CA2069542C - Underground pipe storage loop - Google Patents
Underground pipe storage loopInfo
- Publication number
- CA2069542C CA2069542C CA 2069542 CA2069542A CA2069542C CA 2069542 C CA2069542 C CA 2069542C CA 2069542 CA2069542 CA 2069542 CA 2069542 A CA2069542 A CA 2069542A CA 2069542 C CA2069542 C CA 2069542C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- pipe loop
- leg
- vapor pressure
- high vapor
- pipe
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 claims abstract description 147
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 claims abstract description 147
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 238000012384 transportation and delivery Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 239000004215 Carbon black (E152) Substances 0.000 claims description 69
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 64
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 claims description 25
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 claims 3
- 235000008733 Citrus aurantifolia Nutrition 0.000 claims 1
- 235000011941 Tilia x europaea Nutrition 0.000 claims 1
- 239000004571 lime Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 230000012447 hatching Effects 0.000 abstract description 24
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 133
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 8
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 description 5
- ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Propane Chemical compound CCC ATUOYWHBWRKTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000012267 brine Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000000737 periodic effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- HPALAKNZSZLMCH-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium;chloride;hydrate Chemical compound O.[Na+].[Cl-] HPALAKNZSZLMCH-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 4
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000013505 freshwater Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005057 refrigeration Methods 0.000 description 3
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 3
- OTMSDBZUPAUEDD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethane Chemical compound CC OTMSDBZUPAUEDD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 241000282887 Suidae Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000001273 butane Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 2
- IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-butane Chemical compound CCCC IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-pentane Natural products CCCCC OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000001294 propane Substances 0.000 description 2
- AYFVYJQAPQTCCC-GBXIJSLDSA-N L-threonine Chemical compound C[C@@H](O)[C@H](N)C(O)=O AYFVYJQAPQTCCC-GBXIJSLDSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 102100026933 Myelin-associated neurite-outgrowth inhibitor Human genes 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000009412 basement excavation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000006227 byproduct Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002386 leaching Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000032258 transport Effects 0.000 description 1
Landscapes
- Pipeline Systems (AREA)
- Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
Abstract
The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the pipe loop having a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable hatching pig in the pipe loop for separating the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons on either side of the displaceable hatching pig in the pipe loop, means for delivering high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to and from the main pipeline to either leg of the loop on either side of said displaceable batching pig, the method comprising the steps of receiving one type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons on one side of said displaceable hatching pig while simultaneously displacing an equal quantity of a second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons from the opposite side of said displaceable hatching pig while the displaceable batching pig is moved away from the end of the elongated pipe loop receiving the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons towards the end of the pipe loop from which the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons is being delivered, terminating the delivery of the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons and commencing receipt of the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in the end of the pipe loop previously delivering the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, terminating the receipt of the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in the opposite end of the pipe loop and delivering the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to the main pipeline from the end of the pipe loop previously receiving the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons while the displaceable batching pig moves from the end of the pipe loop now receiving the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons towards the end of the pipe loop from which the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons is now being delivered.
Description
2~~~~~?
UNDERGROUND PIPE STORAGE LOOP
This invention relates to the oil and gas industry and in particular to the storage and hatching of high vapor pressure (HVP) hydrocarbon liquids and delivery of hatched high vapor pres::ure hydrocarbons to pipeline transportation systems.
This invention relates to the use of a pipe loop or adjoining pipe loops of buried line pipe to provide the required storage' for hatching of HVP products.
A single pipeline is capable of transporting several different producers by a method called hatching. Batching of refined product; where contamination of the products must be avoided, is accomplished through the use of a mechanical isolation device: (hatching pig) separating the two products.
If a small amount of contamination is of no concern, the two products are allowed to contact each other thereby creating a short interface (blending of the two).
The key to efficient hatching of a single pipeline is scheduling, timing, continuous product movement and, of equal importance., ample storage for each product until it is scheduled for injection into the pipeline.
HVP products are transported in a liquid state but will vaporize if not maintained under sufficient pressure, refrigerated, or a combination of both. Atmospheric or open 2~~~,~~~~
storage vessels, acceptable for many liquids, cannot be used f or HVP product:a .
Current mei~hods of storing HVP products include the following:
i) Pressurized surface storage vessels, either bullet shaped or spheres.
ii) Underground storage tubes, where a number of relatively short runs of large diameter line pipe (1372 mm to 2032 mm) are cad>ped at either end and buried to create long small diameaer vessels.
iii) Underground storage caverns, where large cavities are leached out: of non-porous salt zones many of which are thousands of feet below the surface.
Shortfalls of current NGL methods are as follows:
i) Pressurized. surface storage vessels are probably the most common and most economical method of providing low-to-medium volume storage for propane and butane.
This is mainly because the vapor pressure of propane and butane is relatively low and vessel construction is based on maximum working pressures of some 1700 kPa.
The vapor pressure of ethane is about 3100 kPa at 15°C.
Construction of a surface vessel for this product would - 3 - '~'f~I~:.~r; A
<. v ui y .~
require steel in excess of 25.4 mm thick for a 2.4 meter diameter vessel. This vessel would then require insulation and associated refrigeration equipment to maintain the product temperature below 15°C. Failures of the refrigeration equipment could not be tolerated, so back-up equipment must be provided. Surface vessels for HVP service that handle products with high ethane content are' designed for working pressures of some 5500 kPa.
l0 Due to the two phase phenomenon of HVP products, only some 75-80~; of surface vessel capacity is available for liquid storage. Under normal operating conditions these vessels must never be totally filled and are seldom completely emptied.
Incoming pipeline pressures must be reduced to enter storage ands then pumps are required to boost the HVP
hydrocarbons to line pressure for delivery.
Storage facilities of large capacity would require a number of individual vessels manifolded together increasing the number of valves and fittings required, plus a large fenced surface area to contain them.
Each individual vessel must be equipped with a relief system, level controls and other instrumentation for safe operation and control.
-ii) Underground storage tube facilities do not share the same problems as surface facilities, but have shortfalls of their own. Relatively short runs (a few hundred mei~ers) of large diameter line pipe (1372 mm to 2032 mm) are buried in an area which usually is fenced with limitEad surface activity allowed within that area.
Lower ground temperatures reduce the required working pressure oi= these vessels although some refrigeration equipment ~Ls still utilized to cool incoming product.
Level controls and other instrumentation are still required a:a is a relief system.
Operating pressures of these systems are near vapor pressure, therefore pipeline pressures must be reduced to enter storage and pumps are required to boost it once more for deliveries.
As with surface vessels, only some 75-80~ of the total capacity of the tubes is available for storage.
The installation of large diameter pipe as storage tubes is quite expensive. The excavation for the tubes must be prepared in a meticulous manner, in order to provide a firm, flat base for the tubes, with no dips or hollows to prevent complete draining of the liquids, if required.
No means a~~e readily available for periodic cleaning or inspection of the large diameter pipe to ensure its integrity.
Underground storage tubes have limitations as to the areas in which they are allowed to be installed.
iii) Underground storage caverns are developed by drilling into underground non-porous salt zones, injecting fresh water and 7_eaching out a cavity. Once the desired capacity i:c reached, fresh water injection ceases.
High pressure pumps inject the product down one annulus of a multiple tubing string displacing the brine in the cavern and forcing it to the surface through a second tubing annulus, to be stored in surface brine ponds for re-injection at a later date to recover the product.
Caverns can, only be developed where suitable salt zones exist.
Large quantities of fresh water are required to leach out a sizeable cavern which takes a considerable length of time. During the leaching process, the brine must be disposed of by acceptable means. Cavern storage is quite costly to develop.
Caverns are more suited to large volume storage facilities.
High pressure pumping equipment is required to inject and retrie~re the product.
A large surface area is required for brine ponds.
The underground pipe storage loop concept of this invention utili~:es standard diameters of line pipe which is preferably buris~d within pipeline right-of-ways, the length of which will be' determined by the volume of storage required at each location. The linepipe will originate at a station site, continue down the right-of-way for one half the required di:~tance and then loop back to the station site. Each end of this pipe loop will be fitted with pig traps to enable insertion and removal of the isolation device (batchingr pig) and periodic running of cleaning and inspection devices (pigs).
Some advantages provided by this invention are:
a) The only surface area required for this facility is that required for the pig traps.
b) The pipe loops can be installed almost anywhere.
c) New pipeline right-of-ways would not necessarily be required. If space exists, many could be installed within existing right-of-ways.
2~;~~ ~~~' d) Buried to .L.S meters of cover (the same as HVP
pipelines) surface activity through agricultural areas would be unaffected.
e) If additional capacity is required at a later date, more line X>ipe can be added and the return loop re-located further down the right-of-way.
f) Cleaning and servicing of the loop, if required, can be accomplished through normal methods used for pipelines.
g) The integrity of the pipe loop can be confirmed periodically by running standard pipeline internal inspection pigs.
h) This method of storage utilizes 100 of the pipe capacity.
i) The pipe loop is always full of liquid and at pipeline pressure. 'there is no need for reducing pressures and then boosting them back up again.
j) No relief s~Tstem is required, with the possible exception o~E a small thermal relief in the event the pipe loop w<is shut in and completely isolated.
k) No level controls are required - the pipe is always full.
_8_ 1) Bi-directional metering will measure product in and out of the pipe loop thereby accurately accounting for the stored volumes.
m) Variations in right-of-way elevations have no effect on the operation of the pipe loop storage. The product is moved out of storage by the hatching pig which is moved along by l:Lne pressure. Gravitational drain plays no part in storing or removal of products.
n) Corrosion control will be similar to other buried pipelines with continuous external coating of the pipe.
The pipe will also be cathodic protected.
0) Safety relating to this facility would be similar to that of an HVP pipeline.
