Slipline® - Pipeline Remediation Solution In LA Wetlands

BlueFin Case Study
Written By GATE Energy

Location: LA Wetlands

Specifications: Thermoflex Composite Pipe: 8,551 feet of 2.375 inch

A Louisiana operator experienced integrity issues with an existing 3 inch saltwater disposal pipeline. Production history recorded multiple leaks in the existing pipe, which resulted in environmental remediation. Upon investigation the operator determined that the said discharge pipe was unsuitable for future use. BlueFin was sought to review the situation and develop a plan of action that would resolve the integrity issues.

CHALLENGE

Analyze the problem and develop an economic sensitive remediation solution that allows the operator to use the current infrastructure to end-of-life.

SOLUTION

BlueFin developed a multi phase approach for secondary containment using the trademarked SlipLine® procedure. The said resolution encompassed specific design criteria, engineering and composite pipe selection based on production history, structural pipe design, geography and future utilization. Once all of the known standards were identified and confirmed, BlueFin issued a project work plan that encompassed the said tasks:

  • Manufactured a custom dual density pig for composite pipe pull-through

  • Launch custom pig with engineered synthetic rope attached

  • Fluid pack steel pipeline with water and Friction Reducer

  • Pull composite conduit through existing steel pipe

  • Make composite-to-steel pipe connections

  • Conduct 8-hour hydrostatic pressure test per client policy and state regulations

TECHNICAL COMPONENTS

  • Friction Reducer (FR) combined with freshwater for pull-through

  • Payout counter to monitor footage of rope and pipe

  • Customized footage length was stamped on the composite pipe for footage count for secondary measure

  • Tracking device for composite pipe location during pull-through process

TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENTS & BENEFITS

  • Deferred P&A liability

  • Restored safe production

  • Reduced friction pressure

  • Mitigated corrosion damage from produced water

  • Decreased maintenance on saltwater pumps due to an increase in rate and a decrease in pipeline pressure.

  • Project completed within budget and saved operator one-third the cost compared to traditional steel pipeline installation.

  • Zero incidents

  • No environmental impact

GATE Energy
Previous

Flowline Virtual Metering System

Next

Remaining Life Assessment Of Subsea Jumpers, Flowlines & Risers