity to markets in Mexico completed in the first quarter 2017. associated with construction.
Kinder Morgan suspends Northeast Direct Pipeline Shareholders sign TAPI Investment Agreement project An Investment Agreement has been signed for the Turkmenistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan – India (TAPI) natural gas pipeline project. Inadequate capacity commitment from The agreement was signed by key TAPI shareholders at an event attended by prospective customers has led Kinder Morgan government officials of Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, and several Asian to halt all further expenditure on the Northeast Development Bank (ADB) officials. Direct Pipeline project in New England (US). Providing an initial budget of over The planned gas pipeline route passed US$200 million, the Investment Agreement will be used to fund the next phase of the through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, TAPI pipeline. New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, This includes detailed engineering and route surveys, environmental and social Pennsylvania, and Maine, and was to be safeguard studies, and procurement and financing activities. constructed by Kinder Morgan and the These activities are designed to enable a final investment decision ahead of pipeline Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company (TGP). construction. The project, designed to alleviate New Jam Kamal Khan, Minister of State in Pakistan’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural England’s unusually high natural gas Resources, said “TAPI will help bring transportation costs, was initially authorised 13.8 Bcm of gas from Turkmenistan to meet Pakistan’s growing energy demand. in 2015 when Kinder Morgan received a “It will boost the country’s energy security, bring economic benefits to our people US$3.3 billion investment for the pipeline’s through job opportunities, and provide and upgrade associated infrastructure.” market path segment. Sean O’Sullivan, Director General of ADB’s Central and West Asia Department, said Since receiving authorisation, TGP has “TAPI exemplifies ADB’s key role in promoting regional co-operation and integration over been pursuing purchasing agreements with the past 20 years. local gas distribution networks, electrical “It will unlock economic opportunities, transform infrastructure, and diversify the distribution companies, and other market energy market for Turkmenistan, and enhance energy security for the region.” participants. The 1,700-km TAPI pipeline was first proposed in 2010 when the governments of Despite some initial interest, TGP did not Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India signed an intergovernmental agreement receive the anticipated additional purchase to work on the project. commitments and, as a result, the gas The pipeline route will run from Turkmenistan’s Dauletabad-Domez gas fields, through pipeline project has been suspended. Afghanistan, to Multan in Pakistan and onwards to India. In a public statement the company said “The insufficient contracted capacity is due to several factors. They include the fact that the New England states have not yet established regulatory procedures to facilitate binding commitment, that the process in each state for establishing such procedures in open-ended, and that the ultimate success of those processes is not assured. ABOVE: Officials at the Investment Agreement signing ceremony. Image courtesy of ADB.
10 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com INTERVIEW Never stop learning Global end-to-end solutions for pipeline Pipelines International speaks to Roland Palmer- Jones, General Manager of MACAW Engineering coatings (Newcastle upon Tyne, UK), about his 25-year pipeline industry career, MACAW’s 2006 integration into the Rosen Group, and the future of pipeline integrity management. WE ARE SHAWCOR
We have combined the expertise and experience of Bredero How long have you been working in the pipeline industry? Shaw, Socotherm, Canusa-CPS and Dhatec into the world leader What is your background and with what companies have you in pipeline coatings, subsea insulation systems, preservation worked previously? solutions and fi eld-applied coatings. Our innovative coating I have been working in the pipeline industry for 25 years. I started with systems enable unique applications for pipeline assurance and British Gas Research and Technology where I was lucky enough to get maximum protection in the most extreme environmental conditions. involved in combustion research, analysing offshore structures, and supporting the epoxy-sleeve-repair system. We have a proven track record of more than 400,000 miles I moved to Andrew Palmer and Associates (APA) and got involved in a of installed pipelines. With our 20 permanent locations wide range of consultancy studies on offshore and onshore pipeline systems providing global coverage and a fl eet of modular equipment, including cyclic lateral buckling, satellite surveillance, engineering criticality Shawcor delivers complete end-to-end solutions to protect assessments, and repair selection. the integrity of your pipeline. Together, we are one Shawcor. ABOVE: Roland Palmer-Jones. APA was purchased by Penspen and I continued to be involved in a similar range of consultancy, but with a more-global reach, getting involved in projects in Argentina, Mexico, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and many other (issues such as tool dynamics can influence the data collected and how they countries. During this period I worked with an excellent team in the Integrity are analysed) and integrity assessment immediately feeding-back questions Division of Penspen, and benefited enormously from their experience. Yes and queries (for example questioning apparent corrosion reported in an – I’m talking about you Susannah, Graham, Tim, Andy and, of course, Phil unexpected location) to ensure the best-possible combination of inspection Hopkins. results and condition assessment. At the beginning of 2015 I took the opportunity to join the Rosen Group. On occasion this may mean justifying putting an inspection back, or It has been really interesting getting to know the people, the range of services questioning the value of a particular service. This may reduce our revenue in (from pipeline cleaning to testing novel connectors for gas-distribution piping) the short term; however we are committed to building long-term and the technologies. The commitment to research and development to help relationships with our customers based on trust and it is vital that we are our customers particularly excites me, and I am looking forward to driving open and honest about what is feasible, and what we believe the best course forward the creation of novel services that will address some of the more of action to be. intractable problems that the industry faces. Can you give us a brief background to the MACAW’s We understand that you share your time as General Manager formation? Who was involved? Is it true that the excellent of MACAW with responsibilities in the Rosen Group. Are name originated from Materials and Corrosion and welding? there ever conflicts of interest? The company was formed in 1996 following the closure of the British Gas No, I have never had a conflict of interest. Engineering Research Station (ERS). Starting in the 1960s British Gas In the Rosen Group I am responsible for the engineering-consultancy invested heavily in developing expertise in gas transmission and distribution. services and integrity assessment services that we provide to our customers, There was already a substantial gas industry based on gas made from coal, and these include the services that are provided by the team here in and the coming of natural gas mainly from the North Sea resulted in the Newcastle as well as services such as bending-strain analysis and ILI- need for a new pipeline network to deliver the gas from the new sources of feasibility studies provided by our teams around the world. supply to where it was needed. It is in our long-term best interest as a service provider to the pipeline The challenge of safe operation in a very densely populated country, and a industry to act with the utmost integrity and provide the best-possible lack of experience with high-pressure natural gas transmission, led to a need support to our customers that will help them operate safely and efficiently. to quickly build fundamental knowledge and capability. Consequently We do this by working together to minimise uncertainties in data analysis significant investment was made in research and development. To learn more about how Shawcor’s pipe coating products and
Shawcor.com/pipeline-performance. 12 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com
INTERVIEW SECTION HEADING
This resulted in a number of industry breakthroughs such as the What are the top three criteria that the company looks for development of the first high-resolution internal inspection tools, new repair when recruiting employees? systems, standards for HDPE pipe, and TRANSPIRE, the first quantitative Capability: We look for people who either already have the competencies “We are working hard to strengthen risk-assessment package for gas transmission. needed to support our customers, or who we are confident can develop them. our integrity-focused teams around the So ERS was an excellent place to develop skills with exposure to real An attitude that aligns with company culture: We look for people that we MOBILE problems and leading-edge research. And when ERS closed, four senior can work with, who will be loyal, who will put in the effort when it is needed, world so that we can provide services technical staff – Dave Casson, Kevin Prosser, Colin Argent, and Mike Dale and are aware that we must operate profitably to have a sustainable business. locally improving responsiveness and – decided that they would set up a consultancy to support companies around Aspirations: We want the right balance of technical interest and ambition PIPELINE PADDER the world. to progress. communication. We are expanding our To answer the second part of your question – yes, MACAW does stand for Materials and Corrosion and Welding. These are the specific areas of Do your neighbouring Newcastle and Northumbria specialist testing facilities to meet expertise of the founders. Universities, with their Masters’ degree courses in pipeline demand for services such as product engineering, aid job applicants in meeting these criteria? Can you outline the company’s current relationship with the The Masters courses at both local universities provide an excellent testing, failure investigation, corrosion Rosen Group? How will this be developed? grounding and have been a very good source of recruits. In addition we testing, and metallurgy.” Rosen became involved in 2006; there was a need to support inspection place members of our team into these courses on a part-time basis as a way customers with plans for repairs, re-inspection, etc. and, in addition to this, of bolstering their training and development. maximum value out of the available data and ensuring that our advice is the founders were approaching retirement and looking to the long-term optimised to ensure long-term safe and efficient operation. We often feel that development and security of the business they had started. What initiatives do you provide for the skills and training of more effort on the engineering could result in overall safer operation at lower Rosen, with its long-term view and commitment to research, was a great your workforce, and ensuring and developing their cost; areas of potential savings include reduced corrosion inhibitor usage, fit and has owned MACAW since 2010. Now we are fully integrated in the competencies? less-frequent inspection and, of course, reduced failure rates. Rosen Group, and work closely with our colleagues all over the world, and in We have a comprehensive competency management system with clearly particular with the management systems and software teams. defined requirements and regular reviews. This means that our staff know Where do you see major gains in safety can be made in terms Our combined integrity team is over 150 people offering an increasingly what is expected of them and get regular feedback on their progression. We of pipeline engineering and operation? seamless service via our worldwide network giving access to all of the provide the opportunity to engage in wide variety of consultancy projects Major gains in safety will come from more rigorous identification and capabilities of the group to ensure that our customers get the best possible giving excellent on-the-job development. evaluation of threats and finding of ways to mitigate these threats, and this support, be it in selecting the right tool, ensuring a trouble-free inspection, We also invest a substantial percentage of turnover in research and will require competent engineers making full use of all the available data. detailed assessment of what the inspection results mean for the management development giving staff the opportunity to engage with novel developments A good example is XYZ data. This is now routinely collected, and areas of of the pipeline, supporting software, or consultancy services. of tools, systems, and services which also builds competence. elevated bending strain are identified. However, there are no regulatory We believe that by working as an integrated team we can minimise Finally, we encourage staff to attend conferences, deliver papers, and requirements and limited industry guidance, so in many cases follow-up uncertainties and maximise value. deliver training to our customers, all of which gives a wider appreciation of action is limited or not well directed. the industry and the challenges our customers face. Using these data as an integral part of integrity management with What are MACAW’s core values? appropriate geotechnical understanding can help to identify incipient Customer focus: We make sure that we understand what the challenges are What pipeline projects is the company currently involved in? geohazards (for example, landslides) where loading levels are not yet critical, that our customers face and we are committed to helping them to operate What are the work-scopes and challenges involved? and help understand the cause of geometric anomalies such as dents and safely and efficiently. As you can imagine much of our work is confidential as we deal with wrinkles. This rigorous use of available data will reduce uncertainty and Competence: Technical competence is the basis of our services. We ensure many ageing and degraded assets. Interesting examples of current projects increase safety. by training, mentoring, and support that our staff are competent to do include: stress-corrosion-cracking management plans; dent fatigue based on deliver the services we offer. finite-element modelling; research into estimating depth of cover by What future challenges or trends do you see for the pipeline Integrity: We will do the right thing, putting the safety of the public, the integrating high-accuracy ILI XYZ data with ground-surface models; and industry? pipelinepadding.com environment, and staff ahead of everything else. expert witness on-girth welding contractual disputes. There will be an increasing expectation that all available and relevant data We are also working on projects that cover developing corrosion- and expertise is applied to pipeline integrity management. This will require What is the next area of growth for the company? management procedures for internal and external corrosion threats; robust tools for data management, improvements in the collection and SAVE MONEY WITH ALLU We are working hard to strengthen our integrity-focused teams around the reviewing the application of novel technologies to reduce costs (for example, integration of historic (often paper-based) data, and smart applications to - NO NEED TO HAUL IN BEDDING MATERIAL world so that we can provide services locally improving responsiveness and the grouted hot-tap tee subsea); the delivery of pipeline integrity work with that data, helping engineers deal with the massive volumes of communication. We are expanding our specialist testing facilities to meet management software (ROAIMS) and supporting on-site expert corrosion information and reach optimised justifiable decisions. With mobile ALLU padder you can screen the excavated demand for services such as product testing, failure investigation, corrosion and integrity services to a major gas pipeline system operator; and, of course, material back to the trench. You no longer need trucks testing, and metallurgy. numerous pipeline corrosion-growth and fitness-for-purpose studies. Do you agree that knowledge sharing and industry training to transport excavated material from the site and haul in A key technical area we are developing is geo-hazard consulting that There are of course many technical challenges associated with these are critically important for the continued success of the new bedding material. leverages the data coming from XYZ tools and helps customers deal with projects (for example, balancing inputs of toughness and residual stress when global pipeline industry? Why? issues of landslides, ground settlement, etc. In addition to this we are assessing crack-like defects in the bond line of low-frequency ERW pipe). Yes, in fact we think it is so important that we are developing our internal investing in a flow-modeling service for operating pipelines that will help to However, these are what we live for and the things that make our jobs training programs so that we can share them with the rest of the industry. ALLU Finland Oy improve the cleaning services we offer, and corrosion-control consulting by interesting and exciting. Sharing knowledge and training is critical for three reasons: Email: [email protected] giving additional information on issues such as wax deposition, water The principal challenge we face is price pressure on engineering 1. We must continue to improve the safety of the systems we operate. Tel: +358 (0)3 882 140 Fax: +358 (0)3 882 1440 condensation, and flow regimes. consultancy, limiting the expertise and effort that we can devote to getting the We must never accept that our systems are ‘safe enough’. Jokimäentie 1, 16320 Pennala, Finland
14 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 15 INTERVIEW
This means that we all have to keep learning about the issues that Completing a draft ECA for every joint while between flights at Schiphol can cause problems and how to tackle them. to provide assurance that restart was feasible was challenging. 2. New problems will come along, and new technologies will be A particularly rewarding project involved helping a small company in developed. We have to understand these so that we can address the Central America upgrade its integrity management, moving from an ad hoc problems and make best use of the new technologies. An example of reactive inefficient system to a well-planned system focused on preventative a new technology is high-resolution geometry inspection: we are still maintenance, with a subsequent reduction in failure rates and operating learning how to use these data to best evaluate geometric anomalies costs. A true case of a little upfront investment resulting in genuine safety and and have moved from simple depth-based evaluation to now being commercial improvements. able to complete detailed stress analyses of every dent reported at reasonable cost. What is your favourite aspect of working in the pipeline 3. New people will join our industry and others will leave, and we have industry? to ensure that the knowledge gained in the past is retained and Pipelines are pretty simple structures, so even I can make an attempt to passed on so that we do not get stuck reinventing the wheel. actually understand what is happening when a corroded pipe experiences pressure, bending, and thermal expansion loads! What has been the best, or most challenging, pipeline project you have worked on? Do you have any specific advice for those just beginning their There are a number of contenders. One of the most memorable was the careers in the pipeline industry? pipeline that had been shut down due a landslide issue, then in completing a Yes – you get out what you put in. Take an interest in your industry, read risk assessment prior to restart the potential for fatigue cracking of the seam the literature, participate in seminars and conferences, and above all find a weld (which was known to contain cracks, but which could not be inspected) good team to work with whose outlook matches yours. And make sure to was identified. keep learning.