This invention relates to the method of delivering to and from and stc>ring in a pipe loop two different HVP
hydrocarbon liquids, a pipe loop having a first leg and a second leg, the: first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable bat.ching pig in the pipe loop separates the first and seconf: HVP hydrocarbon liquids on either side of the displaceable: hatching pig, means for delivering separate HVP hydrocarbon liquids from a lateral pipeline or lateral pipelines are connected to one or both legs of the pipe loop to deliver one or the other HVP hydrocarbon liquid to the leg of the pipe loop containing said HVP hydrocarbon liquid, - 9 - ~r~'~;~ ~n~
means for deliv~aring separate HVP hydrocarbon liquids to or from the main pipeline to or from either leg of the pipe loop on a selecited side of the displaceable hatching pig, the method compoising the steps of (a) receiving one type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid on one side of said di:aplaceable hatching pig while simultaneously delivering an equal quantity of a second type of HVP
hydrocarbon liquid from the opposite side of said displaceable bai~ching pig while the displaceable hatching pig is moved aw~~y from the end of the elongated pipe loop receiving the f:Lrst type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid towards the end of the pipe loop from which the second type of HVP
hydrocarbon liquid is being delivered;
b) simultaneously terminating the delivery of the second type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid into the main pipeline and terminating the receipt of the first type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid into the opposite end of the pipe loop; and c) delivering the second type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid to the main pipeline from the end of the pipe loop previously receiving the first type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid while the displaceable bat:ching pig moves from the end of the pipe loop now receiving the second type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid towards the end of the pipe loop from which the first type of HVP hydrocarkron liquid is now being delivered to the main pipeline.
2~~;:~;~%
In another embodiment, the invention relates to the invention described in the previous paragraph, in which a lateral pipeline is connected to at least one leg of the pipe loop to receive the first or second HVP hydrocarbon liquid and to the main pipeline for delivering the first or second HVP hydrocarbon liquid from the first or second leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline.
In a furthear variation of the invention the line connecting the i:irst leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline is connected by a shunt line to the main pipeline at a point on the main pipeline below the point at which the line connecting the second leg of the pipe loop is connected to the main pipE~line, whereby the HVP hydrocarbon liquids from the first 7_eg may be delivered to the main pipeline with a minimum of interfacing in the main pipeline between the first and second HVP hydrocarbon liquids.
A further embodiment of the invention relates to the method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop HVP hydrocarbon liquids, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to the main pipeline, a displaceable bat:ching pig in the pipe loop adapted to be displaced from t:he end of one leg to the end of the other leg and vice versa, means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for inserting and removing the displaceable: batching pig in order to clean, measure or treat the interior of the pipe loop, at least one lateral - 11 - ' ,..ii ~~ 1 pipeline connected to at least one side of the pipe loop and to the main pipeline.
Another variation of the invention involves a method of delivering HVP hydrocarbon liquids from either end of a pipe storage loop to a pumping station. The pipe storage loop has a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being connected by connecting lines to an input line to a pumping station, a displaceable hatching l0 pig is disposed in the pipe loop for separating the first and second HVP hydrocarbon liquids on either side of the displaceable bai~ching pig in the pipe loop, at least one lateral pipeline, containing one of the two different HVP
hydrocarbon liquids is connected towards the end or ends of the first and second legs of the pipe loop and to the respective connecting lines to the input line of the pumping station, means for selectively opening one of the connecting liner to the input line to the pumping station, and means for delivering HVP hydrocarbon liquid from at least one lateral pipeline to the leg of the pipe loop not then selectivel~~ connected to the input line of the pumping station.
The invention also relates to a pipe loop having a first and second leg for storing two different HVP
hydrocarbon liquids, the first and second legs of the pipe loop being joined by connecting lines to the main pipeline, a displaceable hatching pig is disposed in the pipe loop for separating the first and second high vapor pressure J/~, A-~ ~~~!9 ~~m V~~d1 k.~1 hydrocarbons, ~~ lateral pipeline is connected to at least one leg of the ~~ipe loop and to the main pipeline. There are a number of valves in the connecting lines between the first and second legs of the pipe loop and the main pipeline, at least one volume control valve is located between the lateral pipeline or pipelines and the connecting line or connecting lines between the first and second leg of the pipe loop t« shut down or control the flow of HVP
hydrocarbon liquid from the lateral pipeline to the first or second leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline or to the first or second legs or the pipe loop.
In another embodiment the pipe loop described in the preceding paragraph includes a shunt line between the connecting line between the first leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline, the opposite end of the shunt line being connected to then main pipeline at a point beyond but in close proximity to the connecting line between the second leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a pipe loop for storing HVP hydrocarbon liquids, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first and second leg of the pipe loop being respeactively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable bai~ching pig is disposed in the pipe loop adapted to be moved from the end of one leg of the pipe loop to the end of the other leg of the pipe loop and vice-versa, means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for inserting and removing the displaceable batching pig in order to clean, measure or treat the interior of the pipe loop. At least one lateral pipeline is connected to at least one end of the pipe loop and to the main pipeline.
Another embodiment of the invention relates to a pipe loop having a first and second leg for storing two different HVP hydrocarbon liquids and selective delivery of said HVP
hydrocarbon liquids to the input line of a pumping station for delivery to a main pipeline. At least one lateral pipeline is connected to respective first and second legs of said pipe loop i:or delivering respective HVP hydrocarbon liquids to the i=first or second leg of said pipe loop. First and second connE~cting lines connect the first and second legs of the pipsa loop and the respective lateral pipelines.
The lateral pipealines are connected to manifolds which in turn are connected to the input line of the pumping station.
Means are provided for selectively connecting one of the connecting liner from the first or second leg of the pipe loop to the input line to the pumping station to deliver one HVP hydrocarbon liquid to the pipeline while the other HVP
hydrocarbon liquid is being delivered from at least one lateral pipeline' to the other side of the pipe loop.
The hydrocarbon liquids may be high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, low vapor pressure hydrocarbons or combinations of each.
_ 14 _ In another embodiment the invention is comprised of at least two pipe :Loops each having first and second legs for storing HVP hydrocarbon liquids, one or more legs of one pipe loop is connected to the leg of an anoth~ar pipe loop, displaceab:Le means exist in each pipe loop for dividing each pipe loop :into separate cylinders of variable volume, means are provided to receive one HVP hydrocarbon liquid in the lE~g of the first pipe loop not connected to the leg of another pipe loop, means are provided to receive different HVP hydrocarbon liquid in the lEag or legs of connected pipe loops, means are provided to receive a still different HVP
hydrocarbon liquid in the leg of the last pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop.
The embodiment also has means to deliver one HVP
hydrocarbon liquid from the first leg of one pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, means to dealiver a different HVP hydrocarbon liquid from connected 7Legs of adjoining pipe loops, means to deliver a third HVP hydrocarbon liquid from the leg of the 7Last pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, wherein the liquid volume of one HVP hydrocarbon liquid being delivered from either leg or the interconnected legs of the pipe loop corresponds to the liquid volume of HVP
hydrocarbon liquids being received by said interconnected pipe loops.
In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention, Figures 1(a) to 1(f) disclose the pipe loop with both ends of the pipe loop connected to the main pipeline and a lateral pipeline connected to one leg of the pipe loop and to the connecting line from that leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline, Figures 2(a) to 2(c) disclose the pipe loop concept for storing and bal~ching HVP hydrocarbon liquids in conjunction with a pumping station, Figures 3(a) to 3(e) disclose the pipe loop concept for storing and bai~ching HVP hydrocarbon liquids in conjunction with a pump station, expanding the storing and batching concept to thrE~e (3) hydrocarbons through the use of two (2) storage loops operated in tandem.
Referring to Figures 1(a) to 1(f) there is shown a pipe loop 1 having << first leg 2 and a second leg 3. On the end of the first leg 2 is connected a pig trap 4 and a pig detector 45. On the end of the second leg 3 is connected a pig trap 5 and a pig detector 46. A batching pig 6 is inserted into t:he pipe loop 1 from either pig trap 4 or pig trap 5.
The batchi.ng pig 6 is able to travel in the pipe loop 1 from the first leg 2 to the second leg 3 where it is w detected at the, end of the second leg 3 by pig detector 46.
The batching p_Lg 6 is also able to travel in pipe loop 1 from the second leg 3 to the first leg 2 where it is detected at they end of the first leg 2 by pig detector 45.
The first leg 2 is connected to the main line 8 through motorized valve: 31 via interconnecting line 7. Inter-connecting line 7 is equipped with a density element 43.
l0 By-pass line 10 connects interconnecting line 7 with the main line 8, downstream of motorized valve 30 through check valve 22 and motorized valve 33.
Associated. with main line 8 are check valve 21 and motorized valve. 30 with density element 41 installed just up-stream of th.e junction with valve 31 on interconnecting line 7 and density element 42 installed just down-stream of the junction with valve 32 on interconnecting line 9.
The second leg 3 of the pipe loop 1 is connected through meter 47 to interconnecting line 9 down-stream of check valve 23 on lateral line 11. Density element 44 is provided in conjunction with meter 47.
Referring to Figures 2(a) and 2(c), there is shown a pipe loop 1 having a first leg 2 and a second leg 3. On the end of the first leg 2 is connected a pig trap 4 and a pig detector 45. On the end of the second leg 3 is connected a pig trap 5 and a pig detector 46. A batching pig 6 is inserted into i~he pipe loop 1 from either pig trap 4 or pig trap 5.
The batch_ing pig 6 is able to travel in the pipe loop 1 from the first leg 2 to the second leg 3 where it is detected at then end of the second leg 3 by pig detector 46.
The batching p:Lg is also able to travel in the pipe loop 1 from the second leg 3 to the first leg 2 where it is detected at the' end of the first leg 2 by the pig detector 45.
The first leg 2 is connected to manifold 66 via interconnecting line 71 which is equipped with density element 10. The second leg 3 is connected through meter 14 to manifold 65 via interconnecting line 70. Density element 9 is provided in conjunction with meter 14.
Gathering line 60 is connected through the pressure control valve F~0 and meter 11 and is then connected common 2o to check valve 21 and check valve 22. Density element 84 is provided in conjunction with meter 11.
Gathering line 61 is connected through the pressure control valve 81 and meter 12 and is then connected common to check valve 23 and check valve 24. Density element 85 is provided in conjunction with meter 12.
Gathering line 62 is connected through the pressure control valve 82 and meter 13 and is then connected common ;:' .o ~~~ :~~-~~~
to check valve 25 and check valve 26. Density element 86 is provided in conjunction with meter 13.
Check valve 21 is connected to motorized valve 90 which in turn is connected to manifold 65. Check valve 22 is connected to motorized valve 93 which in turn is connected to manifold 66. Check valve 23 is connected to motorized valve 91 which in turn is connected to manifold 65. Check valve 24 is connected to motorized valve 94 which in turn is connected to manifold 66. Check valve 25 is connected to motorized valve 92 which in turn is connected to manifold 65. Check valve 26 is connected to motorized valve 95 which in turn is connected to manifold 66.
