Flare line cleaning

[amar122amar]

Pls share your experience for flare main headers cleaning in shutdown. What methods are used water flushing/ hrdojetting/pigging....
Possible material in flare headers if PP resin, lube oil etc.

 

[Dhurjati Sen]

Use LP steam to clean if you really want to do it so badly.

DHURJATI SEN

 

[LittleInch]

So much depends on access arrangements to the inside of the header, any restrictions on ID or sharp turns etc and the time available.

Flare headers have a reputation for being rather thin so there may not be sufficient strength in the pipe to have a heavy pig or persons inside.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[amar122amar]

Thanks for responding.
Flare headers are approx 20 years old. there is possibility of PP (polypropylene) resin and lube oil in the headers. Headers are of 24", 40" diameter. From the pipe racks these headers join to the flare knock out pot (KOP) where there are isolation valves, there are no end flanges in the headers but cap welded. We were thinking about water flushing from the end point of the header to the KOP. Water can be put from PSV outlet to the header.

If some one has done it in their unit then experience may be helpful.

 

[LittleInch]

Beware the weight of water may not have been considered in either the strength of the pipe between supports or the supports themselves.

It is not unknown for flare headers not to be hydrotested.

what is the wt of your header and have you done any condition assessment of it?

I'm really not sure you're going to get the velocity needed for cleaning and the amount of water handling is going to be very onerous.

Resin and lub oil are difficult things to shift with water.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[amar122amar]

Yes, we will check strength of supports and piping.