A large midstream operator faced the challenge of executing a class change for a critical pipeline segment. The class change was necessary to enhance the pipeline’s design factor due to its location in a
High-Consequence Area (HCA). Once the class change was implemented, the line would also need to be recertified to ensure operational and safety standards were met.
Efficient Resource Management for Execution
PL Testing was hired to requalify two individual pipeline segments within the trunk line.
This complex job was equivalent to two full-service projects and included simultaneous operations executed to meet a tight recommissioning deadline.
PL Testing performed de-commissioning,
de-inventorying, and requalification services to recertify the line for service. Some activities included flaring down 90 miles of trunk line gas, performing nitrogen purge and pack on the abandoned sections, and executing multiple geometry and in-line inspection runs. PL Testing also strategically hydrotested the line in two sections.
On-Time Completion and Cost Savings
PL Testing’s attention to detail enabled a complex job to be seamlessly executed with many overlapping activities to streamline completion and increase cost savings for the operator. In water costs alone, the operator saved $30,000 due to reduced transportation time and disposal costs.
Simultaneous execution of the two pipeline scopes enabled the job to be completed according to recommissioning standards within the tight deadline. PL Testing’s advanced project management capabilities and expertise in technical services enabled job completion in just 8 days—2 days ahead of the anticipated completion date.