HPH 4 Girard Pipeline Pigs
16 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com IRAN INTERNATIONAL PIPELINE Conference & Exhibition
THE WORLD’S MEETING PLACE © Chalalai Atcha / Shutterstock FOR PIPELINE PROFESSIONALS New opportunities in the Iranian gulf The introduction of Iran Petroleum Contracts offers new investment opportunities and conditions for companies based in the west. SEPTEMBER 26 - 30 SEPTEMBER 27 - 29 Hyatt Regency Calgary & Telus Convention Centre ver the past century, Iran has become mean in terms of attracting and retaining the Telus Convention Centre | Calgary, Canada Calgary, Canada one of the world’s largest oil producers, workforce required? Oand is now recognised as having the Iran is a very resourceful country. As well as largest combined oil and gas reserves in the world, huge natural resources, there are resources of the with 9.3 per cent of global oil reserves and human kind – a workforce that is extremely well 6,500 300+ 200 50+ 18.2 per cent of gas reserves. educated. Iran had to learn to cope with the technical & presentations, suppliers countries converge Even after the UN, EU and US imposed sanctions, which meant that Iranian oil producers business leaders keynotes & tutorials sanctions, Iran continued to pump around had to complete projects using indigenous talent. showcase today’s to create this global 2.2 MMbbl/day, 54.5 per cent of which was used From this, some highly competent service connect at sessions, over 8 technical tracks foremost pipeline forum domestically. Buyers of Iranian crude are now contractors sprung up and developed their own networking at functions technologies, products free to import as much as they want after technologies to meet the country’s requirements, and the exposition and services sanctions were recently lifted in January, and it is and a number of projects have been completed estimated that Iran’s daily output will rise to using 100 per cent Iranian input, proving the 5 MMbbl/day by 2020. capability, resilience and ingenuity of Iranian REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN There is a window of opportunity for engineers. As Jalal Chaikar Tavallali, an European and US oil and gas companies in Iran. international lawyer based in Iran, (half) jokingly ipcyyc.com | internationalpipelineexposition.com The challenge is to seize this opportunity before states “While the United States is commonly the window closes, while also accommodating known as the ‘Land of opportunity’, Iran is the Iran’s market specificities. But what does this ‘Land of possibilities’.” Conference Patrons Media Sponsor
18 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com IRAN
The Iranian Government is now looking to increase production as quickly as possible, rehabilitating fields that have been denied “Those companies and individuals willing to take 2 investment or the latest production technology. the time to build trust and relationships will be the 01 For that they will need money, access to more 7 advanced technology such as enhanced oil ones who reap the rewards, provided of course they recovery (EOR) and good project management. Domestic capability notwithstanding, this is where bring some expertise and funding.” the early opportunity will lie for Western oil and – David Grassick gas companies. Iran enjoys greater political stability than many of its neighbours, and this could influence many oil companies to shift their resources here, from elsewhere in the Middle East. From their side, Iran is looking for the big multinationals to get the th work done and bring in the latest technology. which is factored into contracts and passed on. say in how operations were run. The new 29 To give one example, Iran shares the world’s However, Iranians will only expect to pay workers Iran Petroleum Contracts (IPCs) being offered to largest gas assets with Qatar and has the ability to for hours worked, and not to infrastructure or western companies are designed to get over this YEAR become a leading LNG exporter if it can access apprentice training sitting behind that worker. hurdle, and give investors a part interest in the necessary technology. To address both above issues, a more strategic, operations from beginning to end. And, instead The market for oil and gas workers in Iran is long-term approach is likely to pay off for of being eight-year contracts (three years to build February 27 -- March 2, 2017, Houston huge, but staffing is likely to pose a particular Western oil and gas companies. According to Paul and five years to recover the money), the new 27 February–2 March 2017 | Houston, Texas, USA challenge for foreign firms. Iranian workers bring Mullarkey, Senior Advisor to Afraz Advisors, said IPCs are 25-year incentivised ‘no-flare’ service language skills, cultural understanding and “The Iranians are quite rightly very proud of contracts. willingness to the table, but have not been their nation and what they have achieved while This means investors do have an interest in the exposed to some of the management methods sanctions have been imposed. It will be important long-term production and operation of the field th and technical skills developed outside of the for anybody working in Iran to work with locals in – but still not the actual reserves in-ground. Now entering its 29 year, the PPIM Conference is recognized country during the period of sanctions. This gap a collaborative manner and with a humble In conclusion, the next few years are likely to as the foremost international forum for sharing and learning about best will need to be filled by expatriate workers, if not attitude. Trust will be a key factor, and it will be be a great period for Western oil and gas in the long run then certainly for an initial period. necessary to show how higher salaries will justify companies to invest in Iran, bringing to bear the practices in lifetime maintenance and condition-monitoring technology for However, government policy states that 51 per the expected results.” technology, as well as the technical and natural gas, crude oil, and product pipelines. cent of the projects have to utilise Iranian Historically, buy-back contracts provided a management expertise they have honed through content, and this is likely to become even tighter fixed rate of return. So effectively, western operating around the world. That will mean going forward. The labour laws separately states companies assumed the majority of the risk and searching out and placing the best talent from To secure an exhibition space, sponsorship, or for more information, that only one in five workers (20 per cent) can be the Iranians reaped the majority of any upside in other markets. contact: Traci Branstetter [email protected] or +1 713 449 3222 foreigners. So the opportunity for workers from the return. The big concern for the western However, pursuing short-term gain alone will other parts of the world is likely to be finite, companies was that they would invest and then not pay off. For the final word, we go to David before knowledge needs to be transferred to the they would have to hand over production to an Grassick, an oil and gas consultant, said “Those PLATINUM ELITE SPONSOR local workforce. Iranian company to operate. companies and individuals willing to take the time As US and European companies re-enter Iran, The Iranians were then in charge of generating to build trust and relationships will be the ones pay may well be another point to address. Major the revenue, to pay back all the money the who reap the rewards, provided of course they oil companies have back office overheads to cover, western company invested, and investors had no bring some expertise and funding.”
ORGANIZED BY
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20 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.clarion.org IRAN IRAN
has its own independent directorates and is active gas-booster stations, development of processing sources) to the country’s production and export in different fields within the natural gas industry. plants and infrastructure facilities. Within the terminals. These companies fall into two groups: structure of the NIGC, the IGEDC is authorised The IGTC is comprised of seven management »» Provincial gas companies: Thirty-one to deal with the following wide-ranging tasks: districts and ten operational zones, and the provincial gas companies throughout Iran »» Carrying out economic and feasibility company is responsible for operation and are responsible for gas distribution to studies for the NIGC management of a network of 36,000-km of private consumers as well as to power »» Carrying out fundamental and detailed gas-transmission pipelines throughout the country. plants, industries, and commercial centres. engineering and implementing all This network, operated and managed by »» Gas-processing companies: These companies projects around 4,000 personnel, transports an average of act under the supervision of NIGC’s »» Design, supervision, and implementation 600 MMcm/d, and is equipped with vice-president of operations. They are of all the engineering and construction 75 high-pressure booster stations, responsible for 13 processing plants with a operations including development and 240 compressors, and a modern 14th plant currently completing construction of oil and gas production, telecommunication and telemetry network. construction. It is planned that, by 2025, collection, and transfer systems and their development projects by these companies related facilities inside and outside the Iranian Underground Gas Storage Co. will increase the country’s total gas- country The Iranian Underground Gas Storage Co., processing capacity to 1200 MMcm/d) »» Design and management of well-head also a subsidiary of the NIGC, was established in The gas-processing plants under the facilities, processing plants and 2008 in order to maintain the balance between supervision of NIGC directorates are: dehydration facilities, underground gas natural gas production and consumption in »» Bidboland I and Masjed Soleyman – storage, transfer pipelines, gas supply and specific circumstances (such as sudden decreases combined capacity of 28.2 MMcm/d distribution, gas-pressure booster and in temperature) and is currently expanding »» Bidboland II – capacity of 57 MMcm/d pressure-reducing stations, underground gas storage activities in Iran. (under construction telecommunication systems, pumping Studies in various parts of the country are »» Shahid Hasheminezhad – capacity of stations, and marine structures and their underway to identify potential underground 58 MMcm/d related facilities inside and outside the structures suitable for gas storage, and 217 »» Sarkhun and Qeshm plants – combined country potential reservoirs are being surveyed. At capacity of 17 MMcm/d »» Performing the required material- present, the Shoorjeh and Sarajeh reservoirs – © Alexander Mazurkevich / Shutterstock »» Parsian – capacity of 84 MMcm/d procurement activities inside and outside with an annual capacity of 4 Bcm – are »» Ilam – capacity of 6.8 MMcm/d the country operational, and the Qaqdis, Yortsha, Nasr Abad, »» Fajr Jam – capacity of 125 MMcm/d. »» Carrying out all the scientific, technical, and SaxtarKuh Ahmadi reservoirs are under This group also includes the five plants commercial, and service activities different phases of study and implementation. Iran’s strategy for natural gas operated by the South Pars Gas Complex Co, required for the development of the with a total capacity of 210 MMcm/d. company. Iranian Gas Distribution Co. by Hedayat Omidvar, National Iranian Gas Co., Tehran, Iran The Iranian Gas Distribution Co includes the Iranian Gas Engineering and Iranian Gas Transmission Co. 31 provincial gas companies, and is responsible A look at the background and future plans of one of Iran’s major energy companies. Development Co. The Iranian Gas Transmission Co (IGTC) is a for a range of activities, which includes: The Iranian Gas Engineering and further subsidiary of NIGC. With the establishment »» Reception, distribution, transaction, and he National Iranian Gas Co (NIGC) – »» Research and technology directorate Development Co (IGEDC) is the subsidiary of the NIGC in 1965, gas transmission became the commissioning of natural gas one of the four major subsidiaries of »» Human resource development directorate responsible for the implementation of the NIGC’s responsibility of the Gas Processing and »» Operation, maintenance, and TIran’s Oil Ministry – was established in »» Gas distribution directorate plans. In terms of the volume of projects being Transmission Co. In 2005, the transmission administration of distribution pipelines, 1965 with an initial capital of US$25 million. »» Natural gas distribution co-ordination and implemented, the company is the largest in the directorate was separated from the processing sector gas feeders, and distribution networks, Since that time, the company has expanded supervision directorate (dispatching) NIGC and undertakes the majority of the and, in 2006 the IGTC was established. pressure-reduction stations, measurement considerably and is now one of the top ten gas »» International affairs directorate. investments. The most important task of the company is stations, cathodic protection and other companies in the Middle East. In addition to the directorates, there are The IGEDC is in charge of the design and receiving and transferring natural gas, ethane, installations, and structures related to the With over 50 years of experience, the 13 departments that report directly to the construction of gas-transmission pipelines, LPG, and NGLs (from both domestic and foreign company’s activities 18,000-strong company is responsible for managing director covering, including: public providing over 65 per cent of the country’s fuel relations, legal, inspection and complaint requirements. consideration, internal auditing, security, government affairs, violation investigation, History shows that Iranians were among the pioneers of using gas and oil NIGC ADMINISTRATION AND technical inspection, HSE, information and ORGANISATION communication technology, commercial expertise, derivatives. For example, the temple of the immortal fire known as Hedayat Omidvar is a member of the IGU’s Gas Advocacy Task Force The NIGC is made up of seven directorates recruitment, and structural engineering. Bokht-Ul-Nasr was located near a natural gasreservoir near Kirkuk. TF2 and the Head of Communication under the vice-president of operations: Affairs in the Research and Technology »» Financial affairs directorate SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES Department of the NIGC. »» Planning directorate NIGC also has 54 subsidiaries, each of which
22 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 23 IRAN IRAN
»» Providing services to natural gas near Masjid Soleyman, and the temple at King Naser-Al-Din Shah visited London, he was first time and the Shiraz cement factory was the co-operation led to a protocol signed in January to over 186 Tcm by the end of 2013. Iran, with customers and consumers Azargoshasb, provide further proof of this claim. surprised when he saw lights in the streets. first factory which became gas fuelled. 1966 also influenced this development. The about 34 Tcm, currently has an 18 per cent share »» Undertaking research and strengthening Ancient Iranians, based on their religion, Returning home, he ordered the construction and Later on, the gas network was expanded to NIGC is now one of the four major subsidiary of the world’s gas reserves, and ranks the first the relationship with the scientific and worshipped fire, and tried to keep it alive. Even in use of a gaslight factory. some other cities in Iran. In this way, the gas that companies of the Iranian Oil Ministry, and the among the reservoir holders. research centres in order to develop and the central and southern plateaus of Iran where In 1908, the first well drilled in Masjid was uselessly flared for 50 years entered the Chairman of its Board of Directors is the Iranian Among the operated gas reservoirs in Iran, two implement technological innovations. dense forests existed, Iranians used other Soleyman produced oil and a huge amount of gas-distribution network and was used in the Oil Minister. reservoirs – Maroun Khami, southeast of Ahwaz, materials apart from wood to keep the holy fire associated gas. Gradually more oil reservoirs home sector. Until independent gas fields were and South Pars – are of extreme importance. Iranian Gas Commerce Co. alive, and abundant underground hydrocarbon came onstream and Iran began using natural gas discovered in Iran, it was natural to process and IRAN’S PLACE IN THE GLOBAL South Pars is the second and most important gas As one of the NIGC’s subsidiaries, the Iranian reserves made this effort easy. for supplying the home sector, especially the use associated gas in this way. MARKET reservoir in Iran, and holds 50 per cent of the Gas Commerce Co, was established in 2008 to houses of the National Iranian Oil Co (NIOC) This was the case until policies adopted by the Various surveys indicate that by 2050 country’s whole gas reserves and more than 8 per undertake a range of commercial activities. These The birth of the gas industry staff in oil-bearing regions such as Masjid NIOC paved the way to have the technical and hydrocarbon resources will still be the major cent of the world’s. activities include marketing, purchasing, The basis of gas industry as it emerged in the Soleyman, Aghajari, Haftgel, and Abadan. economic responsibility for associated gas and source of energy. An examination of the trend of The status of Iran’s strategic gas reserves on importing, and exporting of goods and US and Europe was not natural gas, but gas Although the major activities of oil industry in consequently gather, process, transfer and sell it. these resources and their geographical south coast of the country, and the existence of equipment and hydrocarbon derivatives, obtained from heating