Hot Tap excellence
Pipeline Projects taps new outsourcing strategy to increase workflow
As number of critical projects increases, outside expertise on hot tap operation helps Aramco stay on schedule safely.
For the first time, an outside service provider has completed a high risk hot tap operation on a live company pipeline.
The contractor executed the 42-inch hot tap activity on the Qatif-Abqaiq crude pipeline in the Ras Tanura area, safely ensuring the live line was cut and drilled without interrupting oil flow.
Previously, the Hot Tap and Stopple Division of the Northern Area Pipelines Department (NAPD) conducted all hot tap operations.
The decision to employ a contractor was initiated by the Pipeline Projects Department (PPD), NAPD, the Loss Prevention Department (LPD), and the Consulting Services Department (CSD) to meet the project deadline. The procedure went ahead after a vigorous prequalification process.
A joint Aramco taskforce led by PPD and including representatives from NAPD, LPD, and CSD, conducted a comprehensive technical assessment of the contractor and gave the go ahead.
Awadh O. Al Oadah, then-acting manager of PPD, said exploring new execution strategies and technologies is key to delivering projects safely, on schedule, and to the highest standards of quality.
“We made it through our collaborative efforts with all concerned parties, and we are committed to work with our partners to drive excellence in our projects,” Al Oadah said.
Abdullah A. Rwaished, then acting manager of NAPD, said it was deemed necessary to explore new hot tap service providers and outsource part of the project under the watchful eyes of NAPD experts.
“Given the magnitude of hot tap operations required for this specific project and the challenge to meet the critical project’s milestone, it was fundamental to explore a more viable solution,” Rwaished said.
— By Abdulrahman A. Al Hammadi and Abdulrhman A. Al Ghamdi