STATS deployed its BISEP isolation technology to allow the replacement of a blow-down valve in an environment of extreme temperature ranges.
The scope of the work included installing and strength testing a 6" x 6" hot tap clamp, grouting the void between the clamp and pipeline to reduce corrosion issues and installing a full bore 6" 300# ball isolation valve, which was left in-situ post completion.
STATS installed a hot tap machine and tested to confirm pressure integrity before the hot tap was performed and the BISEP deployed to isolate the pipe and allow recovery and replacement of the blow-down valve.
STATS project manager Steve Gardiner said the technicians had to overcome grouting and hydro testing problems associated with the low temperatures on site but the project was completed on schedule and within a four week time frame.
"The pipeline temperature made the selection of suitable materials challenging but working alongside our seal suppliers, a material was identified that would perform well in the extreme temperature ranges identified by the client (-29ºC to 32ºC)," Gardiner said.
"Our BISEP™ tools allow dual seal isolation of a pipeline through a single entry point and an increasing number of clients are discovering the benefits of this unique isolation technology."
The project has been completed on behalf of Wood Group PSN and Conoco Phillips.
STATS Group supplies a range of products and services for piping and pipeline isolation, intervention, inspection, repair, connection and testing workscopes.