coal. The resulting gas, those days included crude oil production, The export of gas to foreign countries became distribution shows that only the five countries in the giant South Pars gas field shared with Qatar, including natural gas, LPG, LNG, gas liquids, gas which was used for lighting, transformed the transmission, and processing in southern Iran, possible, and comprehensive studies were the Arabian Gulf region – Iran, Saudi Arabia, has made the Pars Special Energy Zone of condensates, sulphur, and other products from the lifestyle of the people in the early 18th Century. some limited activities for production and completed for the IGAT-1 trans-Iranian gas Kuwait, Iraq, and UAE – will be the major significant importance. The Pars Special Energy country’s processing-plants. Working hours of factories increased, and people processing of natural gas were undertaken. pipeline which was constructed at that time. oil-producing countries. In addition, by 2025, Zone’s position and role in the development of could use lighting without having to buy and use Initially in Iran, only oil was extracted and Subsequently, after the discovery of Iran, Russia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE will be Iran’s economy is undeniable. IRANIAN GAS INDUSTRY expensive and hazardous candles. In this way, between 1910 and 1960, and the plentiful amount independent gas fields such as Kangan and South the major gas-producing countries. To secure Iran’s gas future, the IGTC is also OVERVIEW people could read newspapers and books. of associated gas was mainly flared. Pars, it became essential to have all gas affairs Gas reserves, like oil reserves, are categorised taking steps to boost gas-transmission capacity to History shows that Iranians were among the Although Iranians were the pioneers of using In early 1960s, based on a contract signed with managed by a single organisation that would be into three groups: proven reserves, probable meet the requirements of both the domestic and pioneers of using gas and oil derivatives. For gas and other oil derivatives, the first historical Russia, associated gas was gathered and responsible for future developments. The NIGC reserves, and possible reserves. export sectors through planning for construction example, the temple of the immortal fire known documents relating to the planned usage of gas in transferred to Russia in lieu of constructing a steel was established in March 1966 for this purpose. The volume of proven natural gas reserves has of new stations. as Bokht-Ul-Nasr was located near a natural gas Iran go back to the era of Qajar and the mill in Iran. After gas exports began to Russia, The 1965 agreement between Iran and the tripled over the last three decades: the proven gas reservoir near Kirkuk, and the Zoroastrian temple Kingdom of Naser-Al-Din Shah – in 1873, when the associated gas was supplied in Shiraz for the former Soviet Union to expand economic reserves increased from about 72 Tcm in 1970,
Top ten gas reserves in the world in 2013
4. Turkmenistan 2. Russia 17.5 31.3 8. Venezuela 9.4 16.8 10. Algeria 5.6 5.1 3.0 1. Iran 2.7 33.8 18.2 5. USA 3. Qatar 9.3 24.7 5.0 13.3 9. Nigeria 5.1 2.7 7. UAE 6.1
Ranking | Country 6. Saudi Arabia 3.3
Proved reserves by 9.3 the end of 2013 (TCM) 5.0
Share (per cent)
24 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 25 FLEXIBLE PIPELINES FLEXIBLE PIPELINES
© Chones / Shutterstock Flexible pipe integrity management: searching for the One of the main barriers in implementing new risers. The company’s flexible-integrity- operations, where ILI tools have transited flexible Holy Grail innovation lies in the way flexible pipe is management system (FIMS) approach can be pipe sections (typically production jumpers), and procured, with project CAPEX budgets tightly implemented either as a second-level procedure, through testing work at the company’s by Paul Birkinshaw & Andrew Burton, MACAW Engineering (Rosen Group), UK controlled. This is often without full consideration to be integrated into an existing over-arching Technology and Research Centre at Lingen given to subsequent OPEX (for example, full pipeline-integrity-management system (PIMS), or in Germany. With the increased use of unbonded flexible pipes in offshore applications, the drive for integrity management product life-cycle cost and management of a top-level system for an individual field While ultimately it may prove challenging to operational risk). development. develop an inspection solution that can be (IM) solutions rivaling those available for rigid pipelines is steadily increasing. The methodology is based on implementing a deployed for all the major anticipated degradation CURRENT IM PRACTICE cost-effective annual integrity-review cycle, mechanisms, it is already apparent that his demand is evident both in product hastened by the need to accommodate more minimised, and the desired remnant life is IM practice for existing flexible-pipe systems is ensuring adequate routine monitoring is in place adaptations to existing tools and techniques can improvements for newer flexible pipes challenging field applications, including deep attained. In many cases exceeding the original steadily evolving, from distinct approaches so that the remnant life of the asset can be potentially yield useful integrity data. and with numerous innovations in water, H S service, high CO levels, higher stated design life is necessary to align with adopted by individual operators, to methods more reliably predicted. This is achieved primarily T 2 2 monitoring and external scanning solutions for pressures, increased diameters, and extended life. extended field life. akin to those adopted for rigid pipelines. This through contrasting observed operational use with WHERE TO FROM HERE? in-service assets. For more remote locations there is also an includes adopting IM systems to capture the key the original design criteria in order to restate Flexible-pipe systems to support subsea oil and The current challenge for operators is to increasing need to minimise inspection and DEVELOPING INTEGRITY inspection and testing routines to be estimated remaining life, with more-detailed gas extraction have evolved significantly over develop and implement robust and cost-effective maintenance activities. This progress can be SOLUTIONS implemented. assessments only conducted when conditions recent years, facilitating the use of more IM strategies to maximise the value of these illustrated by the significant increase in the In recognition of the demand for integrated Key elements within a generic ‘plan-do-check- outside predefined limits arise or at fixed-term cost-effective floating-production systems (FPSOs) critical assets. Rosen is now applying its in-house number of load cases used to assess and verify IM solutions, flexible pipe manufacturers are act’ cycle can typically include: intervals (such as five years). and unlocking resources in more remote and expertise and technical knowledge to develop a fatigue life for a dynamic riser (from under 50 in developing innovative solutions for online »» monitoring operating conditions and challenging locations. range of support services and technical solutions. the early days to up to 5,000 m today). monitoring through integrated sensing systems. bore-fluid composition THE ROLE OF PIGGING Although flexible pipe is proven to be very Globally there is now a large number of Examples include magnetic stress measurement, »» ROV inspection The role of in-line inspection (ILI) tools in durable and can give a long operational life, THE FLEXIBLE PIPE AND RISER flexible risers in operation, with a significant online vent-gas analysis, distributed temperature »» visual inspections diagnosing the condition of a flexible pipe is often ensuring integrity throughout its full life-cycle MARKET TODAY number approaching or exceeding their original sensing (fibre optic), and electrical armour-breech »» annulus testing seen as a potential future silver bullet. However, remains challenging. With respect to new projects, the design and stated design life. Additionally, there is a large detection systems. »» vessel motion and weather monitoring. achieving a workable solution represents a While coherent strategies and tools to installation of flexible pipes has advanced number of installed subsea flexible jumpers and Other third-party innovations include systems Other, less common items include: significant challenge, considering the complex monitor and diagnose the health of flexibles are significantly in the past decade. Key influencing production tie-backs (static applications), with an to monitor riser position, which are being adopted »» annulus-gas sampling/monitoring layered structure of an un-bonded flexible pipe. being developed, there is still no solution to rival factors include evolving industry standards (driven increasing trend to select flexibles for such on several new FPSO developments. While the »» polymer-coupon ageing checks Rosen is investigating what can be achieved that of an ILI for a rigid carbon-steel pipeline. by a better understanding of key failure modes), applications. use of such solutions is not yet commonplace, »» external-scanning systems using existing inspection techniques to better Rosen is now working to support the industry improvements in materials, and more-advanced With respect to in-service and ageing assets, they infer a future where the care and »» magnetic stress-measurement tools. understand the potential of delivering an ILI through providing a range of IM services, and design, manufacturing, and testing methods. operators face a daily challenge to ensure that maintenance options for flexible pipes rival those Rosen is working to support operators by solution. This is being instigated through investing R&D effort to investigate potential In more recent years, progress has been they are being operated correctly, failure risk is of rigid pipeline systems. developing a dedicated IM approach for flexible re-evaluating inspection data from previous ILI solutions.
26 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 27 FLEXIBLE PIPELINES FRIM - Flexible Risers Integrity Management
August 23 and 24 - 2016 São Paulo - Brazil
© f11photo / Shutterstock Flexible riser integrity forum comes to Brazil An international forum held on 23-24 August 2016 in São Paulo, will bring the subject of flexible riser integrity to ConaEnd&Lev, Latin America’s most important conference on non-destructive testing (NDT).
rganised by the Brazilian Institute of will present an overview of risers as structures, with the support of Pipelines International, ASNT, Non-Destructive Testing and Inspection review the challenges of their integrity BAM, COPPE, UFRGS, USP, the Petroleum O(Abendi), this year’s National Congress management, and encourage a debate among the Safety Authority, DGZfP, and BINDT. For further of Non-Destructive Testing and Inspection world’s experts in this field on how to maintain information visit www.conaend.org.br or (ConaEnd&Iev) congress will for the first time long-term fitness-for-purpose and cost-effective email [email protected] have the addition of a new self-contained forum operation. The forum’s program will be divided This event is part of a larger congress on NDT, on the globally critical issue of flexible riser into four sessions. the main purpose of which is to maintain synergy integrity management (FRIM). On the first day, the opening session will focus between the technical community, academic Brazil is the largest user of flexible risers in the on the importance of flexible risers globally, the researchers, and the industry. This link between world, and is therefore the ideal place to hold importance of sharing information among researchers and the industry is extremely such a forum. operators, and specific issues associated with important in order to leverage the productivity Responsible for hydrocarbon production from integrity management. The second session will and competitiveness of the Brazilian NDT the seabed up to platforms or tankers, risers are discuss the technologies and challenges from the industry. structures of huge importance in order to viewpoints of operation, installation, and Following the pattern established by previous maintain the reliable operation of offshore manufacture, and close with a roundtable events in this series, the program will include pipelines and platforms, and demand strength, discussion. discussion of the most advanced techniques in integrity, and safety. The first session on the forum’s second day will this sector and present the some of the latest Riser design is a complex subject, and riser examine the regulations that govern flexible risers, results of the research that addresses the main operation requires continued monitoring of with presentations planned from the regulatory bottlenecks affecting productivity and reliability This International Forum will bring the subject Flexible Risers to performance, particularly in terms of inspection, agencies in Brazil, UK and Norway. The subject of equipment and industrial plant. so as to avoid potential accidents and consequent of the fourth session of the forum is research, The full congress will comprise special sessions the CONAEND&IEV - the most important event in Latin America environment pollution. development, and innovation, focusing on and forums, a poster session, and a number of Aimed at operators, regulatory agencies, inspection, monitoring, and technology. The day mini-courses addressing important current themes inspection and monitoring companies, will also end with a roundtable discussion. for the industry. Details of ConaEnd&Iev 2016 NDT community for technology update and networking. consultants, and manufacturers, the FRIM forum This English language forum is being organised are available at www.conaend.org.br www.conaend.org.br 28 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com FLEXIBLE PIPELINES Upon closer inspection DON’T MISS by Michael Rapp and Luc ten Have, Rosen Technology Research Centre, Lingen, Germany A new in-line inspection (ILI) tool developed by Rosen Group provides a solution for the inspection of offshore flexible pipelines. AN ISSUE! ue to their operational and financial benefits, there is increasing number Dof flexible risers for offshore oil and gas exploration facilities, often in combination with floating-production systems. While flexible pipe is in general considered ‘piggable’, cleaning tools with carbon-steel brushes and ILI tools can potentially damage the inner carcass layer. On top of this, ferritic particles can remain ISSUE 27 | MARCH 2016 Purchase your Pipelines International behind in the stainless steel carcass which can, in the end lead, to corrosion of the inner carcass subscription online at layer, as it is usually made from stainless steel AISI 304 or 316. P I TE- IRE pipelinesinternational.com/shop Rosen recently completed a project on several Total E&P Congo offshore oil pipelines, AT A TIC demonstrating the appropriate methods for CEA inspecting flexible pipes without causing internal 2 Moho ord Contact us at damage. [email protected] PROJECT SUCCESS Ali a Moho Phase 1 is Total, present in the Republic of the Congo for 1 or call us on +61 3 9248 5100 almost 50 years, is the country’s leading oil producer. Total E&P Congo operates ten of the ABOVE: A schematic of the Total E&P Congo Moho-Bilondo offshore oil field. 23 producing fields, accounting for nearly 50 per Cover story: Read about Saudi Douglas-Westwood: The history of the Aramco’s plans for the future. Saudi pipeline industry first HDD rig designs Aramco General Manager Pipelines forecast to 2019 cent of the Congo’s output. Mohammed Sultan Al-Qahtani exclusive Page 10 Page 46 The Moho-Bilondo oil field that, commissioned contact with the pipe wall, and without adversely »» Special magnetic flux leakage (MFL) Page 30 for commercial production in April 2008, is the affecting the performance specifications of the sensors featuring a ceramic housing. PIN_March_2016_Cover_1up.indd 1 19/02/2016 4:29 PM first deep water offshore field of the country, inspection tools. The polyurethane-layered support wheels on situated in water depths ranging from 540 to To ensure that no metal-to-metal contact took the magnetiser units lead to a stand-off between Have you seen our maps and wallcharts? 1,100 m. place during the inspection of the flexible riser, the hardened steel brushes and the pipe wall. This Total E&P Congo awarded the in-line various modifications to the cleaning and ILI stand-off concept was created to maintain a inspection (ILI) of several of its offshore pipelines tools were made. The cleaning tools were sufficient distance from the inner flexible pipe AJOR P PE E TE O T E U A AJOR P PE E TE O CA A A to Rosen. Two of the pipelines covered in the equipped with nylon brushes, which is an easy carcass surface without affecting the detection A detailed overview o select existing ma or i eline systems in the U A A detailed overview o select existing ma or i eline systems in Canada
