Abandoning a Pipeline 1

[zdas04]

I've been involved in many discussions over the years about the best way to abandon a pipeline when it is no longer needed. Some of the discussions were in Eng-Tips, but I can no longer find any of them.

The ideas that have been put forth have included:
- Remove it, you have to spend nearly as much as it cost to install it in the first place and you have considerable surface disturbance.
- Cap it, generally this option includes puting a N2 blanket or some other inert to keep it fit for re-commissioning for as long as possible.
- Fill the line with solids, such as fly-ash or concrete
- Leave the line open and full of air to accelerate the wasting.

I've been unable to find any regulatory guidance on an abandonment method, so I'm asking here if anyone has any strong opinions or company policies that cause a rational choice of direction.


David Simpson, PE
MuleShoe Engineering

http://www.muleshoe-eng.com

 

[ozyjo]

I only have a link to save some trouble and check

http://www.neb-one.gc.ca/safety/aband_e.htm#AbandonmentOptions

though this for pipelines in canada.

 

[zdas04]

Ozyjo,
Thank you for that, I don't usually give people stars for posting a link, but that link was incredible. Can't say I agree with every conclusion in it, but the process and the quality of the review are way beyond reproach.

The only thing I saw that wouldn't apply to the world was the Alberta statistics. Them wacky Cannadians sometimes do some pretty good work.

Thanks.

David