Self-ignition of natural gas inside pipes - Lessons from South America

P. FAZZINI; J,L. OTEGUI; A. MARQUEZ

London - UK

Congreso; Exploration and production: Oil and Gas Review; 2009

Two examples of failure investigations of explosions involving natural gas pipelines and related equipment used in South America are presented. Field inspections, materials tests and models for deflagration and detonation were used. In the first case venting and bleeding failed to be properly carried out while the lines and equipment were pressurized and filling rates were not regulated properly either. In the second case a compressor suctioned air when an operator operator loosened bolts of a blind flange. Air that was let into the systems was main contributing factor that propitiated the self ignition events. In order to reduce the probability of recurrence procedures for filling and pressurization were redesigned, safety features added, and personnel trained. Failure analyses also allowed identifying the extent of repair needed; fitness for purpose analyses was applied to affected equipment.