KEY NAME OWNER PRODUCT LENGTH DIAMETER Com iled and u lished y reat outhern Press Pty td BRITISH COLUMBIA 1 Alberta Clipper (Line 67) En ridge nc Crude oil 1, m inches YUKON TERRITORY Tel 1 2 1 SASKATCHEWAN 2 Alliance Pipeline En ridge nc ( ) ersan ( ) atural gas 1, m – 2 inches contract were equipped with flexible risers that way of effectively cleaning without using carbon and sizing accuracy for metal anomalies in the ALBERTA 7 Brunswick Pipeline Emera Brunswic Pi eline Com any atural gas 1 m inch Product in ormation and gra hic design reat outhern Press, 2 1 ONTARIO MANITOBA Canadian Mainline TransCanada Pi elines atural gas 1 ,11 m inch ource ma courtesy a Resources eattle 28 UEBEC NUNAVUT WASHINGTON NEW Cochin Pipeline System inder organ Pro ane and ethane- ro ane m 12 inches Olym ia BRUNSWICK Whitehorse www ma resources com au Deep Panuke Pipeline Encana Cor oration atural gas 1 m aluit 18 37 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES Enbridge Pipelines (NW) Inc. System En ridge nc Crude oil m 26 connected the subsea pipelines to the Alima steel. Nylon brushes are efficient in removing fine rigid carbon-steel pipe sections. or additional co ies o this oster and or advertising en uiries, Portland 20 0 Enbridge Mainline En ridge nc Crude oil 2, m – inches email uery i elinesinternational com Enbridge Westspur Pipeline En ridge nc Crude oil 1 m 12 inches alem elena MONTANA MAINE 1 Enbridge Southern Lights (Line 13) En ridge nc Crude oil 1,2 1 m 2 inches NORTH DAKOTA MINNESOTA This ma is intended as a general source o in ormation only IDAHO Bismarc 11 Express Platte Pipeline System ectra Energy Crude oil m 2 inch VERMONT ellow ni e Augusta 12 Foothills Pipeline System TransCanada Pi elines atural gas 1,2 1 m – 2 inches OREGON 3 NOTE This is a schematic re resentation and shows a roximate ont elier 1 Keystone Pipeline TransCanada Pi elines Crude oil 1,22 m – inches 7 Concord floating-production unit (FPU). The first pipeline debris from a pipeline and maintain their shape Performance tests and ILI results demonstrated routes o ma or U i elines t does not show exact i eline routes Boise SOUTH DAKOTA aint Paul 1 Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline ectra Energy ( ) Emera (12 2 ) Exxon o il Cor oration ( ) atural gas m inch NEW YORK NEW HAMPSHIRE Route, length, and ca acity in ormation is a roximate and intended Pierre WISCONSIN 21 1 Nova Gas Transmission Pipeline System (NGTL) TransCanada Pi elines atural gas 2 , m 1 – 2 inches Al any Boston as a guide only, and is correct as at ay 2 1 WYOMING MASSACHUSETTS 1 Ontario– uebec Pipeline Trans orthern Pi eline nc Refi ned fuel products m 6 39 MICHIGAN art ord 1 PTC Pipeline ectra Energy atural gas li uids m adison ilwau ee RHODE ISLAND 1 2 ansing 2 Trans Mountain Pipeline System inder organ Crude oil and refi ned products 1,1 2 m 2 – inches 17 CONNECTICUT 1 Trans uebec and Maritimes Pipeline Mainline TransCanada Pi elines ( ), az etro ( ) atural gas 2 m NEBRASKA etroit BRITISH COLUMBIA inspected was the 80-km long 16-inch pipeline oil even in long-distance pipelines. that the Rosen standard performance specifications Chicago ew or 2 Westcoast Pipeline System (B.C Pipeline) ectra Energy NEWFOUNDLAND atural gas 2, m 2 – 2 inches alt a e City 36 es oines PENNSYLVANIA Cheyenne NEW JERSEY ALBERTA 21 Dawn to Parkway Trunkline Union as & atural gas 2 m 23 IOWA 16 arris urg 30 Trenton LABRADOR Carson City incoln Pi eline continues into United tates o America acramento ILLINOIS INDIANA Philadel hia NEVADA UTAH Colum us 31 Baltimore www.pipelinesinternational.com an rancisco enver ndiana olis ring ield OHIO DELAWARE MANITOBA Anna olis Washington C exports line that runs between the Alima FPU Responding to this requirement, Rosen could be maintained without direct contact an Jose COLORADO 13 MARYLAND To e a Charleston KANSAS 19 Richmond 21 12 ran ort WEST Je erson City VIRGINIA 1 CALIFORNIA VIRGINIA KENTUCKY t John s 29 MISSOURI 1 SASKATCHEWAN ARI ONA and the Djeno onshore terminal. developed a solution that avoided any metal-to- between the magnetiser unit and the pipeline. NORTH CAROLINA Edmonton ashville Raleigh 19 anta e 1 8 Charlotte ARKANSAS UEBEC os Angeles NEW MEXICO TENNESSEE 10 OKLAHOMA Red eer O lahoma City em his SOUTH CAROLINA 2 amloo s 1 ittle Roc Colum ia an iego 22 ancouver Phoenix 10 Atlanta ONTARIO Richmond Calgary 8 as atoon The purpose of the ILI was to evaluate the metal contact between the inner carcass of the The inspection was performed successfully, MISSISSIPPI PRINCE 33 27 ictoria EDWARD BAJA ISLAND CALIFORNIA allas ontgomery GEORGIA eth ridge El Paso ALABAMA NEW BRUNSWICK Charlottetown 9 oose Jaw Regina 6 38 Jac son 11 17 oncton 12 13 Brandon 1 18 LOUISIANA redericton condition of the subsea pipelines and the topsides flexible riser and the inspection tool. This solution delivering high-quality inspection data. This TEXAS Jac sonville ALASKA CANADA Winni eg Tallahassee 1 2 aint John SONORA 3 32 Que ec ali ax Austin 20 3 11 9 Trois-Rivieres NOVA 2 1 an Antonio ouston Thunder Bay SCOTIA CHIHUAHUA rummondville piping. included: proven solution is now available for any pipeline ontreal 3 Ottawa The a or Pi eline ystems o Canada ma rovides an overview o existing ma or i eline systems in Canada that are 1 0 miles 300 miles FLORIDA 0 COAHUILA over 1 m in length The ma includes the name, owner, roduct, a roximate length and diameter o the i eline 16 0 1 0 km 300 km 0 12 miles 2 0 miles 00 miles ingston BAJA n ormation used to collate this ma was directly rovided y com anies, the ational Energy Board ( EB) and the SINALOA 0 00 miles Pi elines mar ed with CALIFORNIA 0 12 km 2 0 km 00 km Canadian Energy Pi eline Association (CEPA) indicate a i eline route SUR NUEVO In order to avoid damaging the 316L inner »» Polyurethane-layered support wheels on that includes flexible pipe sections and flexible 0 00 km DURANGO LE N n ormation on this ma is intended as a general source o in ormation only Com iled and u lished y reat outhern Bram ton Toronto that egins in Canada TAMAULIPAS Press Pty td Tel 1 2 1 amilton ondon Product in ormation and gra hic design reat outhern Press, 2 1 ource ma courtesy a Resources KEY KEY KEY 22 LENGTH LENGTH LENGTH www ma resources com au NAME OWNER PRODUCT CAPACITY NAME OWNER PRODUCT CAPACITY NAME OWNER PRODUCT CAPACITY (miles) (miles) (miles) carcass of the flexible riser, Total E&P requested the magnetiser unit risers without risking internal damages or 1 El Paso Natural Gas Pipeline System inder organ as ,1 2 c d 1 ,2 1 Southern Star Central Pipeline outhern tar as 2, 1 c d , 2 Columbia Gas Transmission i ource as Transmission torage as , c d 1 , or additional co ies o this oster and or advertising en uiries, email uery i elinesinternational com 2 Algon uin Gas Transmission ectra Energy Partners as , c d 1,12 1 Dominion Pipeline ominion Resources as , c d , National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation System ational uel as 2, 12 c d 2, Texas Eastern Transmission ectra Energy Partners as , 2 c d , 22 1 Colorado Interstate Gas Pipeline inder organ as , c d , 1 Keystone Pipeline TransCanada Crude oil - 2, With the support of Tennessee Gas Pipeline inder organ as , c d 1 , 1 Alliance Pipeline System Alliance Pi eline as 2, c d 2, 11 2 Seaway Pipeline Enter rise Products Partners En ridge Crude oil , l d Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Panhandle Energy as 2, c d , 1 Columbia Gulf Transmission Colum ia Pi eline rou as 2, c d ,12 Gulf Coast Project TransCanada Crude oil , l d Northern Natural Gas Pipeline orthern atural as as , 2 c d 1 , 2 Northern Border Pipeline TC Pi e ines O EO Partners as 2, c d 1, Longhorn Pipeline agellan idstream Partners Crude oil - that the cleaning and ILI tools that would be used »» Odometer wheels with an added cross-contamination between carbon steel and ANR Pipeline A R Pi eline Com any as ,12 c d 1 , 21 Great Lakes Gas Transmission Pipeline reat a es as Transmission Com any as 2, c d 2,11 Double H Pipeline iland Partners Crude oil , l d Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Williams as , c d 1 , 22 Transwestern Interstate Pipeline Energy Trans er as 2, c d 2, Pony Express Pipeline Tallgrass Energy Crude oil 2 , l d Gulf South Pipeline ul outh Pi eline Com any as ,2 c d , 2 uestar Pipeline Questar Pi eline as ,1 2 c d 1, Olympic Pipeline BP Crude oil 1 , l d www.pipelinesinternational.com 1 Natural Gas Pipeline Co of America inder organ as , c d ,2 2 Wyoming Interstate Pipeline inder organ as 2, c d Trans Alaska Pipeline System Alyes a Pi eline ervice Com any Crude oil - 11 Florida Gas Transmission Pipeline lorida as Transmission Com any as 2,21 c d , 2 Centerpoint Energy Gas Transmission CenterPoint Energy as , c d , US Mainline (Lakehead System) En ridge Crude oil 2, , l d 1, 12 Kern River Gas Transmission Pipeline ern River as Transmission Com any as 1, c d 1, 2 Northwest Pipeline Williams as , c d , Alberta Clipper En ridge Crude oil , l d 1, should be designed without any metal-to-metal 2 polyurethane layer 1 stainless steel. Trunkline Pipeline Panhandle Energy as , 2 c d ,2 2 Southern Natural Gas Company System inder organ as , c d , 1 Texas Gas Transmission Boardwal Pi elines as , c d , 1 2 Gas Transmission Northwest TransCanada as 2, c d 1,
30 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com pipelinesinternational.com/shop PIGGING PIGGING
© Anastasios71 / Shutterstock
IN-LINE INSPECTION the launch point and exchanged the high- sections showed the pipe to be in excellent Williams prepared for inspection operations by definition video modules for EMAT sensors to condition. The only abnormalities uncovered Robotic ILI of a Transco pipeline removing tees in the valve yard near the edge of inspect the pipe in automatic scan mode. After during the inspections were a few small pieces of the Hudson River to create access points for each completing the automatic scan, inspection wax on the lower region of the pipe: pictures of pipeline. Williams also installed temporary technicians manually drove the robotic crawlers this wax were taken by the inspection crew during in an urban area vertical leg sections on the pipelines to bring the to every indication of a potential defect for the initial pipeline survey using the tool’s high- access points above the water level. Aside from detailed characterisation. Throughout the definition camera. by Casey Lajaunie, Williams, Houston, TX, USA, and Jonathan Minder, Diakont, making the pipeline entry points more accessible, inspection, NDE data analysts reviewed the With the pipelines’ integrity validated, Williams San Diego, CA, USA installing the pipe extensions also decreased the resultant data in real time, monitored tool made plans to put the pipelines back in service. risk of getting water in the line during the operation via telemetry, and recorded precise Williams also made plans to install permanent tees inspection. After installing the extensions, pipeline geometric data, which was incorporated to the pipelines to facilitate future inspections A robotic crawler was successfully used to inspect the condition of twin ‘unpiggable’ natural gas pipelines Williams blew the lines dry to remove remaining into a pipe tally in the pipe feature list report. without requiring any excavation or temporary leg running underneath the Hudson River in New Jersey, NY, USA, for pipeline operator Williams. The crawler product and excess condensation. installations. According to James Harrison, Diakont mobilised two inspection teams with INSPECTION RESULTS Manager – Asset Integrity, the robotic tool helps used rugged track systems to traverse difficult pipe geometries and inspect lines inaccessible to traditional two robotic crawler tools to inspect the twin gas The pipeline inspections went smoothly and the solve a problem that has been plaguing the pipeline flow-driven, smart pig tools. lines simultaneously and minimise pipeline lines were completed ahead of schedule. Williams industry for years. “The smart pig is one of the downtime. Both of the robotic crawlers were took advantage of the extra availability of the most crucial tools we have to ensure pipeline access to the pipeline, Williams’ integrity engineers »» A laser profilometer creates detailed hand-loaded into the pipes and driven through inspection crews and arranged inspection of an integrity. Unfortunately, not all pipes are piggable,” NEW URBAN DEVELOPMENT turned to ILI solutions. Compounding the mapping of the pipeline’s inner surface as the entire inspection length while taking video of additional 244-km of pipeline beyond the original Mr Harrison said. “This new robotic crawler tool CREATING HCA inspection challenges, Williams only had access to well as detecting and measuring internal the interior and surveying pipe elements. project scope. gives us access to pipe sections which had never Construction of new apartment buildings and the pipe on one side of the river, so the inspection surface irregularities such as pitting Technicians then reversed the crawlers back to The integrity assessment of the Transco pipeline before been candidates for inline inspection.” condominiums within urban areas creates new tool would have to enter and exit the pipe from the »» High-definition cameras allow technicians high-consequence areas (HCA) in existing same location, ruling-out traditional smart pigs to gather photographs and video of the pipelines. Some of the unpiggable pipelines which require retrieval from the end of the line appearance of the pipeline’s interior. This is an edited version of the paper presented at the Pipeline Pigging and Integrity Management (PPIM) Conference held in Houston within these HCAs have never been inspected following inspections. Unlike conventional UT instruments that in February 2016. using in-line inspection (ILI) tools and now Williams identified Diakont’s robotic crawler as require a liquid couplant between the transducers require integrity-management programs from the a potential solution to meet the inspection and pipe body to transmit ultrasonic signals, the US’ Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety challenges. The bi-directional crawler employs EMAT instrument does not require any couplant, Administration (PHMSA). This was the situation three tank-like tracks: two at the bottom of the making it ideal for gas pipeline inspections where that Williams faced when new apartment tool for primary propulsion, and a third (at the adding liquid within lines is avoided at all costs. buildings were constructed on the edge of the top) that extends out as necessary to stabilize the All sensor data feeds back to the inspection Hudson River near Williams’ Transco pipeline tool in difficult geometries such as bends and technicians in real time via an umbilical cable, system in New Jersey. inclined pipes. and pipeline operators are given same-day The robotic crawler uses an integrated sensor assessment results. SELF-PROPELLED SOLUTION suite to assess pipe-wall integrity: After a live demonstration of the robotic The HCA piping inspected by Williams consists »» An ultrasonic testing (UT) crawler’s capabilities in a 24-inch pipe mock-up, of two 24-inch lines running parallel to each other electromagnetic acoustic transducer Williams selected Diakont’s robotic crawler for underneath the Hudson River. With no external (EMAT) measures pipeline wall thickness the urban pipeline inspection.
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The isolation was active for 14 days without seal degradation or leaks past the primary barrier.
when vented to atmospheric pressure it would flash to the vapour state, accompanied with a sharp reduction in temperature that could also B result in the formation of solid CO2 if the process was not carefully controlled.
The formation of solid CO2 in the BISEP tool, in addition to the ductility issues associated with
the CO2’s low temperature (<-57°C), were identified as potential problems that could interrupt the integrated pressure communication A connections used to monitor the annulus space and performance of the BISEP tool. These problems were dealt with by
management of CO2 pressure. The blow down speed of the isolated section of pipe was Case study: Leak-tight double controlled such that the temperature remained above design limits of the seal and the steel selection. This approach was also used for venting block and bleed isolation on high the hot tap equipment during and after hot tapping and completion plug installation.
Nitrogen was employed to purge CO2 out of pressure CO pipelines the annulus space allowing pressure drops to C 2 happen without low temperatures in the by Stephen Rawlinson, Scott McNae, Doug Krokosz, and Marco Roncal proximity of the seals. The annulus space was maintained at a pressure that was safe from a total STATS Group recently completed a successful pipeline intervention and isolation operation on a high-pressure contained energy point of view while remaining just high enough to prevent the formation of solid 30-inch CO2 pipeline operating up to 2,140 psi. This operation was the world’s first leak-tight double block and phase CO2. bleed isolation of a high pressure CO2 pipeline system. Based on the project’s technical parameters, STATS Group was able to set toughness testing he purpose of the project, which took A WORLD-FIRST PROJECT Morgan to provide an intervention into the pipe limits for the materials of construction such that place as part of a larger initiative to This intervention operation took place on a wall through a hot tap and installation of STATS the steels remained sufficiently ductile. In addition convert a non-piggable pipeline into a 152-km 30-inch CO pipeline that operates from patented Branch Installed Self-Energised Plug™ to this, STATS Group used experience and T 2 piggable pipeline, was to install full bore inline source field in southwestern Colorado to Denver (BISEP), a technology that provides leak-tight specifications with elastomer to select a seal isolation valves and new pipeline tie-in facilities. City, delivering product primarily used for double block and bleed isolation of the piping (hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber or HNBR) All project work was completed without affecting enhanced oil recovery. The pipeline is currently system. pipeline throughput. undergoing significant upgrades to facilitate a The challenges associated with safely isolating A: BISEP shown in near and far inboard of bypass to facilitate station tie-ins. The following describes the solutions and transition to a piggable pipeline for ease of high-pressure CO2 were not immediately obvious. methodologies developed for this complex ongoing maintenance. At such high pressures and ambient temperatures, B: BISEP key features. operation. STATS Group were contracted by Kinder the CO was in a supercritical fluid state; however, C: Secondary seal test with full differential pressure. 2 D D: Primary seal test with full differential pressure.