Manifold 65 is connected through check valve 27 and motorized valve 96 to the input of meter 15. Manifold 66 is connected throu~~h check valve 28 and motorized valve 97 to the input of meter 15 as well. Meter 15 is then connected to the suction ~~f pump 68 of pump station 59 through interconnecting line 67. Density element 98 is provided in conjunction with meter 15.
Pump 68 discharges through the rate control valve 83 into the transmission line 69.
Referring i~o Figures 3(a) to 3(e) there are shown two pipe loops 185 and 190.
_. - 19 - PGo~"~~~.~''d~~cli Pipe loop 185 has a first leg 155 and a second leg 157.
On the end of t:he first leg 155 is connected a pig trap 153 and a pig detecaor 154. On the end of the second leg 157 is connected a pig' trap 159 and a pig detector 158. A hatching pig 156 is inserted into the pipe loop 185 from either pig trap 153 or pig' trap 159. The hatching pig 156 is able to travel in loop 185 from the first leg 155 to the second leg 157 where it is detected at the end of the second leg 157 by pig detector 158. The hatching pig 156 is also able to travel in the pipe loop 185 from the second leg 157 to the first leg 155 where it is detected at the end of the first leg 155 by pig detector 154.
Pipe loop 190 is similar having a first leg 147 and a second leg 145. On the end of the first leg 147 is connected a pig trap 149 and a pig detector 148. On the end of the second leg 145 is connected a pig trap 143 and a pig detector 144. .~ hatching pig 146 is inserted into the pipe loop 190 from either pig trap 149 or pig trap 143. The hatching pig 146 is able to travel in the pipe loop 190 from the first leg 147 to the second leg 145 where it is detected at the end of tlZe second leg 145 by pig detector 144. The hatching pig 145 is also able to travel from the second leg 145 to the firsit leg 147 where it is detected at the end of the first leg 1~~7 by pig detector 148.
The first :Leg 155 of pipe loop 185 is connected through motorized valve 152 and meter 150 on connecting line 175 to manifold 172. '.the second leg 157 of pipe loop 185 is _ 20 _ connected through motorized valve 160 to connecting line 176. Connecting line 176 also connects to the first leg 147 of pipe loop 190 through motorized valve 161.
In addition connecting line 176 is connected through motorized valve 162 to connecting line 174, which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Density element 163 is installed in connecting line 176. The second leg 145 of pipe loop 190 is connected through motorized valve 142 and meter 140 on connecting line 173 to manifold 170. Density element 141 is provided in conjunction with meter 140.
Gathering line 110 is connected through pressure control valve 111 and meter 112 and is then connected common to check valves 114, 115 and 116. Density element 113 is provided in conjunction with meter 112. Check valve 114 is connected to motorized valve 117 which in turn is connected to manifold 170. Check valve 115 is connected to motorized valve 118 which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Check valve 116 is connected to motorized valve 119 which in turn is connected to manifold 172.
Gathering :line 120 is connected through pressure control valve l;zl and meter 122 and is then connected common to check valves 124, 125 and 126. Density element 123 is provided in conjunction with meter 122. Check valve 124 is connected to moi~orized valve 127 which in turn is connected to manifold 170, Check valve 125 is connected to motorized valve 128 which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Check -2i- 2069542 valve 126 is connected to motorized valve 129 which in turn is connected to~ manifold 172.
Gathering line 130 is connected through pressure control valve 1.31 and meter 132 and is then connected common to check valve; 134, 135 and 136. Density element 133 is provided in conjunction with meter 132. Check valve 134 is connected to motorized valve 137 which in turn is connected to manifold 170. Check valve 135 is connected to motorized valve 138 which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Check valve 136 is connected to motorized valve 139 which in turn is connected to manifold 172.
Manifold 770 is connected through check valve 164 and motorized valvE~ 167 as one of the three inputs to meter 177.
Manifold 171 i:a connected through check valve 165 and motorized valve' 168 also as one of the three inputs to meter 177. Manifold 172 is connected through check valve 166 and motorized valves 169 as the third input to meter 177.
Meter 177 connects to the suction of pump 181 via interconnecting line 179. Density element 178 is provided in conjunction with meter 177. The discharge of pump 181 in pump station 180 is connected through the rate control valve 182 into transmission line 183.
The method of operation is as follows:
_y~,, ~x i - 22 - ~~~~~~i i ( i ) Batch Inj_ecaion Concept Figs. 1(a) to 1(f) illustrate a typical pipe loop or pipe storage loop 1 associated with a lateral pipeline 11 connection into a main pipeline system. The lateral pipeline 11 delivers product "2" only at a rate of 50 units.
The main pipeline 8 transports product "1" with periodic batches of product "2" at a rate of 100 units. Product "2"
from the lateral pipeline 11 must be stored until it can be injected into a passing main pipeline 8 batch of product "2". Figs. 1(a) through 1(f) represent one complete hatching cycle.
Fig. 1(a) :represents the main pipeline 8 transporting Product "1" at ;a rate of 100 units. The lateral pipeline 11 is delivering Product "2" at a rate of 50 units into the pipe loop 1, moving the hatching or isolation pig 6 and displacing Product "1" from the pipe loop 1 into the main pipeline 8 through valve 33 at the rate of 50 units. The two streams combine for a total main pipeline 8 downstream rate of 150 units.
Fig. 1(b) represents a batch of Product "2" displacing Product "1" in the main pipeline 8. Products "1" and "2"
co-mingle for a short distance creating the interface.
Product "1" is still being displaced from the pipe loop 1 by Product "2" from the lateral pipeline 11. The passing r~. . u..~ ~.~ ~ .
interface is dei~ected by density element 42 which automatically sEats up the conditions in Fig. 1(c).
Figure 1(c;i - The interface having passed detector 42, signifies that i~he main pipeline 8 stream is now composed of Product "2". As the interface was detected by detector 42, an automatic sequence is established to open valve 32 and close valve 33. Product "2" from the lateral pipeline 11 is now routed direcaly into the passing main pipeline Product "2" batch. At i~his point, there is no flow into or out of the pipe loop 1., Fig. 1(d) -- The main pipeline 8 Product "2" batch, now being complete, is displaced with Product "1" once more and a second co-mingling or interface is created. This rear end interface is dei:ected by density element 41 which sets up another automatic sequence, opening valve 31 and closing valve 30. This stops the interface from continuing any further in the main pipeline 8 and also directs Product "1"
back into the line connection 7 to the main pipe loop.
Product "1" enters the pipe loop at a rate of 100 units, displacing Product "2" at the same rate. Combined with the lateral pipelinE= 11 rate of 50 units, the downstream main pipeline 8 rate remains a constant 150 units.
Fig. 1(e) ~- As Product "2" is displaced from the pipe loop 1, the batching or isolation pig 6 nears the end of the pipe loop 1 and is detected. This signals yet another automatic sequence to open valve 30 and close valve 31.
This procedure blocks any further transfer of Product "1"
from the main pipeline 8 into the pipe loop 1 and now allows Product "1" and the interface to continue on downstream.
Fig. 1(f) -- As the second (rear end) interface is detected by den:aity element 42 a fourth automatic sequence is established which opens valve 33 and closes valve 32.
This reverts ba<:k to the original condition in Fig. 1(a) where Product ":?" from the lateral pipeline 11 must now enter the pipe :loop 1, displacing Product "1" into the main pipeline 8 through valve 33. The interface moves down the pipeline and thc~ batch injection process at this location is complete.
(ii) Pipe Storac~o~ Concept for Batchinq~ HVP Product in Conjunction with a Pump Station Figs. 2(a), 2(b) and 2(c) illustrate the concept of using a pipe loop or pipe storage loop 1 for the batching of two HVP products in conjunction with a major pump station 59.
Three gathering lines 60, 61 and 62 deliver HVP product into the station. Each is capable of delivering Product "1"
as well as peri~~dic batches of Product "2" (or vice-versa).
The pump station 59 can only deliver one product at a time into the single transmission line 69, therefore pipe loop storage 1 will :be utilized to retain the second product.
~~~~i~~i~~ i Pressure control valves 80, 81, 82 are provided for each incoming gathering line for rate control.
Figure 2 La, .
Gathering lines 60, 61 and 62 all deliver Product "1"
at rates of 150, 100, and 50 respectively. Each stream is directed to the station suction 67, providing a throughput of 300 units. The pipe loop 1 at this point is dormant.
Figure 2(b) Batches of Product "2" arrive at the station through gathering lines 61 and 62. As the front end interface of each batch is detected by the density element 85 and 86 associated with each incoming meter run, routing valves 94 and 95 automatically direct Product "2" to the first side 2 of the pipe loop 1. Product "2" enters the pipe loop 1 at the combined rate of 150 units (100 + 50) and displaces Product "1" int~~ the station suction at the same 150 unit rate. In combination with the 150 unit rate of gathering line 60 the station throughput remains constant at 300 units.
Ficture 2 i(c) As the pipe loop 1 fills with Product "2", the batching or isolation pick 6 displacing Product "1" nears the end of the pipe loop 1 and is detected. This automatically sets up - 26 - ~Ci~...j~~~i~iri a sequence to transfer product deliveries to the station suction 67 by opening valve 97 and closing valve 96. The density detector 98 associated with the station suction 67 detects the change in product and marks the start of the Product "2" batch into the transmission line 69.
Controlling set points for the station equipment are automatically given new values, if required for the new product. Product "2" arriving at a rate of 100 units in gathering line 61 and 50 units in gathering line 62 combine in manifold 66 with 150 units of Product "2" being displaced from the first .Leg 2 of pipe loop 1 by 150 units of Product "1" being injected into the second leg 3 of pipe loop 1 from gathering line 60 through manifold 65. The 300 unit Product "2" combined toi;.al of manifold 66 is then delivered through valve 97 into the suction of pumping station 59.
Product transfer is automatic as pig travel is detected at the ends of t:he storage loop. Batch size and scheduling may dictate product transfer earlier, this would then be initiated through control center commands.
Product flow through the station is continuous and at reasonably constant rates. Any combinations of the two products, batche:d through gathering lines 60, 61 or 62, are automatically accommodated.
