The process of taking a pipeline out of service involves more than halting product flow. Before abandoning a line, operators must ensure that it is safe and in full compliance with regulatory and industry requirements.
Abandoning a pipeline is a multi-step process that typically includes disconnecting the line from the product source, removing product, cleaning, and, in some cases, segmenting and capping the line. TDW subject matter experts can guide operators through this process and recommend solutions, from pigs that can push out liquids and clean the pipeline to hot tapping and plugging services that facilitate line modifications.
TDW allows pipeline owners and operators in the Gas Transmission market to:
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Operators must ensure that a pipeline is product-free and clean before abandoning it. TDW offers an array of pigging solutions to help Gas Transmission operators accomplish these objectives.
Liquids displacement pigs:
Cleaning pigs:
Technical assistance is available from TDW subject matter experts for special circumstances or if the path to a solution requires consultation.
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Hot tapping and plugging (HT&P) technology offers the Gas Transmission market industry-proven solutions for safely discontinuing line service – while ensuring that the line is left in full regulatory compliance.
The HT&P process incorporates a high pressure pipeline fitting, valve, tapping machine, and isolation equipment – all working together to provide a safe and proven isolation solution. Once the area of the pipeline that requires work has been safely isolated and evacuated, the line modification can be performed.
TDW isolation solutions play a critical role in this process. The STOPPLE® Train isolation system, for example, uses double block and bleed technology to help increase efficiency and safety during pipeline modification. This approach to line isolation, which only requires a single pipeline tap, reduces costs associated with fittings, valves, welding, and inspection services. The bleed port affixed on the line ensures that any product that bypasses the first seal is contained and evacuated through the bleed port, which helps operators better protect people and the environment.
Whether operators are purchasing equipment to perform their own HT&P jobs or turning to TDW to execute the service for them, they can rely on the company’s broad line of equipment and consumables. TDW engineers and manufactures nearly every component needed for an HT&P project, and TDW tapping and isolation equipment are considered the industry standard.
TDW can also locate and access the optimum spot on the line for effective capping, which further reduces risk to the environment. The company’s application engineers are recognized industry experts, ready to assist operators through each project phase – from start to finish.