Case Study: Use of Line Stop and In-Line Isolation Tools for Mainline Valve Replacement

Key Takeaways: Case Study: Use of Line Stop and In-Line Isolation Tools for Mainline Valve Replacement

Executive Summary

The webinar focused on a North American case study involving the use of line stop and inline isolation technologies for mainline valve replacement in a 30-inch crude oil pipeline. By employing advanced isolation methods, the pipeline remained fully pressurized throughout the operation, significantly reducing downtime and minimizing the length of pipeline taken out of service. The session detailed the simultaneous deployment of STATS Group's BISEP and Remote Tecno Plug (RTP) tools, examining key factors influencing the operator's choice of isolation method, and providing an in-depth look at the design, function, and differences between the BISEP and RTP. The presentation also covered broader considerations for selecting the right temporary isolation technology for pipeline repair and maintenance activities.

Speakers

Wes Gardner, Isolations Project Manager, STATS Group
Moderator: Tyler Campbell, Editor-in-Chief, Pipeline & Gas Journal

Key Takeaways

1. Advanced Isolation Methods: Advanced isolation methods like line stop and inline isolation tools can keep pipelines fully pressurized during mainline valve replacement, reducing downtime and service interruptions.

2. Crude Pipeline Case: The case study involved a 30-inch crude oil pipeline with a 48-hour planned outage to replace a mainline valve, using STATS Group's BISEP and Remote Tecno Plug (RTP) tools.

3. Dual Isolation BISEP: The BISEP tool, installed through a Split Tee fitting, allows for dual isolation with an integrated bypass, potentially enabling zero pipeline downtime.

4. Piggable Tecno Plug: The Remote Tecno Plug is a piggable inline isolation tool that does not require additional fittings or extensive excavation, making it suitable for areas with limited access.

5. Isolation Decision Factors: Key decision factors for choosing isolation methods include pipeline access, excavation feasibility, and the ability to maintain pipeline pressure and flow during maintenance activities.

Key Quote

By using advanced isolation methods, the pipeline remains fully pressurized throughout the operation, significantly reducing downtime and minimizing the length of pipeline taken out of service.

Webinar

Watch Full Webinar here.

FAQs: Case Study: Use of Line Stop and In-Line Isolation Tools for Mainline Valve Replacement

General Information

1. What is the main focus of the webinar?
The webinar focuses on a case study involving the use of line stop and inline isolation tools for mainline valve replacement in a 30-inch crude oil pipeline. It discusses the use of advanced isolation methods to keep the pipeline fully pressurized, reducing downtime and minimizing the length of pipeline taken out of service.

2. Who is the presenter of the webinar?
The presenter is Wes Gardner, an isolations project manager from Stats Group, based in Calgary, Canada.

Isolation Methods

1. What are the key isolation methods discussed?
The key isolation methods discussed are the use of Stats Group's BICEP and Remote Techno Plug (RTP) technologies.

2. Why was the BICEP technology chosen for this project?
The BICEP technology was chosen because it allows for isolation through a split T fitting, which was feasible to install upstream of the mainline valve. This method was selected due to the limited space downstream of the valve and the challenges associated with accessing the right of way in a farmer's field.

3. What are the advantages of using the Remote Techno Plug (RTP)?
The RTP does not require additional fittings or in-service welding, reduces personnel time in the field, and often does not require pipeline excavation. It is also bidirectional and can be controlled remotely.

Project Execution

1. What was the scope of work for the mainline valve replacement?
The scope of work involved isolating a 30-inch crude oil pipeline to replace a mainline valve located approximately 40 kilometers from the launcher site. The project required the use of BICEP technology upstream and RTP technology downstream of the valve.

2. How was the RTP tool deployed and set?
The RTP tool was installed into the launcher and pigged to the set location using the mainline pumps. It was tracked and controlled remotely, and once in position, it was set by sending a hydraulic command to extrude the seals and lock the tool in place.

3. What were the key decision-making factors for selecting the isolation method?
Key factors included the limited space downstream of the mainline valve, the need to avoid excavating in a farmer's field, and the ability to maintain pipeline pressure and minimize downtime.

Technical Details

1. What are the size ranges for the Techno Plug and BICEP tools?
The Techno Plug ranges from 3 inches to 56 inches, with the remote option available from 10 inches to 56 inches. The BICEP tool ranges from 3 inches to 56 inches.