~(~'~~~4~~
(iii) Pipe Stor~~ae Loop Concept for Batchina 3 Hydrocarbon Liquids in Conjunction with a Pump Station Utilizing 2 Pipe Loops in Combination.
Figures 3(<~), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d) and 3(e) illustrate the concept of usin<~ 2 pipe loops in combination for the batching of 3 sE~parate liquids in conjunction with a major pumping station., General Three gathE~ring lines 110, 120 and 130 deliver liquids to the station. These liquids are referenced as Product "1", Product "2" and Product "3", whereby Product "2" is designated as tree systems "base" liquid. Each of the three gathering lines is capable of delivering Product "2" (the base liquid) and periodic batches of either Product "1", Product "3" or both.
The producta enter the station via gathering lines 110, 120 and 130 and are monitored by density elements 113, 123 and 133, which through a control means open one of three motorized valves thereby directing the flow of a particular product to its respective manifold.
Two pipe loops 185 and 190 are provided for storage of the three products. Pipe loop 185 accommodates Products "3"
and "2" and pipe loop 190 accommodates Products "2" and "1".
Note that Product "2" (the base liquid) is common to both pipe loops (legs 157 and 147). Product "1" is assigned to the second leg 145 of pipe loop 190 and Product "3" is assigned to the first leg 155 of pipe loop 185. Each of the foregoing legs connect to their respective product manifolds.
Each of the three manifolds is equipped with a motorized valve 167, 168 and 169 that selectively allow connection to tlhe pumping station's input line 179.
Figure 3la) Gathering :line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through v~~lve 139 and into manifold 172. The station suction valve 169 being closed, forces this product into leg 155 of pipe loo~~ 185 forcing pig 156 to travel towards leg 157, displacing Product "2" at the same 50 unit rate.
Gathering :Line 120 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units through valve 128 and into manifold 171. The station suction valve 168 being closed, forces this product into the interconnecting or common connection between pipe loops 185 and 1~~0. Product "2" also being displaced from pipe loop 185 at: the 50 unit rate combines with this 150 unit rate to enter leg 147 of pipe loop 190 at a 200 unit rate. This causes pig 146 to travel towards leg 145 displacing Product "1" from leg 145 at the 200 unit rate into manifold 1T0. The station suction valve 167 being open allows this 200 unit rate of Product "1" to enter the station suction.
2~~~~4~
Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units through valve 117 into manifold 170. With the station suction valve 167 open this 100 unit rate combines with the 200 unit: rate from the pipe loop for a total pumping station hate of 300 units into the transmission line.
Figure 3(b~
Gathering line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through valve 139 and into manifold 172. The station suction valve 169 being closed forces this product into leg 155 of pipe loop 185, forcing pig 156 to travel towards leg 157, displacing Product "2" at the same 50 unit rate.
Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units througr~ valve 117 and into manifold 170. The station suction valve 167 being closed forces this product into leg 145 of pipe loop 190, forcing pig 146 towards leg 147 displacing Product "2" at the same 100 unit rate.
The 50 unit rate of Product "2" from leg 157 of Pipe Loop 185 combines. with the 100 unit rate of Product "2" from leg 147 of pipe loop 190 for a 150 unit rate into manifold 171. Station suction valve 168 being open allows Product "2" to enter the station suction line 179.
Gathering line 120 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units through valve 128 and into manifold 171. This 150 - 30 - 2~~'~"'~n~
.,J ~ * s unit rate combines with the 150 unit rate from the pipe loops to provide a 300 unit rate to the pumping station.
Fiqure 3(c) Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units through valve 117 and into manifold 170. The station suction valve 167 being closed forces this product into leg 145 of pipe loop 190 forcing pig 146 to travel towards leg 147, displacing Product "2" at the same 100 unit rate.
Gathering line 120 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units through valve 128 and into manifold 171. The station suction valve 168 being closed forces this product into the interconnecting or common connection between pipe loop 185 and pi~~e loop 190. Product "2" also being displaced from :Leg 147 of pipe loop 190 at the 100 unit rate combines with this 150 unit rate to enter leg 157 of pipe loop 185. This causes pig 156 to travel towards leg 155 displacing Product "3" at the 250 unit rate into manifold 172. The station suction valve 169 being open allows this 250 unit rate off: Product "3" to enter the station suction.
Gathering 7line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through valve 139 and into manifold 172. This 50 unit rate combines with the 250 unit rate from the pipe loop for a total pumping station rate of 300 units into the transmission line.
- 31 - ~C:~'~~~ 1!?
Figure 3~(d~
Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units through valve 117 and into manifold 170.
Gathering line 120 also delivers Product "1" at a rate of 150 units through valve 124 and into manifold 170 where it combines with the 100 unit rate from gathering line 110.
Station suction valve 167 being closed forces this product into leg 145 of pipe loop 190. This forces pig 146 to move towards leg 147 displacing Product "2" at the 250 unit rate.
Gathering line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through valve 139 and into manifold 172. Station suction valve 169 being closed forces this product into leg 155 of pipe loop 185, moving pig 156 toward leg 157 and displacing Product "2" at the same 50 unit rate. The 50 unit rate of Pr~~duct "2" from leg 157 combines with the 250 unit rate of Pr~~duct "2" from leg 147 for a total of 300 units into mani:Eold 171. Station suction valve 168 being open allows Product "2" at the 300 unit rate to enter the pump station suction and be boosted into the transmission line.
Figure 3i(e~
Gathering :Line 110 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 100 units through valve 118 and into manifold 171.
Gathering :Line 120 also delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units th~__~ough valve 128 and into manifold 171.
3 2 _ ~ ~ °~ ~'r.y "~
Gathering line 130 also delivers Product "2" at a rate of 50 units through valve 138 and into manifold 171.
The deliveries from the three gathering lines combine in manifold 171 for a total 300 unit rate. In that the station suction valve 168 is closed this product is forced into the interconnecting or common connection between pipe loops 185 and 190.
The station suction valve 167 from manifold 170 being closed dead ends Product "1". Product "2" attempting to enter leg 147 and move pig 146 towards leg 145 cannot do so as Product "1" in leg 145 has nowhere to go. Product "2" at the junction must flow into leg 157 of pipe loop 185 moving pig 156 towards leg 155 and displacing Product "3" into manifold 172. .Station suction valve 169 being open allows Product "3" to .enter the station suction at the 300 unit rate and be boosted into the transmission line.
In this configuration pipe loop 190 is dormant.
UNDERGROUND PIPE STORAGE LOOP
This invention relates to the oil and gas industry and in particular to the storage and hatching of high vapor pressure (HVP) hydrocarbon liquids and delivery of hatched high vapor pres::ure hydrocarbons to pipeline transportation systems.
This invention relates to the use of a pipe loop or adjoining pipe loops of buried line pipe to provide the required storage' for hatching of HVP products.
A single pipeline is capable of transporting several different producers by a method called hatching. Batching of refined product; where contamination of the products must be avoided, is accomplished through the use of a mechanical isolation device: (hatching pig) separating the two products.
If a small amount of contamination is of no concern, the two products are allowed to contact each other thereby creating a short interface (blending of the two).
The key to efficient hatching of a single pipeline is scheduling, timing, continuous product movement and, of equal importance., ample storage for each product until it is scheduled for injection into the pipeline.
HVP products are transported in a liquid state but will vaporize if not maintained under sufficient pressure, refrigerated, or a combination of both. Atmospheric or open 2~~~,~~~~
storage vessels, acceptable for many liquids, cannot be used f or HVP product:a .
Current mei~hods of storing HVP products include the following:
i) Pressurized surface storage vessels, either bullet shaped or spheres.
ii) Underground storage tubes, where a number of relatively short runs of large diameter line pipe (1372 mm to 2032 mm) are cad>ped at either end and buried to create long small diameaer vessels.
iii) Underground storage caverns, where large cavities are leached out: of non-porous salt zones many of which are thousands of feet below the surface.
Shortfalls of current NGL methods are as follows:
i) Pressurized. surface storage vessels are probably the most common and most economical method of providing low-to-medium volume storage for propane and butane.
This is mainly because the vapor pressure of propane and butane is relatively low and vessel construction is based on maximum working pressures of some 1700 kPa.
The vapor pressure of ethane is about 3100 kPa at 15°C.
Construction of a surface vessel for this product would - 3 - '~'f~I~:.~r; A
<. v ui y .~
require steel in excess of 25.4 mm thick for a 2.4 meter diameter vessel. This vessel would then require insulation and associated refrigeration equipment to maintain the product temperature below 15°C. Failures of the refrigeration equipment could not be tolerated, so back-up equipment must be provided. Surface vessels for HVP service that handle products with high ethane content are' designed for working pressures of some 5500 kPa.
l0 Due to the two phase phenomenon of HVP products, only some 75-80~; of surface vessel capacity is available for liquid storage. Under normal operating conditions these vessels must never be totally filled and are seldom completely emptied.
Incoming pipeline pressures must be reduced to enter storage ands then pumps are required to boost the HVP
hydrocarbons to line pressure for delivery.
Storage facilities of large capacity would require a number of individual vessels manifolded together increasing the number of valves and fittings required, plus a large fenced surface area to contain them.
Each individual vessel must be equipped with a relief system, level controls and other instrumentation for safe operation and control.
-ii) Underground storage tube facilities do not share the same problems as surface facilities, but have shortfalls of their own. Relatively short runs (a few hundred mei~ers) of large diameter line pipe (1372 mm to 2032 mm) are buried in an area which usually is fenced with limitEad surface activity allowed within that area.
Lower ground temperatures reduce the required working pressure oi= these vessels although some refrigeration equipment ~Ls still utilized to cool incoming product.
Level controls and other instrumentation are still required a:a is a relief system.
Operating pressures of these systems are near vapor pressure, therefore pipeline pressures must be reduced to enter storage and pumps are required to boost it once more for deliveries.
As with surface vessels, only some 75-80~ of the total capacity of the tubes is available for storage.
The installation of large diameter pipe as storage tubes is quite expensive. The excavation for the tubes must be prepared in a meticulous manner, in order to provide a firm, flat base for the tubes, with no dips or hollows to prevent complete draining of the liquids, if required.
No means a~~e readily available for periodic cleaning or inspection of the large diameter pipe to ensure its integrity.
