The tool had been used previously to isolate pressure in a
portion of the line, so TDW knew that it would operate properly.
However, because the valve was located on a section on the
platform topside, it would have to be customised quickly.
Just 10 days after receiving the order from the operator, the
TDW team mobilised to the platform to prepare. The newly-
designed SmartPlug tool was ready two days later, having been
equipped with a triple-plug and triple-pigging module that
would enhance its ability to negotiate the bends in the line as it
travelled to its set destination. Working from the platform, TDW
launched the tool into the line and monitored its progress with
the SmartTrack system. For three days, the pipeline was isolated
and sealed against a pressure of 122 bar (1769 psi) while the valve
was replaced. With the repair work safely completed, production
resumed, reducing disruption to gas supply.
The EPRS that the operator has in place – which was
developed in part by TDW – meant that they were prepared to
move quickly, in keeping with the specific procedures for valve
replacement on this particular platform. The objective of an EPRS
is to facilitate a rapid response, in an effort to reduce downtime,
enhance safety and protect the environment. This operation
achieved all of these objectives.
When a major gas export pipeline – such as the one attached
to this riser platform, used as a distribution point to transport
Norwegian gas throughout Europe – is down for even one day
longer than planned, it is a loss to all stakeholders. It is also a
major interruption to business, affecting customers upstream and
downstream. In this case, the rapid turnaround was the result of
the combined care and attention that both the operator and TDW
invested in a plan that made it possible to respond as promptly
and efficiently as possible.
Figure 3.
TDW responded quickly, using a 36 in. SmartPlug
®
tool to create the secure work zone while the valve was
replaced offshore Norway.
ALLU Finland Oy
Jokimäentie 1 | 16320 Pennala | Finland
Tel: +358 (0)3 882 140 | Fax: +358 (0)3 882 1440
Email:
ALLU PIPELINE PADDERS
• Reliability: patented features, heavy duty construction and
powerfull transmission ensure minimum downtime
• Service friendly construction enables to carry out
maintenance on job site
• Environmentally sound with low CO2 footprint as the
excavated soil does not have to be transported away and
replaced with new soil
• The system is mobile and suitable for difficult terrains
• Right fragment size with high capacity
For Pipeliners Tough Demands
