Page 20 - Oil and Gas Production Handbook An Introduction to Oil and Gas Production

A metering installation typically consists of a number of meter runs so that
one meter will not have to handle the full capacity range, and associated
prover loops so that the meter accuracy can be tested and calibrated at
regular intervals.

Pipelines can measure
anywhere from 6 to 48
inches (15 – 120 cm) in
diameter. In order to
ensure their efficient
and safe operation,
operators routinely
inspect their pipelines
for corrosion and
defects. This is done
through the use of
sophisticated pieces of
equipment known as
pigs. Pigs are intelligent
robotic devices that are propelled down pipelines to evaluate the interior of
the pipe. Pigs can test pipe thickness, roundness, check for signs of
corrosion, detect minute leaks, and any other defect along the interior of the
pipeline that may either restrict the flow of gas, or pose a potential safety risk
for the operation of the pipeline. Sending a pig down a pipeline is fittingly
known as 'pigging' the pipeline. The export facility must contain equipment to
safely insert and retrieve pigs from the pipeline as well as depressurization,
referred to as pig launchers and pig receivers.

Loading on tankers involves loading systems, ranging from tanker jetties to
sophisticated single point mooring and loading systems that allow the tanker
to dock and load the product even in bad weather.

2.3 Utility systems
Utility systems are systems which do not handle the hydrocarbon process
flow, but provide some service to the main process safety or residents.
Depending on the location of the installation, many such functions may be
available from nearby infrastructure (e.g. electricity). But many remote
installations must be fully self-sustaining and must generate their own power,
water etc.

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