Underground storage tubes have limitations as to the areas in which they are allowed to be installed.
iii) Underground storage caverns are developed by drilling into underground non-porous salt zones, injecting fresh water and 7_eaching out a cavity. Once the desired capacity i:c reached, fresh water injection ceases.
High pressure pumps inject the product down one annulus of a multiple tubing string displacing the brine in the cavern and forcing it to the surface through a second tubing annulus, to be stored in surface brine ponds for re-injection at a later date to recover the product.
Caverns can, only be developed where suitable salt zones exist.
Large quantities of fresh water are required to leach out a sizeable cavern which takes a considerable length of time. During the leaching process, the brine must be disposed of by acceptable means. Cavern storage is quite costly to develop.
Caverns are more suited to large volume storage facilities.
High pressure pumping equipment is required to inject and retrie~re the product.
A large surface area is required for brine ponds.
The underground pipe storage loop concept of this invention utili~:es standard diameters of line pipe which is preferably buris~d within pipeline right-of-ways, the length of which will be' determined by the volume of storage required at each location. The linepipe will originate at a station site, continue down the right-of-way for one half the required di:~tance and then loop back to the station site. Each end of this pipe loop will be fitted with pig traps to enable insertion and removal of the isolation device (batchingr pig) and periodic running of cleaning and inspection devices (pigs).
Some advantages provided by this invention are:
a) The only surface area required for this facility is that required for the pig traps.
b) The pipe loops can be installed almost anywhere.
c) New pipeline right-of-ways would not necessarily be required. If space exists, many could be installed within existing right-of-ways.
2~;~~ ~~~' d) Buried to .L.S meters of cover (the same as HVP
pipelines) surface activity through agricultural areas would be unaffected.
e) If additional capacity is required at a later date, more line X>ipe can be added and the return loop re-located further down the right-of-way.
f) Cleaning and servicing of the loop, if required, can be accomplished through normal methods used for pipelines.
g) The integrity of the pipe loop can be confirmed periodically by running standard pipeline internal inspection pigs.
h) This method of storage utilizes 100 of the pipe capacity.
i) The pipe loop is always full of liquid and at pipeline pressure. 'there is no need for reducing pressures and then boosting them back up again.
j) No relief s~Tstem is required, with the possible exception o~E a small thermal relief in the event the pipe loop w<is shut in and completely isolated.
k) No level controls are required - the pipe is always full.
_8_ 1) Bi-directional metering will measure product in and out of the pipe loop thereby accurately accounting for the stored volumes.
m) Variations in right-of-way elevations have no effect on the operation of the pipe loop storage. The product is moved out of storage by the hatching pig which is moved along by l:Lne pressure. Gravitational drain plays no part in storing or removal of products.
n) Corrosion control will be similar to other buried pipelines with continuous external coating of the pipe.
The pipe will also be cathodic protected.
0) Safety relating to this facility would be similar to that of an HVP pipeline.
This invention relates to the method of delivering to and from and stc>ring in a pipe loop two different HVP
hydrocarbon liquids, a pipe loop having a first leg and a second leg, the: first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable bat.ching pig in the pipe loop separates the first and seconf: HVP hydrocarbon liquids on either side of the displaceable: hatching pig, means for delivering separate HVP hydrocarbon liquids from a lateral pipeline or lateral pipelines are connected to one or both legs of the pipe loop to deliver one or the other HVP hydrocarbon liquid to the leg of the pipe loop containing said HVP hydrocarbon liquid, - 9 - ~r~'~;~ ~n~
means for deliv~aring separate HVP hydrocarbon liquids to or from the main pipeline to or from either leg of the pipe loop on a selecited side of the displaceable hatching pig, the method compoising the steps of (a) receiving one type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid on one side of said di:aplaceable hatching pig while simultaneously delivering an equal quantity of a second type of HVP
hydrocarbon liquid from the opposite side of said displaceable bai~ching pig while the displaceable hatching pig is moved aw~~y from the end of the elongated pipe loop receiving the f:Lrst type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid towards the end of the pipe loop from which the second type of HVP
hydrocarbon liquid is being delivered;
b) simultaneously terminating the delivery of the second type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid into the main pipeline and terminating the receipt of the first type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid into the opposite end of the pipe loop; and c) delivering the second type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid to the main pipeline from the end of the pipe loop previously receiving the first type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid while the displaceable bat:ching pig moves from the end of the pipe loop now receiving the second type of HVP hydrocarbon liquid towards the end of the pipe loop from which the first type of HVP hydrocarkron liquid is now being delivered to the main pipeline.
2~~;:~;~%
In another embodiment, the invention relates to the invention described in the previous paragraph, in which a lateral pipeline is connected to at least one leg of the pipe loop to receive the first or second HVP hydrocarbon liquid and to the main pipeline for delivering the first or second HVP hydrocarbon liquid from the first or second leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline.
In a furthear variation of the invention the line connecting the i:irst leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline is connected by a shunt line to the main pipeline at a point on the main pipeline below the point at which the line connecting the second leg of the pipe loop is connected to the main pipE~line, whereby the HVP hydrocarbon liquids from the first 7_eg may be delivered to the main pipeline with a minimum of interfacing in the main pipeline between the first and second HVP hydrocarbon liquids.
A further embodiment of the invention relates to the method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop HVP hydrocarbon liquids, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to the main pipeline, a displaceable bat:ching pig in the pipe loop adapted to be displaced from t:he end of one leg to the end of the other leg and vice versa, means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for inserting and removing the displaceable: batching pig in order to clean, measure or treat the interior of the pipe loop, at least one lateral - 11 - ' ,..ii ~~ 1 pipeline connected to at least one side of the pipe loop and to the main pipeline.
Another variation of the invention involves a method of delivering HVP hydrocarbon liquids from either end of a pipe storage loop to a pumping station. The pipe storage loop has a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being connected by connecting lines to an input line to a pumping station, a displaceable hatching l0 pig is disposed in the pipe loop for separating the first and second HVP hydrocarbon liquids on either side of the displaceable bai~ching pig in the pipe loop, at least one lateral pipeline, containing one of the two different HVP
hydrocarbon liquids is connected towards the end or ends of the first and second legs of the pipe loop and to the respective connecting lines to the input line of the pumping station, means for selectively opening one of the connecting liner to the input line to the pumping station, and means for delivering HVP hydrocarbon liquid from at least one lateral pipeline to the leg of the pipe loop not then selectivel~~ connected to the input line of the pumping station.
The invention also relates to a pipe loop having a first and second leg for storing two different HVP
hydrocarbon liquids, the first and second legs of the pipe loop being joined by connecting lines to the main pipeline, a displaceable hatching pig is disposed in the pipe loop for separating the first and second high vapor pressure J/~, A-~ ~~~!9 ~~m V~~d1 k.~1 hydrocarbons, ~~ lateral pipeline is connected to at least one leg of the ~~ipe loop and to the main pipeline. There are a number of valves in the connecting lines between the first and second legs of the pipe loop and the main pipeline, at least one volume control valve is located between the lateral pipeline or pipelines and the connecting line or connecting lines between the first and second leg of the pipe loop t« shut down or control the flow of HVP
hydrocarbon liquid from the lateral pipeline to the first or second leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline or to the first or second legs or the pipe loop.
In another embodiment the pipe loop described in the preceding paragraph includes a shunt line between the connecting line between the first leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline, the opposite end of the shunt line being connected to then main pipeline at a point beyond but in close proximity to the connecting line between the second leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a pipe loop for storing HVP hydrocarbon liquids, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first and second leg of the pipe loop being respeactively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable bai~ching pig is disposed in the pipe loop adapted to be moved from the end of one leg of the pipe loop to the end of the other leg of the pipe loop and vice-versa, means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for inserting and removing the displaceable batching pig in order to clean, measure or treat the interior of the pipe loop. At least one lateral pipeline is connected to at least one end of the pipe loop and to the main pipeline.
Another embodiment of the invention relates to a pipe loop having a first and second leg for storing two different HVP hydrocarbon liquids and selective delivery of said HVP
hydrocarbon liquids to the input line of a pumping station for delivery to a main pipeline. At least one lateral pipeline is connected to respective first and second legs of said pipe loop i:or delivering respective HVP hydrocarbon liquids to the i=first or second leg of said pipe loop. First and second connE~cting lines connect the first and second legs of the pipsa loop and the respective lateral pipelines.
The lateral pipealines are connected to manifolds which in turn are connected to the input line of the pumping station.
Means are provided for selectively connecting one of the connecting liner from the first or second leg of the pipe loop to the input line to the pumping station to deliver one HVP hydrocarbon liquid to the pipeline while the other HVP
hydrocarbon liquid is being delivered from at least one lateral pipeline' to the other side of the pipe loop.
The hydrocarbon liquids may be high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, low vapor pressure hydrocarbons or combinations of each.
_ 14 _ In another embodiment the invention is comprised of at least two pipe :Loops each having first and second legs for storing HVP hydrocarbon liquids, one or more legs of one pipe loop is connected to the leg of an anoth~ar pipe loop, displaceab:Le means exist in each pipe loop for dividing each pipe loop :into separate cylinders of variable volume, means are provided to receive one HVP hydrocarbon liquid in the lE~g of the first pipe loop not connected to the leg of another pipe loop, means are provided to receive different HVP hydrocarbon liquid in the lEag or legs of connected pipe loops, means are provided to receive a still different HVP
hydrocarbon liquid in the leg of the last pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop.
The embodiment also has means to deliver one HVP
hydrocarbon liquid from the first leg of one pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, means to dealiver a different HVP hydrocarbon liquid from connected 7Legs of adjoining pipe loops, means to deliver a third HVP hydrocarbon liquid from the leg of the 7Last pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, wherein the liquid volume of one HVP hydrocarbon liquid being delivered from either leg or the interconnected legs of the pipe loop corresponds to the liquid volume of HVP
hydrocarbon liquids being received by said interconnected pipe loops.
In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the invention, Figures 1(a) to 1(f) disclose the pipe loop with both ends of the pipe loop connected to the main pipeline and a lateral pipeline connected to one leg of the pipe loop and to the connecting line from that leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline, Figures 2(a) to 2(c) disclose the pipe loop concept for storing and bal~ching HVP hydrocarbon liquids in conjunction with a pumping station, Figures 3(a) to 3(e) disclose the pipe loop concept for storing and bai~ching HVP hydrocarbon liquids in conjunction with a pump station, expanding the storing and batching concept to thrE~e (3) hydrocarbons through the use of two (2) storage loops operated in tandem.
