LENGTH MAXIMIZATION

OF SCRAPABLE PIPELINE SEGMENT

ABDULLAH ASSAF AL DOSSARY

October 04, 2011

Outline

Introduction

Objectives

Significance of the Study

Methodology

Data Analysis & Discussion

Summary & Conclusion

Introduction

Pipeline Terminologies:

Scraper Launcher

Scraper Receiver

Kicker line

Scrapable Pipeline Segment

Introduction

Pipeline Terminologies

Scraper Launcher Scraper Receiver

Flow in Flow out

Kicker

Introduction

Pipeline Terminologies

Scraper Launcher Scraper Receiver

Intermediate

Scraper Receiver & Launcher

Flow in Flow out

Introduction

Pipeline Terminologies

Need of scrapers and their handling facilities:

Cleaning

Batching

Inspection

Objectives

This study is aimed to determine based on

experience the maximum length that certain

pipelines can be extended without the need

to install intermediate scraper handling

facilities. It is also aimed to explore and

provide more information about the variety of

pipeline operators’ decisions and try to

highlight the need to establish a guideline for

determining the optimum pipeline design.

Objectives

To determine the maximum length of pipeline segment used

in the industry without intermediate scraper handling facilities

To find out what pipeline operator problems with longer

segments.

To explore the extent of using internal coating option.

To estimate the economic benefits of eliminating the

intermediate scraper handling facilities.

Significance of the Study & Its Benefits Opportunity to Reduce cost

Less Capital investment

Less O&M Cost

Establish benchmarking

Improve competiveness of pipelines

Reduce risk exposure

Enhance Safety

Methodology (Questionnaire in Four Sections)

1. To determine the maximum length of pipeline segment

used in the industry without intermediate scraper handling

facilities

2. To find out what pipeline operator problems with longer

segments.

3. To explore the extent of using internal coating option.

4. To estimate the economic benefits of eliminating the

intermediate scraper handling facilities.

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Data Analysis & Discussion

Summary & Conclusion

It was found out that 27% of pipelines covered in this

survey have segments with length greater than 500

kilometers without intermediate scraper handling facilities.

Pipeline industry has a large variation in determining such

length ranging from two digit distance to 1000 kilometers.

Result did not indicate problems associated with operating

longer pipeline segments..

Result indicated 40% of the pipelines are internally coated.

Summary & Conclusion

It is apparent that there is an economic incentive to eliminate one intermediate

scraper handling facilities which could result in saving about 40 M$ annually in

addition to the initial investment cost that could exceed 20 times the annual

operating cost.

It is very clear that the pipeline industry has not yet established clear guidelines

and standards that can be employed to optimize the length of a pipeline segment.

It is recommended to perform a technical research to establish a reference or

guideline that can be used for determining optimum length for pipeline segment

Cont…