N E W S   R E L E A S E   from  FURMANITE  INTERNATIONAL  

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Furmanite selected for integrity in Sigma 3 shutdown

A substantial joint integrity programme on nearly 1,000 critical joints has been successfully managed under the latest Pressurized Systems Integrity (PSI) Management service from Furmanite, the technical services company geared to maximising asset uptime, as part of the recently completed Brent Delta shutdown for Sigma 3.

Some 906 flanges, ranging in size from 0.5 to 36 inches and from 150 to 2500lb ratings, with stud sizes of 0.5 to 3 inches, have been worked on by Furmanite under the PSI Management programme, on the gas coolers, compressor (LPOP – low pressure option plus), manifold valves, gas export valve, test separation, high pressure (HP) separation, HP flare knock out drum, all main vessel isolations, and fuel gas tie-ins. The service covers every stage from joint inspection and engineering analysis, unbolting and machining as required, gasket installation and controlled bolting, to eliminate joint failure and ensure leak-free joints on start-up (which Furmanite guarantees).

Furmanite technicians undertook initial work in advance of the shutdown to identify the joints requiring work and marked these up on the process and instrument diagrams (P&IDs) at Shell’s offices. Weekly meetings were also attended to help compile the plan for Furmanite’s activities during the shutdown and gather information on the activities being added to the shutdown activity register (SDAR). This stage saves valuable time and minimises workscope pressures, avoiding delays during the shutdown.

Two visits were also made to the platform prior to the shutdown to tag the relevant joints using the PSI Management colour coded system. These are then updated as work proceeds, providing immediate status recognition.

The information relating to each joint, including all mechanical and work data, is also logged on the bespoke PSI Management system (held and managed by Furmanite and requiring no purchase by the client). A detailed history of each joint is thus built up to create a comprehensive, easily accessed record for full traceability and assistance in future maintenance planning.

The PSI Management system was introduced by Furmanite last year, and addresses all factors known to cause leaks (typically flange distortion, sealing surface damage, incorrect bolt loads and uncontrolled tightening methods) for an on-schedule, zero-leak start-up. Among the key benefits of the service are avoidance of costly delays, reduced equipment and testing costs and need for re-work, and earlier demobilisation of labour, all of which contribute to driving down cost and reducing risk.

In addition to the flanged joints, Furmanite also worked on the 58 inch and 79 inch diameter coolers. With the cooler cover and dome end removed the seal faces were surveyed for flatness, found to be within tolerance so no machining was required, and then closed and the 3 and 2.75 inch studs tensioned, to ensure a reliable seal.

Furmanite’s multi-skilled technicians were also able to undertake additional services while mobilised to the platform. As well as general maintenance work, this included hot tapping and drilling a six inch hole into an 18 inch stainless steel line to tie in a new branch welded on to the line, as well as re-machining on-site two eight inch flanges that had been damaged in transportation.

“This project has highlighted both the benefits of our new PSI Management service for a leak-free, on-time start-up, and the ability of our Furmanite technicians to multi-task for optimum manning efficiency that’s particularly valuable within tightly scheduled shutdowns offshore,” Furmanite business manager Graham McKay commented. “This is representative of our approach to offer technologies and services to help minimise downtime.”

For further press information contact:
Sarah Manwaring-White
Keep in Touch Ltd
Tel: +44 (0)1451 844 488
Email: sarah_mw@keepintouch.co.uk