Enterprise Products Partners has completed repairs to the flex-joint assembly of the Independence Trail pipeline that was the source of the leak that occurred on April 8, 2008.
Offshore Staff
HOUSTON -- Enterprise Products Partners has completed repairs to the flex-joint assembly of the Independence Trail pipeline that was the source of the leak that occurred on April 8, 2008. Crews successfully replaced the o-ring gasket and initial test results indicate that the flex-joint is operating normally, according to the company.
Located in about 85 ft (26 m) of water, the flex-joint is designed to allow the pipeline to withstand movements of theIndependence Hub platform. Volumes from the hub are currently flowing at reduced rates while final testing is completed. The platform is expected to be able to accommodate full volumes during the first half of June.
"All of the engineers, divers, contractors, and various support personnel involved in the repair process showed tremendous expertise, organization, cooperation and professionalism throughout the operation," says Michael A. Creel, Enterprise president and CEO. "We applaud and appreciate their dedication in returning the pipeline to service as quickly and safely as possible."