8 Inch Leaking Launcher Valve Change Out
By Jordan Dyck, Integral Pipeline Technologies
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Client requested |
In the Bakken, many LACT units can suffer very little downtime. If the storage tanks become full, and the pipeline cannot flow, the only option is to begin trucking the product away or have the well go down, which is unacceptable. |
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Understanding the best solution |
But pipelines also require maintenance, and options to continue flowing while performing mechanical repairs are cost prohibitive, so quick isolation is needed. |
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Planning and delivery |
An 8” launch valve and trap bypass valve were leaking, making loading regular cleaning pigs difficult and unsafe. The IsoTool was launched and parked 75’ DS of the launcher riser. The tool was activated in 32 minutes, followed by a 30-minute Isolation Assurance Test. The mechanical crew swapped out the 2 valves in 3 hours, after which the IsoTool was unset in 32 minutes. In total, the line was down for 5 hours. The IsoTool was built to be bi-directional and was trapped in the launcher, what we call an “In-And-Out” |
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Service completion report |
The cost of the project was less than a full-bore |