2. How is the isolation verified using the RTP?
Isolation is verified by setting the tool to create a pressure spike in the annulus between the primary and secondary seals. The annulus pressure is monitored to ensure it remains above pipeline pressure, and the primary and secondary seals are tested independently by depressurizing the isolated section and monitoring the annulus pressure.

3. What is the purpose of the control console in the RTP system?
The control console is used to operate the RTP tool, monitor pressures, and control the hydraulic pump and solenoid valves. It provides real-time data on upstream and downstream pressures, annulus pressure, battery life, and temperature.

Blog: Optimizing Pipeline Isolation for Efficient Valve Replacement

Advanced isolation technologies have revolutionized pipeline maintenance, particularly for mainline valve replacement projects. Tools such as line stop and inline isolation allow the pipeline to remain fully pressurized during operations, reducing downtime and minimizing service disruptions. Utilizing tools like BICEP and remote Techno Plug (RTP) ensures reliable and safe isolation of pipeline sections, enhancing maintenance efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Effective pipeline isolation is essential for maintenance and safety in the oil and gas industry, and these advanced tools provide robust solutions, enabling safe maintenance without significant downtime or operational disruption.

Effective Pipeline Isolation Methods for Valve Replacement

Selecting the appropriate isolation method for pipelines involves multiple factors, including the type of product transported, pipeline diameter, and valve location. In a case study of a 30-inch crude oil pipeline, an operator replaced a mainline valve 40 kilometers from the launcher site. The isolation method had to maintain pipeline pressure and minimize environmental impact, avoiding summer excavation in a farmer's field. BICEP technology upstream and the RTP tool downstream provided effective isolation without extensive excavation or disruption.

BICEP technology, installed via a split T fitting, isolates pipeline sections robustly. This method includes in-service welding and fitting installation, which can raise integrity concerns. Integrating a bypass between dual BICEP tools allows zero pipeline downtime, maintaining operational flow during valve replacement. The RTP tool, a piggable inline isolation device, eliminates additional fittings and extensive excavation, ideal for limited space or restricted access scenarios. Hydraulically activated and remotely controlled, the RTP tool ensures precise and reliable isolation.

Verifying isolation with the RTP tool involves compressing seals against the inner pipe wall to create a secure grip. The annulus, the void between primary and secondary seals, is pressurized to verify isolation. Stable annulus pressure confirms seal effectiveness. A secondary seal test pressurizes the annulus above pipeline pressure and depressurizes the downstream section. Constant annulus pressure verifies the secondary seal. The primary seal is tested by locking annulus pressure at zero and monitoring for pressure changes.

The remote techno plug, a bidirectional inline isolation tool, is deployed and monitored with minimal equipment. A control console connected to a laptop interfaces with the tool via an antenna on the pipeline, allowing operators to monitor upstream and downstream pressures, annulus pressure, battery life, and temperature. Seal integrity is tested by observing annulus pressure changes.

The BICEP tool, a branch-installed isolation device deployed through a split T fitting, isolates pipeline sections where inline isolation is not feasible. Hydraulically activated, the BICEP tool features a spherical plugging head that rotates into the pipeline through a hot tap hole. It allows for a bypass between two BICEP tools, enabling continuous flow and reducing pipeline downtime during maintenance.

Both tools undergo rigorous seal testing by manipulating annulus pressure and observing the response. The BICEP tool's external annulus pressure control provides additional assurance. Maintaining annulus pressure greater than pipeline pressure confirms seal effectiveness before maintenance.

Deploying these tools requires careful planning and coordination. The remote techno plug can be launched from a significant distance and moved with pipeline flow, minimizing the need for a complete shutdown. The BICEP tool, once installed, allows precise control and monitoring, ensuring maintained isolation throughout maintenance. This combination of tools offers a comprehensive solution for various pipeline isolation scenarios and requirements.

Advanced isolation technologies such as the BICEP and RTP tools offer major benefits for mainline valve replacement projects by allowing pipelines to remain pressurized, thus reducing downtime and service disruptions. Selecting the appropriate isolation method requires careful consideration of specific pipeline requirements and environmental factors. Utilizing these advanced tools ensures a safe, efficient, and cost-effective maintenance process, enhancing the reliability and longevity of pipeline infrastructure.