From Ship to Shore: In-Line Inspection of Loading Pipelines

Introduction

A substantial amount of hydrocarbons is transported via the world’s waterways every day. This includes the transport of crude oil, gasoline, diesel fuel, and other bulk chemicals used to power the things that keep our world moving. This transport is done via ships (oil tankers) and barges over our oceans, seas, rivers, and canals. In terms of tonnage, oil tankers account for nearly 30% of global seaborne trade and each time they need to load or unload, they do so by connecting to a loading pipeline at an in-port terminal facility or a near-shore pipeline end mooring (PLEM) system. While loading pipelines aren’t typically lengthy, they are a critical component in the global energy supply chain. Given their location near, above, or in water, loading pipelines are almost always situated in high consequence areas (HCAs).

Loss of containment for loading pipelines can have serious consequences for the environment as well as economic consequences due to loss of use of the pipeline or shutting down the port during cleanup operations. Inspection and maintenance considerations have not traditionally been high on the priority list during the design of loading pipelines. Most are not fitted with launching or receiving facilities for pigs, and access for external inspection is often limited. Traditionally, a combination of limited (i.e., spot check) external inspections and hydrotesting has been used to ensure that loading lines are fit-for-service and therefore safe to operate. This article discusses the advantages of advanced in-line inspection (ILI) technology combined with progressive cleaning to improve data acquisition and increase inspection intervals in loading lines.  ILI combined with supplemental external techniques can provide the information for a comprehensive integrity management plan and the details required for preventive and mitigative measures to ensure that loading pipeline can be operated safely and responsibly for years to come.