Referring to Figures 1(a) to 1(f) there is shown a pipe loop 1 having << first leg 2 and a second leg 3. On the end of the first leg 2 is connected a pig trap 4 and a pig detector 45. On the end of the second leg 3 is connected a pig trap 5 and a pig detector 46. A batching pig 6 is inserted into t:he pipe loop 1 from either pig trap 4 or pig trap 5.
The batchi.ng pig 6 is able to travel in the pipe loop 1 from the first leg 2 to the second leg 3 where it is w detected at the, end of the second leg 3 by pig detector 46.
The batching p_Lg 6 is also able to travel in pipe loop 1 from the second leg 3 to the first leg 2 where it is detected at they end of the first leg 2 by pig detector 45.
The first leg 2 is connected to the main line 8 through motorized valve: 31 via interconnecting line 7. Inter-connecting line 7 is equipped with a density element 43.
l0 By-pass line 10 connects interconnecting line 7 with the main line 8, downstream of motorized valve 30 through check valve 22 and motorized valve 33.
Associated. with main line 8 are check valve 21 and motorized valve. 30 with density element 41 installed just up-stream of th.e junction with valve 31 on interconnecting line 7 and density element 42 installed just down-stream of the junction with valve 32 on interconnecting line 9.
The second leg 3 of the pipe loop 1 is connected through meter 47 to interconnecting line 9 down-stream of check valve 23 on lateral line 11. Density element 44 is provided in conjunction with meter 47.
Referring to Figures 2(a) and 2(c), there is shown a pipe loop 1 having a first leg 2 and a second leg 3. On the end of the first leg 2 is connected a pig trap 4 and a pig detector 45. On the end of the second leg 3 is connected a pig trap 5 and a pig detector 46. A batching pig 6 is inserted into i~he pipe loop 1 from either pig trap 4 or pig trap 5.
The batch_ing pig 6 is able to travel in the pipe loop 1 from the first leg 2 to the second leg 3 where it is detected at then end of the second leg 3 by pig detector 46.
The batching p:Lg is also able to travel in the pipe loop 1 from the second leg 3 to the first leg 2 where it is detected at the' end of the first leg 2 by the pig detector 45.
The first leg 2 is connected to manifold 66 via interconnecting line 71 which is equipped with density element 10. The second leg 3 is connected through meter 14 to manifold 65 via interconnecting line 70. Density element 9 is provided in conjunction with meter 14.
Gathering line 60 is connected through the pressure control valve F~0 and meter 11 and is then connected common 2o to check valve 21 and check valve 22. Density element 84 is provided in conjunction with meter 11.
Gathering line 61 is connected through the pressure control valve 81 and meter 12 and is then connected common to check valve 23 and check valve 24. Density element 85 is provided in conjunction with meter 12.
Gathering line 62 is connected through the pressure control valve 82 and meter 13 and is then connected common ;:' .o ~~~ :~~-~~~
to check valve 25 and check valve 26. Density element 86 is provided in conjunction with meter 13.
Check valve 21 is connected to motorized valve 90 which in turn is connected to manifold 65. Check valve 22 is connected to motorized valve 93 which in turn is connected to manifold 66. Check valve 23 is connected to motorized valve 91 which in turn is connected to manifold 65. Check valve 24 is connected to motorized valve 94 which in turn is connected to manifold 66. Check valve 25 is connected to motorized valve 92 which in turn is connected to manifold 65. Check valve 26 is connected to motorized valve 95 which in turn is connected to manifold 66.
Manifold 65 is connected through check valve 27 and motorized valve 96 to the input of meter 15. Manifold 66 is connected throu~~h check valve 28 and motorized valve 97 to the input of meter 15 as well. Meter 15 is then connected to the suction ~~f pump 68 of pump station 59 through interconnecting line 67. Density element 98 is provided in conjunction with meter 15.
Pump 68 discharges through the rate control valve 83 into the transmission line 69.
Referring i~o Figures 3(a) to 3(e) there are shown two pipe loops 185 and 190.
_. - 19 - PGo~"~~~.~''d~~cli Pipe loop 185 has a first leg 155 and a second leg 157.
On the end of t:he first leg 155 is connected a pig trap 153 and a pig detecaor 154. On the end of the second leg 157 is connected a pig' trap 159 and a pig detector 158. A hatching pig 156 is inserted into the pipe loop 185 from either pig trap 153 or pig' trap 159. The hatching pig 156 is able to travel in loop 185 from the first leg 155 to the second leg 157 where it is detected at the end of the second leg 157 by pig detector 158. The hatching pig 156 is also able to travel in the pipe loop 185 from the second leg 157 to the first leg 155 where it is detected at the end of the first leg 155 by pig detector 154.
Pipe loop 190 is similar having a first leg 147 and a second leg 145. On the end of the first leg 147 is connected a pig trap 149 and a pig detector 148. On the end of the second leg 145 is connected a pig trap 143 and a pig detector 144. .~ hatching pig 146 is inserted into the pipe loop 190 from either pig trap 149 or pig trap 143. The hatching pig 146 is able to travel in the pipe loop 190 from the first leg 147 to the second leg 145 where it is detected at the end of tlZe second leg 145 by pig detector 144. The hatching pig 145 is also able to travel from the second leg 145 to the firsit leg 147 where it is detected at the end of the first leg 1~~7 by pig detector 148.
The first :Leg 155 of pipe loop 185 is connected through motorized valve 152 and meter 150 on connecting line 175 to manifold 172. '.the second leg 157 of pipe loop 185 is _ 20 _ connected through motorized valve 160 to connecting line 176. Connecting line 176 also connects to the first leg 147 of pipe loop 190 through motorized valve 161.
In addition connecting line 176 is connected through motorized valve 162 to connecting line 174, which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Density element 163 is installed in connecting line 176. The second leg 145 of pipe loop 190 is connected through motorized valve 142 and meter 140 on connecting line 173 to manifold 170. Density element 141 is provided in conjunction with meter 140.
Gathering line 110 is connected through pressure control valve 111 and meter 112 and is then connected common to check valves 114, 115 and 116. Density element 113 is provided in conjunction with meter 112. Check valve 114 is connected to motorized valve 117 which in turn is connected to manifold 170. Check valve 115 is connected to motorized valve 118 which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Check valve 116 is connected to motorized valve 119 which in turn is connected to manifold 172.
Gathering :line 120 is connected through pressure control valve l;zl and meter 122 and is then connected common to check valves 124, 125 and 126. Density element 123 is provided in conjunction with meter 122. Check valve 124 is connected to moi~orized valve 127 which in turn is connected to manifold 170, Check valve 125 is connected to motorized valve 128 which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Check -2i- 2069542 valve 126 is connected to motorized valve 129 which in turn is connected to~ manifold 172.
Gathering line 130 is connected through pressure control valve 1.31 and meter 132 and is then connected common to check valve; 134, 135 and 136. Density element 133 is provided in conjunction with meter 132. Check valve 134 is connected to motorized valve 137 which in turn is connected to manifold 170. Check valve 135 is connected to motorized valve 138 which in turn is connected to manifold 171. Check valve 136 is connected to motorized valve 139 which in turn is connected to manifold 172.
Manifold 770 is connected through check valve 164 and motorized valvE~ 167 as one of the three inputs to meter 177.
Manifold 171 i:a connected through check valve 165 and motorized valve' 168 also as one of the three inputs to meter 177. Manifold 172 is connected through check valve 166 and motorized valves 169 as the third input to meter 177.
Meter 177 connects to the suction of pump 181 via interconnecting line 179. Density element 178 is provided in conjunction with meter 177. The discharge of pump 181 in pump station 180 is connected through the rate control valve 182 into transmission line 183.
The method of operation is as follows:
_y~,, ~x i - 22 - ~~~~~~i i ( i ) Batch Inj_ecaion Concept Figs. 1(a) to 1(f) illustrate a typical pipe loop or pipe storage loop 1 associated with a lateral pipeline 11 connection into a main pipeline system. The lateral pipeline 11 delivers product "2" only at a rate of 50 units.
The main pipeline 8 transports product "1" with periodic batches of product "2" at a rate of 100 units. Product "2"
from the lateral pipeline 11 must be stored until it can be injected into a passing main pipeline 8 batch of product "2". Figs. 1(a) through 1(f) represent one complete hatching cycle.
Fig. 1(a) :represents the main pipeline 8 transporting Product "1" at ;a rate of 100 units. The lateral pipeline 11 is delivering Product "2" at a rate of 50 units into the pipe loop 1, moving the hatching or isolation pig 6 and displacing Product "1" from the pipe loop 1 into the main pipeline 8 through valve 33 at the rate of 50 units. The two streams combine for a total main pipeline 8 downstream rate of 150 units.
Fig. 1(b) represents a batch of Product "2" displacing Product "1" in the main pipeline 8. Products "1" and "2"
co-mingle for a short distance creating the interface.
Product "1" is still being displaced from the pipe loop 1 by Product "2" from the lateral pipeline 11. The passing r~. . u..~ ~.~ ~ .
interface is dei~ected by density element 42 which automatically sEats up the conditions in Fig. 1(c).
Figure 1(c;i - The interface having passed detector 42, signifies that i~he main pipeline 8 stream is now composed of Product "2". As the interface was detected by detector 42, an automatic sequence is established to open valve 32 and close valve 33. Product "2" from the lateral pipeline 11 is now routed direcaly into the passing main pipeline Product "2" batch. At i~his point, there is no flow into or out of the pipe loop 1., Fig. 1(d) -- The main pipeline 8 Product "2" batch, now being complete, is displaced with Product "1" once more and a second co-mingling or interface is created. This rear end interface is dei:ected by density element 41 which sets up another automatic sequence, opening valve 31 and closing valve 30. This stops the interface from continuing any further in the main pipeline 8 and also directs Product "1"
back into the line connection 7 to the main pipe loop.
Product "1" enters the pipe loop at a rate of 100 units, displacing Product "2" at the same rate. Combined with the lateral pipelinE= 11 rate of 50 units, the downstream main pipeline 8 rate remains a constant 150 units.
