Management of change sustaining capital

Project Background:

• Midstream butane blending facility had no drain, vent or flare system in place. Obligation to comply with new regulations requiring zero emissions from the site.
• Butane blending pumps had vibration issues causing sensor trips resulting in downtime and loss in production. Due to pumps starting and stopping so often, it resulted in additional maintenance issues.
• In winter months, water would build-up in low points and freeze (i.e. pumps, vessel bridles, piping low points).

Solution & Execution:

• Drain system was designed and built to contain all product and comply with zero emissions. Due to limited budget, the system was all sloped to free drain and avoid the need for new pumps.
• Skid design for butane blending pumps was analyzed and uncovered insufficient member size. Reinforcement was added to minimize vibration and to improve structural integrity. Design modifications avoided having to rebuild the skids and kept plant running, with no downtime.
• Installation of heat traced, low point vessel to capture water and prevent freezing. Liquids then recirculated to the blending pipeline.

Final Results:

• Operations has achieved zero emissions at the facility.
• Pumps are now reliable. No downtime.
• There isn't anymore water build-up or associated freezing issues.