Located on the east coast of England, Pipetech supported a critical UK energy hub, responsible for transporting and treating a significant portion of the nation’s gas supplyfrom offshore pipelines.
Responsible for its ongoing maintenance, one of the terminal’s operating partners had to ensure the infrastructure was operating at maximum capacity to meet its high demand. To support this commitment, Pipetech delivered a quick turnaround Aqua Milling® campaign to address the buildup of corrosion within a key operational system.
Challenge
Experiencing issues surrounding the internal buildup of corrosion within compressor lines, the operating partner was faced with the reality of limited production if the problem wasn’t suitably addressed.
As the backbone of operations on-site, any risk of the compressor system shutting down could lead to limited operations, unplanned outages, and lost production time. Additionally, when dislodging was flowing to the end compressor system, there was further risk of long-term asset damage.
Prior to our involvement, the client and incumbent cleaning provider had already tried to clean the compressor pipework with traditional high pressure water jetting. However, with limited resources, this method had so far only removed light rust and corrosion at a short range.
To fully tackle the challenge, the partner looked at other methodologies and technology available on the market – leading it to Pipetech and Aqua Milling®.
Solution
Due to its established track record and proven history of cleaning other compressor pipework systems, removing corrosion, preserving coatings, and leaving a back to bare metal finish, Aqua Milling® was the natural solution to meet the client's requirements.
Looking for a quick turnaround, our ability to mobilise within days of the initial call was a key aspect of the proposed campaign. After initially carrying out a survey, our engineering team presented their findings – alongside Aqua Milling’s® record – to prove that the tool could remove all corrosive product and improve on where traditional methods had previously failed.
Compiling these findings, the capabilities of Aqua Milling® were verified, and our on-site team could get to work before there was any impact on operations.
Results
Following our intervention, we presented a clean and stable compressor pipework system that would not cause or lead to any impact or damage to the critical compressor systems.
Not only did we respond rapidly with the correct technical solution for the task, but we cleaned the system to a superior standard compared with previously adopted traditional methods.
Alongside the results secured, we provided assurance that the compressors won’t be at risk of failing due to any future corrosive product, providing longevity to the system and pipework. As a result of our involvement with the gas terminal, future scopes of work for additional sites are on the horizon.
Client Feedback
"Successfully completed all elements of the agreed scope of work to a high standard. The works were delivered safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with site requirements, despite challenging weather conditions at times!
Great feedback and communications throughout have ensured the scope was delivered as planned. I will be and already have recommended your service to other assets."