Fig. 1(e) ~- As Product "2" is displaced from the pipe loop 1, the batching or isolation pig 6 nears the end of the pipe loop 1 and is detected. This signals yet another automatic sequence to open valve 30 and close valve 31.
This procedure blocks any further transfer of Product "1"
from the main pipeline 8 into the pipe loop 1 and now allows Product "1" and the interface to continue on downstream.
Fig. 1(f) -- As the second (rear end) interface is detected by den:aity element 42 a fourth automatic sequence is established which opens valve 33 and closes valve 32.
This reverts ba<:k to the original condition in Fig. 1(a) where Product ":?" from the lateral pipeline 11 must now enter the pipe :loop 1, displacing Product "1" into the main pipeline 8 through valve 33. The interface moves down the pipeline and thc~ batch injection process at this location is complete.
(ii) Pipe Storac~o~ Concept for Batchinq~ HVP Product in Conjunction with a Pump Station Figs. 2(a), 2(b) and 2(c) illustrate the concept of using a pipe loop or pipe storage loop 1 for the batching of two HVP products in conjunction with a major pump station 59.
Three gathering lines 60, 61 and 62 deliver HVP product into the station. Each is capable of delivering Product "1"
as well as peri~~dic batches of Product "2" (or vice-versa).
The pump station 59 can only deliver one product at a time into the single transmission line 69, therefore pipe loop storage 1 will :be utilized to retain the second product.
~~~~i~~i~~ i Pressure control valves 80, 81, 82 are provided for each incoming gathering line for rate control.
Figure 2 La, .
Gathering lines 60, 61 and 62 all deliver Product "1"
at rates of 150, 100, and 50 respectively. Each stream is directed to the station suction 67, providing a throughput of 300 units. The pipe loop 1 at this point is dormant.
Figure 2(b) Batches of Product "2" arrive at the station through gathering lines 61 and 62. As the front end interface of each batch is detected by the density element 85 and 86 associated with each incoming meter run, routing valves 94 and 95 automatically direct Product "2" to the first side 2 of the pipe loop 1. Product "2" enters the pipe loop 1 at the combined rate of 150 units (100 + 50) and displaces Product "1" int~~ the station suction at the same 150 unit rate. In combination with the 150 unit rate of gathering line 60 the station throughput remains constant at 300 units.
Ficture 2 i(c) As the pipe loop 1 fills with Product "2", the batching or isolation pick 6 displacing Product "1" nears the end of the pipe loop 1 and is detected. This automatically sets up - 26 - ~Ci~...j~~~i~iri a sequence to transfer product deliveries to the station suction 67 by opening valve 97 and closing valve 96. The density detector 98 associated with the station suction 67 detects the change in product and marks the start of the Product "2" batch into the transmission line 69.
Controlling set points for the station equipment are automatically given new values, if required for the new product. Product "2" arriving at a rate of 100 units in gathering line 61 and 50 units in gathering line 62 combine in manifold 66 with 150 units of Product "2" being displaced from the first .Leg 2 of pipe loop 1 by 150 units of Product "1" being injected into the second leg 3 of pipe loop 1 from gathering line 60 through manifold 65. The 300 unit Product "2" combined toi;.al of manifold 66 is then delivered through valve 97 into the suction of pumping station 59.
Product transfer is automatic as pig travel is detected at the ends of t:he storage loop. Batch size and scheduling may dictate product transfer earlier, this would then be initiated through control center commands.
Product flow through the station is continuous and at reasonably constant rates. Any combinations of the two products, batche:d through gathering lines 60, 61 or 62, are automatically accommodated.
~(~'~~~4~~
(iii) Pipe Stor~~ae Loop Concept for Batchina 3 Hydrocarbon Liquids in Conjunction with a Pump Station Utilizing 2 Pipe Loops in Combination.
Figures 3(<~), 3(b), 3(c), 3(d) and 3(e) illustrate the concept of usin<~ 2 pipe loops in combination for the batching of 3 sE~parate liquids in conjunction with a major pumping station., General Three gathE~ring lines 110, 120 and 130 deliver liquids to the station. These liquids are referenced as Product "1", Product "2" and Product "3", whereby Product "2" is designated as tree systems "base" liquid. Each of the three gathering lines is capable of delivering Product "2" (the base liquid) and periodic batches of either Product "1", Product "3" or both.
The producta enter the station via gathering lines 110, 120 and 130 and are monitored by density elements 113, 123 and 133, which through a control means open one of three motorized valves thereby directing the flow of a particular product to its respective manifold.
Two pipe loops 185 and 190 are provided for storage of the three products. Pipe loop 185 accommodates Products "3"
and "2" and pipe loop 190 accommodates Products "2" and "1".
Note that Product "2" (the base liquid) is common to both pipe loops (legs 157 and 147). Product "1" is assigned to the second leg 145 of pipe loop 190 and Product "3" is assigned to the first leg 155 of pipe loop 185. Each of the foregoing legs connect to their respective product manifolds.
Each of the three manifolds is equipped with a motorized valve 167, 168 and 169 that selectively allow connection to tlhe pumping station's input line 179.
Figure 3la) Gathering :line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through v~~lve 139 and into manifold 172. The station suction valve 169 being closed, forces this product into leg 155 of pipe loo~~ 185 forcing pig 156 to travel towards leg 157, displacing Product "2" at the same 50 unit rate.
Gathering :Line 120 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units through valve 128 and into manifold 171. The station suction valve 168 being closed, forces this product into the interconnecting or common connection between pipe loops 185 and 1~~0. Product "2" also being displaced from pipe loop 185 at: the 50 unit rate combines with this 150 unit rate to enter leg 147 of pipe loop 190 at a 200 unit rate. This causes pig 146 to travel towards leg 145 displacing Product "1" from leg 145 at the 200 unit rate into manifold 1T0. The station suction valve 167 being open allows this 200 unit rate of Product "1" to enter the station suction.
2~~~~4~
Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units through valve 117 into manifold 170. With the station suction valve 167 open this 100 unit rate combines with the 200 unit: rate from the pipe loop for a total pumping station hate of 300 units into the transmission line.
Figure 3(b~
Gathering line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through valve 139 and into manifold 172. The station suction valve 169 being closed forces this product into leg 155 of pipe loop 185, forcing pig 156 to travel towards leg 157, displacing Product "2" at the same 50 unit rate.
Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units througr~ valve 117 and into manifold 170. The station suction valve 167 being closed forces this product into leg 145 of pipe loop 190, forcing pig 146 towards leg 147 displacing Product "2" at the same 100 unit rate.
The 50 unit rate of Product "2" from leg 157 of Pipe Loop 185 combines. with the 100 unit rate of Product "2" from leg 147 of pipe loop 190 for a 150 unit rate into manifold 171. Station suction valve 168 being open allows Product "2" to enter the station suction line 179.
Gathering line 120 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units through valve 128 and into manifold 171. This 150 - 30 - 2~~'~"'~n~
.,J ~ * s unit rate combines with the 150 unit rate from the pipe loops to provide a 300 unit rate to the pumping station.
Fiqure 3(c) Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units through valve 117 and into manifold 170. The station suction valve 167 being closed forces this product into leg 145 of pipe loop 190 forcing pig 146 to travel towards leg 147, displacing Product "2" at the same 100 unit rate.
Gathering line 120 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units through valve 128 and into manifold 171. The station suction valve 168 being closed forces this product into the interconnecting or common connection between pipe loop 185 and pi~~e loop 190. Product "2" also being displaced from :Leg 147 of pipe loop 190 at the 100 unit rate combines with this 150 unit rate to enter leg 157 of pipe loop 185. This causes pig 156 to travel towards leg 155 displacing Product "3" at the 250 unit rate into manifold 172. The station suction valve 169 being open allows this 250 unit rate off: Product "3" to enter the station suction.
Gathering 7line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through valve 139 and into manifold 172. This 50 unit rate combines with the 250 unit rate from the pipe loop for a total pumping station rate of 300 units into the transmission line.
- 31 - ~C:~'~~~ 1!?
Figure 3~(d~
Gathering line 110 delivers Product "1" at a rate of 100 units through valve 117 and into manifold 170.
Gathering line 120 also delivers Product "1" at a rate of 150 units through valve 124 and into manifold 170 where it combines with the 100 unit rate from gathering line 110.
Station suction valve 167 being closed forces this product into leg 145 of pipe loop 190. This forces pig 146 to move towards leg 147 displacing Product "2" at the 250 unit rate.
Gathering line 130 delivers Product "3" at a rate of 50 units through valve 139 and into manifold 172. Station suction valve 169 being closed forces this product into leg 155 of pipe loop 185, moving pig 156 toward leg 157 and displacing Product "2" at the same 50 unit rate. The 50 unit rate of Pr~~duct "2" from leg 157 combines with the 250 unit rate of Pr~~duct "2" from leg 147 for a total of 300 units into mani:Eold 171. Station suction valve 168 being open allows Product "2" at the 300 unit rate to enter the pump station suction and be boosted into the transmission line.
Figure 3i(e~
Gathering :Line 110 delivers Product "2" at a rate of 100 units through valve 118 and into manifold 171.
Gathering :Line 120 also delivers Product "2" at a rate of 150 units th~__~ough valve 128 and into manifold 171.
3 2 _ ~ ~ °~ ~'r.y "~
Gathering line 130 also delivers Product "2" at a rate of 50 units through valve 138 and into manifold 171.
The deliveries from the three gathering lines combine in manifold 171 for a total 300 unit rate. In that the station suction valve 168 is closed this product is forced into the interconnecting or common connection between pipe loops 185 and 190.
The station suction valve 167 from manifold 170 being closed dead ends Product "1". Product "2" attempting to enter leg 147 and move pig 146 towards leg 145 cannot do so as Product "1" in leg 145 has nowhere to go. Product "2" at the junction must flow into leg 157 of pipe loop 185 moving pig 156 towards leg 155 and displacing Product "3" into manifold 172. .Station suction valve 169 being open allows Product "3" to .enter the station suction at the 300 unit rate and be boosted into the transmission line.
In this configuration pipe loop 190 is dormant.