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E: The 24 inch bypass installation. that would be within its operational parameters at Once the containment is properly pressure expansion causes them to compress against the F: Completing the plug installation on the 24-inch bypass tee. -40°C. leak-tested, the hot tap machine is deployed pipe wall. The boundary, once established, offers G: The 24 inch bypass line installation. The isolation was active for 14 days without through the open valve to breach the pipeline and dual leak-tight barriers. seal degradation or leaks past the primary barrier, pull the cut section of pipe up above the valve. After the BISEP has been deployed into the thereby allowing critical station and launcher/ The valve is closed, the system is vented to a safe pipeline both seals are compressed by ‘squeezing’ receiver upgrades to occur without safety location and the BISEP is installed on the valve. the tool hydraulically. Initial sealing is confirmed incident. Careful control of CO2 phase change Pressure containment is verified before the by applying pressure to the cavity between the during venting, coupled with pre-deployment valve is opened. Once containment is verified the primary and secondary seal. This cavity is testing and verification trials and the appropriate two sides of the valve are pressure balanced and referred to as the annulus. selection of steel and elastomer materials to the valve is opened to allow the BISEP to be The annulus between the seals is piped through accommodate CO2 service, were key reasons for deployed into the piping system. the launcher to give external access which allows project success. structural retention; and a pressure competent To deploy the BISEP a deployment cylinder on the pressure to be raised, if required, to ensure a launcher. the launcher drives the spherical head through suitable differential pressure can be locked in for ABOUT THE BISEP TOOL The BISEP is housed in the pressure-rated the hot tap penetration into the pipe where it is the secondary seal test. The BISEP is a double block and bleed launcher tube. The launcher tube facilitates rotated 90 degrees, towards the pressure threat. These steps are repeated upstream and Isolation tool that can be installed into a pipeline testing of the sealing head integrity prior to The rotation of the sealing head is done downstream of the pipeline requiring isolation, via a single full bore hot tap penetration – deployment. The launcher is connected to the hot hydraulically to ensure full control. The spherical with additional branch tees installed outboard of requiring only one penetration for each double tap valve and leak tested as described above. shape of the head ensures that it can rotate freely the isolation devices to allow for a temporary block and bleed isolation. To install the BISEP isolation technology a size inside the pipeline. Head rotation orientates the bypass, thereby maintaining the line throughput. The key components of the BISEP tool are: a on size branch split tee welded onto the operating reaction shoulder against the clevis arms. Once the isolation is no longer required, spherical dual seal; a double block and bleed E F pipeline, based on qualified and approved Once the head is fully rotated, the seals can be pressure is equalised, the BISEP is unset and sealing head; a clevis arm providing full pressure in-service welding procedures. A full size isolation activated. Initial activation is provided by the recovered and piggable completion plugs are valve and pressure contained hot tap drilling internal hydraulic cylinder. This axially installed to complete the hot tap bypass and machine is then installed onto the valve. compresses the two seals, the resultant radial isolate the branch tees.
G
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A: TAP Project linepipe ready for installation. © TAP
Project report: Trans Adriatic Pipeline Pipelines International takes a closer look at the development and progress of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).
he 878-km TAP pipeline will begin at the project and local people will be employed the Turkish-Greek border, at Kipoi, during the construction process. So there will be Tand cross Albania and the Adriatic Sea, many other spillover effects for adjacent before coming ashore in Southern Italy. The businesses, including accommodation, transport, project is aimed at enhancing both the security catering, etc. via eligible suppliers. and the diversification of gas supplies for the “TAP will be supporting several local European markets. communities with strategic projects as part of our The pipeline will have an initial capacity of social investments programme. The project is also 10 Bcm/a of gas with the possibility of increasing contributing to improving local infrastructure via capacity to 20 Bcm/a. The offshore pipeline will the rehabilitation of access roads and bridges in have a diameter of 36-inches, while the onshore Albania. pipeline diameter will be 48-inches. “Last but not least, TAP will contribute to the TAP’s routing will facilitate gas supply to development and expansion of the gas several European countries, including Bulgaria, infrastructure in Southeast Europe and the Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, diversification of the gas supply sources in the Croatia and others. With first gas sales to Georgia region. This will ultimately boost the countries’ and Turkey targeted for late 2018, first deliveries roles as energy hubs.” to Europe will follow approximately a year later. Once in operation, TAP is expected to provide EARLY DAYS numerous benefits to the host countries. Speaking Work on the TAP Project commenced in 2003 on the economic and social value of the project with key project shareholders launching a Lisa Givert, TAP’s Head of Communications, pre-feasibility study. This was followed by a full said “The benefits TAP will bring in Greece, project feasibility study, completed in 2006 by Albania and Italy are manifold. former Swiss EGL. This study confirmed TAP’s “The project will directly contribute to the technical, economic and environmental viability. three countries’ gross domestic products through TAP’s extended basic engineering concluded in taxes. TAP will promote the economic March 2007. This phase of the project included development and direct as well as indirect job offshore seabed surveys, preliminary impact creation along the pipeline route during assessment surveys, and the rough planning of the construction and operation. proposed pipeline route. Following the completion “Many local businesses will become involved in of extended engineering, TAP AG was registered A
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B C
B: Preparatory work on the TAP ROW. © TAP as a company. In May 2010 the German gas company E.ON section of TAP. Having received government C: TAP reached a major milestone in July 2015 with construction work commencing in Albania. © TAP Throughout 2007 several TAP joint venture Ruhrgas acquired a 15 per cent stake of the TAP approval, TAP AG proceeded to meet with D: The TAP project requires coordination between several (JV) partners established environmental and social project. Following this agreement, the existing 400 local stakeholders and 60 non-government shareholders and government authorities. © TAP impact processes for the project, and in January shareholders, Swiss-based EGL and Norwegian organisations in regional workshops, and 2008 TAP entered the front-end engineering and firm Statoil, each held a 42.5 per cent stake in the continued working on the project’s Environmental design (FEED) stage. This stage of the project was project. This acquisition was finalised in July and Social Impact Assessment. months assessing and refining the proposed route. aimed at finalising the design and refining the 2009. Following approvals in Albania, the Greek This initial phase of route refinement in Greece pipeline system. Government commenced TAP route refinement was follows by a second phase of assessment in Pipeline route planning commenced in 2009. PROJECT PROGRESS in November 2010. A total of 28 experts from 2011. In June of the same year the route was refined to By June 2010 Albanian Government officials TAP AG, E.ON Ruhrgas, Exergia, Environmental In early 2012 the TAP project was selected by avoid impacting the Hotova National Park and had approved the revised route of the Albanian Resources Management and IFL spent three Shah Deniz Consortium as a priority route for other environmentally and culturally significant Italy. Following this Shah Deniz proposed a sites in Albania. Funding and Option agreement that would see Six different routes were considered and the the consortium finance part of TAP and take a final route was selected as it had minimal impact A significant project milestone was reached in June 50 per cent equity stake in the overall project. on nearby forests and avoided all cultural heritage In November 2012 TAP shareholders and sites. This route was also determined to be shorter 2015 with initial project construction work Shah Deniz partnered with SOCAR, BP and and easier to construct than the potential route commencing on Albanian roads and bridges, Total in a Shareholder agreement defining the identified during the basic engineering phase of TAP JV. This agreement determined that TAP the project. enabling access to future pipeline construction sites. would be governed with members of the Shah D
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G
E H
Deniz Consortium, should TAP be selected by project’s strategy and schedule, with contract TAP’S SHAREHOLDERS Shah Deniz in 2013. awards planned for 2016. February 2013 was a significant month for the The first major supply contract was issues in TAP project, with the governments of Albania, July, with the JV inviting tenders for the provision Greece and Italy signing an intergovernmental of 8 x 36-inch (class 900) and 46 x 48-inch (class P 20 per cent agreement (IGA) to pursue the project. Following 600) large diameter ball valves. This was followed this important milestone, the project’s FEED the late-November Invitation to Tender (ITT) for S CAR 20 per cent phase was concluded in March 2013. compressor stations in Greece and Albania. In the remaining months of 2013, the Albanian In Greece, the ITT covered the provision of Sna S p A 20 per cent Government ratified the TAP Host Government engineering, procurement, construction and Agreement and granted TAP an environmental commissioning of one compressor stations at lu ys 19 per cent permit in Albania; the Shah Deniz Consortium Kipoi. Meanwhile, in Albania, the contract selected TAP as its preferred gas transportation included the provision of procurement, Enag s 16 per cent route; and the TAP shareholders signed a construction and commissioning of one Resolution to Construct. The final months of the compressor station at Fier, and one metering A po per cent year saw the Greek Government ratify the TAP station at Billisht, designed to measure natural gas Host Government Agreement and the Shah coming into Albania from the Greek section of Deniz Consortium take a final investment TAP. The compressor station contract were to be decision on The Shah Deniz phase II project. awarded into the second half of 2015. E: TAP linepipe ready for installation. © TAP Engás joined TAP in 2014 as a new F: Project work is already underway in Albania. © TAP CONTRACT AWARDS COMMENCE shareholder with a 16 per cent stake and existing G: TAP route. © TAP In April 2014 TAP AG relaunched the shareholder Fluxys increase its stake from 16 per H: Once completed, TAP will connect with the Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipelines (TANAP) to form the Southern Gas F procurement process following a review of the cent to 19 per cent. This was achieved through Corridor, once of the most complex gas chains ever developed in the world. © TAP
42 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 43 PROJECTS PROJECTS the purchase of share previously owned by E.ON pipelines running from the first dry weld at the Associated civil works at landfalls in Albania Minister of Energy and Industry Damian (9 per cent) and landfall in Italy to the scraper trap in the PRT. and Italy, offshore pipeline installation, offshore Gjiknuri, representatives of local authorities. Total (10 per cent). TAP will contribute to the development and A significant project milestone was reached in fibre optic cable supply and installation, and “Also, our Land Easement and Acquisition January 2015 saw TAP AG appoint a new expansion of the gas infrastructure in Southeast June 2015 with initial project construction work pre-commissioning and survey activities are also process has been positively received by the local Managing Director, Ian Bradshaw, to start in commencing on Albanian roads and bridges, included in the agreement. communities, with the large majority of Letters of February. With a 34-year year in the commercial Europe and the diversification of the gas supply enabling access to future pipeline construction This contract award demonstrated that the Intent signed by landowners and users in all three oil and gas industry, Mr Bradshaw joined TAP sites. In addition to this, by the close of 2015, TAP project shows no signs of slowing down and countries. AG from the BG Group where he oversaw the sources in the region. TAP had also awarded a project management is on the way to reaching its projected “In Albania, intense activities are underway for company’s global project portfolio. services contract for a section of onshore pipeline; construction timeframes. the construction and upgrade of access roads and – Lisa Givert Mr Bradshaw replaced TAP AG’s previous awarded a turbo compressor contract; announced Reflecting on the current progress of TAP, Ms bridges, which began in June 2015. Over 63 per Managaing Director, Kjetil Tungland, who led the final contracts for pipeline construction; and Givert told Pipelines International “The TAP project cent of work for the approved access roads and the JV for over four and half years as part of a awarded two onshore pipe supply contracts. is on schedule. It has now moved into the bridges is completed. This infrastructure will Statoil secondment. execution phase across its three host countries and allow safe passage and transportation of pipes Following the appointment of Mr Bradshaw, 2016 AND BEYOND is progressing according to plan. and heavy machinery. and in preparation for project construction, TAP Project progress has moved ahead in 2016 with “In 2015 TAP focused on procuring goods and “Following construction, these upgraded and AG hired several senior directors in February a major offshore construction contract awarded to services. As such, the vast majority of contracts new access roads and bridges will have the added 2015: Norman Ingram as the Project Director, Saipem SpA in April. The EPIC contract cover are already in place, including onshore and benefit of being left for local communities to and Martin Mair as the Operations Director. works for the offshore section between the notice for onshore construction. The onshore the 105-km, 36-inch offshore pipeline section, offshore construction, line pipes and various utilise for decades to come.” By March 2015, the project began to progress coastlines of Albania and southern Italy. construction contract included a pipeline which will reach up to 820 m below sea level at its pipeline equipment. Shah Deniz in planning its first gas export to quickly as TAP AG launched a pre-qualification Associated landfalls in both Albania and Italy receiving terminal (PRT) and the installation of deepest. Under the contract, TAP will supply “The first batch of 12 m and 18 m linepipes Georgia in 2018. The first deliveries to Europe contract for the construction of the 105-km were included in the contract. the onshore pipeline in Italy. Contract work was Saipem SpA with the coated offshore line pipes, and bends reached the port of Durrës (Albania) via TAP should follow approximately one year offshore pipeline section under the Adriatic Sea. At the same time TAP AG launched a divided into two stages: the engineering, anodes and buckle arrestors required to complete on 5 April and the occasion was marked by a later. Project schedules estimate that TAP will be The contract comprised engineering, pre-qualification process for the supply of procurement and construction (EPC) of the PRT, the project. ceremony attended by Prime Minister Edi Rama, fully operational by 2020. procurement, installation and construction (EPIC) offshore linepipes and coating and a contract and the EPC of an 8-km, 36-inch high-pressure
44 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 45 RISK MANAGEMENT RISK MANAGEMENT
ILI vs Direct Assessment: The risk management perspective By W. Kent Muhlbauer, WKM Consulting, Austin, TX, USA
A rather common issue these days is the decision making involved in comparing in-line inspection (ILI) with direct assessment (DA). This article examines how each contributes to risk management. One of the two inspection techniques mostly provides information on mitigation oth ILI and DA are acceptable ways to information on resistance. This will be key to assess integrity when complying with understanding why the two play different roles in while the other provides mostly information on resistance. This is key to Baspects of USA regulatory Integrity risk reduction. Management (IMP). However, they add value – But on to our examination. To reduce the understanding why the two play different roles in risk reduction. that is, they reduce risk – in two quite different number of possible confounding issues, let’s ways. theorise a rather simple scenario: Comparisons between the two are challenging. Two segments of nearly identical pipelines assessment had conservatively assumed that assurances for the less likely locations. For There are so many nuances of scenario that the Not because the issues are overly complex but exist. Both have current and future estimates of some corrosion metal loss had been occurring. instance, an ECDA finding of no deficiencies, possibilities are endless. For instance, recall how rather because there are many nuances to unmitigated corrosion rates, mitigation Since none was found, the ‘clock has been reset’. coupled with knowledge that mitigation systems we ignored indirect evidence that was possibly consider. In this article, we’ll use a very simple effectiveness, and possible loss of strength due to The assumed metal loss did not actually occur, have not changed, perhaps offers some assurance available and also the efficiency with which example to examine just how each contributes to corrosion damages. One is assessed by ILI and and so the original strength (wall thickness) is that past damages have probably not occurred. anomalies could be detected with each risk management: i.e. the ways in which each no external metal loss anomalies are found. The used in risk calculations. Let’s also discount that for now and look at some technique. Either technique can be more reduces risk. other is assessed by external corrosion direct However, we do not know if future damage is sample numbers for these two assessed segments. beneficial depending on many factors, including This examination will illustrate several key assessment (ECDA), where two overline surveys imminent – perhaps corrosion is just beginning These sample values include corrosion rate, the time horizon for which the risk assessment points: followed by confirmatory excavations, find no in some locations. The ILI also provides some mitigation effectiveness, changes in mitigation reports. 1. How good risk assessment can add clarity anomalies. indirect evidence regarding exposure and effectiveness per year (i.e. rate of coincident gaps Here is the key point of this discussion: ECDA to otherwise confusing issues Both assessments have been performed and mitigation. Let’s discount that for now. in CP and coating), and assumed changes in wall is a forward-looking technique since it mostly W. Kent Muhlbauer is a regular 2. Why this particular comparison is not neither has found any external metal loss at all. The ECDA has shown that the mitigation – thickness prior to the assessments. The results yields information on mitigation (i.e. how well columnist for Pipelines International, author of Pipeline Risk Assessment: the Definitive intuitive to many people Let’s assume both are perfect in their ability to cathodic protection (CP) and coating – are are interesting. The PoF comparison for year one protected the system is). ILI and pressure testing Approach and its Role in Risk Management, 3. Another example of why we must detect metal loss – while this is not realistic, it performing as intended at all points. However, after the two assessments shows that the are backwards-looking techniques as they and presenter of the Advanced measure probability of failure (PoF) via avoids a confounding aspect in our comparison. we do not know if damages have occurred in the ECDA-assessed segment has slightly lower PoF. examine what damages have already occurred. Pipeline Risk Management course run the three independent measurements of How does a good risk assessment use this past – perhaps recent upgrades to a CP system However, in year three the ILI-assessed segment Both are important. Neither tells us internationally with Clarion Technical exposure, mitigation, and resistance. knowledge of ‘inspected with no findings of could be concealing past deficiencies. shows lower PoF. everything. Both contribute to risk reduction but Conferences and Tiratsoo Technical. Spoiler alert: here’s a preview of the deficiencies’? It first recognises what has been As with ILI, we have also some indirect As some might suspect, this example was they do so in different ways. Good risk For more information, visit conclusion. One of the two inspection learned. evidence regarding other PoF issues. Afterall, an contrived so that the two techniques effectively assessment allows us to clearly see the role of www.pipelinerisk.net techniques mostly provides information on The ILI has shown that no weaknesses exist underlying premise with DA is that the findings swapped positions in risk-reduction effectiveness each and make better decisions. mitigation while the other provides mostly that were caused by external metal loss. The risk from more likely damage locations provides over time; but that is not necessarily unrealistic.
