MPL Systems - May Granger

Multiple Pig Launching (MPL) Systems

GD Engineering has developed a range of Multiple Pig Launching solutions for both Topside and Subsea applications to enable sequential pig launching operations to be performed remotely, without the need to depressurize the launcher.
To support the continued development of offshore facilities in the oil and gas industry, GD Engineering has developed a range of Multiple Pig Launching solutions for both Topside and Subsea applications to enable sequential pig launching operations to be performed remotely, without the need to depressurize the launcher.

Where there is a need to carry out pipeline pigging operations on a frequent basis to maintain product flow, the Multiple Pig Launcher (MPL) provides a reliable and cost effective solution. Sequential pig launching is achieved using field proven Pig, Stop and Bypass (PSB) mechanisms, developed by GD Engineering, to provide a reliable system ensuring that individual pigs are positively launched into the pipeline. Generally, the pig launcher capacity is between 5 to 7 conventional pigs and is also capable of launching intelligent pigs.

A Local Control Panel (LCP) for topside launchers provides the necessary control logic and status monitoring required to operate the MPL system. Signals from the LCP are relayed to the control room. The LCP allows valve and PSB operations to be performed in local mode (for maintenance) and remotely (for normal pigging operations).

A mechanical key interlock system can be integrated into this system to provide fail safe operation of the valves when pig reloading is required.

Examples of recent projects include:

BP SHAH DENIZ PROJECT
This 12” class 1500 Multiple Pig Launching System was installed on the TPG 500 jackup platform in the Caspian Sea. The 12-inch condensate marine pipeline from the platform to the terminal at BAKU was predicted to be subject to heavy wax build up. Frequent pigging operations were necessary to keep the line clear of wax deposits. The Multiple Pig Launcher enabled up the 5 pigs to be launched without the need to depressurize the launcher between launching operations. Pig launch was initiated from an LCP using PLC based logic integrated with a mechanical key interlock system.

KUPE GAS DEVELOPMENT
This 12-inch class 2500 remotely operated Multiple Pig Launching System was installed on an unmanned offshore platform located in the Taranaki Basin, 30 km off the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. The 12-inch condensate pipeline from the platform to the shore required frequent pigging operations to control wax build up in the pipeline. The Launcher was capable of storing up to 5 pigs and launching each pig sequentially. Remote operation and status monitoring was performed by the DCS using logic control.

PETROM - PESCARUS FIELD EXPLORATION (BLACK SEA)
This Multiple Pig Launching System was required to be retrofitted to an existing unmanned satellite platform located in the Black Sea. Pigging operations could only be performed by operator intervention on the platform. Access to the existing conventional launcher was limited, inclement weather conditions could interfere with essential pipeline maintenance operations. PETROM (the field operator) required a remotely operated pigging system to replace the need for operators to attend the satellite platform. A 6-inch class 600 vertical Multiple Pig Launcher and LCP with a PLC based logic control system was installed to provide the required facility. The launcher was capable of storing 7 pigs with sequential launch operations initiated remotely from the central platform via a DCS link.

For further information please visit the website www.gdengineering.com