To meet the request of supply of 2,4 MMm3/d of natural gas to Treˆs Lagoas Thermal Electric Plant in Treˆs Lagoas city, it was necessary to install a 12 in. branch in the 32 in. main line of the Bolivia-Brazil Gas Pipeline. The most efficient method for the execution of branch and maintenance repairs in gas pipeline is using the hot-tapping technique, where all work is performed with no need for stoppage and clearance of the line, maintaining the gas flow. This paper covers the entire project, specifications, planning and a detailed job execution to carry out this new city-gate using a fully reinforced T (split sleeve) welded into the pipeline, from the retaining of the company up to the safety measures adopted in the operation. The specifies of the complex and innovative welding procedure, still unprecedented in Brazil, that was performed in the API 5L X70 steel piping at an internal pressure of 9022 kPa, as well as the detailing of tests and inspections performed are also presented herein.

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This paper describes pipeline compressor stations which are remotely monitored, operated and controlled from a central control station in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This is a result of TBG’s experience in design, construction and operation of compressor stations that are built for unattended operation. Only a small maintenance crew is necessary for routine tasks during normal working hours. In this connection, a complete set of resources has been implemented in order to ensure the required reliability level. This includes monitoring instruments (not only for the turbo compressors but also for all plant auxiliaries), redundant systems and protections, together with automatic control system for each of the relevant station components. Equipment status signals as well as alarm & trip signals are exchanged via a SCADA system with the Control and Supervision Center, CSC, in Rio de Janeiro. In addition, the CSC is capable of performing all relevant control actions such as start / stop compressor units and station auxiliaries, also remotely setting the station pressure and flow control points. The paper describes also the architecture and configuration of the supervisory and control functions which are performed by means of a SCADA system, along with the pipeline telecommunications system.

Through a pioneer method in Brazil, the Brazilian side of Bolivia-Brazil gas pipeline had its northern and south branches successfully purged and loaded. Pigs were not utilized in this procedure and the method is based on high injection flow rates of natural gas. Results proved this method to be suitable and safe for purging natural gas pipeline into service.

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