46 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 47 COMPANY NEWS COMPANY NEWS
A B
reduce the predicted lifespan of the pipeline A: Installing the IFL system. without the application of a fully effective B: Robert Walters (right) witnessing IFL Installation. APS brings ILF to the world corrosion resistant layer. DEVELOPING IFL Anticorrosion Protective Systems (APS) has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with PETRONAS for the The IFL system was originally developed under production and marketing of Infield Liner (IFL) technology across the globe. the joint management of PETRONAS and APS Speaking on the licensing agreement, Hj Regionally, the largest market potential for IFL as a viable and cost-effective method for subsea Zakaria Bin Kasah, Chairman of PETRONAS is in North America – specifically the Gulf of pipeline rehabilitation. However, the possibilities Technology Ventures said “The exclusive license Mexico, which has a large and ageing pipeline n addition to this agreement, APS has also ABOUT THE IFL SYSTEM provides the liner with an extremely high tensile for its use also have specific applications for the will enable the globalisation of the IFL network with close to 3,000-km of pipelines in been awarded two multi-year contracts for IFL is a flexible Kevlar®-reinforced liner strength, thus enabling the insertion of single onshore hydrocarbon pipeline industry as well. technology so that it becomes available for usage need of replacement over the next 10 years. The Ithe rehabilitation of subsea hydrocarbon installed in existing subsea pipelines. Once lengths of multiple kilometers of liner through An example of this would be when a pipeline not only in PETRONAS facilities, but also across Middle East and Southeast Asia also have large pipelines using the IFL system. The contracts, installed the liner then acts as a corrosion barrier, multiple 90 degree bends of down to 5D radii. passes under an area where site access is the globe, opening the market to a new and cost potential markets for IFL, with each having collectively valued at approximately providing protection against aggressive service The outer thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) extremely limited, and thus the pipeline has to be effective way of re-commissioning damaged or around 2,000-km of pipelines that will need to be US$150 million, will see APS use its IFL system conditions and extending the use of the pipeline covering provides maximum protection and rehabilitated over much longer lengths with single corroded pipelines for other oil and gas replaced over the next 10 years. to rehabilitate near-end-of-life pipelines, allowing far beyond its original design life. abrasion resistance, as may be required during the pulls of up to 5-km. operators.” Prior to granting APS the exclusive license to PETRONAS to avoid mounting large-scale The IFL liner is composed of a Solef ® pulling and insertion process of the IFL liner The IFL system was successfully piloted at produce and market the IFL technology, APS replacement campaigns. Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) inner liner from system into the host pipeline. PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd’s (PCSB) GLOBAL APPLICATIONS instigated a soft launch of the IFL system with the The rehab projects will cover crude oil Solvay, a tightly woven Aramid core that uses The IFL system can be used for rehabilitating Samarang field in September 2013. Following this At present there are approximately 175,000-km major offshore oil and gas operators in Southeast gathering, high pressure gas and condensate Dupont Kevlar fabric, and an outer layer of in-field subsea pipelines running from platform to the IFL system was commercially deployed at of subsea pipelines in operation around the globe. Asia, the Middle East, North America and West pipelines that vary in length from 700 m up to abrasive-resistant Thermoplastic Polyurethane platform or from platform to shore. The system West Lutong field in November 2014. Of these, around 15,000-km will become due for Africa. 3.5-km and have diameters of 6-10 inches. from BASF. can also be used as a corrosion barrier for new On the back of the successful internal replacement in the next 10 years, as the pipelines The launch had an excellent response, with Project work will be executed throughout 2016 The inner PVDF layer provides a high pipelines that will be exposed to extremely application of the IFL technology, PETRONAS reach the end of their planned service life. These operators recognising the benefit in having a and the start of 2017, with additional chemical resistance against the most aggressive corrosive environments and aggressive has further granted APS a global 20-year pipelines range in diameter from 4-inch to viable alternative to pipeline replacement. The rehabilitation contract awards anticipated for hydrocarbon exposure conditions, including hot environmental influences such as sulfate reducing exclusive license to apply the technology for other 20-inch and form the main target market for the potential cost savings of the system were seen as a project work in 2017-18. sour crude oil up to 110°C. The Kevlar core bacteria (SRB) or high water cuts, which can oil and gas operators. IFL technology. major benefit.
48 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 49 COMPANY NEWS
JOURNAL OF PIPELINE ENGINEERING
C D If you are a pipeline engineer, The Journal of Pipeline Engineering is a vital tool that will keep C: IFL on the installation reel. you up-to-date on the latest technical research D: An APS crew installing the IFL system. Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) is Malaysia’s fully integrated oil and gas around the world. multinational, ranked among the largest corporations on FORTUNE Global 500®. Robert Walters, APS Group Chairman and Operating their core business in the upstream and downstream sectors, PETRONAS has a Published four times a year, it stands alone main driver behind the development of the IFL presence in more than 60 countries since its incorporation in 1974. as the premier technical publication for the technology, said “PETRONAS has confirmed its PETRONAS is among the top five oil and gas companies (in terms of production) and the pipeline industry. strong backing of the IFL technology and its most profitable company in Asia. PETRONAS is steadily driving for new solutions and economic benefits versus pipeline replacement by pushing boundaries to develop and add value to their oil and gas resources in a manner that As a peer-reviewed journal it provides quality awarding installation projects worth over carefully balances commercial, environmental and social considerations. information to keep you at the forefront of US$150 million to APS. industry developments. For further information visit www.petronas.com “Now the task to bring the IFL technology to the global market rests on the shoulders of APS. Subscription is just $US350 per year and also includes access to the electronic archive. The IFL system has the potential to radically change the way in which subsea pipeline Since 1978, APS, headquartered in Dubai (UAE), has provided engineering, application Visit the website to subscribe today. maintenance is viewed. We firmly believe that IFL and installation of specialised protective systems to the oil, gas, power and utility sectors is a game-changing technology and are delighted throughout the Middle East and Asia. This includes the provision of coatings, linings and to have been chosen as partners to PETRONAS other pipeline rehabilitation technologies. www.j-pipe-eng.com in respect of the globalisation of this unique APS currently executes projects in over 20 countries – covering the Middle East and Africa technology.” from offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar– and operates in Southeast Asia from offices For more information on the IFL technology, in Malaysia, Thailand and Brunei. please visit www.infieldliner.com For further information on APS visit www.aps-corporate.com
50 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com
JPE_Technical_Journal_FP_2014_Letter.indd 1 7/11/2014 10:26 am EVENTS EVENTS
A: His Excellency Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Bahrain’s Minister of Energy, flanked by Nabeel Al-Jama (left) and Mohammed Sultan Al-Qahtani (right). B: VIP guests watch the POMME plenary session.
Bahrain conference meets its targets The third in the series of conferences taking place in Bahrain about pipelines was held in April and demonstrated continuing interest in the subject from the industry in the region.
espite the economic issues being faced Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Chief Technology Officer research forum for ideas and results that produces by the hydrocarbons exploitation and for the event’s Platinum Elite sponsor Saudi solutions to ensure the safe, reliable, Dtransportation industries, the organisers Aramco. He gave a stimulating review of the environmentally sound, and cost-effective pipeline – Clarion Technical Conferences of Houston, company’s considerable investment in research, transportation of energy to consumers worldwide. A USA, and Global Webb Energy Consultants and citing growth in its patent portfolio as clear PRCI’s members enjoy considerable benefits from Tiratsoo Technical of the UK – were delighted evidence of its achievements. “In 2015”, Mr their participation, and benefit/cost studies show that attendance at the event, both by delegates Al-Khowaiter said, “Saudi Aramco filed 226 consistently positive ratios – in the range of 4:1 to and visitors, and by exhibitors, was in line with patents at the US patent and trademark office – as high as 25:1 – in the reduced costs of sustained growth. Testament to this was the a 30 per cent growth over our filing the previous operations and maintenance, inspection, significantly expanded programme with 76 year. Additionally, the company was granted a materials, design, construction, and testing as a presentations being given in 12 simultaneous remarkable 123 US patents the same year, result of membership. tracks over the two-and-a-half-day conference, ranking us fourth among oil and gas companies At the conclusion of this opening session, Dr and the exhibition where the 38 exhibitors were worldwide.” Mirza ceremonially opened the exhibition, and he able to meet the 240 conference delegates and Among these developments is a range of and the VIP guests visited a number of stands around 250 visitors. cutting-edge pipeline technologies, including including that of Platinum Elite sponsor Saudi The conference was held under the patronage pipe-wall-integrity assessment techniques, in-line Aramco and those of the event’s Silver sponsors of HE Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister inspection tools, cathodic-protection monitoring, – Al Qaryan Group, Bapco, Clock Spring of Energy for the Kingdom of Bahrain, and he corrosion prevention, control valves for erosive Company, and the Rosen Group. set the scene for the event with his remarks in the services, and large-diameter-valve diagnostics. On 11 April, the day prior to this formal opening plenary session. “Pipelines,” he said, Mr Mohammed Sultan Al-Qahtani, the opening of the conference and exhibition, three “play a key role in oil and gas industry, and they General Manger of Saudi Aramco’s Pipelines full-day workshops had been held on subjects that are the most economical and safe method for Department, then warmly welcomed delegates covered black-powder management (presented by transporting fuel.” He continued: “It makes more and visitors, reiterating his invitation to “gather to Dr Abdelmounam Sherik of Saudi Aramco), an sense to invest in preventive actions, than unleash the power of sharing best practices in overview of ILI and challenging pipelines counting the losses due to inaction. This is true in proactive pipeline integrity management and (presented by Dr Michael Beller of the Rosen the pipeline industry as well. technologies”. Group), and best practices for offshore pipelines “In the oil industry,” Dr Mirza said, “pipeline The PRCI’s Director of Research, Mike (presented by Dr Qasim Saleem of Saudi damage can ultimately result in oil and gas Whelan, also addressed the session, echoing some Aramco). These proved a popular precursor to leakage, which will affect uninterrupted flow of of Mr Al-Khowaiter’s remarks about the the rest of the event, and attracted considerable oil and gas. There are many challenges to importance of investment in research and the interest and support. overcome [to secure] pipeline networks, and the global context with which investment needs to be To review all the 76 presentations from the best way to do so is collaboratively.” implemented. Using the leverage generated by its conference here is not feasible due to lack of Dr Mirza was followed at the podium by Mr 35 members’ contributions, PRCI has created a space, and to mention only one or two would be B
52 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 53 EVENTS EVENTS
D
C E
A A: His Excellency Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Bahrain’s Minister of Energy, opening the POMME exhibition hall with VIP guests. invidious. Let it suffice to say that there was a B: Delegates registering for the event. most interesting and stimulating programme, the C: HE Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Energy for the abstracts from which can be viewed at Kingdom of Bahrain, visits the Rosen booth in the exhibition hall. www.pipelineconf.com. As well as F D: Sponsors BAPCO. H 29 presentations from Saudi Aramco engineers, E: Sponsors Al Qaryan Group. there were presentations from as far afield as F: Platinum Elite sponsors Saudi Aramco. Japan, Australia, USA, and Europe, and some G: Sponsors Rosen. stimulating discussions and question-and-answer H-I: The conference programme featured 76 presentations with presenters from as far afield as Japan, Australia, USA and Europe. sessions. As ever with such events, the opportunity J: His Excellency Dr Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Bahrain’s of networking was a great benefit, and it was clear Minister of Energy delivering the opening plenary speech. that this opportunity was being usefully exploited K: Conference organiser BJ Lowe from Clarion Technical throughout the four days of the meeting, both in Conferences (left) and John Tiratsoo from Tiratsoo Technical. the Convention Centre and the exhibition area, and in the neighbouring Gulf Hotel. G I The event organisers have, for some time, been in discussion with the ASME’s Pipeline Systems Division (PSD) over developing a partnership for this event in order to enhance its quality and expand its regional coverage for the future. To B this end, ASME sent a delegation from the USA and Canada to the event to carry these discussions forward, and hosted an open meeting to discuss ideas on one of the evenings during the conference. Around 40 people attended and the As well as 29 presentations from Saudi Aramco discussion was useful and supportive of such a collaboration. As a result, it is likely that plans will engineers, there were presentations from as far be developed for the next conference in the series afield as Japan, Australia, USA, and Europe, and (on 23-26 April 2018) to be – in John Tiratsoo’s words at the close of the conference – an ‘IPC for some stimulating discussions and question-and- the Middle East’, following the pattern of the much-respected biennial conference held in answer sessions. Calgary. J K
54 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 55 EVENTS EVENTS Pipeline training in Colombia Cursos de Capacitación en Colombia In November 2016 Tiratsoo Technical and Clarion Technical Conferences, supported by the Rosen Group, will Tiratsoo Technical y Clarion Technical Conferences, apoyados por el Grupo Rosen presentarán una serie de be running a series of pipeline training courses at the Cosmos 100 Hotel in Bogota, Colombia. cursos de capacitación en tuberías en el Hotel Cosmos 100 en Bogotá, Colombia en Noviembre de 2016.
