Offshore staff
HOUSTON -- Paradigm Flow Solutions has introduced Pipe-Pulse, a new technique designed to tackle restrictions and blockages in subsea pipelines.
Previously, these blockages have been addressed via expensive methods such as deploying a coiled tubing system from a rig into the pipeline, or via subsea interventions using an ROV or saturation divers.
Pipe-Pulse is a remote, non-intrusive method of locating and removing blockages in long distance pipework up to 30 mi (48 km). It can be connected on the host platform’s topsides through the pig launcher or umbilical termination unit.
It sends high energy and volume pressure pulses into the pipeline, flowline or subsea umbilical, which are transmitted at the speed of sound to the blockage several miles distant.
Paradigm claims the technique can solve persistent blockages in days by sending high frequency, low amplitude pressure pulses into the flowline, while controlling the length and pressure of the pulse.
The system employs a series of control valves, contained within the main body of the Pipe-Pulse unit, which are operated automatically by the touch screen control panel.
Proprietary algorithms determine the optimum wave structure for each pulse (potentially millions are generated for each job. The system then creates and injects the manufactured pulse into the pipeline, which is transmitted to the front face of the blockage. These controlled pulses allow energy to be transferred into the pipeline in a safe, manageable way, rather than simply applying pressure alone.
During tests a 4-in. (10-cm) multiphase flowline was cleared for Shell UK that had been blocked with sand and wax for 11 years. The system also removed a stuck pig in a deepwater 8-in. (20.3-cm) flowline for Petrobras Americas.
05/04/2011
