16” Remote Tecno Plug Pipeline Isolation, Sakarya Gas Field, Turkey

STATS supplied a DNV Type Approved 16” Remote Tecno Plug to deliver a fully monitored, leak-tight double block and monitored isolation. This project marks the first deployment of the technology in Turkey, highlighting a significant milestone for STATS Group in the region.

The isolation allowed TP-OTC to carry out valve replacements and tie-in works safely and efficiently, while the line remained live and at operating pressure.

STATS Remote Tecno Plug was configured in a 6-module train and was pigged 41m to the set location. Prior to deployment, TP-OTC were welcomed onsite at STATS headquarters in Kintore to witness a full Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) in a purpose-built test-fixture, fabricated to simulate the client pipeline configuration. Upon successful completion, the tool was mobilised to the gas field.

Key to the project was a piggability study completed by STATS which analysed all the pipeline features from the pig launcher to the isolation location to ensure the pigging route was acceptable for the Remote Tecno Plug to safely traverse in both directions without issue.

The isolation plug was tracked, accurately positioned and constantly monitored using an extremely low frequency (ELF) inductive system. Once at location, the Remote Tecno Plug was hydraulically activated to engage the locks and dual seals. As part of the isolation barrier proving sequence, each seal was tested independently with full pipeline pressure in the direction of the expected pressure differential, proving both seals of the double block isolation were leak-tight. The annulus between the seals was then vented to create a zero-energy zone. This was then subject to a 12-hour isolation stability hold period before the ‘Isolation Certificate’ was issued.

Throughout the 12 day isolation period the dual seal isolation remained stable and leak-tight, enabling the valve changeout and tie-in operations to be safely carried out. The plug was then unset and pigged back to the receivers for demobilisation.

By using STATS’ piggable Remote Tecno Plug isolation tool, it eliminates the need to weld or cut (hot tap) into live lines, leaving no residual fittings or hardware on the pipeline, therefore reducing asset downtime for the client while improving overall safety.