he three training courses and one The course will be presented by Dr Phil pipelines’ course, the purpose of this workshop is e presentarán tres cursos y un taller El objetivo del curso es evaluar el significado de evaluación usados para los diferentes tipos de workshop will cover risk management, Hopkins of his UK-based consultancy Phil to demonstrate practical examples of the cubriendo los temas de gestión de riesgo, defectos, e introducir métodos analíticos para defectos. Tin-line inspection, defect assessment, and Hopkins Ltd, a consulting engineer with more assessment methods used for different defect Sinspección en línea, evaluación de evaluar la corrosión interna y externa, Presentado por Marco Pardo del Grupo Rosen, defect-assessment calculations. Full events details than 30 years of experience in pipeline types. defectos y cálculos en evaluación de defectos. A abolladuras, pérdidas de metal, grietas, defectos cada elemento del taller abre con un breve are listed below. engineering. Presented by Marco Pardo of the Rosen continuación se presentan detalles del evento. de soldaduras y fatiga. recuento de las guías relevantes de los códigos y Group, each segment of the workshop will open El curso lo presenta el Dr Phil Hopkins de su métodos de evaluación. El contenido incluye ADVANCED RISK MANAGEMENT DEFECT ASSESSMENT with a brief review of relevant code guidance and GESTIÓN DE RIESGO – NIVEL propia consultoría basada en el Reino Unido, Phil evaluación de corrosión, evaluación de grietas, y Date: 15-16 November 2016 CALCULATIONS WORKSHOP assessment methods. The content then includes AVANZADO Hopkins Ltd, un ingeniero consultor con más de evaluación de abolladuras. Presented by W. Kent Muhlbauer, the principal Date: 17-18 November 2016 corrosion assessment, crack assessment, and dent Fecha: 15-16 Noviembre 2016 30 años de experiencia en ingeniería de tuberías. of Houston-based WKM Consultancy, this course A follow-on from the ‘Defect assessment in assessment. Presentado por W. Kent Muhlbauer, Director de la has been designed to equip attendees with the empresa consultora, ‘WKM Consultancy’, basada en TALLER DE EVALUACIÓN DE information to set-up and implement Houston. Este curso ha sido diseñado para impartir a DEFECTOS EN TUBERÍAS comprehensive risk-management strategies for los delegados información para implementar Fecha: 17-18 Noviembre 2016 Para mayor información sobre estos pipelines. estrategias de gestión de riesgos en tuberías. Como continuación del curso Evaluación de eventos, visite The course will look at risk-assessment El curso presenta las metodologías de Defectos en Tuberías, el propósito de este taller es www.tiratsootechnical.com methodologies, practical risk-assessment evaluación de riesgo, técnicas prácticas de demostrar ejemplos prácticos de los métodos de techniques, and a number of pipeline industry valoración de riesgo, y requerimientos regulatory requirements. regulatorios en la industria de tuberías. All attendees will receive a robust risk- Los asistentes reciben un modelo robusto de assessment template ready for immediate in-field evaluación de riesgo listo para el uso inmediato de use on live assets, and a course notebook with evaluación de riesgos en activos en operación, y technical papers, lecture slides, and exercises. un manual del curso con publicaciones técnicas, memorias del curso y ejercicios. IN-LINE INSPECTION OF PIPELINES A Date: 15-16 November 2016 INSPECCIÓN EN LÍNEA EN The course will provide an in-depth TUBERÍAS introduction into ILI and the role it plays in Fecha: 15-16 Noviembre 2016 overall pipeline inspection and maintenance El curso presenta una introducción en detalle procedures. al proceso ILI y el papel que este juega en los The course will cover: flaws and defects in procedimientos de inspección y mantenimiento pipelines; non-destructive testing and ILI; tools en general de las tuberías. A for ILI; inspection on challenging pipelines; and El curso cubre: anomalías y defectos en reporting and integrity maintenance. It will be tuberías, ensayos no-destructivos e ILI; presented by Dr Michael Beller, currently herramientas para ILI; inspección en tuberías Director of Corporate Marketing at the Rosen desafiantes; e informes y mantenimiento de la Group and a mechanical engineer who has integridad. El curso es presentado por el Dr worked in the pipeline industry for over 25 years. Michael Beller, actualmente Director Corporativo de Mercadeo para el Grupo Rosen e Ingeniero DEFECT ASSESSMENT IN Mecánico con más de 25 años de experiencia en B PIPELINES la industria de tuberías. Date: 15-17 November 2016 This training course will take a closer look at A-B: Past attendees taking part in Tiratsoo Technical and Clarion Technical Conferences. EVALUACIÓN DE DEFECTOS EN the best practices for defect assessment and TUBERÍAS maintenance on ‘middle-aged’ pipelines. Fecha: 15-17 Noviembre 2016 The course objective is to assess the significance For further information on these events visit www.tiratsootechnical.com Este curso cubre en detalle las mejores B of defects, and to introduce analytical methods If you would like to receive updates about upcoming pipeline events, subscribe to the prácticas para la valoración de defectos y el for assessing internal and external corrosion, Pipelines International FREE fortnightly e-newsletter at mantenimiento de tuberías consideradas de “edad dents and gouges, cracks, weld defects and fatigue. www.pipelinesinternational.com/e-news mayor”.
56 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com www.pipelinesinternational.com June 2016 | Pipelines International | 57 EVENTS Don’t forget these events for 2016:
® ®
Technical Training Courses GLOBAL PETROLEUM SHOW 2016 7–9 JUNE 2016 www.tiratsootechnical.com Calgary, AB, Canada www.globalpetroleumshow.com MAJOR PIPELINE SYSTEMS OF THE USA A detailed overview of select existing major pipeline systems in the USA.
Compiled and published by Great Southern Press Pty Ltd. SOUTH TEXAS OIL FIELD EXPO 27–28 JULY 2016 Tel: +61 3 9248 5100 BRITISH COLUMBIA Product information and graphic design © Great Southern Press, 2016. SASKATCHEWAN ALBERTA Source map courtesy Map Resources. Seatt le 28 WASHIN TON MANITOBA ONTARIO www.mapresources.com.au Olympia
QUEBEC For additional copies of this poster and for advertising enquiries, 37 NEW email [email protected] Portland 26 18 BRUNSWICK 20 Salem 40 This map is intended as a general source of information only. Helena MONTANA NORTH DAKOTA IDAHO MINNESOTA MAINE NOTE This is a schematic representation and shows approximate Bismarck San Antonio, Texas, USA ORE ON Featured item routes of major US pipelines. It does not show exact pipeline routes. 35 VERMONT Route, length, and capacity information is approximate and intended Boise Augusta as a guide only, and is correct as at May 2015. SOUTH DAKOTA Saint Paul 7 Montpelier Pierre Concord WISCONSIN 2 WYOMIN 21 NEW YORK NEW HAMPSHIRE 6 Albany Boston 24 4 MASSACHUSETTS Madison MICHI AN 39 0 17 Milwaukee Hartford Lansing RHODE ISLAND www.southtexasoilfieldexpo.com NEBRASKA 2 Salt Lake City Chicag Detroit CONNECT Cheyenne 36 o ICUT 1 23 Des Moines Carson City New York i eli esi e i l m Sacramento IOWA PENNSYLVANIA NEVADA UTAH 16 NEW ERSEY San Francisco Lincoln 30 Harrisburg 7 ILLINOIS Trenton Denver 31 INDIANA Columb Philadelphia San Jose us Baltimore COLORADO Springfield Indianapolis OHIO Major Pipeline Systems of the USA DELAWARE Annapolis Topeka 13 Washington D.C. 12 MARYLAND CALIFORNIA KANSAS 19 Charleston 5 Jefferson City Frankfort WEST Richmond VIR INIA KENTUCKY VIR INIA ARI ONA MISSOURI 14 29
Los Angeles Santa Fe 15 Nashville NORTH CAROLINA NEW M E ICO ARKANSAS Raleigh 8 Charlotte OKLAHO TENNESSEE Oklahoma City MA San Diego 1 25 Memphis Phoenix 22 Little Rock SOUTH CAROLINA OKC OIL FIELD EXPO 17–18 AUGUST 2016 Columbia 10 This wallchart displays route and pipeline information for select Atlanta BA A 33 MISSISSIPPI CALIFORNIA 27 38 Dallas El Paso Montgomery 9 EOR IA ALASKA ALABAMA CANADA Jackson
TE AS LOUISIANA SONORA 34 Jacksonv 32 Tallahassee ille major US pipelines. Austin CHIHUAHUA Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA San Antonio Houston 11
3 COAHUILA 0 500 miles FLORIDA Pipelines marked with * BA A CALIFORNIA SINALOA 0 125 miles 250 miles 0 500 miles 500 km indicate a pipeline route SUR 0 125 km NUEVO 250 km 500 km that begins in Canada. DURAN O www.okcoilfieldexpo.com LE N KEY TAMAULIPAS NAME OWNER KEY 1 PRODUCT CAPACITY LEN TH El P s N l s Pi eli e S s em miles NAME Kinder Morgan OWNER KEY 2 Al i s T smissi Gas 6,182 MMcf/d PRODUCT LEN TH 10,200 15 S e S Ce l Pi eli e CAPACITY Spectra Energy Partners miles NAME 3 Te s E s e T smissi Gas 3,347 MMcf/d Southern Star OWNER 1,129 16 D mi i Pi eli e Gas 2,801 MMcf/d PRODUCT LEN TH Spectra Energy Partners 5,803 29 C l m i s T smissi CAPACITY 4 Te essee s Pi eli e Gas 7,332 MMcf/d Dominion Resources miles 9,022 17 C l I e s e s Pi eli e Gas 6,655 MMcf/d NiSource Gas Transmission & Storage Kinder Morgan 3,505 30 N i l F el s S l C i S s em Gas 9,350 MMcf/d 5 P le E s e Pi eli e Gas 6,686 MMcf/d Kinder Morgan 10,365 13,900 18 Alli e Pi eli e S s em Gas 4,099 MMcf/d National Fuel Panhandle Energy 4,300 31 Gas 2,312 MMcf/d th 6 Gas 2,840 MMcf/d Alliance Pipeline Ke s e Pi eli e 2,300 N e N l s Pi eli e 6,445 19 C l m i l T smissi Gas 2,053 MMcf/d TransCanada Northern Natural Gas 2,311 32 Se Pi eli e Crude oil - 7 ANR Pi eli e Gas 7,442 MMcf/d Columbia Pipeline Group 2,639 14,700 20 N e B e Pi eli e Gas 2,386 MMcf/d Enterprise Products Partners; Enbridge ANR Pipeline Company 4,124 33 l C s P e Crude oil 850,000 bbl/d 8 T s i e l s Pi eli e Gas 7,129 MMcf/d TC PipeLines; ONEOK Partners 500 10,600 21 e L kes s T smissi Pi eli e Gas 2,400 MMcf/d TransCanada AVAILABLE NOW! Williams 1,408 34 Crude oil 700,000 bbl/d L Pi eli e 9 l S Pi eli e Gas 8,466 MMcf/d Great Lakes Gas Transmission Company 485 10,500 22 T s es e I e s e Pi eli e Gas 2,958 MMcf/d Magellan Midstream Partners Gulf South Pipeline Company 2,115 35 D le H Pi eli e Crude oil - 29 10 N l s Pi eli e C Ame i Gas 6,260 MMcf/d Energy Transfer 700 6,886 23 Q es Pi eli e Gas 2,439 MMcf/d Hiland Partners Kinder Morgan 2,560 36 P E ess Pi eli e Crude oil 84,000 bbl/d 11 Fl i s T smissi Pi eli e Gas 4,848 MMcf/d Questar Pipeline 485 9,200 24 W mi I e s e Pi eli e Gas 3,192 MMcf/d Tallgrass Energy Florida Gas Transmission Company 1,858 37 Ol m i Pi eli e Crude oil 230,000 bbl/d 12 Ke Ri e s T smissi Pi eli e Gas 2,217 MMcf/d Kinder Morgan 690 4,889 25 Ce e i E e s T smissi Gas 2,736 MMcf/d BP Kern River Gas Transmission Company 800 38 T s Al sk Pi eli e S s em Crude oil 315,000 bbl/d 13 T kli e Pi eli e Gas 1,833 MMcf/d CenterPoint Energy 400 1,680 26 N es Pi eli e Gas 5,385 MMcf/d Alyeska Pipeline Service Company Panhandle Energy 6,374 39 US M i li e L ke e S s em Crude oil - 14 Te s s T smissi Gas 3,025 MMcf/d Williams 800 IPLOCA ANNUAL CONVENTION 12–16 SEPTEMBER 2016 4,202 27 Gas 4,950 MMcf/d Enbridge Boardwalk Pipelines S e N l s C m S s em 3,880 Crude oil Gas Kinder Morgan 40 Al e Cli e 2,600,000 bbl/d 1,900 4,065 MMcf/d 5,671 Gas Enbridge 28 s T smissi N es 3,967 MMcf/d 7,635 Crude oil TransCanada 800,000 bbl/d 1,000 YEAR Gas 2,636 MMcf/d 1,356 February 27 -- March 2, 2017, Houston Paris, France www.iploca.com Register today | www.clarion.org Subscription INTERNATIONAL PIPELINE
CONFERENCE AND ISSUE 27 | MARCH 2016 ISSUE 26 | DECEM ER 201 EXPOSITION 26–30 SEPTEMBER 2016 Pipelines International (four issues) What if you could have the acclaimed Pipeline Calgary, AB, Canada Engineering courses from Clarion Technical www.ipcyyc.com Conferences and Tiratsoo Technical right on your desktop? AUSTRALIAN PIPELINES AND GAS ASSOCIATION (APGA) ANNUAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION 8–11 OCTOBER 2016
Cover story: Douglas-Westwood: The history of the Cover story: In estigating pipeline Creating an effecti e pipeline industry first HDD rig designs air orne lea crac anage ent a i ra o eneral ana er Pipelines e or pipela in in t e Perth, Australia forecast to 2019 detection progra e o a e ltan l a tani e l si e or e ian ea Page 30 Page 10 Page 46 Page 42 Page 14 Page 34 For more information and to purchase the online courses, www.apga.org.au visit www.tiratsootechnical.com ADIPEC 7–10 NOVEMBER 2016 Pipeline Construction Wallchart Journal of Pipeline Engineering Abu Dhabi, UAE www.adipec.com The Pipeline Construction Wallchart is An independent, an in-depth look at the various stages of international, quarterly March, 2013 Vol.12, No.1 Journal of pipeline construction. journal that reviews Pipeline Engineering incorporating Set yourself apart with The Journal of Pipeline Integrity AJOR P PE E TE O T E U A AJOR P PE E TE O CA A A technical advances in The Construction Spread Poster provides a visual representation of the major stages involved in the construction of an onshore pipeline, as well as a A detailed overview o select existing ma or i eline systems in the U A A detailed overview o select existing ma or i eline systems in Canada description of the main equipment and machinery used at each stage. This poster is a schematic representation of some of the machinery and equipment used in PIPELINE pipeline construction, and shows generic depictions of these. It does not show specific brands of machinery. KEY Compiled and published by Great Southern Press Pty Ltd. Com iled and u lished y reat outhern Press Pty td BRITISH COLUMBIA NAME OWNER PRODUCT LENGTH DIAMETER SASKATCHEWAN 1 Alberta Clipper (Line 67) * En ridge nc Crude oil 1, m inches Tel: +61 3 9248 5100 Tel 1 2 1 YUKON TERRITORY ALBERTA 2 Alliance Pipeline * En ridge nc ( ) ersan ( ) atural gas 1, m – 2 inches Pipelines International ONTARIO Product in ormation and gra hic design reat outhern Press, 2 1 MANITOBA 7 Brunswick Pipeline Emera Brunswic Pi eline Com any atural gas 1 m inch Product information and graphic design © Great Southern Press, 2015. eattle 28* UEBEC ource ma courtesy a Resources WASHINGTON Canadian Mainline TransCanada Pi elines atural gas 1 ,11 m inch a wide range of NEW Olym ia NUNAVUT For additional copies of this poster and for advertising enquiries, email [email protected] www ma resources com au BRUNSWICK Cochin Pipeline System inder organ Pro ane and ethane- ro ane m 12 inches Whitehorse 18* Deep Panuke Pipeline Encana Cor oration atural gas 1 m 37 aluit CONSTRUCTION 26* or additional co ies o this oster and or advertising en uiries, Portland 20* 40* NORTHWEST TERRITORIES Enbridge Pipelines (NW) Inc. System En ridge nc Crude oil m email uery i elinesinternational com Enbridge Mainline * En ridge nc Crude oil 2, m – inches alem elena MONTANA MAINE Enbridge Westspur Pipeline En ridge nc Crude oil 1 m 12 inches NORTH DAKOTA MINNESOTA This ma is intended as a general source o in ormation only IDAHO Bismarc 1 Enbridge Southern Lights (Line 