Claims (28)
1. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the pipe loop having a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop for separating the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons on either side of the displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop, means for delivering separate high vapor pressure hydrocarbons from a lateral pipeline or lateral pipelines to respective legs of the pipe loop on the selected side of said displaceable batching pig, means for delivering separate high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to or from the main pipeline to or from a selected leg of the pipe loop on a selected side of the displaceable batching pig, the method comprising the steps of receiving one type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons on one side of said displaceable batching pig while simultaneously displacing an equal quantity of a second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons into the main pipeline from the opposite side of said displaceable batching pig while the displaceable batching pig is displaced from the end of the pipe loop receiving the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons towards the end of the pipe loop from which the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons is being delivered into the main pipeline, terminating the delivery of the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbon into the main pipeline by terminating the receipt of the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbon into the opposite end of the pipe loop, commencing receipt of the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbon into the end of the pipe loop previously delivering the second type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbon to the main pipeline, displacing the first type of high vapor pressure hydrocarbon into the main pipeline.
2. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 1, in which a lateral pipeline is connected to at least one leg of the pipe loop for receiving the first or second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons and to the main pipeline for delivering the first or second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons from the first or second leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline.
3. The method for delivering to or from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 2, including means for inserting and removing the moveable batching pig to clean the pipe loop.
4. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 3, in which the line connecting the first leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline is connected by a shunt line to the main pipeline at a point on the main pipeline downstream of the point at which the line connecting the second leg of the pipe loop is connected to the main pipeline, whereby the high vapor pressure hydrocarbons from the first leg may be delivered to the main pipeline with a minimum of interfacing between the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in the main pipeline.
5. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 3, in which the line connecting the first leg of the pipe loop to the main pipeline is connected by a shunt line to the main pipeline at a point on the main pipeline proximate the point at which the line connecting the second leg of the pipe loop is connected to the main pipeline, whereby the high vapor pressure hydrocarbons from the first leg may be delivered to the main pipeline with a minimum of interfacing in the main pipeline between the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons.
6. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 3 in which the means for delivering high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to and from the main pipeline includes in line valves to direct the high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in the desired direction so as to prevent the intermixing of first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in the pipe loop and limit the amount of intermixing of the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons when delivered to the main pipeline.
7. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 6 in which the means for delivering high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to and from the main pipeline includes detecting devices, control means and in line valves, at least one detecting device for determining which of the two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons is at the detecting device, control means associated with the detecting means and in line valves, to open or shut the in line valves and control at least the direction of flow of one or both of the high vapor pressure hydrocarbons.
8. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 7 in which the means for delivering high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to and from the main pipeline includes metering for accounting of stored volumes in and out of the storage loop.
9. The method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop adapted to be displaced from the end of one leg to the end of the other leg and vice versa, means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for inserting and removing the displaceable batching pig in order to clean, measure or treat the interior of the pipe loop, at least one lateral pipeline connected to at least one end of the pipe loop and to the maim pipeline.
10. A method of delivering to and from and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop adapted to be displaced from the end of one leg to the end of the other leg and vice versa, a means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for detecting arrival of the batching pig at the end of each leg, and control means to open and close valves ending deliveries of the high vapor pressure hydrocarbon being received and commencing deliveries of the high vapor pressure hydrocarbon being stored.
11. A method of delivering to and from a pumping station and storing in a pipe loop two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the pipe loop having a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and second leg of the pipe loop being connected by connecting lines to two separate manifolds which in turn connect to a common input line of the pumping station, a displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop for separating the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons on either side of the displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop, at least one lateral pipeline containing one of the two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons connected to respective manifolds which in turn connect to the first and second legs of the pipe loop as well as to the common input line to the pumping station, and means for selectively opening one of the manifolds lines to the input line of the pumping station.
12. A pipe loop having a first and second leg for storing two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the first and second legs of the pipe loop being joined by connecting lines to the main pipeline, a displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop for separating the first and second high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, a lateral pipeline connected to at least one leg of the pipe loop and to the main pipeline, a number of valves in the connecting lines between the first and second legs of the pipe loop and the main pipeline, at least one pressure control valve between the lateral pipeline or pipelines and the connecting line or connecting lines between the first and second leg of the pipe loop to shut down or control the flow of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons from the lateral pipeline to the first or second leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline or to the first or second legs or the pipe loop.
13. The pipe loop of claim 12 including a shunt line having one end connected to the connecting line between the first leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline, the opposite end of the shunt line being connected to the main pipeline at a point beyond but in close proximity to the connecting line between the second leg of the pipe loop and the main pipeline.
14. The pipe loop of claim 13 in which the first and second legs of the pipe loop include means for inserting or removing the displaceable batching pig to clean the pipe loop.
15. The pipe loop of claim 12 including high vapor pressure hydrocarbon detection means positioned the main pipeline and the connecting lines between the first and second legs of the pipe loop, and detection means in the connecting lines proximate the ends of the first and second legs of the pipe loop, the detection means adapted to control the valves which shut down or redirect the flow of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to the main pipeline and the first and second legs of the pipe loop.
16. The pipe loop of claim 14 including metering means in the connecting line between the lateral pipeline or pipelines and the first or second leg of the pipe loop to meter the flow of high vapor pressure to or from the first or second leg of the pipe loop.
17. A pipe loop for storing a high vapor pressure hydrocarbon, the pipe loop having a first and second leg, the first and second leg of the pipe loop being respectively connected to a main pipeline, a displaceable batching pig in the pipe loop adapted to be moved from the end of one leg of the pipe loop to the end of the other leg of the pipe loop and vice-versa, means at the end of the first leg and the second leg of the pipe loop for inserting and removing the displaceable batching pig in order to clean, measure or treat the interior of the pipe loop, at least one lateral pipeline connected to at least one end of the pipe loop and to the main pipeline.
18. A pipe loop having a first and second leg for storing two different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons and selective delivery of one of said high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to the input line of a pumping station for delivery to a main pipeline, at least one lateral pipeline connected to respective first and second legs of said pipe loop for delivering respective high vapor pressure hydrocarbons to the first or second leg of said pipe loop, first and second manifolds connecting the first and second legs of the pipe loop and the respective lateral pipeline or pipelines to the input line of the pumping station, means for selectively connecting one of the manifolds from the first or second leg of the pipe loop to the input line of the pumping station to deliver one high vapor pressure hydrocarbon while the other high vapor pressure hydrocarbon is being delivered from at least one lateral pipeline to the other side of the pipe loop.
19. At least two pipe loops each having first and second legs for storing high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, one or more legs of one pipe loop being connected to the leg of an another pipe loop, displaceable means in each pipe loop for dividing each pipe loop into separate cylinders of variable volume, means to receive one high vapor pressure hydrocarbon in the leg of the first pipe loop not connected to the leg of another pipe loop, means to receive different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in the leg or legs of connected pipe loops, means to receive a still different high vapor pressure hydrocarbon in the leg of the last pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, means to deliver a high pressure hydrocarbon from the first leg of one pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, means to deliver different high pressure hydrocarbons from connected legs of adjoining pipe loops, means to deliver separate high pressure hydrocarbons from the leg of the last pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, wherein the liquid volume of one high vapor pressure hydrocarbon being delivered from the leg or legs of the pipe loop corresponds to the liquid volume of high vapor pressure hydrocarbons being received by said interconnected pipe loops.
20. The pipe loops of claim 19 in which the displaceable means for dividing each pipe loop into separate containers of variable volume is a batching pig.
21. The pipe loops of claim 20 in which the means to receive high vapor pressure hydrocarbons are manifolds each carrying one of the high vapor pressure hydrocarbons.
22. The pipe loops of claim 21 in which the delivery means of claim 21 are manifolds each carrying one of the high pressure hydrocarbons.
23. The pipe loops of claim 22 in which the manifolds are connected through valves to a pumping station.
24. Two pipe loops each having a first and second leg for storing high vapor pressure hydrocarbons, the second leg of one pipe loop being connected to the first leg of the adjoining pipe loop, displaceable means in each pipe loop for dividing each pipe loop into separate vessels of variable volume, means to receive a first high vapor pressure hydrocarbon in the leg of one pipe loop not connected to an adjoining pipe loop, means to receive a second high vapor pressure hydrocarbon in the connected legs of the first and second pipe loop, means to receive a third high vapor pressure hydrocarbon in the leg of the second pipe loop not connected to another pipe loop, means to deliver a first high vapor pressure hydrocarbon from the leg of the first pipe loop not connected to another pipe loop, means to deliver a second high vapor pressure hydrocarbon from the connected legs of the first and second pipe loops, means to deliver a third high vapor pressure hydrocarbon from the leg of said second pipe loop not connected to another pipe loop, wherein the liquid volume of one high vapor pressure hydrocarbon being delivered from said interconnected first and second pipe loops corresponds to the liquid volume of high vapor pressure hydrocarbon being received by said interconnected first and second pipe loops.
25. Apparatus for receiving, storing and delivering at least three different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons comprising at least two pipe loops, a displaceable divider in each pipe loop, wherein each pipe loop has separate first and second legs, the adjacent legs of adjoining pipe loops being connected together, the displaceable divider in each pipe loop separating the different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in each pipe loop.
26. The apparatus for receiving, storing and delivering at least three different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons of claim 25 comprising at least two connected pipe loops in which the displaceable divider in each pipe loop is a batching pig.
27. The apparatus for receiving, storing and delivering at least three different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons comprising at least two connected pipe loops of claim 25 in which the different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons are received in designated legs of the pipe loops through a gathering lime.
28. The apparatus for receiving, storing and delivering at least three different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons in at least two connected pipe loops of claim 27 in which the different high vapor pressure hydrocarbons are delivered from designated legs of the pipe loops through designated manifolds connected to a pumping station.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2069542 CA2069542C (en) | 1992-05-26 | 1992-05-26 | Underground pipe storage loop |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2069542 CA2069542C (en) | 1992-05-26 | 1992-05-26 | Underground pipe storage loop |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2069542A1 CA2069542A1 (en) | 1993-11-27 |
| CA2069542C true CA2069542C (en) | 1999-08-31 |
Family
ID=4149911
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2069542 Expired - Fee Related CA2069542C (en) | 1992-05-26 | 1992-05-26 | Underground pipe storage loop |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2069542C (en) |
-
1992
- 1992-05-26 CA CA 2069542 patent/CA2069542C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2069542A1 (en) | 1993-11-27 |
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