Legal Incentives

First-Ever Implementation of HOT TAP on the West Ethylene Pipeline in Iran

Execution of the first hot tapping operation (branch connection and repair without shutdown) on the high-pressure West Ethylene Pipeline carrying a sensitive process fluid, to establish a new branch connection without interrupting operations or causing product loss.

Kangan Petro Refining Company2024
Overview
  1. 1

    The challenge

    1- Execution of the world’s first hot-tap branch connection on a high-pressure ethylene pipeline, requiring exceptionally precise engineering calculations due to the lack of prior operational experience and established standards. 2- The challenge of obtaining approval from management and government authorities to accept the significant technical risks associated with this innovative project, for which no previous operational experience was available. 3- Managing the limited turnaround window and executing the operation with unprecedented precision to prevent hydrocarbon losses and ensure uninterrupted production of the associated process units.

  2. 2

    Our approach

    Comprehensive engineering studies and thermal/stress simulations, development of a dedicated procedure based on API/ASME standards, coordination with the dispatching center, phased execution under continuous supervision, and non-destructive testing (NDT).

  3. 3

    The result

    Successful and safe completion of the operation with no leakage or incidents, a localized execution procedure, a comprehensive technical and analytical report, economic savings, and enhanced pipeline reliability.

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First-Ever Implementation of HOT TAP on the West Ethylene Pipeline in Iran | Novaco