13) * En ridge nc Crude oil 1,2 1 m 2 inches VERMONT Augusta 11 Express-Platte Pipeline System * ectra Energy Crude oil m 2 inch OREGON 35 NOTE: This is a schematic re resentation and shows a roximate ont elier ellow ni e 7 12 Foothills Pipeline System TransCanada Pi elines atural gas 1,2 1 m – 2 inches aint Paul Concord routes o ma or U i elines t does not show exact i eline routes Boise SOUTH DAKOTA 1 Keystone Pipeline * TransCanada Pi elines Crude oil 1,22 m – inches 1 CLEARING AND GRADING 5 NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING 7 LOWERING IN 9 HYDROSTATIC TESTING NEW YORK NEW HAMPSHIRE Pierre WISCONSIN 21* Route, length, and ca acity in ormation is a roximate and intended 1 3 TRENCHING A final integrity check of the pipeline is undertaken Al any Boston Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline ectra Energy ( ) Emera (12 2 ) Exxon o il Cor oration ( ) atural gas m inch The pipeline right-of-way is cleared and graded to Non-destructive testing is performed prior to the The pipeline is lowered into the trench. The as a guide only, and is correct as at ay 2 1 WYOMING MASSACHUSETTS coating and lowering in of the pipeline to ensure pipe is ‘jeeped’ to ensure that any pipe coating where water is pumped into the pipeline and held to 6 4 1 Nova Gas Transmission Pipeline System (NGTL) TransCanada Pi elines atural gas 2 , m 1 – 2 inches prepare for construction. Where possible, the larger A trench is dug, into which the pipeline is laid. MICHIGAN 39* trees will remain and special care is taken to ensure the integrity of each weld is maintained. A number imperfections (holidays) in the parent or field joint a predetermined pressure higher than the maximum art ord 1 Pipelines International has extensive advertising opportunities adison Ontario–Quebec Pipeline Trans orthern Pi eline nc Refi ned fuel products m allowable operating pressure. It is generally held for ilwau ee RHODE ISLAND areas of heritage or environmental significance are of methods can be used, including X-ray, ultrasonic coating are identified and repaired prior to its engineering subjects for A fleet of bucket wheel and saw trenching 24 ansing 2 1 PTC Pipeline ectra Energy atural gas li uids m not disturbed. and visual. placement in the trench. four hours for a strength test, and then for 24 hours 17 are deployed to excavate a trench to the CONNECTICUT machines for a leak test. The pressure is monitored during this NEBRASKA etroit 1 Trans Mountain Pipeline System inder organ Crude oil and refi ned products 1,1 2 m 2 – inches Chicago required design, into which the pipeline is laid. In hard ew or time and any pressure losses are accounted for to 1 Bulldozers clear the scrub and foliage. rock conditions, excavators with A series of pipelayers with roller cradles alt a e City 36 es oines PENNSYLVANIA BRITISH COLUMBIA TransQuebec and Maritimes Pipeline Mainline TransCanada Pi elines ( ), az etro ( ) atural gas 2 m hydraulic drill ensure that the pipeline can be safely commissioned. 23 Cheyenne IOWA NEW JERSEY attachments or drill and blast techniques can be attached lower the pipe into the trench. 16 30 arris urg 2 Westcoast Pipeline System (B.C Pipeline) ectra Energy NEWFOUNDLAND atural gas 2, m 2 – 2 inches Prior to testing the pipeline, a pig is run through the Trenton used as alternatives to mechanical trenching machines. Carson City incoln pipeline to check the roundness of the pipe, then acramento ILLINOIS INDIANA Philadel hia ALBERTA 21 Dawn to Parkway Trunkline Union as & atural gas 2 m Graders scrape the seed stock and topsoil to NEVADA UTAH Colum us 31* Baltimore LABRADOR be safely placed in stockpiles along the right-of-way another pig is run through it to clean it of debris. After www.pipelinesinternational.com an rancisco enver ndiana olis Pi eline continues into United tates o America ring ield OHIO DELAWARE extremities until reinstatement. hydrostatic testing, the pipeline is typically dried to a Anna olis Washington C dewpoint of -20° Celsius. MARYLAND available on a variety of valued industry resources. COLORADO 13 an Jose MANITOBA To e a Charleston Excavators, graders and dozers undertake bulk KANSAS 19 Richmond 12 ran ort WEST earthworks to ensure that a level working platform An optional further integrity check involves running 5 Je erson City VIRGINIA is achieved to safely undertake subsequent activities. a calliper or intelligent pig. A calliper pig CALIFORNIA KENTUCKY VIRGINIA 21 29 operation is usually undertaken as part of the MISSOURI 14 15 commissioning process, or as a periodic integrity ARI ONA t John s check during operations. NORTH CAROLINA oil, gas and products ashville Raleigh anta e 15 SASKATCHEWAN 8 Charlotte ARKANSAS os Angeles NEW MEXICO TENNESSEE Edmonton OKLAHOMA 19 O lahoma City em his SOUTH CAROLINA 25 QUEBEC 1 ittle Roc Colum ia 10 an iego 22 Phoenix 10 Red eer 1 Atlanta amloo s Upcoming wallcharts include the Major Pipeline Systems of 33 MISSISSIPPI 27 ancouver ONTARIO 9248 5100 BAJA Richmond Calgary 8 as atoon CALIFORNIA allas ontgomery PRINCE 7 GEORGIA ictoria El Paso 9 ALABAMA EDWARD 38 Jac son ISLAND 4 LOUISIANA eth ridge NEW BRUNSWICK Charlottetown 2 ALASKA CANADA TEXAS Jac sonville oose Jaw Regina 6 42 Tallahassee 11 17 oncton 41 34 SONORA 32 13 pipelines. Brandon Austin 12 14 18 the United States. 11 redericton 9 10 5 Winni eg an Antonio ouston 4 CHIHUAHUA aint John Que ec ali ax 20 3 NOVA 9 2 Trois-Rivieres 1 Thunder Bay SCOTIA 3 rummondville 5 6 FLORIDA COAHUILA ontreal 0 125 miles 250 miles 500 miles Ottawa BAJA SINALOA The a or Pi eline ystems o Canada ma rovides an overview o existing ma or i eline systems in Canada that are 0 150 miles 300 miles 0 500 miles Pi elines mar ed with CALIFORNIA 0 125 km 250 km 500 km 3 NUEVO over 1 m in length The ma includes the name, owner, roduct, a roximate length and diameter o the i eline 16 indicate a i eline route SUR 0 500 km DURANGO LE N 0 150 km 300 km that egins in Canada n ormation used to collate this ma was directly rovided y com anies, the ational Energy Board ( EB) and the ingston 8 TAMAULIPAS Canadian Energy Pi eline Association (CEPA) Advertising spaces are limited, so get in quick to secure your Bram ton Toronto KEY KEY KEY n ormation on this ma is intended as a general source o in ormation only Com iled and u lished y reat outhern 2 STRINGING AND BENDING LENGTH LENGTH LENGTH amilton 4 WELDING 6 FIELD JOINT COATING 8 PADDING AND BACKFILLING 10 REINSTATEMENT NAME OWNER PRODUCT CAPACITY NAME OWNER PRODUCT CAPACITY NAME OWNER PRODUCT CAPACITY Press Pty td Tel 1 2 1 Sections of pipe are placed along the right-of-way (miles) (miles) (miles) ondon in preparation for welding. Some of these pipes may Pipe is welded together above ground on timber skids After the pipe has been welded and cleared with Fine soil is placed around the pipeline in the trench The right-of-way is returned to its original state prior 1 El Paso Natural Gas Pipeline System inder organ as ,1 2 c d 1 ,2 1 Southern Star Central Pipeline outhern tar as 2, 1 c d , 2 Columbia Gas Transmission i ource as Transmission torage as , c d 1 , Product in ormation and gra hic design reat outhern Press, 2 1 ource ma courtesy a Resources 22 require bending depending on the pipeline alignment. to form long strings of pipe. The welders are highly- non-destructive testing, the pipeline is grit-blasted to protect it from its surroundings. Padding beneath to construction in a process that is crucial to reducing 2 Algonquin Gas Transmission ectra Energy Partners as , c d 1,12 1 Dominion Pipeline ominion Resources as , c d , National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation System ational uel as 2, 12 c d 2, skilled tradesmen who perform to stringent quality the pipeline’s long-term environmental impact. www ma resources com au to a profile that facilitates maximum adherence a pipeline is referred to as ‘bedding’ while padding Texas Eastern Transmission ectra Energy Partners as , 2 c d , 22 1 Colorado Interstate Gas Pipeline inder organ as , c d , 1 Keystone Pipeline* TransCanada Crude oil - 2, Prime movers with 18 m extendible trailers are procedures. After the pipe has been welded, a grinder between the field joint coating system and the steel covering a pipeline is known as ‘shading’. After Tennessee Gas Pipeline inder organ as , c d 1 , 1 Alliance Pipeline System* Alliance Pi eline as 2, c d 2, 11 2 Seaway Pipeline Enter rise Products Partners En ridge Crude oil , l d or additional co ies o this oster and or advertising en uiries, email uery i elinesinternational com used to transport pipe from the pipe manufacture or is used to smooth the weld seam. pipe. Field joint coating is an external coating system shading, the remaining excavated material is placed Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Panhandle Energy as 2, c d , 1 Columbia Gulf Transmission Colum ia Pi eline rou as 2, c d ,12 Gulf Coast Project TransCanada Crude oil , l d pipe storage facilities directly to the right-of-way. applied to the welded joint to protect the metallic to fill the balance of the trench in a process known as spot. These popular wallcharts also have excellent industry surface from corrosion and mechanical impacts. Northern Natural Gas Pipeline orthern atural as as , 2 c d 1 , 2 Northern Border Pipeline* TC Pi e ines O EO Partners as 2, c d 1, Longhorn Pipeline agellan idstream Partners Crude oil - In Australia, pipe diameters are generally of a smaller backfilling. As an alternative to bedding, sometimes diameter, over long distances. The high-speed nature of the pipeline is placed on foam pipe pillows inside ANR Pipeline A R Pi eline Com any as ,12 c d 1 , 21 Great Lakes Gas Transmission Pipeline* reat a es as Transmission Com any as 2, c d 2,11 Double H Pipeline iland Partners Crude oil , l d With the support of: An excavator with a vacuum pipelifter attachment cross-country pipelines lends the welding method to a Occasionally, a protective wrap can be applied the trench and, in this case, only shading is required. 22 Transwestern Interstate Pipeline Energy Trans er as 2, c d 2, Pony Express Pipeline Tallgrass Energy Crude oil 2 , l d is often used to lift pipe and place it continuously Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Williams as , c d 1 , manual vertical-down cellulous welding procedure. after field joint coating for additional pipeline Gulf South Pipeline ul outh Pi eline Com any as ,2 c d , 2 Questar Pipeline Questar Pi eline as ,1 2 c d 1, Olympic Pipeline BP Crude oil 1 , l d alongside the right-of-way, ready for welding, in a protection. The wrap shields the pipeline coating from process called stringing. A padding machine sifts out larger material such 1 Natural Gas Pipeline Co of America inder organ as , c d ,2 2 Wyoming Interstate Pipeline inder organ as 2, c d Trans-Alaska Pipeline System Alyes a Pi eline ervice Com any Crude oil - damaging backfill, and acts as an additional line of For larger diameters, an automated welding as rock and gravel from the excavated material, leaving 11 Florida Gas Transmission Pipeline lorida as Transmission Com any as 2,21 c d , 2 Centerpoint Energy Gas Transmission CenterPoint Energy as , c d , US Mainline (Lakehead System)* En ridge Crude oil 2, , l d 1, defence against corrosion. system is used, with automatically controlled smaller fine material (padding) to support and protect are used to cold- 12 Kern River Gas Transmission Pipeline ern River as Transmission Com any as 1, c d 1, 2 Northwest Pipeline* Williams as , c d , Alberta Clipper* En ridge Crude oil , l d 1, Hydraulic bending machines machines (bugs) manipulating welding conditions such the pipeline. bend lengths of steel pipe to the contour and radius 1 Trunkline Pipeline Panhandle Energy as , 2 c d ,2 2 2 Southern Natural Gas Company System inder organ as , c d , www.pipelinesinternational.com as arc length and travel speeds while the process is Coating systems can vary from the application event distribution. of the designed trench prior to welding. For tighter 1 Texas Gas Transmission Boardwal Pi elines as , c d , 1 2 Gas Transmission Northwest* TransCanada as 2, c d 1, monitored by a welding machine operator. of tape or a heat shrink sleeve to a liquid or powder- bends, induction or ‘hot’ bends are used, and these spray epoxy, which is applied over the weld. are fabricated offsite with purpose-built machines that heat the pipe to soften the steel and make it pliable. Great Southern Press Clarion Technical Publishers Contact: Megan Lehn at [email protected] or call us on pipelinesinternational.com/shop +61 3 9248 5100 www.pipelinesinternational.com/shop 58 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
Abendi Flexible Risers Integrity Clock Spring Company 1 Pigs Unlimited International 37 Management Conference 29 Cross Country 25 PPIM 2017 Conference and Exhibition 21 Allu Finland 15 Enduro Pipeline Services 45 Quest Integrity Group 11 American Augers 17 Girard Pipeline Pigs 16 Romstar Sdn Bhd OBC BMT Fleet Technology Ltd, 20 International Pipeline Conference and Rosen Technology & Research Champion Process, Inc 33 Exposition 2016 19 Center GmbH 5 Clarion and Tiratsoo Technical Mineracao Curimbaba 3 Ruhrpumpen 44 Online Courses IBC NDT Global IFC Shaw Pipe Protection 13
In the next edition of
The IPC 2016 issue
We get ready for the ISSUE 27 | MARCH 2016 ISSUE 26 | DECEMBER 2015 11th International Pipeline Conference to be held in Calgary on 26-30 September.
Cover story: Read about Saudi Douglas-Westwood: The history of the Cover story: Investigating pipeline Creating an effective pipeline industry first HDD rig designs airborne leak crack management Aramco’s plans for the future. Saudi Record pipelaying in the Aramco General Manager Pipelines forecast to 2019 detection programme Norwegian Sea Mohammed Sultan Al-Qahtani exclusive Page 10 Page 46 Page 42 Page 14 Page 34 Page 30
PIN_March_2016_Cover_1up.indd 1 19/02/2016 4:29 PM PIN_December_2015_Cover_1up.indd 1 19/11/2015 5:30 PM
ALSO FEATURED
GAIL (India) Ltd. Canadian pipeline map Operational pigging India’s state-owned gas Our 2016 Major Pipelines Controlling internal corrosion of processing and distribution map is released pipelines company
For editorial enquiries contact Lyndsie Clark: [email protected] For sales enquiries contact Megan Lehn: [email protected]
60 | Pipelines International | June 2016 www.pipelinesinternational.com What if you could have the acclaimed Pipeline Engineering courses from Clarion Technical Conferences and Tiratsoo Technical right on your desktop?
NOW YOU CAN! In partnership with Penspen Integrity, Clarion and Tiratsoo Technical are pleased to announce the immediate availability of the following popular courses via online distance-learning, each of which is structured as a self-paced learning and reference resource:
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