CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF X100 PIPELINES

摘要

The developments of gas fields are increasingly occurring in more remote locations and further from the prime gas demands. Pipeline activity continues to focus on arctic regions of both Canada and the United States. Cost effective solutions to these challenges can be found through innovative technology and the use of higher pressures and higher strength pipelines. TransCanada and its partners have been involved in a series of technology programs on high strength steels, particularly X100, that are focussed on its application for high pressure long distance pipelines. In order to evaluate this technology two field installations of X100 have been performed on the TransCanada system within Alberta. These installations have evaluated the summer and winter construction aspects of X100 pipelines. This paper will describe the work performed to enable the two projects to occur, and the results of the installation. The summer project occurred on the Westpath loop, and consisted of 1 km of NPS 48 by 14.3 mm X100 and was installed in September 2002. The winter project was on the Godin Lake Loop and consisted of 2 km of NPS 36 by 13.2 mm X100 and will be installed in February 2004. The paper will describe the approach taken to the pipe development and the properties required, the requirements for a strain-based design, the fracture control plan, and the welding requirements. Discussion will cover the installation and construction and the conclusions in terms of future projects. The role of code and regulatory bodies in the successful implementation will be covered.