Maximizing Value Through Novel Approach to Project Implementation - Alternate Methods to Avoid Shutdown

Upgradation of the old glycol flash gas flare was a challenging project considering many factors, namely, shutdown requirements, timeline of implementation, HSE concerns in the existing flare system, pre-construction activities, brownfield interconnections, and fit for purpose design. The project was a key HSE improvement project to ensure that the glycol flash gas flare systems operate with all the necessary HSE design elements. A unique approach was adopted while implementing this project to avoid shutdown and execute the entire project using the mobilization of a mobile flare to keep the plant in operation while the construction activities were in progress. Since this was a new approach extensive meetings and coordination were required to safely execute the project. This paper defines the overall design basis, the project execution methodology, process description of the natural gas liquids dehydration process, typical list of deliverables generated during the project and value maximization through novel approach for the activities related to Glycol Flare Upgrade. The objective of this project was to upgrade the existing glycol flare and demolish the existing glycol vent stack. The project scope included the installation of new flare components, such as velocity seal, windshield, pilots, thermocouples, HEI ignitors and flame front generators, as well as a new ignition skid with local control panel, conduits and cables. The project also involved the modification of the existing piping, instrumentation and control systems to comply with the latest company standard for flare systems.