Kashagan: Getting ready for pipeline replacement

By Saule Tasboulatova

In the press release circulated by NCOC it is stated that the results of examination of oil and gas pipeline, as well as laboratory tests results haven’t been obtained yet. They are expecting them in the first quarter of 2014. But it seems that NCOC has already got a general idea about the scales of the job ahead with replacement of pipes.

The statement reads: “Depending on the scope of oil and gas pipeline replacement activity, various quantities of pipeline segments may be required. As a precautionary measure, in order to save time the Consortium started tender process for potential purchase of pipeline segments in sufficient quantities for various scenarios”.

Earlier NCOC confirmed that sulfide cracking of pipes was the direct cause of gas leak. According to NCOC press service, the examination of the reasons of sulfide cracking continues: “The current laboratory analyses and simulation of pipeline samples specify that pipeline specifications were acceptable for operations in the Kashagan field conditions and pipeline was designed to withstand operations conditions considering the presence of H2S”.

The results of samples’ analyses, carried out by TWI institute and other specialized laboratories, will be ready before the end of the first quarter of 2014.

To recall, the intelligent pigging operations of intra-field oil and gas pipeline from D island to Bolashak OPF has been completed. The press service reported that the results are analyzed: “The final report of pigging operations was received on January 28, 2014 and currently the consortium experts are studying the results. It is envisaged that the initial results will be ready in the first quarter of 2014”.